School House - Spring/Summer 2022

SPRING/SUMMER 2022

GOING OFF PISTE An education in the Alps

ORDER ORDER Future MPs start here

ON THE BEAT School music

is reaching new highs

ECO RULES

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Tailored

not uniform

When it comes to a good education, one size does not necessarily fit all.

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30 years g n i t a lebr e C

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4-11 year olds | West London

4-11 year olds | Kew, Richmond

11-18 year olds | West London

11-18 year olds | North West London

Follow us on Twitter @GardenerSchools www.gardenerschools.com

The Gardener Schools Group is committed to providing independent co-education of the highest quality that meets each individual child’s needs.

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EXCELLENT ISI inspection

Every Heathfield girl has an irrepressible spirit. Uniquely hers, it drives her passion, voice and character. As well as providing an excellent academic education and top-class pastoral care, Heathfield identifies your daughter’s distinctive strengths and encourages her to live her ambitions, embrace her spirit and talent so that she develops as the best possible version of herself. Live life like a Heathfield girl.

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Lancing College Senior School & Sixth Form

Be inspired Be brilliant Be you Saturday Group Visits available

To book your place please contact Admissions@lancing.org.uk

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CONTENTS SPRING SUMMER 2022

72 SCHOOL’S OUT 82 86

70 FEATURES

36

41 45

50

53

63

43

66

UPFRONT 19

PHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK

20 27 28 30 33

HEADS OF SCHOOL Sherborne Senior School and Prep PREP, SENIOR & ECO NEWS LEADER COLUMN Emma Goldsmith from The Dragon School PREP HEAD VIEW Tom Rogerson from Cottesmore School SENIOR HEAD VIEW Sam Price from Benenden PLASTIC NOT FANTASTIC Anna Turns kicks off School House’s anti-plastic campaign

70 72

77

90

MUSIC TO OUR EARS In the postlockdown quiet, schools are turning up the volume, says Emma Reed CHOIR POWER Singing together is an education in itself MY SWISS MISS Thea Jourdan charts the rise of the 21st-century chalet schools in the Alps NATURE BLOOMS AT STOWE How Stowe School is addressing the environment A MATTER OF FAITH Sally Jones reports on those schools which offer a distinctively spiritual side HOW TO GET INTO POLITICS Our future MPs start young, finds Victoria Lambert TAKING HER SEAT Eleanor Doughty talks to The Rt Hon Baroness Nicky Morgan

REGULARS 68

89

EXTRA TIME Exploring dyslexia with Annabel Heseltine MATCH FIT Sally Jones serves up the truth about tennis INSIDERS’ GUIDE Everything you need to know about choosing the right sixth form HEALTH AND WELLBEING Sleep at Canford, Eat at Gordonstoun and Move at Westbourne House

92

THE CULTURE KIT What to see, read and do TEEN REVIEW: THE RIGHT INGREDIENTS Sixth-formers Kit and Rowena try out Leiths School of Food and Wine CELEBRITY SCHOOL REPORT Actor Tamzin Merchant looks back on her days at Brighton College TEN OF THE BEST... Country and town properties FROM BOYS TO MEN Dr Jeff Foster on male health issues

NURSERIES 96 98

101

102 106

NEWS 10 WAYS TO KEEP YOUR PRE-SCHOOLER HAPPY Ideas for fun times with your young ones FAR FROM THE MADDING CROWD Heathside, London likes to keep things outside GREEN SHOOTS Nurseries keeping children connected with nature HOMEWORK FOR PARENTS Victoria Lambert has advice on how to settle your child into nursery

DIRECTORY 119 163 209

LONDON SCHOOLS COUNTRY SCHOOLS DIRECTORY

ON THE COVER: Ely Cathedral Choristers.

Photograph by Keith Heppel

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C O N T R I B U TO R S TAMZIN MERCHANT

Brighton College and Cambridge educated, Tamzin Merchant is best known for her acting roles in period dramas such as Pride and Prejudice, Salem and The Tudors. She has since extended her focus to writing books for children, releasing her debut novel, The Hatmakers, in 2021, and is now awaiting the imminent arrival of her latest book, The Mapmakers.

TOM ROGERSON

Tom Rogerson has been working in the independent school sector for 30 years and is in his 14th year of headship at Cottesmore School on the border of Surrey and Sussex. Educated at Eton and Cambridge, he has since taken only one year out of teaching to work for Universal Music International in their A&R department looking after artists such as Eminem, Nelly Furtado and Erica Badu.

ANNA TURNS

Anna Turns is an environmental journalist with 20 years’ experience.

She writes about climate and pollution, food and farming, and marine issues for national publications including the Guardian, The Observer, Daily Telegraph, Positive News and Coast magazine. Her first book, Go Toxic Free: Easy and Sustainable Ways to Reduce Chemical Pollution, is out now.

10 | SCHOOLHOUSEMAGAZINE.CO.UK | Spring/Summer 2022

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‘Leading the way in educational initiatives is instinctive for this

DYNAMIC Oxford school.’ tatler schools guide

‘They will tell you it is down to earth – we say it’s FLYING HIGH’ the good schools guide

School coach from London via Beaconsfield every Sunday evening weekly & full boarding | day | a level & ib | co-educational | 13 – 18

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PREP SCHOOL FOR BOYS AND GIRLS AGED 2½–11

C O N T R I B U TO R S HESTER MARRIOTT

Hester is a graduate of the London College of Printing, specialising in fine art wedding and portrait photography, alongside a thriving commercial/ corporate/event portfolio.

Voted one of UK’s best society photographers by Harrods magazine. With three schoolage children, Hester, a Downe House alumna, appreciates what it takes to put people at ease in front of the camera.

KIT MACKAY & ROWENA LE POER TRENCH

Kit and Rowena are 17-yearold students at Bedales school, Hampshire, blessed with natural curiosity, energy, enthusiasm and humour.

As our teen reviewers, the friends look forward to learning new life skills together, from cooking to driving, and then reporting back on whether the teen in your life would benefit from the experience, too.

Small School

THEA JOURDAN

Big Family

Thea Jourdan is a writer and editor who spends her time between west Sussex and London, and now Leysin, Switzerland where her eldest daughter goes to school.

Thea edits her global blog on medical health issues, The Hippocratic Post, and the journal of the Worshipful Society of Apothecaries of London, a livery company of the City. She also writes for the Daily Telegraph and is an Army Reservist.

BOOK A TOUR: www.redcliffegardens.com @redcliffeschool

47 Redcliffe Gardens, London SW10 9JH

12 | SCHOOLHOUSEMAGAZINE.CO.UK | Spring/Summer 2022

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“ONE WORD: EXCEPTIONAL”

“MOST FORWARD THINKING SCHOOL”

“THERE’S A RICH VEIN OF KINDNESS”

TATLER

THE WEEK

TATLER

BRIGHTON COLLEGE

WISH YOU WERE HERE United Kingdom School of the Decade THE SUNDAY TIMES

OPEN MORNINGS | COLLEGE SAT 23 APRIL | PREP SCHOOL SAT 7 MAY BOOK YOUR PLACE 01273 704200 | BRIGHTONCOLLEGE.ORG.UK BC School House Ad 225x298BCO 6525.indd 1 Brighton College.indd 1

21/01/2022 11:37 15:15 24/01/2022

schoolhousemagazine.co.uk EDITOR Victoria Lambert EDITORIAL & PRODUCTION ASSISTANT Ruby Featherstone CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Eleanor Doughty, Anna Turns, Sally Jones, Emma Reed CREATIVE & PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Parm Bhamra PRODUCTION DESIGNER Samuel Thomas ONLINE EDITOR Rebecca Cox JUNIOR ONLINE EDITOR Ellie Smith JUNIOR SOCIAL MEDIA EDITOR Daniella Saunders ONLINE WRITER Charlotte Rickards ONLINE ASSISTANT Charlie Colville ONLINE INTERN Sophie Bucknall EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Lucy Cleland MANAGING EDITOR Amy Wakeham

PUBLISHER Camilla van Praagh ADVERTISING EXECUTIVE Melissa Campbell ADVERTISING SALES DIRECTOR Ellie Rix SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGER Pandora Lewis SALES ASSISTANT Xa Rodger DIGITAL MANAGER Adam Dean TECHNICAL MANAGER Hannah Johnson TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Mark Pearson FINANCE CONTROLLER Lauren Hartley FINANCE ADMINISTRATOR Ria Harrison PROPERTY & MARKETING ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR Gemma Cowley FINANCE DIRECTOR Jill Newey GROUP PUBLISHING DIRECTOR Tia Graham CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER James Thrower MANAGING DIRECTOR Jeremy Isaac EDITORIAL ENQUIRIES victorialambert@schoolhousemagazine.co.uk ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES camilla@schoolhousemagazine.co.uk

SCHOOL HOUSE is a biannual magazine published with Country & Town House magazine and distributed to AB homes in Barnes, Battersea, Bayswater, Belgravia, Brook Green, Chelsea, Chiswick, Clapham, Coombe, Fulham, Hampstead, Highgate, Holland Park, Kensington, Knightsbridge, Marylebone, Mayfair, Notting Hill, Pimlico, Putney, Richmond, South Kensington, St John’s Wood, Wandsworth and Wimbledon. It is also on sale at selected WHSmith, Sainsbury’s, M&S, and Waitrose stores and independent newsagents nationwide. School House is published by Country & Town House Ltd, Studio 2, Chelsea Gate Studios, 115 Harwood Road, London SW6 4QL (tel: 020 7384 9011). Registered number 576850 England and Wales. Printed in the UK by William Gibbons and Sons Ltd, West Midlands. Paper supplied by Gerald Judd. Distribution by Letterbox.

Copyright © 2022 School House. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is strictly prohibited. Materials are accepted on the understanding that no liability is incurred for safe custody. The publisher cannot be responsible for unsolicited material. All prices are correct at the time of going to press but are subject to change.

Whilst every care is taken to ensure all information is correct at the time of going to press, it is subject to change, and School House takes no responsibility for omissions or errors.

WHAT TO DO WITH SCHOOL HOUSE WHEN YOU’VE FINISHED READING IT...

Ideally, we’d love you to pass it on to a friend or a community place which might enjoy it (doctor or dentist surgery, community centre etc), but you can also rest assured that your issue can be recycled. The magazine (including cover) can be disposed of in your paper waste recycling bin. The outer plastic wrapping is made entirely from 100 per cent compostable material sourced from potato starch. It can be disposed of in a compost heap, your garden waste bin or your food waste bin (why not use it as a liner?), but please do not put this wrapping in your recycling.

PEFC/16-33-97 This product is from sustainably managed forests, recycled and controlled sources. www.pefc.org

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Country & Town House is a member of CPRE (Campaign to Protect Rural England)

Please recycle

28/01/2022 12:47

“Exciting times lie ahead for the brilliant Wellington College” — Tatler

Coeducational | Ages 13 -18 | Boarding & Day in Crowthorne, Berkshire Wellington College nurtures a unifying culture of ambition and aspiration, creating an atmosphere which encourages each pupil to believe that anything is possible Find out more at wellingtoncollege.org.uk

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Editor’s LETTER Spring is a season of hope, as we plant seeds for the future.

School visits and student assessments are in full flow as parents look to make one of their family’s most important decisions: where to entrust their children’s education. The weight of making this investment can never be underestimated, but schools are offering more choices than ever.

With that in mind, we’re showcasing some of the best schools for music this issue. What stunned me during the past two years was how cleverly music departments found new ways to teach their students and share their work. Whether staging online concerts or encouraging pupils to learn on digital platforms, these departments should be hailed for their innovation during Covid. But nor is traditional music missing out: is there any sound more glorious than a young cathedral choir? Find out more on page 41.

These past tumultuous years have opened up new interest in politics among young people; schools are keeping pace here too, with debate, history and ethics running through all taught subjects. The Rt Hon Baroness Nicky Morgan shares with us her path to a seat in the House of Lords on page 66 – inspiration for any budding future MPs in your home.

Parents with older children will also not want to miss our Insiders Guide. This issue, we are asking experts what you need to know when deciding where to send your teenager for sixth form. From co-ed or single sex to boarding versus day, we’ve got it covered.

We’re welcoming lots of new, regular features as well. Annabel Heseltine will be focusing on children with additional needs in Extra Time and Sally Jones tackles sporting issues in Match Fit. You’ll also find our hilarious new Teen Reviewers, who tried out a two-day cooking course for teenagers at Leiths School of Food and Wine. Plus, there is advice for parents of younger children in our Nurseries section, starting on page 95.

And we’re issuing a challenge to schools and parents in our new environmental campaign on page 33 – let’s ditch single use plastic once and for all. Our children are crying out for change when it comes to green issues. We must listen.

With all that in mind, this is an issue, I believe, that celebrates joy in school life, something Tom Rogerson, head of Cottesmore School, describes perfectly on page 29.

Our children’s education is priceless, the right choice of school imperative, so make sure wherever your family picks, it is a place that makes time for joy and for fun. These are the precursors to lasting friends and positive mental health, a harvest – to be reaped – of happiness.

Sidcot School, Somerset

Brighton College, Sussex

Aiglon, Switzerland

Worth School, Sussex

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1

MOR N ING

is all we think you’ll need to be inspired.

Join us at one of our open mornings

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Sherborne School

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SCHOOL HOUSE SPRING/SUMMER 2022

Ned Slight & Eleanor Chappell, Sherborne Prep. Jack Pyman, Sherborne School.

Jack Pyman, 17, has spent five years at Sherborne, an all-boys public school which has been in continuous operation on the same site for more than 1,300 years. For Jack, who lives in Dorset and is following in the footsteps of two older brothers, what he associates most with the school is its sense of community that arises from activities such as music ensembles. ‘That’s been very special to me during my time here,’ he says. Future plans involve veterinary school; Jack is studying biology, chemistry and maths A-levels. Post-GCSEs, he took an EPQ (Extended Project Qualification) on equine minimally invasive surgery. Looking ahead, Jack is very excited about his next steps but knows he will miss the co-curricular side of life at Sherborne in particular. ‘There’s the social life of the school and opportunities such as the Candlelit Chapel Service on Friday evenings where boys are invited to unwind at the end of the week. It all builds up to the whole experience.’ With Jack in our photograph are Eleanor Chappell and Ned Slight, both 12, joint heads at Sherborne Prep school. Eleanor says: ‘I haven’t done any boarding but my friends who have tell me it’s so much fun.’ She loves all sports but hockey in particular. She adds: ‘I like my history lessons.’ Ned loves school; ‘It is fun and interesting,’ he says. ‘Sport is fantastic and it is a good way to let off steam.’ He grins: ‘I also love the teachers; they are encouraging. And boarding is never boring!’

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PREP SCHOOLS Tuning up, toning up and turning out THE EYE MEETS THE EAR

Millfield Prep School debuted ‘The Eye Meets the Ear’ concert, a collaborative art and music event, encouraging pupils and parents to create art while listening to live music. The concert, which saw the return of parents to Millfield Prep’s Glastonbury campus, stimulated the senses, encouraging listeners to create something immediate that conveyed what they could hear in the music.

Millfield flutist at the concert

EQUESTRIAN SUCCESS

Grace and her horse

Two Leweston School riders became champions by winning their classes at the NSEA South-West Regional Grass Roots Show Jumping, held at Moreton Equestrian Centre. Grace in Year 7 and Rosie in Year 9, both became NSEA SW Regional Grass Roots SJ Champions for winning their individual classes (Grace jumping in the 50cm class and Rosie jumping the 75cm).

SINGING WITH THE STARS

Sam, a chorister at York Minster and pupil at St Peter’s School, York, has taken to the stage with the English Touring Opera this month. Sam played Sam in costume with Orgando in the the English Touring Opera English Touring Opera’s production of Handel’s Amadigi at Hexham Abbey earlier this month. The performance was part of the English Touring Opera’s autumn tour, which is visiting towns and cities up and down the UK.

DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION

Getting active at Eaton Square Prep School

Eaton Square Prep School has developed their Eaton Cares series of inspirational talks exploring the concept of ‘Inclusion for All’. It also hosted International Week, an annual event championing the importance of international diversity. Workshops, pupil-led presentations, cultural dress and more abound throughout the week. These efforts to improve its diversity awareness led to it being shortlisted as a finalist for the ‘ISA Award for Excellence and Innovation in Equality, Diversity and Inclusion’ in the Independent Schools Association Awards.

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NEWS

NEW DEVELOPMENTS Highfield and Brookham girls with Crista Cullen

NEW CURRICULUM Dorset House School has introduced a new bespoke curriculum for Year 7 and 8 this year.

Staff are able to think creatively and develop new ideas while preparing pupils for senior school and beyond with a focus on analytical skills. The new Theology and Philosophy course, for example, has been extremely successful: children study challenging subjects – learning to put forward their own ideas and opinions while respecting those of others.

CHANGING FACES Heads on the move

SPORTS PITCHES EXPANDING

An ambitious sports project that has been more than two decades in the making finally came to fruition in a golden ceremony at Highfield & Brookham Schools.

Team GB Olympic hockey star Crista Cullen, who won gold with her teammates at the Rio Games in 2016, cut the ribbon to officially open the impressive allweather facility at the independent school in Liphook.

King’s House School in Chiswick recently opened its modernised all-weather pitch and cricket nets to local sports clubs and schools, following extensive refurbishment over the summer. This development is part of the school’s ongoing investment in modernising its sports offering, not only for its own pupils, but for the benefit of the wider local community.

NEW RECEPTION BUILDING AND STEAM ROOM

Parsons Green Prep has opened its newly revamped Reception classroom and a new STEAM room. The Reception classroom is very spacious, excellently resourced and provides the perfect environment for children to start their life at school. The new STEAM area enables pupils to apply their knowledge and skills from across the curriculum and bring real meaning to classroom learning.

OUTDOOR LEARNING

Parkside School has developed a new outdoor classroom paid for by Parents of Parkside group. Set in the school’s 45-acre grounds, every pupil attending the school will benefit from this area, which provides the children with a natural, organic space to learn. It also provides a quiet space to reflect and for teachers to host potentially tricky conversations outside of the school’s four walls. It offers the school community the benefits of fresh air with a space that will give them peace to focus.

Suzannah Cryer has been appointed the new Head of Highfield School in Liphook on the rural borders of Hampshire, Surrey and West Sussex.

She will replace retiring Phillip Evitt and take up her new role next September. Mr Evitt announced this year that he would be leaving after 23 years of service.

Bromsgrove School has announced that Michael Punt will be stepping in as its next headmaster. Michael will join the School in August 2022. He is currently the Headmaster of Chigwell School in Essex, a post he has held since 2007.

He will be moving with his wife, Gill, and their three sons.

Philippa Studd will take over as Principal of Highgate School’s Junior School. She is currently Deputy Principal (Pastoral) which she joined as Assistant Principal (Pupils’ Personal Development) from Radnor House in September 2017 having served as Assistant Head there for five years.

Dan Thornburn has started his tenure as the Head of Millfield Prep School. This is his third Headship having previously been Head of Edgeborough School, in Surrey, since 2017, and prior to that Head of St Petroc’s, Bude.

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SENIOR SCHOOLS

Celebrating excellence and staying power

Dauntsey’s canoe team in training

SPORTING PROWESS

Bradfield College’s Quad in the sunshine

MERGING SCHOOLS

Bradfield College and St Andrew’s School Pangbourne are excited to have entered a new era for both schools when, following over 12 months of due-diligence and talks, they joined together to found the Bradfield Group in December 2021.

SCIENCE COMPETITIONS

Representing King Edward’s School Bath, six pupils were crowned national champions of the UK Youth Rocketry Challenge 2021 after they took part in a fly-off, competing against teams from across the UK, their rocket flew 815 feet in 43.9 seconds.

Tonbridge School boys are celebrating Gold, Silver and Bronze awards in the First Round of the British Physics Olympiad. This national competition encourages the study of the subject and recognises excellence in young physicists.

GLOBAL UP-RISING Head of School at Brighton College, Shaun Pexton, has won a place on the ground-breaking inaugural Rise programme. Shaun is one of 100 Rise Global Winners, the initiative of a pledge to ‘identify, develop and support global talent working in service of others’.

Brentwood School has again been named one of the UK’s top 100 cricketing schools by the world’s bestselling cricketing magazine The Cricketer, in both the Senior and Prep/Junior categories.

A team of two lower-sixth pupils, Phoebe and Roman, from Dauntsey’s School in Wiltshire, will enter the 2022 Devizes to Westminster ‘DW’ infamous canoe race. They are about to start training for the challenge in earnest before the race on Easter weekend.

Felsted School’s Gus Burton has been crowned The Intelligent Money British GT4 Champion along with his co-driver, Will Burns.

Gus, Will and their team celebrating victory

WOMEN IN TECH St Dunstan’s College hosted its inaugural Women in Tech Festival on Friday 3 November.

The festival aimed to break down barriers and the stigma surrounding women in tech roles.

Siobhan Allen, new teacher at Downside School, is trying to encourage more girls into Computer Science through the Raspberry Pi Foundation, a charity which supports computing and computer science through providing the best curriculum, resources and training for teachers to advance the field of computing education.

THE ARTS

Bryanston School, in Dorset, has launched a new pupilrun, internet-based radio station, named BRYRADIO. St Mary’s Calne recently held their fourth London art exhibition, Presence of Absence at Mall Galleries.

ARKWRIGHT SCHOLARSHIP

Alexander Hoppe, a lower sixth-former at The Leys School, Cambridge, has been awarded a prestigious Arkwright Scholarship for his development of stage lighting control technology.

COUNTLESS YEARS OF EDUCATION

King’s Ely has just celebrated 50 years of co-education in its 1,000-year history.

This year also marks 135 years of education at Sydenham High School.

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NEWS

NEW DEVELOPMENTS

Berkhamsted School

NEW BOARDING HOUSES

Charterhouse School recently welcomed former pupil The Rt Hon Jeremy Hunt MP back to the campus to officially open two new boarding houses, Northbrook and Saunderites.

NEW SIXTH FORM CENTRES King Alfred School

Francis Holland School

Berkhamsted School’s new centre, opening in late 2023, will have different zones for silent, independent or collaborative study, and socialising.

King Alfred School’s centre was opened by Old Alfredian Ian Lush OBE, CEO Imperial Health Charity and Chair of NHS Charities Together in September.

The Duke of Westminster opened Francis Holland School’s new Sixth Form Centre which offers the opportunity for the 150 sixth form girls to collaborate with entrepreneurs in the community and network with those committed to changing the mindset of the next generation.

EXPANDING TO INDIA

TIME FOR THE ARTS d’Overbroeck’s are building a new Arts Centre in Summertown. The building includes a variety of dedicated spaces fitted to a high specification, including Textiles, Photography, Fine Art, Ceramics and Fine Art. Sir Jon Coles visited Dunottar School, in Surrey, to officially open the new Castle Theatre and Performing Arts. The new facility offers five state-of-theart music practice rooms, two music classrooms, a drama studio and spacious theatre with seating for up to 500.

Wellington College has announced an agreement with the Unison Group to establish premium Wellington College schools in India. The schools will share the values and enduring quality of Wellington College, while combining the best of British and Indian education.

STEM DEVELOPMENTS

Dean Close School has opened its new 1886 Centre, a dedicated stateof-the-art learning space for mathematics, business and economics. The Centre offers newly furnished, bright classrooms, interactive white boards, and a dedicated Maths Hub for self-study.

DEEP IN HERITAGE

Bromsgrove School recently opened its new Heritage Centre, filled with the history of the school which was founded in 1553, including Captain Scott’s Antarctic Expedition Sledge.

CHANGING FACES Heads on the move

Abbey College Manchester has announced the appointment of its new Principal, Chris Randell, who commenced his new role in January 2022 as Liz Elam leaves the college after 22 exceptional years of service.

FOR THE LOVE OF LIBRARIES Badminton School has invested in a complete refurbishment of its Junior School library to foster a love of reading in its younger pupils.

The library is now a space of calm and peacefulness and has proved very popular with pupils.

Katharine Woodcock, Headmistress of Sydenham High School, a GDST school in South London, will be joining Francis Holland School, Regent’s Park, as Headmistress at the start of the next academic year in September 2022.

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ECO SCHOOLS Loving leftovers and choosing change YOUNG CLIMATE WARRIORS

Young Climate Warriors is a registered charity, founded in February 2019 by Katrina Judge. It aims to continue to educate children on the impacts of climate change, warding off climate anxiety with positive action through weekly challenges. The charity currently provides resource packs to over 150 schools and have helped create a virtual community as pupils and their families tackle the challenges.

ANTARCTIC CLIMATE EXPEDITION

Australia’s award-winning travel adventure company Aurora Expeditions is calling for people to join the world-first Antarctic Climate Expedition in 2023, led by renowned oceanographer, marine biologist, explorer and conservationist, Dr Sylvia Earle. The expedition welcomes registrations of interest from thoughtleaders in the fields of science, art, education and economics, alongside inquisitive teenagers and corporate executives wanting to go on this pivotal trip.

CHILDREN’S PARLIAMENT

St Peter’s School, York, has been awarded a Green Flag by the charity Eco-Schools. The flag is an internationally recognised award and acknowledges the efforts of the Eco Club and Eco Committee at St Peter’s. To achieve the award, pupils carried out an audit of the school’s environmental footprint and targeted three areas for improvement.

PROMISES OF HOPE Children from both Highfield & Brookham, Hampshire, from Nursery up to Year 8, produced class mobiles made up of big leaves on which were written ‘promises of hope’ for a greener, more sustainable world which were joined together using biodegradable string.

The finished mobiles then took pride of place on the Princess Anne oak tree in the Highfield grounds during an assembly before being sent up to COP26 in Glasgow.

ECO COMMITTEES MAKING BIG IMPACTS

Having obtained the Bronze Eco-Schools award in January 2020, the eco committee at Danes Hill, Surrey, has been busy taking steps to help the environment. They launched a nature photography competition, which encouraged pupils to head outside and appreciate their surroundings.

LOOKING AFTER OUR BEACHES

Bede’s Prep pupils have been helping keep our beaches clean with their involvement in the Marine Conservation Society beach clean-up. They set off with data collection clipboards and litter pickers in hand, on the hunt for small pieces of plastic and litter along the Eastern Seafront in Eastbourne. They found that over the 100m stretch they cleaned, 62 per cent of it was plastic waste.

PHOTOS: UNSPLASH

GREEN FLAG ECO SCHOOL

Two Year 6 pupils, Harry and Sophie from Elstree School in Berkshire have enjoyed taking part in the first Children’s Parliament in the UK. They were part of 650 seven-to-11year-olds who took part in this world recordbreaking event for the largest gathering of a children’s parliament.

Boris Johnson opened the meeting and promised to hear the children’s suggestions.

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NEWS

SUSTAINABILITY POLICY

Moulsford Prep School in Oxfordshire has launched a new Sustainability Policy to make living more sustainably an intrinsic part of the school’s ethos.

The Sustainability Policy pledges to integrate and address environmental sustainability in 11 key areas: Education, Energy, Water, Waste, Buildings & Grounds, Catering, Sports & Activities, Classroom Equipment, Transport, Events and Community. Each of these areas has been detailed into Aims, Actions and Impacts to provide measurable targets.

GODOLPHIN’S OWN COP26

While world leaders gathered in Glasgow for COP26, Godolphin and Latymer School organised its own fortnight of events on climate change and sustainability to highlight why the summit was so important for the future of our planet. Alongside a COP26 Film Festival and other lectures, the catering staff at Godolphin measured the carbon content of meals, helping the school be more conscious of low carbon content dietary choices.

120 TREES FOR 120 YEARS

St Benedict’s has planted 120 trees in celebration of the school’s 120th anniversary. The wild cherry trees, which were provided by the Woodland Trust, have been planted on the School’s site, and also at Holy Family Catholic Primary in Acton, in recognition of St Benedict’s strong partnership with the school. St Benedict’s parents have also donated almost £700 to Restore our Planet’s ‘Trillion Trees’ project, which is helping to restore and protect the world’s forests.

AMBITIOUS BUT IMPORTANT CLIMATE PLEDGE

PHOTOS: UNSPLASH

CHOOSE YOUR CHANGE

As the title infers, the ‘Choose Your Change’ Eco Week encouraged everyone in the Dulwich College community to make a personal pledge to tackle climate change. Eco Week launched as COP26 ended and Dulwich set out new sustainable projects and initiatives, such as ‘reuse and recycle’ and to lessen their food waste by ‘loving our leftovers’. Sustainability and choosing your change, the school says, are not just topical for one week.

Forfar Education has made an ambitious pledge, a first for a private schools group, to have all its schools achieve net carbon zero within five years. Schools across the group will work together to share resources, plan ‘green projects’ and build cross-school ‘green teams’, with Forfar providing support to engage them in eco-friendly projects, building their skills and encouraging them, and wider society, to live in a more sustainable way.

WHAT THE WORLD NEEDS

In ACS International Schools’ ‘What The World Needs’ event series this year, the schools focused on building a sustainable future. ACS Egham was joined online by Chris Packham, TV presenter, naturalist, writer and campaigner, and Sophie Locke, Research and Projects Manager, who provided inspiration to all members of the community who are passionate about conversation issues and injustice.

ACS FUTURE IMPACT COMPETITION Ten primary schools from Surrey, Middlesex and Doha in Qatar have signed up to a new competition which will enable children to develop their science and mathematics capabilities, while engaging with experts in the sustainability industry and helping to tackle climate change.

The inaugural ACS Future Impact competition, organised

by ACS International Schools, will see children aged seven to 11 working in teams to develop and present proposals for how their school and/or local community can reduce its negative environmental impact.

A range of exciting prizes will be available to help winning teams put their proposals into action and to further students’ knowledge and understanding of environmental issues.

The schools selected their top team(s) in January 2022, which will progress to a live final in March, hosted at ACS International School Cobham.

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LEADER FIRST WOR D

A NEW BEGINNING TO RELISH Creating conditions for children to thrive must be our post-pandemic priority, says new head Emma Goldsmith, the first woman to lead Dragon School

A

s the new head of Dragon School in Oxford, it is an honour to be at the helm of this renowned day and boarding prep school – and I have quickly grown accustomed to the necessity of referring to pupils and alumni alike as Dragons!

I took up my position in September 2021 and there could have been no better time to embark on a new headship as schools began to shake off the restrictions imposed by Covid19. There was a buzz before term as the staff looked forward to the return of busy, dynamic school life.

Although it has been a struggle in every sense over the past 18 months, the pandemic has also been a tremendous learning opportunity which has given school leaders the chance to reaffirm their priorities.

A preparatory school is so named because it prepares children for the next stage of their lives. This preparation is not just the academic (which was delivered during the pandemic via live-streamed lessons and remote learning platforms), but it is also measured by the variety of opportunities on offer, and how character and confidence are developed.

What we once took for granted, we now relish. Who knew how excited parents would feel to be once again cheering children on the side lines of sport fixtures? One of the highlights of last term was hearing live music again and it has been wonderful to see children’s selfesteem grow thanks to their chance to perform in musical productions, Christmas nativities and pantomimes. Teamwork and collaboration are key skills that everyone looks for on a CV, yet it was impossible for children to develop these properly while they were away from their friends in lockdown.

It was amazing to see how resilient children were last year, but it is even more heart-warming to witness their renewed enthusiasm for working and playing together.

The breadth of extra-curricular opportunities on offer to young Dragons has been widened thanks to the launch of QUEST, our Saturday morning enrichment programme. Many other schools have also ended compulsory Saturday school, but we are proud that QUEST is proving popular not only with our boarders but also has a very high take-up from day pupils.

There is a choice from activities as diverse as paddle boarding, first aid, debating, bike mechanics and filmmaking, and our Oxford location offers unique and stimulating possibilities for off-site visits with the university, museums and countryside all on our doorstep.

The driving principles are for the children to discover fresh challenges, develop skills and dare to try something new. I have been so impressed to see the inspiring Dragon staff embracing the ethos, sharing their skills and revealing unknown talents.

The experience of the lockdowns of the past year highlighted the fact that children cannot thrive in isolation – they need peers and adults outside of their family unit. What better advert for boarding?

I have worked in boarding schools throughout my career both in the senior and prep sector and appreciate what it takes to create a positive environment for children Emma Goldsmith to thrive. Modern-day boarding helps to develop resilient and wellrounded young people and is a far cry from the necessity of boarding for families in past generations.

We believe wholeheartedly in the benefits of boarding in terms of developing the character of a child and offer a home from home in a family environment.

The trials of these challenging times have made me appreciate the importance and joy of what educators do more than ever and I am very excited about what the future holds.

It was amazing to see how resilient children were last year but it is even more heart-warming to witness their renewed enthusiasm for working and playing together

Emma Goldsmith is head of Dragon School, Oxford Spring/Summer 2022 | SCHOOLHOUSEMAGAZINE.CO.UK | 27

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Cottesmore School is led by Tom Rogerson (right, with pupils)

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PREP HEAD VIEW

JOY TO THE WORLD Empathy, creativity, self-expression and fun are all key to successful learning, says Tom Rogerson, headmaster of Cottesmore School

T

he reality is that school is unfair. Some people find it easy and derive pleasure from the learning process, taking it all in their stride. And some do not.

Cottesmore is an academic school, and we have both types – scholars who have already found their academic flow and those who would prefer to be outside climbing trees – but we are endeavouring constantly to convert the latter group.

Yet, school should be a joy for all pupils. And if it is not, great efforts should be made to make it so. But how do we try to convert those who have not found the deep joy of constant, relentless learning?

The great thing is that fun, happiness and flow benefits both groups. Joy is indiscriminate. Both sides enjoy it – that’s a pan-pupil, universal, cross-curricular fact.

Lessons in the day should be filled with pizzazz and sparkle.

Evenings should be punctuated with dancing to pop music and paddle boarding. School should be a child-centred oasis, packed with bespoke, immersive experiences.

Of course, not everyone likes constant action, some children might prefer to search for insects or read a book under a tree as this is where they experience joy and, of course, this must be catered for at the same time.

Some like to geek out on a computer or play FIFA on the Xbox. Let them.

No matter how entertaining or brilliant each individual lesson or how empathetic each adult a child comes across every day, school can be a relatively painful process. Some unfortunate children lurch haplessly from one classroom to another wondering what fresh hell is up next. You can pretend that this is not the case if you want, but you’d be kidding yourself.

So for these young people, every time something explosively fun happens at school, slowly but surely they start to associate that joy, that

laughter and that flow with learning. This is what we are trying to achieve at Cottesmore.

Too much discourse in education is about the set up of chairs and tables in classrooms. Frankly, who cares? The thing that counts is the connection of the teacher to the student, the empathy, the quality of the listening, the warmth and support of the relationship. If the children feel cared for, they will learn. And part of that caring is planning fun into each lesson and being aware of what the children in each class consider to be fun.

Another key element that maximises joy, fun, fulfilment, and self-actualisation is learning to express oneself.

Creative and expressive flow are also a source of enlightenment: being in a state of flow where nothing else matters and being at one with the moment is an essential lesson to learn.

How do we find those moments at Cottesmore?

By providing an astounding number and variety of experiences, academic subjects, clubs, activities, sports and events. Not forgetting to provide space in between for rest and recuperation.

We are constantly trying to concoct new ways to make the Cottesmore children feel happy and at home. There are 20 dogs at Cottesmore, along with nine pigs, six quails, 14 chickens and six ducks.

Plus, two golf courses, a ten-pin bowling alley and a fishing lake, countless games pitches, grass tennis courts and a swimming pool.

But it all comes down to the warmth of the social connections. We have a superb set of teachers and support staff and they are, of course, the ones who make it joyful. They are the ones who make it fair.

School should be a joy for all pupils. Lessons in the day should be filled with pizzazz and sparkle; evenings should be punctuated with dancing to pop music and paddle boarding. School should be a child-centred oasis, packed with bespoke, immersive experiences

Tom Rogerson is headmaster of Cottesmore School Spring/Summer 2022 | SCHOOLHOUSEMAGAZINE.CO.UK | 29

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Benenden School

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SENIOR HEAD VIEW

RE-SETTING EXAMS It’s time to improve our education system as a whole, says Samantha Price, headmistress of Benenden School – starting with grading

W

e have just lived through one of the most disruptive periods in the history of UK education. The need to operate differently over the past 18 months has shone a light on the reality that there are parts of the education system that need to be improved.

We all want the best for young people, but it has become increasingly apparent that our current system of assessment, in particular, has become unwieldy and, in my opinion, is no longer fit for purpose when we consider the skills required for current and future employment.

The teacher assessment process of the past two years is far from the perfect approach and I’m not advocating this as a solution, but there are undoubtedly elements of this year’s grading system that we should consider retaining.

The principle of assessing students at regular intervals and taking numerous pieces of work into consideration – rather than a single exam – has to be a fairer way of assessing someone. Frankly, nobody thinks universities will be getting weaker students over the next couple of years because they have not sat public exams.

The so-called ‘Covid generation’ of 2020 and 2021 school leavers are as intelligent and as knowledgeable as their predecessors, albeit they may have gaps in their knowledge base owing to the disruption of the pandemic, and have not suffered disadvantage from the lack of facing final exams.

Aligned to this is the growing recognition that memory recall is less important in the modern workplace – instead, young people need to be able to think around a subject and apply knowledge from different subjects to solve a range of problems.

The university applications process goes hand in hand with exam

reform and should be overhauled at the same time to embrace either post-qualification offers or applications. This would be a much fairer system for all young people and would reduce the pressure on them in their final year of school. Instead of negotiating predicted grades and worrying about whether they will literally ‘make the grade’ upon which their university place depends, students could focus on their studies and enjoy the friendships and life-enhancing extra-curricular opportunities of their final year of school, which are just as important to their long-term futures.

Doing away with predicted grade offers and moving to a post-qualification system would minimise the negative mental health impact of striving for the ‘holy grail’ of grades. It would also go a long way towards levelling the playing field for all students, irrespective of background.

There are those who say it cannot be done – but no obstacle is insurmountable.

We could bring A-level exams forward, complete them by the end of May, and release the results earlier to enable UCAS and universities to process everything in time for an autumn start. Alternatively, funding issues aside, the university year could begin in January, for all students or just for first years, reducing the nine term degree to eight terms, with the Autumn Term devoted to work experience or additional learning.

Now is the time to act. The pandemic has shone a light on parts of the education system that should be improved. We would be doing our young people a disservice if we were to switch off this light and return to the dark.

Doing away with predicted grade offers and moving to a post-qualification system would minimise the negative mental health impact of striving for the ‘holy grail’ of grades. It would go a long way towards levelling the playing field for all students, irrespective of background

Samantha Price is headmistress of Benenden School and is President of the Girls’ Schools Association for 2021/22 Spring/Summer 2022 | SCHOOLHOUSEMAGAZINE.CO.UK | 31

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SCHOOL HOUSE CAMPAIGN

PLASTIC NOT FANTASTIC

Schools should take the lead when it comes to switching away from single-use plastics, says Anna Turns – and here’s how

PHOTOS: GETTY IMAGES

W

hen my son proudly came home from school with a small plastic toy as a reward for good behaviour, my heart sank. Yet another piece of tat that will last a day or so then end up in landfill – and another example of the serious disconnect between the lessons we teach our children and the way we go about our daily lives. But three years ago, the UK government’s education secretary urged all schools to eliminate single-use plastics by 2022.

And that’s now.

Children, and their families, learn by example and school communities have a fundamental responsibility to walk the walk, not just talk the talk. Change needs to be embedded into every aspect of a child’s classroom and curriculum.

So, encouraging children to avoid single-use plastic packaging in their lunchboxes when everything on the noticeboard gets laminated makes no sense. Asking people to walk to school instead of driving is bonkers when the school’s own electricity doesn’t come from renewable sources. Day-to-day messaging counts.

Taking the path towards positive action is such a powerful way to give children of all ages a sense of agency and to instil a real love for the natural world in them. While it’s not their responsibility to fix this mess – far from it – their involvement is key, and to most children, the solutions aren’t rocket science. They’ll appreciate sports day medals made of wood or cardboard instead of plastic and clock that

cutlery is reusable, not something to be thrown away after one meal. Single-use drinks bottles will start to stick out like a sore thumb among the reusable ones stacked together in the corner of the class. Perhaps plastic rewards could be replaced with something radical like a packet of tomato seeds or a tree sapling to plant at home.

Teenage sisters Amy and Ella Meek founded Kids Against Plastic in 2016 and now run a brilliant Plastic Clever Schools initiative to enable pupils to become leaders of positive change. With more than 1,000 schools signed

up nationwide, resources are all free and available to download. Surfers Against Sewage runs a Plastic Free Schools programme and you can sign up for their guide to eliminating single-use plastics online. Make your concerns known to the head of school.

That’s exactly what Lucy Cleland, mum and editorial director of Country and Town House magazine, did after her son came home with yet another cheap plastic star trophy that would ultimately end up in landfill. ‘Cutting the ties between plastic as a reward and replacing it with something that has a positive impact has to be a no brainer,’ Cleland says. ‘It doesn’t have to be something more expensive; it just needs to have someone thinking about alternatives that will bring ultimately, a more rewarding relationship with their environment and local community.’

Start with a whole school audit that quantifies use of unnecessary plastics. Pupils can then use their creative skills to design how best to communicate solutions to their peers or engage parents and teachers. Schools can sign up to Terracycle’s felt-tip pen recycling scheme, achievements celebrated with milkshake Mondays – metal straws optional.

This is where systemic change starts. Dealing with plastic pollution can be a gateway to a meaningful and lifelong connection with nature.

Inspired to make a difference? Tell us how your school takes action this term by tagging us in your pictures and activities @schoolhouse_magazine. We will publish our favourites in the September issue and award the School House Green Champion Prize 2022 – judged by Lucy Cleland, Victoria Lambert and me.

Anna Turns is author of Go Toxic Free: Easy and Sustainable Ways to Reduce Chemical Pollution (Michael O’Mara, £14.99).

Litter clean up in operation

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FEATURES

Brighton College, East Sussex

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Brighton College’s cast of Legally Blonde

MUSIC TO OUR EARS From music tech to jazz bands, harpsichord to opera class - in the post-lockdown quiet, schools are turning up the volume, says Emma Reed

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FEATURES

‘M

usic has a power of forming the character and should therefore be introduced into the education of the young.’ Aristotle’s words, as ever, have stood the test of time. One of the reasons why parents choose independent education for their children is the range of musical opportunities on offer and the value placed upon music.

Imagine a school without the cacophony of an orchestra warming up, the soaring notes of a choir or the jolt of an electric guitar from the school band jamming during break. Almost impossible. Yet schools fell eerily silent during the pandemic. Teachers faced huge challenges finding ways to keep the musical heartbeat of their schools going.

Something that thrives on physical proximity was driven to solitary rooms. What lessons did music teachers themselves learn about how to keep their pupils engaged and how do they continue to nurture an enthusiasm for music?

Jason Mathias, director of music at Brighton College, East Sussex, hasn’t found nurturing a passion for music a problem. Quite the opposite. Despite Brighton having more than 25 music ensembles, more than 500 pupils taking music lessons and its Music School named as one of the UK’s best buildings by the Royal Institute of British Architects, Mathias says the appetite for music is bigger than ever after the experiences of lockdown. ‘Pupils were coming in so excited,’

he says. ‘Everyone realised how important it was, how much they had missed it and wanted to take part in concerts.’ Mathias believes that empowering the pupils themselves keeps them musically switched on.

He literally hands them the baton. ‘When we get to a tricky part of the music in our orchestra, I ask who would like to have a go at conducting.

Bringing up different pupils and giving them a chance to take the lead and conduct their peers boosts their confidence. The other pupils concentrate more, are inspired to have a go themselves and it’s much more entertaining.’ This autonomy also extends to pupils in Years 10 and 12 who take the lead in planning and hosting music sessions for pupils from local primary schools.

Music is for everyone, Mathias explains: ‘The wellbeing side of it, I think, far outweighs someone getting a Grade 8 distinction.’ He organises a soloists’ recital aimed at those who aren’t formally part of an ensemble or taking music lessons at school, but who may just enjoy playing their guitar at home.

The idea that it can be a tool to bring the school community together, is something that Andrew Kennedy, director of music at Uppingham, Rutland, espouses. He joined Uppingham in September 2019 directly from a successful career as an opera singer. The enthusiasm Kennedy brings is also the result of being a former music scholar at the school.

His switch from the stage to the school couldn’t have come at a more challenging time. However, during the pandemic and the lockdowns Spring/Summer 2022 | SCHOOLHOUSEMAGAZINE.CO.UK | 37

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FEATURES

as everything shifted online, he, along with many other heads of music, saw how embracing the technology could benefit everyone. ‘We’ve all had to get to grips with technology,’ Kennedy says, ‘and I think it’s fundamentally changed music itself. You have to have so many tools available to you because the industry is fickle, and I think it’s so important that the training of our young musicians reflects that so you’re giving them the widest possible scope.’

A tradition of musical excellence is firmly established at many of the top independent schools, but it’s the ability of teachers to embrace music tech and to recognise the increasingly fluid boundaries between the different styles of music, that enables them to ignite enthusiasm in their pupils. ‘We opened up a record label last year which is exciting,’ says Kennedy. ‘It gives people – not only rock but classical musicians, too – a chance to record their own disc and engage with the whole digital process. We’ve also got a professional studio engineer to help with this. We’re looking for different sorts of musicians because I think to be a musician is a multifaceted thing. Now, you have to be.’

When interviewing potential music scholars at Brighton College, Mathias has noticed more asking about the tech available to them. ‘We do have a music studio and we have all the software systems such as Logic and Cubase, so anyone who wants to record their own compositions in a professional way can do so.’

It’s not just senior schools, prep schools too have responded to change to inspire their young charges. Dr Elizabeth Blackford, director of music at The New Beacon School, Kent, agrees. ‘We have learned to harness the power of music technology to help us find new ways of creating music.’ While they are back to live events, Blackford highlights that the practice of using Zoom to broadcast live events to wider family internationally is a positive outcome that’s here to stay.

Neil Hornsby, head of contemporary music at Bedales, Hampshire, believes a certain amount of discipline is required in making use of tech to inspire his students. ‘For every artist who is discovered on the internet there are a hundred thousand who just get ignored. I keep my students busy at school with great shows and video projects.’

Hornsby found that lockdown turned out to be a special time for his department. He got in touch with former pupils who were working in the music industry and at a loose end and created some online projects with them. ‘It really gave everyone a sense of purpose. It opened up a new way of doing things and we’ve never looked back.’

Hornsby’s own experiences drive his passion to inspire his pupils. Prior to becoming a teacher, he went to the Royal Academy of Music as a classical guitarist, but felt he lacked direction.

Trumpeters at Bedales

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‘ When I see students now who clearly have talent, it’s my passion to make sure they don’t end up wasting their time. It’s really about supporting and mentoring them rather than telling them what to do’ Neil Hornsby, head of contemporary music, Bedales ‘When I see students now who clearly have talent, it’s my passion to make sure they don’t end up wasting their time. It’s really about supporting and mentoring them rather than telling them what to do.’

However good his pupils might be at music, Hornsby expects them to be disciplined and to excel in everything. He arranges for successful people in the industry to talk to his pupils to illustrate that ability alone is worth nothing without hard work and discipline. Enthusiasm for music is a reciprocal relationship and teachers are equally inspired by their pupils.

‘There are lots of fun ideas and creativity that’s all led by the students and I’m always looking to push on and try new things,’ Hornsby says.

Hurtwood House, Surrey, puts creativity and performance at the very centre of what it does. Head of performing arts, Doug Quinn, singles out Hurtwood’s ‘industry standard approach to making music’. The number of students taking Music Technology A-level is higher than ever. Guest vocalists work with the students on Project YouTube, regular lunchtime concerts and DJ sets take place, and the school has recently launched its own record label.

Musicians from The latest tech is available, and support is plentiful.

Ashbourne College ‘Award-winning composers and alumni sound designers often come back to mentor and inspire the future generation. It is these industry connections to music that really help us stand out from the conventional approach to music practice,’ states Quinn.

The divisions between the musical boxes people were previously put into, such as classical versus contemporary, are blurring and good teachers are astute in encouraging pupils to learn things from all disciplines. Yat-Soon Yeo who teaches music at Ashbourne College, London, has seen the benefits of this. ‘Last year I had a class where two students were hoping to pursue studies in classical opera.

‘Their discussions about Mozart’s The Marriage of Figaro were enlightening. The rest of the class included a contemporary music theatre specialist, a violinist and a dancer. Each was able to bring illuminating angles to the experience of performing.

‘This year, one small class I teach consists of a rock guitarist and a harpsichordist. They have already learned so much from each other, and I from both of them.’

Cellist Yo-Yo Ma captures the significance of the role of music in our schools. ‘Music enhances the education of our children by helping them to make connections and broadening the depth with which they think and feel,’ Ma says. ‘If we are to hope for a society of culturally literate people, music must be a vital part of our children’s education.’

The heads of music I spoke to for this piece were positively fizzing with energy and passion. It’s easy to see how this translates to their pupils. The school music rooms may have been quiet for a spell, but music never Performing at Hurtwood House stopped for them. It just got better.

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FEATURES

CHOIR POWER

PHOTOS: ASH MILLS

Encouraging your child to be a chorister could be one of the best decisions you make, says Emma Reed. It is a unique and extraordinary experience

Salisbury Cathedral School Choristers

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ABOVE: Pilgrims’ Choristers BELOW: All ages of the choir at Christ Church Cathedral

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e are fortunate to have a strong presence of cathedral schools in this country who proudly continue the choral tradition. As a child, I spent Boxing Days attending a service at Lichfield Cathedral fascinated by those choristers who were reunited with their families following an incredibly busy calendar of events. It’s an intriguing world. Many may not consider the chorister route as an option for their child owing to certain misconceptions; the belief that their child needs to be a musical prodigy, that there will be little time left for other interests, it’s shortlived and it’s just for boys. Not true. What you will find is camaraderie, the opportunity to be a professional and an experience that stays with you and filters into other areas of your life.

Certainly, while an ear for music is a necessity to become a chorister, a clutch of grades or knowledge of liturgical music is not. Christ Church Cathedral School, Oxford provides choristers for three choirs: Christ Church cathedral itself along with day boys singing in the chapels of Worcester and Pembroke Colleges during university term time. Sophie Biddell, Director of Music, says it’s sometimes better if applicants haven’t had lots of prior training. ‘A good ear, positive energy, enthusiasm and a willingness to get stuck in,’ Biddell says, are key. Training will come from the school. ‘People shouldn’t be put off if they haven’t had singing lessons and there’s no music that they shouldn’t be listening to.’

Russell du Plessis, Director of Music at The Pilgrims’ School which is a double choir school with choristers singing at Winchester Cathedral and ‘Quiristers’ who sing at Winchester College, says they are looking for a ‘pure, clean and clear voice’ within the treble range and that ‘strength of voice is also definitely an advantage.’ An innate love of music and a certain spark is required or, as du Plessis delightfully puts it, ‘a squirrel-like twinkle in the eye.’

One of the best ways to see if your child has what it takes is to attend a ‘Be a Chorister for the Day’ event run by many of the cathedral schools. Susie Lamb, Director of Music at Salisbury Cathedral School, says, ‘It’s a fun family day out that is open to children in Years 2, 3 and 4 and is hosted jointly by the school and the cathedral. It culminates in the chance for the participants to take part in Evensong with the choristers.’ The next stage is voice trials, usually involving a short, prepared piece, aural tests and sight singing. ‘Parents can request an informal voice trial, or pre-audition, at any time throughout the year to help each child prepare.’ This is also a good way of finding out if it’s worth proceeding with the application.

Cathedral schools have moved with the times and there are many opportunities for girl choristers, too. In 1991, Salisbury was one of the first to launch a girls’ cathedral choir. Wells Cathedral School launched their girls’ choir in 1994. At King’s Ely School, Cambridgeshire, a girls’ choir was introduced in 2006 but the school is now going a step further.

John Attwater, Principal of King’s Ely says, ‘Fifteen years on, it was time for absolute parity. We’ve established and refined the model of the girls’ choir which works in a slightly different age range of 11 to 16. We’d love to keep the boys until 16, but it just doesn’t happen and why should we limit girls because of the boys’ biological necessity? We thought of the years when the girls would have the best experience.’

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FEATURES Going forward, boys and girls in the cathedral choir will see parity of workload and recognition.

Parents may be concerned that, for boys, being a chorister does have a shelf life with voices breaking around 14. Alison Armstrong, Deputy Director of Music at Wells Cathedral School, says that voices are breaking earlier. ‘They used to go right through to the end of Year 9, but rarely do boys make it to the end of Year 8 now.’ As a result, they are often looking for replacements to fill those places. One of the ways Wells has met this challenge is to launch a ‘Changing Voices’ course to ease the transition of the boys when they come out of the choir.

Armstrong notes, ‘We’re keen to look at opportunities after the choir. We’re introducing a church music course which will enable them to continue with their choral singing. Even though they don’t have time to be a chorister after the end of Year 9, they still want to be involved as it’s quite a big step leaving the choir.’

For choristers moving on to senior school, places like Lancing College are a big draw. It’s known for its spectacular Gothic Revival chapel, the largest school chapel in the world.

‘We attract a lot of ex-choristers from cathedral schools,’ says Alex Mason, Director of Music. ‘When they come in, it feels like they’re coming into a cathedral within a secondary school. It’s got that size and a programme of services and concerts which they recognise.’ The choir is also one of the few activities that foster mixing across the year groups. ‘It’s lovely to see a new music scholar standing next to an upper sixth-former and getting along,’ notes Mason.

Another remarkable location for choristers is St George’s Chapel, where choristers from St George’s School Windsor Castle could sing for royalty.

Founded in 1352, the school is still going strong with 23 choristers, some of whom may already be pupils at the school, normally appointed between the ages of seven and nine.

The choristers rehearse every morning and sing in services on most days as well as on special occasions such as Garter Day. The attributes that choristers acquire filter into the rest of their school life. At Salisbury, Lamb remarks how choral ABOVE: Lancing College Choir in their impressive chapel BELOW: Wells Cathedral Choristers

practice before school fires up the pupils’ brains making them receptive to learning. Sophie Biddell says, ‘I never cease to be amazed how boys can be fizzing with energy at seven o’clock in the morning. They’ll head off to the cathedral and be ready for lessons when they come back.’

Choristers become excellent at time management but are also expected to keep up academically. However, the exigencies of being in a choir enhance their ability to focus for longer and switch tasks with ease. They benefit from the camaraderie of being in a tightly knit team where standards are high and where, if you make a mistake while singing, you own it by raising your hand.

There’s no doubting the satisfaction that choristers achieve in their own excellence. John Attwater says, ‘You are at the top of your game in a cathedral choir. You are one of the best professionals in the world at doing what you do, and that’s extraordinary. It’s like being an Olympic athlete when you’re 10. It shows you the art of the possible.’

Russell du Plessis agrees. ‘I can’t think of anything else where a child is actually a professional on the same level as adults in the same team.’

Alison Armstrong adds, ‘We passionately believe that chorister training is the best musical training you can get as a child.’

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SWISS MISS

Sending her daughter to school in the Alps was a leap of faith, says Thea Jourdan. Now, she is a fan of 21st-century chalet schools

Hochalpines Institut Ftan pupils out on the slopes

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LEFT & RIGHT: Imogen Jourdan; Malvern College International students out and about

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his time last year, my 14-year-old daughter, Imogen, was spending her time usefully playing hockey at a well-known independent boarding school in Surrey and singing Bellini arias in the school’s beautiful Victorian chapel. After enjoying four years in pre-prep and three years in prep school (getting the occasional demerit for talking after lights out), she was on the path to enjoying the best that the British independent school system could offer and was thriving. So why exactly did my husband and I send her to boarding school in the Swiss Alps?

To put it bluntly, we felt the opportunity was simply too good to miss.

International Swiss boarding schools are considered some of the best educational establishments in the world, with a price tag to match. Parents of children who attend prestigious schools such as the Institut Le Rosey in Rolle, Aiglon College in Chesières-Villars, Vaud, St George’s School in Montreux, Verbier International or the Collège Alpin International Beau Soleil in Ollon, can pay more than £100,000 per year for a top-class multi-lingual education with extra-curricular activities including winter skiing, tennis academy and the chance to gain life-long friends from all over the world.

‘Swiss boarding schools mainly offer education in an international environment for the children of extremely wealthy businesspeople with a sprinkling of royalty,’ explains Sally Walker, the Geneva/Lausanne editor of the Good Schools Guide International. ‘The children typically speak two languages,

move between two or three homes, and need a multi-cultural education.’ British parents, often with less disposable income and an inherited fondness for draughty dorms and jam rolypoly, have traditionally shown minimal interest in cow bells and learning maths in German.

But that might be about to change. Last September, Imogen became one of the very first students to enrol in Malvern College Switzerland, the first British-branded boarding school to open its doors to pupils based in the beautiful mountain village of Leysin, high above Lake Geneva. Fees start from around £20,000 a term, which is good value in the cantons.

The school has been actively recruiting British children through some carefully targeted social media posts as well as direct advertising. After a chat with the Swiss CEO (who was skiing on the nearby glacier in August when he took the call) and virtual interviews with the headmaster and his team, we decided to make the change. Imogen was enrolled with days to spare before the start of term. She was excited about the prospect of immersing herself in the Swiss culture and we were happy with the idea that she was still going to stay in the slipstream of a British education but in a wonderful mountain setting.

Founder headmaster Dr Tim Jefferis, who was a housemaster at Uppingham, then Deputy Head (Academic) at Oswestry and Second Master at Harrow International Bangkok, before taking up his current role, says that the British cohort of pupils will be key to the success of the new school. ‘UK pupils are a very important element of the educational mix that we are developing

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at MCS. Of course, we foster an international outlook and take children from many different countries, but British children form the nucleus of our pupil group and they are very important to maintain the identity and culture of our school.’

All the teaching staff at MCS follows the British curriculum – specifically Cambridge iGCSEs and A-levels. ‘Other Swiss international schools tend to follow the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum, or the American one, or offer a hybrid,’ Dr Jefferis points out. ‘We are also seeking to compete on price so that a more diverse group of pupils can enjoy a Swiss boarding education – our fees have more in common with UK-based boarding schools than they do with Swiss-based ones.’

It also helps that MCS offers some scholarships although there are currently no means-tested bursaries.

Leysin, which became famous as a spa destination in the 19th century due to the vertiginous mountain views and crystal-clean air, is the school’s base. As well as offering access to 220km of downhill skiing as part of the Alpes Vaudoises ski area, linking to Les Diablerets and Villars-Gryon, it is already home to several thousand students from the Leysin American School, founded back in 1960, and Kumon Leysin Academy of Switzerland, a school that follows the Japanese curriculum. It has the feel of a small university town, with a lot of cow bells and picture-postcard vistas in all directions.

Soon, however, more British public schools may follow the lead of MCS by setting up outposts in Switzerland. Hochalpines Institut Ftan AG (HIF), in another picturesque skiing village in the Swiss canton of Graubünden, recently joined the global Education in Motion (EiM) family of schools, which includes Dulwich College

International, Dulwich International High Schools, Dehong and Green School International. While details of future changes and expansion plans have yet to be announced, HIF’s relationship with EiM and its schools will open the door for new and exciting international education and collaboration opportunities within the family of schools. Dulwich College was founded in London in 1619 and has been expanding globally since 2003. Dulwich College International now includes 13 schools in Asia and teaches more than 12,000 students from around the world.

So what kind of parents will be sending their children to Swiss boarding schools like MCS? ‘We have a very broad range of families,’ explains Dr Tim Jefferis. ‘Currently there are 12 different nationalities in the school and we make great efforts to ensure that pupil body remains balanced, with no one nationality being dominant.’

He says that families appreciate the extent of what is on offer.

‘Parents who have chosen us tell us they like the safety and security that attends a Swiss alpine village, the Britishness, the sporting opportunities and the family-feel of a small school. Our British pupils tend to come from families who are enticed by the opportunity of mixing the familiar (the curriculum) with the extraordinary (the location).’

Everyone who attends has to speak good English since the curriculum is taught in English and most are fluent. However, French lessons are mandatory, and all the children are encouraged to take an active role in the wider community and speak French while shopping and doing enrichment activities including trips to Interlaken, Paris and Milan.

Of course, for those who prefer established schools in Switzerland which nod to British tradition without the branding, there are plenty of options. Aiglon College, where fees range from £60,000 – £100,000 (although there is a financial assistance programme) was founded by a British national and is known for its academic excellence, although it now sees itself as distinctly global in outlook.

‘At Aiglon, we would say that our school was founded on the vision of our founder John Cor lette to offer students a distinct educational experience that focuses on the development of the whole person,’ says Valerie Scullion, Aiglon’s director of admissions and marketing.

‘Aiglon is deeply rooted in our guiding principles which are based on this vision and not necessarily on the model of a British boarding school. While our predominantly British staff and our boarding structure may be similar to that of British boarding schools, Aiglon is very much an international school which carries the vision of our founder.’

Two per cent of the school’s students, who study for the IB, are Swiss nationals and 98 per cent are international students representing 65 nationalities. Eight per cent hold a British passport.

Valerie Scullion says that schools like Aiglon welcome competition from British branded start-ups. ‘I think Switzerland as an educational destination is a growing Fun in the snow at Aiglon College trend. The quality of the educational Spring/Summer 2022 | SCHOOLHOUSEMAGAZINE.CO.UK | 47

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NEED TO KNOW DO Remember that your child will be in the ‘full boarding school’ experience and not coming home for weekends. Will that suit your child? Will that suit you?

Make sure you know about the culture of the school and where it is based. For example, some schools will teach in German and English, others in French and English - and the culture may be quite different depending on the canton.

Institut auf dem Rosenburg

offerings, the location, the safety of our country and the diverse range of academic programmes makes Switzerland an appealing option. Additionally, a Swiss boarding education is an international education which cannot be found in all places.’

The superb natural environment is clearly the main draw for many, but Swiss boarding schools are luxurious compared to UK equivalents. Imogen shares a double room with one other student and the en suite bathroom is also not usually a feature of boarding schools in England.

Food in these schools is a far cry from the rice pudding and cheesy bake on many UK boarding school menus. MCS’ British chef, with help from French, Swiss and Portuguese sous chefs, creates a range of gourmet dishes, salads and snacks, as well as patisserie and home-baked bread. There is always a salad bar and fruit to complement the main courses.

‘To ensure that our clientele feel at home we have themed nights which have included Thai, Mexican, Indian and British,’ explains Dr Jefferis.

Those who are considering a Swiss education for their child, do need to be aware that there are obvious disadvantages to sending your child to school overseas.

Firstly, parents’ evenings can be a challenge, especially with a time zone difference. While schools in the UK have mainly disposed of virtual meeting rooms, this is the only way to contact staff to talk about your child’s progress from the Alps.

It’s hard not to see Imogen on weekends, and her two brothers miss their big sister making pancakes on Sunday mornings. (I do not miss the mess).

And because it is all so new, the school has yet to

show its mettle when it comes to getting grades in examinations. Malvern College UK scores highly in A-levels – 72 per cent go pupils get A or A* and they are in the top five schools for IB results, and, so far, Imogen has come back with glowing reports of her teachers. Business studies is mandatory however, which is a bit outside her comfort zone as an arts and music scholar.

The 1930s building has stunning views, but no chapel on site, however they have flown in a new Yahama grand piano which Imogen practises on with the help of a teacher who is a concert pianist. The head of music from Malvern College UK recently brought over the music scholars from England for a week’s worth of shared music workshops culminating in a concert – shared by video link.

For those who don’t want to take the leap and send their children to full-time school in Switzerland, many schools offer places on their elite summer camps.

Bernhard Gademann, director general, owner and headmaster of Institut auf dem Rosenberg, based in St Gallen and one of the oldest boarding schools in Switzerland, explains: ‘Every summer, we offer the best of our Rosenberg Talent & Enrichment Programme as a unique tasting experience for students who would like to broaden their horizons in fields of sustainability, leadership, engineering, robotics and the arts.

‘Students from all over the world attend our summer camp at our main campus in Switzerland and enjoy our uniquely stimulating learning environment combined with many social activities in an international environment.’

Look at the academic syllabus of the school. Most international Swiss boarding schools offer the IB. A few offer A-levels or a hybrid.

This is particularly important if you want your child to attend a British university where doing A-levels will give them an advantage.

Take into account the basic fees and the extras like skiing and trips which can mount up substantially. Also, the cost of living in Switzerland is quite expensive so you may need to provide generous allowances for spending money.

DON’T Rush into deciding. Visit the school in person with your child and ask to watch lessons and extra-curricular activities.

Maybe start with a summer camp at your chosen school first.

Think it’s going to be like British boarding school with mountains. There is a very different international culture in these schools and you are not going to be able to enjoy match tea in cricket pavilions.

Expect to make friends with the parents. You will rarely see them, if at all, and they may live several thousand miles away from the UK so no playdates in the holidays.

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Photograph: Mayk Wendt

SWISS MATURA IGCSE / IB DIPLOMA SPORTS ACADEMY BOARDING SCHOOL

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NATURE BLOOMS AT STOWE

TV presenter Michaela Strachan with Stowe students

History, landscape and enthusiastic students power Stowe School’s approach to sustainability, finds Thea Jourdan

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he magnificent ducal palace that makes up the main building of Stowe School in Buckinghamshire is an 18th-century Neoclassical and Palladian masterpiece – and not an obvious example of sustainability. But most of the materials used to build it were natural products sourced locally.

Now undergoing a major restoration, the same principles hold true today. ‘We used English green oak for the roof and locally quarried Helmdon limestone for the façade,’ explains Dr Anthony Wallersteiner, headmaster since 2003.

‘Where we can’t replace like with like – for example, high-quality English oak was not available for new floorboards in the Temple Room – we are only using sustainable suppliers, who plant trees to replace the ones they have harvested.’ A quarry near Finmere was re-opened for sand to match the stucco on the colonnades.

New buildings on the school site are designed with sustainability at the fore – the Design, Technology and Engineering Centre will open during the school’s centenary in 2023 and promises to be the school’s most eco-friendly building with a thermally efficient envelope in order to minimise heating requirements.

Water for the school still comes from the springs and wells which used to serve the estate. Dr Wallersteiner hopes to turn the old water mill into a hydroelectric generator, reducing the school’s dependency on electricity from the grid. While that project remains a future possibility, he has already instructed the management team to switch the school to a supplier that only uses renewable energy. ‘It’s an easy thing to do, along with asking children to wear appropriate clothing for the weather. So many people simply turn up the thermostat rather than putting on another jumper,’ he says pointing out that he is sitting in his south-facing office in a woolly jumper with the windows ajar to let in the fresh air.

The pupils at Stowe are helping to drive the changes which will ensure that Stowe is carbon neutral by 2040. It’s already doing well. The average carbon footprint figure (the measure of all greenhouse gas emissions rolled into one) used to be 6.1 tonnes per pupil per year in 2003 and that has dropped to 3.1 tonnes per pupil per year today.

Last October, just before the UN Climate Change Conference (COP26) was held in Glasgow, Stowe hosted a Schools’ Climate

Gregory Nasmyth and John Sauven speak out at Stowe’s climate conference

Action conference, with more than 1,500 delegates representing 40 different schools from the private and state sector. At the end of the event, which included presentations by Michaela Strachan, presenter of BBC Two’s Springwatch, and the director of Greenpeace, John Sauven, all pupils and teachers at Stowe were asked to come up with simple ideas to reduce their carbon footprint.

‘One student pointed out that when she went round the classrooms at night,’ recalls Dr Wallersteiner, ‘she was bathed in the warm glow of computers left on standby. We all do it – but it saves a lot of energy if you unplug a device at the wall when you aren’t using it.’

Another suggested changing tungsten lightbulbs, when they blew, to low-energy LEDs. Both suggestions have been taken up, along with changes to catering which puts the emphasis on locally sourced food in its correct season. ‘We have built up relationships with local famers and suppliers and have a great butcher.

You won’t find mangetout or strawberries on the menu in winter,’ says Dr Wallersteiner. ‘But expect lots of crumbles and strudels. along with vegan and vegetarian options.’ Labels on the dishes show the pupils where the food came from and how it was produced, to ensure the process was ethical.

Nearly all the maintenance staff vehicles are now electric with charging points and the iconic Stowe Routemaster bus is being replaced by two electric buses to transport pupils to the sports fields.

Water and energy usage will be measured in each house with incentives to reduce consumption. ‘We’ve gamified it and added a competitive element,’ explains Dr Wallersteiner, who says that the groundswell of change is coming from below as the younger generation take up the cause of climate change. The school is also recycling nearly all its waste, with the help of an outside contractor.

‘By making small, micro changes to our lifestyle, the impact can be quite significant,’ says Dr Wallersteiner. ‘At the end of the day, people in the 18th century were able to live harmoniously within their landscape with the resources they had. That’s what we need to relearn – how to live in the landscape in a sustainable way.’

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A MATTER OF FAITH Sally Jones reports on those schools which offer a distinctively spiritual side

Pupils at Sidcot School

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or many, the idea of faith schools conjures visions of strict, cloistered convents or monasteries run on spartan lines, with hours of obligatory worship each week. Among the Anglican foundations, the image seems more the muscular Christianity of Tom Brown’s School Days, Thomas Hughes’s fictionalised account of Rugby School in the 1830s under pious Dr Thomas Arnold.

These days, however, whatever their religious affiliation, most major schools attract youngsters from scores of different nationalities and from a wide range of faiths and none, so earlier generations’ didacticism and expectation of unquestioning belief are no longer options. Many oncereligious schools now tread a careful path, avoiding any hint of dogma in their assemblies and teaching for fear of alienating those from other backgrounds. Others, however, remain devoted to spreading the word about the faith which forms their USP and are finding new markets, even among non-believers.

According to a recent survey by theology professor Stephen Bullivant, just seven per cent of young people in Britain now identify as members of the Church of England while 10 per cent embrace different sects within Catholicism, partly thanks to immigration from traditionally Catholic areas such as Poland and Latin America.

Although most faiths are experiencing a decline in numbers of worshippers and ageing congregations, faith schools remain popular with parents. So what is their appeal in an increasingly secular society?

At St Benedict’s, a renowned co-educational school in Ealing, West London, about half the children are not Catholic but according to the headmaster, Andrew Johnson, the message of this Benedictine foundation with its daily prayers, regular masses and commitment to service remains as potent as ever.

‘Forty years ago, families would send their children to a school like ours just because it was Catholic,’ he explains. ‘These days, faith schools need to be very good, academically and pastorally, and because faith is not a certainty for anyone, we meet people where they are.

‘There’s no let-up in interest in our school: in an individualist, unforgiving, secular world, families, whether Sikhs, Muslims or of no faith, find our values attractive and nurturing.’

He points to the school’s sense of environmental responsibility reflecting the Pope’s strictures on care for the natural world. ‘A small group from here took a signed petition to 10 Downing St,’ he says, ‘urging the Prime Minister ‘Be Bold Boris!’ and focusing awareness on COP26.’

A long way north, spectacular Stonyhurst College in Lancashire’s Ribble Valley is the oldest Jesuit school in the world.

Here, as at St Benedict’s, faith is equally central to day-to-day life, whatever a pupil’s religious background. Saint Ignatius Loyola, founder of the Society of Jesus, called Jesuits to ‘Go forth and set the world on fire’ and with its motto Quant je puis (As much as I can), Stonyhurst’s pupils are encouraged to develop their unique talents, for the good of society.

‘Like all children in Jesuit schools, our pupils write AMDG, for Ad Maiorem Dei Gloriam (For the greater glory of God) at the top of every piece of their work,’ explains Ian Murphy, headmaster of the foundation’s prep school, Stonyhurst St Mary’s Hall, ‘and LDS, for Laus Deo Semper (Praise God always) at the end. This tradition sets the tone of each pupil striving to do their best in everything they do.’

Murphy explains: ‘We challenge everyone to live out their faith in practical ways, from Lenten ‘fast’ lunches to becoming ‘men and women for others’ through our extensive voluntary service programme.’

Stonyhurst’s values-led education is based on the Jesuit Pupil Profile, eight pairs of character-forming virtues to which students should aspire: such as being grateful and generous and eloquent and truthful. Ian Murphy believes these precepts change lives.

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Year 7s arriving on their first day at St Benedict’s

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‘We recognise each child’s uniqueness and support a number, often from challenging backgrounds, on bursaries,’ he explained. ‘We have two driven, streetwise girls from London on bursaries, both academic high-flyers, one a Muslim from a Somali background, and they’ve become hugely involved in the life of the school.

‘Our focus is not on how many ‘Hail Marys’ are said but about nurturing active, compassionate people. These girls identified quickly with ideas of social justice and fundraising: during work on the COP26 agenda, one was inspired by a young climate activist and now wants to be a campaigning eco-journalist herself. This is not the girl who arrived here a year ago.’

What a Jesuit education does, he adds, is give non-Catholics ‘an accessible gateway into faith through living and learning.’

Worth School, set within Worth Abbey and its 500-acre park in West Sussex, is run on Benedictine principles, with weekly whole-school worship and regular Masses. Building on St Benedict’s belief that caring community life was essential to knowing and passing on God’s love, the school has distilled his vision into six values permeating every area of school life: humility, stewardship, worship, silence, community and service. Social action is a major aspect of this. Pupils support charities, particularly Mary’s Meals and Justice Defenders, while the Chaplaincy pupil leadership team has led a ‘Sleep out to help out’ campaign, fundraising to increase awareness of youth homelessness.

Stuart McPherson, Worth’s headmaster, believes that families are drawn to the school for its strong academic credentials as well as the spiritual ethos which values their children deeply as individuals.

‘Catholics and other Christians are looking for faith to be nurtured and perhaps seeking safe harbour from a culture that is often explicitly or implicitly sceptical of faith positions,’ he said. ‘Parents from other religions, or none, feel that Worth is a safe place where their children will encounter a beautiful, enriching culture, which respects their own beliefs.’

ABOVE: Lancing College from the air BELOW: Stonyhurst College’s Library

Silence and contemplation likewise play a central role in Britain’s handful of Quaker schools, such as Sibford in Oxfordshire. Since their formation in the 17th century, Quakers have worked to achieve social justice and a more just and equal world. Sidcot School, Somerset, boasts a Centre for Peace and Global Studies while Leighton Park in Reading focuses on ethical enterprise, following the example of successful Quaker businesses, such as Rowntree, Cadbury and Barclay’s Bank. Through creating social good as well as profit, the Leighton Park has won the Independent Schools Association Award for Outstanding Local Community Involvement for the past two years.

In the schools, everyone uses first names terms and assemblies are non-hierarchical, held in the round, mostly in silence, At Leighton Park where only five pupils are Quakers, the entire school follows the distinctive practice.

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‘When they leave school, most are ambitious intellectually but also think “What can I do, what can I give back?” They’ve imbibed that sense of service along with the religious experience’ Hilary Dugdale, Senior Deputy Head, Lancing College ‘The idea is to connect with the voice of God (or good) inside you,’ explains Director of Marketing John Burnett. ‘One example is sports fixtures. At half time, the first XV have a huddle and a moment of silence. As in our meetings, if anyone feels moved to say something, they can, whether its gratitude for their friends’ support or what great tackles someone has made. Our students are caring and positive with each other – it makes the school very special.’

Each faith school has its own sacred space, but few are as majestic as the great chapel of Lancing College, beaming out across the Sussex Downs. The flagship of a chain of Church of England schools, Lancing was founded in 1848 by Nathaniel Woodard, a local curate who told his young charges, ‘The success of society rests on your shoulders alone,’ and believed that a strong moral foundation was crucial to a transformative education.

These days, the message is as powerful as ever. Service is central to Lancing’s ethos, whether fundraising for the school’s longstanding Malawi project or volunteering in the local community, and the chapel with its regular whole-school services and time for private reflection remains a potent centre of worship. Many non-Christians take inspiration from serving there, including one of the heads of school, Shirin, an agnostic from a Muslim background.

‘As Head Sacristan at Lancing,’ says Shirin, ‘I’ve experienced the opportunity to understand the Christian faith from a different perspective.

‘Lancing has given me the opportunity, through sacristans and chapel services, to be able to view how faith can have such big impacts on people.’

The chance for some quiet reflection for pupils – when they’re not using mobile phones or social media – is very useful, says Senior Deputy Head Hilary Dugdale. ‘Being among everyone creates a strong expression of community, an amazing drawing-breath moment amid a hectic 21st century education. When they leave school, most are ambitious intellectually but also think ‘What can I do, what can I give back?’ They’ve imbibed that sense of service along with the religious experience.’

Despite contrasting styles of worship within the different faith schools, there are striking parallels between the message and ethos which each radiates to the world. Families choosing this type of education for their children describe the sense of the numinous and the strong spiritual and moral dimension which it inculcates, radically influencing them for life.

Ian Murphy from Stonyhurst could be speaking for them all in his assessment of his own school’s role and value in the world: ‘Pope Francis washed the feet of inmates in a Rome prison, a wonderful thing to do,’ he observes. ‘Like him, we should be saying to the world ‘I’m here to serve, not judging you.’ Our faith values: fairness, social justice and kindness are very much part of day-to-day experience here and our people carry those with them.

‘These equip them to engage well with others and develop the soft skills that are so important in their work and family lives.’

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Worth School pupils test their go-kart

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Courage | Confidence | Character An independent school for boys aged 4-13 years, with co-educational nursery.

Set in 45 acres of beautiful countryside with school bus routes including to SW London.

Open Day

Saturday 5th March 2022 To register your interest,

please e-mail admissions@parkside-school.co.uk or call 01932 862749

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SCHOOL HOUSE PARTNERSHIP

INVOLVED IN MANKIND EIFA International School makes the most of its London connections

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he poet John Donne famously wrote that ‘No man is an island’ and recent events have made this more apt than ever. At EIFA International School, we believe that education in the international environment of the School allows pupils to gain an in-depth understanding of different languages, cultures and outlooks, without leaving London.

‘We have noticed an increase in pupils from London prep schools, attracted by the international aspect of the education, as well as the nurturing environment,’ stated Mme Françoise Zurbach, Head of School. ‘International and expatriate families have long been drawn to the School by its reputation for excellence and its location, close to the museums, galleries and theatres of Central London. Teaching staff, who mirror the diversity of the pupils, take full advantage of this, planning trips to hidden gems such as the Petrie Museum, as well as better known destinations such as the British Museum or Tate Modern. Watching a performance at The Globe Theatre brings Shakespeare to life in a unique way, and visiting the Dickens Museum casts a new perspective on his work.’

At EIFA International School, the wellbeing and personal development of every pupil are of paramount importance and flourish in the School’s small scale and nurturing environment.

Teachers treat each child as an individual and are ideally placed to notice changes in behaviour, so children can be supported, and issues tackled before they develop. This provision was rated as ‘Outstanding’ by OFSTED. This philosophy of individual attention is at the heart of our approach to teaching: staff work with pupils and parents to plan a programme to allow each child to flourish and achieve their potential. The focus on wellbeing was central to the School’s response to lockdown, earning high praise from pupils and parents.

The Senior School is not academically selective. Instead, when children arrive at EIFA, staff focus on fostering a love of learning, alongside the promotion of important skills such as resilience, a willingness to cooperate and developing independence and self-confidence. Our task is to create a safe environment for children to express ideas in a constructive atmosphere. If children enjoy learning, feel secure and have excellent teachers, then success should follow.

Pupils are given regular opportunities to complete research projects, develop critical-thinking skills and can often be found practising technical and publicspeaking skills on EIFA’s web-radio station.

Mme Zurbach believes true self-confidence comes from developing skills in real-life situations, expressing opinions, and making genuine contributions to school life.

Pupils are encouraged to participate in the School’s charity and community projects, which eventually become part of the International Baccalaureate® (IB) Diploma programme. Pupils nominate causes and organise events such as selling roses on Valentine’s Day to raise funds for Youth Music and hosting a book sale in aid of a literacy charity. The combination of academic achievement and social conscience means pupils leave EIFA well educated in the broadest sense and, to quote Donne again, ‘involved in mankind’.

Taster days are available all year, as well as private visits online or onsite, by appointment with the Registrar, registrar@eifaschool.com. For more information visit eifaschool.com

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POLITICS

PHOTOS: SHUTTERSTOCK

Young people are knocking at the door of 10 Downing Street

HOW TO GET INTO POLITICS

Elections, debate clubs and Westminster day trips: our future MPs start young, reports Victoria Lambert Spring/Summer 2022 | SCHOOLHOUSEMAGAZINE.CO.UK | 63

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Working together at Oakham School

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rom climate change to Covid concerns, via marches, strikes, Facebook campaigns or clever TikToks, our young people have never been so politically active and aware. Far from the apathy of stereotypes, modern teenagers are engaging with the world around them like never before. Yet, this is also the era of fake news and online conspiracies, so how can we make sure they are given an honest grounding in the functioning of democracy and civilisation? Some will be future leaders – our MPs, councillors and campaigners – but all of them are the voters and taxpayers to come.

Worryingly, the number of young voters is on the slide. The 2019 General Election saw a turnout of about 47 per cent of voters aged 18–24, a decrease of seven per cent when compared to 2017. According to research from the London School of Economics, those who perceived themselves as middle class were more likely to be a non-voter than those who identified with no class. Those with GCSE level or below were also more likely to be non-voters than those with degree level or above qualification.

Yet, look at the one million-plus students who joined Greta Thunberg for her school strikes in 2019 pre-Covid. No lack of interest there.

It’s clear the responsibility of teachers to engage young people about politics has never been more important. So where and when does it start and how are schools tackling topics which spark the greatest debate?

At St Francis’ College, Letchworth, politics is taught specifically as a subject at sixth form level, explains Dr Nick Dennis, Director of Studies and Head of Politics, but the notions it encompasses such as law and culture are present throughout senior school education.

‘Fundamental British values are an essential part of the curriculum,’ Dennis says. ‘We cover the rule of law in a broad context. While politics is taught specifically at sixth form, it is part of everything else. It’s a discussion of who gets what, when and how. It’s human rights, poverty, charity. Not just the debate and the creation of theories, but how policies get enacted.

I tell my students that politics is about who we are and who we want to be.’

Students at Cheltenham Ladies’ College (CLC) are exposed to political concepts from Year 7 upwards and politics is embedded in the Saturday enrichment programme, as well as Wellbeing (the school’s equivalent of PSHE). ‘In Years 7 to 9,’ says Head of Politics Debbie Burston, ‘topics include: What is Politics? The nature of democracy; Getting to know

Parliament; Elections and Voting; Criminal Justice and Public Institutions.

Upper College students (Years 10 and 11) cover similar ground in more depth, with discussion-based sessions on current political affairs. Recent examples have included debates around immigration, the Sarah Everard case, and the role of social media in shaping our political consciousness.’

Like St Francis’ College, politics is not a curriculum subject until sixth form, but the activities described ensure CLC students have a keen political awareness and are critically engaged in current affairs. ‘We are continually revising our provision and honing the ways in which our students are exposed to political knowledge to help them develop as global citizens,’ says Burston.

Oakham School’s Head of Citizenship, Viv Lamb, agrees. ‘We teach about political issues and how they affect the world from the Lower School onwards. This helps pupils gain a contextualised understanding of the outside world allowing them to develop a political ideology.’

Pupils can choose to study citizenship as a subject in Form 4, says Lamb.

‘This covers the political system and focuses on human rights and how law and politics play a part in this.’ But, she adds, ‘Political awareness is a central platform in geography and history lessons, be that the slave trade or the impact of globalisation. Religion and philosophy lessons also look at ethical issues which reinforce rights and responsibilities.’

At sixth form, Oakham School offers an A-level politics course and a course on Global Politics for the IB Diploma, which encourage discussion and debate and require pupils to study and present different global perspectives as well as understanding opposing and contestable claims.

‘Pupils learn more about the complex world we live in,’ says Lamb, ‘and its significant challenges, including global terrorism, poverty, economic instability and environmental degradation.’

Understanding where British politics fits into global affairs is key, says Dr Josef Craven, Head of History and Head of Citizenship at St James Senior Girls’ School in London. Craven explains: ‘We have a formal ‘politics’ focused course in Citizenship: ‘Living in the Wider World’.

It helps Year 8 pupils make sense of their place in society, particularly in relation to rights, responsibilities and duties. We explore the idea of a ‘perfect society’ – and what might feature: allowing exploration into diversity, respect and tolerance.’

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By Year 9, St James’s students are looking at the development of democracy which ties in with work in history such as Parliamentary Reform, the Peterloo Massacre, Chartists and Female Suffrage. ‘We also look at the workings of the British democratic system, including the role of an MP and the voting system. In Year 10, we explore the Political Spectrum and then the role of the Media in a healthy – and indeed unhealthy – society.’

Keeping a truly broad mind is invaluable. Nick Dennis says it would be ‘reductive’ to teach just from a Westminster perspective. ‘We’ve been living in a globalised society for quite a while,’ he points out. ‘A constrained, localised view wouldn’t equip students to understand the future or even the present. For example, talking about Brexit mean discussing domestic affairs but also its global implications.’

Part of his job is to help students to understand the complexity of political problems ‘in the round’. He adds: ‘Even if they want to disagree, they need to be armed with a variety of viewpoints.’

Which brings us to one of the most pressing issues of modern times: concerns around free speech. Many schools including Oakham work with the Model United Nations (MUN) Conference programme as a way to encourage healthy, respectful open debate. Students assume the role of national ambassadors to debate and develop key skills like public speaking, teamwork and negotiation. It follows the pattern of the United Nations and allows for trips to Dublin, Edinburgh and Amsterdam for conferences. Other activities including having a School Council and interhouse debating which is done between the School Houses.

St James stages mock general elections. ‘We also have House Debates every year,’ says Craven, ‘as well as debates organised by the English Department for every year group and for the Sixth Form as a collective.’

Dennis points out that young people are ‘eager to discuss’ difficult issues. ‘They are not saying they don’t want to hear difficult things,’ he adds.

‘But we have to make sure debates are able to happen in a civilised way in school. Sometimes politics is emotive and that needs to be recognised.’

Politics is also hugely popular, says Jess Kaye, acting head of the Government and Politics department, at Charterhouse, where more than 130 pupils choose to study it at IB and A-level. ‘With the impact of Covid-19,’ says Kaye, ‘pupils have become more aware of the importance of understanding our political system and the impact it can have on their lives, and this has helped to foster new interest as well.’

She adds: ‘It is a fantastic subject to study at this level, encouraging pupils to think deeply and synthesize information, but also helping to foster rigor in terms of analysing and using sources, and evaluating factors against each other. These sorts of skills are incredibly transferable and allow pupils to develop a structured and clear writing style and the ability to think critically and deeply on the spot. It is also really interesting and

Girls at St James Senior Girls’ School

In class discussions at St Francis’ College

good fun, as we get to think about big ideas and exchange opinions.’

Inevitably, all schools report normal trips have been curtailed by Covid, but Laurence Ward, Head of Politics at Oakham, expects the school’s New York and Washington trip to go ahead next academic year. Trips like this aim to enrich pupils’ knowledge and understanding of global perspectives and supplement their preparation for their A2 and IB examinations.

They are not merely holidays, Ward explains: ‘We expect them to take an active role in researching activities. This includes planning debates and asking questions to the guest speakers which the school arranges either in Wall Street, NGO in the UN building or at government buildings.’

Kaye says Charterhouse is also looking forward to its usual US trip re-starting post Covid as well as taking pupils to the House of Parliament in Westminster, something the team at CLC are also planning.

Closer to home, Oakham also works with local MPs on action projects and pupils can also get involved with Select Committees at the school from the age of 16.

Within schools, much of the pupil enthusiasm is generated in dedicated clubs. At CLC, there is a Politics Society for sixth-formers, which is also attended by students from a local grammar school. This provides a weekly opportunity to discuss and debate topical issues. ‘The Politics Department are keen contributors to the Saturday lecture programme and College invites a range of speakers to address whole-school or specific audiences,’ says Burston. ‘Talks on the horizon include Andy Gillman MBE (Ministry of Defence), Sir John Hayes MP and Leila Hassan Howe (activist and editor). College is regularly visited by Alex Chalk, MP for Cheltenham, who most recently spoke to Sixth Form students about his role in shaping the recent Domestic Abuse Bill.’

At St James’s weekly politics club, speakers are a huge draw, says Josef Craven. ‘Last year we were delighted to welcome back Nigel Thorpe, the distinguished ex-diplomat and former UK Ambassador to Hungary, to discuss American foreign policy.’

Looking ahead, St Francis’ Nick Dennis believes politics is an excellent subject to support all kinds of careers. ‘It’s doesn’t limit you to a policy job,’ he says. ‘Many careers have political dimensions, such as the charity sector, careers in academia, going into business. Every single job involves politics in the widest sense.’

No wonder, Josef Craven would love to expand his own department – ‘should the timetable offer more time.’ As it is, he encourages students to get as ‘politically literate’ as they can by watching the news, listening to podcasts or looking at a newspaper (online or traditional).

Dennis concurs. ‘It’s clear to me that most people don’t understand how political processes work. Newspapers report events but people struggle with contextual understanding. When you think about Parliament, the devil is always in the detail. That’s what teachers of politics have to get across to our students.’

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TAKING HER SEAT A passion for current affairs at school led to a life in public service for The Rt Hon Baroness Nicky Morgan, discovers Eleanor Doughty

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icky Morgan, Baroness Morgan of Cotes, 49, grew up in Surbiton, southwest London, and was educated at Surbiton High School, a girls’ independent day school.

Before seeking a national political career, she worked as a corporate lawyer specialising in mergers and acquisitions. She was a Conservative politician for nine years, elected as member of parliament for Loughborough in the 2010 general election, and has served in various ministerial roles including as Minister for Women and Secretary of State for Education.

At the December 2019 general election, she stood down from the House of Commons in her final cabinet position as Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media, and Sport (DCMS), and a month later, having announced her intention to ‘step back from ministerial life’, she was created Baroness Morgan of Cotes and took her seat in the House of Lords. She lives in Leicestershire and London, and is married to Jonathan, leader of Charnwood Borough Council, with whom she has a son.

answers to the challenges we face as individuals and as a society.

How difficult was it to get a seat and how many times did you try? It is so long ago now that I can’t quite remember,

but I did a lot of interviews for selection. I stood in a seat the Conservatives were very unlikely to win – Islington South and Finsbury – in 2001, and The Rt Hon Baroness then I had to stand in Nicky Morgan Loughborough twice.

The first time, in 2005, I didn’t win and then I was lucky enough to be elected in 2010.

What was it like to win?

It was almost unbelievable after more than six years of campaigning in Loughborough – I was excited but also exhausted.

What did you achieve?

We made big investments in Loughborough – a new road, an enterprise zone, relief on business rates, and helped to move our secondary schools from a three-tier to a two-tier system. I helped thousands and thousands of constituents with their casework, and was lucky enough in Westminster to become a whip, a cabinet minister – for education from 2014 to 2016, and DCMS from 2019 to 2020 – and chair of the best House of Commons select committee, the Treasury Select Committee!

Were you interested in politics at school?

Why did you choose to leave Parliament?

I would encourage my son to go into politics, too

What did you read at university and why did you choose it? I studied law at St Hugh’s College, Oxford. My father

was a barrister so that sparked my interest and it looked interesting and intellectually challenging. It is a choice that stands me in good stead every day of my working life.

Why did you decide to join the Conservatives? I joined the Conservatives because I believe that government doesn’t have all the

After Brexit, political life became very toxic, and I was fed up with receiving threats. I had also had almost 10 years of having to be away from my home and my family three nights of the week.

Would you go back to formal politics or is ‘everyday politics’ more interesting to you now? I think it is very

unlikely – I’m enjoying life after the Commons too much!

Would you encourage your children to go into politics?

I would, but I’d encourage my son to do something else first – so he had life experience to draw on once he was elected.

PHOTOS: UK PARLIAMENT WEBSITE

Yes, once I reached secondary school I was, and I was always interested in debating and current affairs. I joined the Conservatives when I was still at school, at the age of 16.

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REGULARS

Bredon School, Gloucestershire

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ABOVE & BELOW: Inside Bredon School classrooms; art class at Bredon

EXTRA TIME y bright and engaged six-year-old son came home from school quite upset.

Handing over his exercise book he told me he was rubbish at maths, that he had got just one out of 10 in his latest test. As a mother, sister and daughter of dyslexics I was on the alert but when I looked, I realised that he hadn’t got the other answers wrong at all. It’s just that whenever he wrote the – correct – number reversed, the teacher had marked it with a dot. When I explained to her my son’s take on her marking system she was aghast, but the damage had been done. Like many children with dyslexia, my son had been sent down the wrong path, the path of thinking he wasn’t any good.

Einstein famously wrote, ‘Everybody is a genius. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid.’ This, in essence, is the problem confronted day in, day out by dyslexic pupils

because they don’t fit into a school system where children are taught from white boards and asked to write everything down; where short-term memory and reading are requisite as skills to access learning.

For children with dyslexia, this mode of learning is often impossible and as a result can be confidence sapping. It’s a problem

which Jo Petty, who runs the Dyslexia Teaching Centre in Kensington, London, which provides educational psychology assessments and follow-up advice, has been working on for the past 40 years.

Her advice to parents suspecting their child has dyslexia is to get them tested as soon as possible. ‘If we get them early enough, they may not need to fail at all,’ Petty says; a diagnosis can help pupils get additional help, including extra time, or time out, in exams. ‘It is hard to get the message across to parents that their child is not stupid,’ she adds, ‘but they do need to be taught differently so that they can access information in the correct way.’ She worries far more about the undiagnosed 14-year-old.

‘If you leave it too late, it is very difficult for them to catch up.’

But while it’s easy to spot the little boy rushing off to the loo every five minutes or mucking around in the back of the class, it’s easier to

PHOTOS: MIKE ELLIS

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In the first of a regular feature about conditions which can have an impact on children’s education, Annabel Heseltine talks dyslexia

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overlook the little girl working twice as hard as everyone and apparently standing still, or the highly eloquent little boy who seems reluctant to write his essay, so let’s start with a few facts.

One in five people are dyslexic; of this 20 per cent of the population, about two per cent are severely so. Dyslexia is defined as a neurologically based, specific learning disorder which interferes with the acquisition and processing of language, and may occur with a cocktail of other ‘dys’s; dyspraxia, previously referred to as ‘clumsy child syndrome’, dyscalculia, directional dyslexia, dysgraphia and dysphasia as well as ADHD, short-term memory problems and processing difficulties, and may be comorbid with those on the autistic spectrum.

The debate is in the detail but it is widely acknowledged that more boys are dyslexic than girls, statistics suggest about 1.5:1, and that dyslexia in girls is not so easily picked up. Boys, never very happy in a traditional classroom setting, tend to be more avoidant than girls who are natural people-pleasers, which can be very damaging if not caught and corrected, says Dr Sally Shaywitz, co-founder of the Center for Dyslexia and Creativity at Yale University who invented the Shaywitz Dyslexia Screen. It is a sad fact that prisons have a significantly higher ratio of dyslexics. But there is good news, too.

Schools have got much better at looking after their pupils who are neuro-diverse; the term was coined in the late 1990s by Australian sociologist Judy Singer and covers all the learning differences.

Parents seeking the right school should be circumspect, asking the right questions, seeking to know how far the school goes to

be inclusive. Are pupils being removed from class for additional lessons or perhaps given print-outs as memory aids? Are teachers wellinformed about dyslexia and other learning difficulties? I once interviewed the head of learning support at a well-known senior school, when she excused herself. ‘I am so sorry,’ she said, ‘but it’s the English GCSE exam this afternoon and I have 50 scribes to organise for our dyslexic children.’

Look at how involved is the head of Learning Support (LS) in the entry assessment process.

In some schools they sit beside the head during the interview; in others, even when there is an issue, the head of LS is not consulted.

Contrary to popular myth, the range of intelligence in neuro-diverse dyslexics mirrors those who are neuro-typical but their educational psychology profile will be spikey – and while there will be areas where they will struggle, there are areas where they can excel, sometimes exceptionally well. Their talents which may not shine in the classroom often include creativity, original and lateral thinking, all very useful skills for the workplace.

There’s a newspaper cutting stuck on to my fridge with the headline ‘GCHQ recruits dyslexics’. It is no accident that many of the brightest geniuses are also believed to be dyslexic; Thomas Edison, Einstein, Leonardo da Vinci. BBC research found that 40 per cent of self-made millionaires are dyslexic.

Learning to circumnavigate conventional problems seems to go hand-in-hand with dyslexics thinking outside of the box, all of which will stand them in good stead later on, just as long as they can get through the school years with their confidence intact. n

SCHOOLS WHERE DYSLEXICS THRIVE Bruern Abbey, Oxfordshire Bruern Abbey is a prep school which has taken the best of mainstream and special school and packed it all into a quintessentially British, eccentric, confident and successful model for preparing dyslexic pupils for common entrance into a wide variety of mainstream senior schools.

But for those not yet ready to make the leap, in September 2021, Bruern Abbey Senior was opened for boys aged 13 to 16. With GCSEs becoming so demanding, says Headmaster John Floyd, the school was finding mainstream schools were becoming less keen to risk taking on pupils with dyslexia. ‘We focus on getting them through the challenging GCSEs and then send them off to brilliant sixth forms where they can concentrate on something they are really good at and enjoy.’

Weekly boarding with Monday/Friday buses to London for the weekend. bruernabbey.org Bredon School, Gloucestershire One of the UK’s top Boarding and Day Independent Schools with a dyslexia specialism.

Its location, wide-ranging Vocational and Academic curriculum and vast outdoor offering enables all pupils to reach their full potential. All encapsulated in its school motto, ‘Be Bredon, Be You’. bredonschool.org The Dominie Prep, Battersea, London Anne Doherty is a legend if you can persuade her to take your child. thedominie.co.uk Emerson House, Hammersmith, London A tutoring school specialising in supporting children with dyslexia in West London. Pupils from mainstream schools attend one to three mornings or afternoons a week for intensive work on key subjects. emersonhouse.co.uk Fairley House, Pimlico and Lambeth, London A specialist day school for children with learning difficulties. Ages five to 16. fairleyhouse.org.uk Dyslexia Teaching Centre, Kensington, London Provides assessment and supporting advice. dyslexiateachingcentre.co.uk

PHOTOS: MIKE ELLIS

THE RESOURCES:

Bruern Abbey science class

This is Dyslexia by Kate Griggs (published by Vermillion, 2021) Dyslexic Kate Griggs is on a mission to help the world understand dyslexic strengths, and the value of dyslexics to the world we are getting to know. Her charity Made

by Dyslexia seeks to train all teachers to understand and teach to the needs of dyslexics by 2025. Her BBC documentary inspired the government’s review of dyslexia in 2009, published in the Rose Report.

In 2020, Griggs published a children’s book Xtraordinary People which explains dyslexic thinking in children and her latest book, This is Dyslexia, was glowingly endorsed by Sir Richard Branson as a ‘brilliant guide for people with dyslexia’.

It is a quick and easy read packed with all the guidance and support needed by parents trying to navigate the world through a dyslexic child’s eyes. Bar codes lead readers straight to inspiring podcasts and interviews. It’s as engaging and connected as a book can be.

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Emma Raducanu on the court

MATCH FIT T

hanks to the exploits of home-grown tennis sensations Emma Raducanu, the teenage prodigy who became the first qualifier to win the US Open, and new British number 1, Cameron Norrie, UK tennis is at an all-time high. Clubs and public courts are being increasingly flooded with youngsters desperate to emulate their heroes. The independent schools specialising in tennis, such as Queenswood, Millfield, Reed’s School, Cobham and Culford in Suffolk are likewise experiencing ‘the

Emma effect’, attracting hundreds of young players keen to fulfil their on-court potential.

Whether they aspire to success on the world tour, or simply to become accomplished social players, the benefits of tennis stretch well beyond the capacity to produce a sweetly struck backhand or victory in the club mixed doubles.

The game, though invented in lateVictorian Warwickshire as a quintessentially English garden party pursuit, is now a global phenomenon. At grass-roots level, it offers

physical and mental benefits to players of all ages; children as young as three enjoy soft ball versions with lightweight rackets. Veterans in their 90s relish hard-fought battles, though more sedately than at their peak.

Advances in equipment technology have enabled players to generate greater racket head speed, making the game faster and more physical than even a generation ago.

Matchplay provides an effective cardiovascular workout and demands high levels of fitness and stamina from club level upwards.

PHOTOS: SHUTTERSTOCK

In the first of a new regular feature on sports, Sally Jones, real tennis world champion from 1993-95, serves up the truth about tennis

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The tactics and problem-solving aspects also offer a mental challenge. As a dedicated teenage tennis nut playing on the British junior circuit, I was often frustrated by the canny strategy of our 50-something county captain who hit the ball with half my pace but could play an untouchable drop shot or fiendish lob at will and beat numerous highly ranked Wimbledon players.

A few of my rivals such as Sue Barker and Jo Durie went on to glittering international careers. For many more of us, however, like the current cohort of young hopefuls, the friendships, self-reliance and experience we gained from travelling to tournaments around Europe, often unaccompanied, managing our time to fit in training and competition alongside our academic commitments, were crucial life lessons.

To Ben Haran, once a top British junior and near-contemporary of Tim Henman as a tennis scholar at Reed’s School, Cobham where he is now head coach, tennis is a game for life.

‘There are so many opportunities, even for those who don’t make the grade as singles stars,’ Haran explains. ‘You make lifelong friends and it opens up so many avenues: great jobs like coaching, sports management, commentary, writing. My fellow-scholar Jamie Delgado was the top Under 14 in the world, then became a doubles specialist on the Tour, before coaching Andy Murray.’

For the most gifted youngsters, tennis success can translate into lucrative opportunities to attend a high-level independent school with

THE SCHOOL: CULFORD

Reed’s School scholar Will Jansen (middle right)

substantial financial help, followed by an American Ivy League university.

Reed’s scholar Will Jansen, 16, who recently won the national junior championships a year young has been offered a full fees tennis scholarship to Yale, worth more than £50,000 a year. His French international classmates Paul Inchauspe and Melchior Delloye, both 17, have just signed up for similar scholarships at Princeton and Harvard, respectively.

‘These chances are a huge deal,’ Haran points out, ‘and they can set these young players up for life.’

Over two decades, Culford has developed a reputation for tennis excellence and become an LTA regional centre. Though smaller than its rivals, with just 425 senior pupils, many of its strong squad of tennis scholars in four age groups, are nationally ranked.

Once selected around the age of 11, most receive generously discounted school fees, of up to 25 per cent. Assistant head and tennis specialist James Yates attributes Culford’s success to fine facilities – six indoor and five outdoor courts – and high-quality training: 11 fulltime coaches, seven of them at performance level (until recently these included Raducanu’s former coach Andrew Richardson). ‘Our system saves youngsters spending hours travelling to training and gives them a good academic education plus the chance of a normal life with friends.’

Culford’s players to watch include Jomi Aminu, a bright, big-hitting tactician among Britain’s top Under 12s plus 10-year-old prodigy Megan Knight, a natural athlete and ball-striker and daughter of former England cricketer, Nick Knight. She reached the national Under 12 semifinals two years young.

THE RESOURCES: LEGACY by James Kerr (Little Brown) Though not specifically about tennis, Culford’s Assistant Head, tennis coach James Yates, recommends Legacy by James Kerr as a fascinating and influential read for the sport’s leaders, coaches and ambitious players. Kerr’s indepth research into the world’s most successful sporting team, the legendary New Zealand All Blacks, reveals compelling practical lessons for leadership in sport, business and life in general.

These include how to achieve world-class standards and sustaining success.

RESISTANCE BANDS Many tennis players including Rafa Nadal use elasticated or latex strips to warm up their muscles, boost strength and mobility and for rehab after injury. The bands have multiple applications and players use different levels of resistance according to their power and agility.

Inexpensive but effective, they are light and easily packed for travel. TheraBand is among the bestknown brands. theraband.com

PHOTOS: SHUTTERSTOCK

FOOTWORK LADDER The modern power game and breakthroughs in equipment technology have put a premium on footwork, speed and agility. As in football, many tennis players perform different hopscotchstyle or sprint drills with high knee action along the ‘rungs’ of footwork ladders, laid out on the ground. These are designed to boost foot speed, flexibility and concentration.

Serving up at Stonyhurst College, Lancashire

SKIPPING ROPE In tennis, as in boxing, skipping has been recognised since the 1950s as an effective route to fitness, footwork and stamina, with routines including double-skips used to build explosive power in the legs. Now sophisticated weighted rope technology, produced by brands like Crossrope with its Jump Rope training app, has enabled players to download these apps to their phones and choose the appropriate workout using the specific weight of rope they need. crossrope.com

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REGULARS

INSIDERS’ GUIDE

Our experts’ advice on choosing the ideal sixth-form place. By Eleanor Doughty

Free time at Eaton Square School

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hinking ahead to sixth form, and essential questions emerge: should you keep your teen at the same school or look elsewhere, how do qualifications work, and what pastoral support is available? To help, we have assembled an expert panel to guide you.

THE PANEL: Cosmo Jackson, Headmaster, Hurtwood House School, Surrey Caroline Townshend, Head of Eaton Square Senior School & Sixth Form, London John Southworth, Principal, MPW College London Richard Lees, Head of Sixth Form, Kew House School, London

1

Is there a value to first-time boarding in sixth form? Sixth

form is the perfect time to start living away from home, and 90 per cent of our students are first-time boarders. It’s good to get that taste of independence prior to university. Life in a boarding school doesn’t finish at 4pm – it’s often still raging at 9pm, and to be able to enjoy that at 16 is hugely beneficial.

Cosmo Jackson

2

Should my child stay at the same sixth form or is change always good? It depends on

the age at which your child has joined their senior school, and whether their senior school was co-ed or single-sex. If they have joined at 11, you might consider changing at 16, but if they have joined at 13 then it’s less wise – you ought to do five years

somewhere. If they have been in single-sex education until 16, it’s common to consider co-education before heading to university.

Caroline Townshend

3 4

How do we find a sixth form that specialises in Oxbridge entrance?

Most schools that have an Oxbridge programme will advertise that on their website. The best thing to do is call up those schools, discuss it with the head of admissions, and ask if you are able to talk to the Oxbridge coordinator. John Southworth

What is an EPQ? The Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) is an opportunity for students to gain UCAS points by investigating an area of personal interest to them. This can take the form of a dissertation, a performance, or an investigation, and they can pick any topic.

It’s an opportunity for the student to learn

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Chemistry Class at Hurtwood House

about something that they have an actual interest in, rather than something that is on a specification. We run it during Year 12, and they have an hour and a half timetabled for it weekly. The added bonus is that it’s something that they can progress during the holidays, as it doesn’t need much teacher input. Richard Lees

5

Are sixth-formers best served away from the rest of the school or should they be integrated? They need

their own space – the whole point of sixth form is to have greater independence, and it often becomes clear that’s what they want at the end of Year 11.

Our senior schools work really well for 11-16, (with the sixth form separately), so they have the best of both worlds – a stepping stone building which will give them the freedom, and the space, but

they’re still part of a whole school when you want them to be, so you can still run all of the leadership and mentoring (schemes). That’s a key part of sixth form life which you don’t get in a sixth-form college environment. Caroline Townshend

6

Do you get proper sport in sixth form? We recognise that

within sixth form students are mature enough to be moving away from the standard team sports offering. We’re keen for every student to have an opportunity for physical activity during the week, and because of the additional options we offer – from Zumba to rock climbing, boxing, and gym classes – as well as traditional team sports, we would struggle to think of a reason why a student wouldn’t want to participate.

Richard Lees

7

Can you change A-levels halfway through? Yes,

you can. We run almost all of our A-levels as intense one-year courses as well as two-year courses. Although it’s not recommended that students change subject after Year 12, if they want to change, we will put everything in place for them to do so. We don’t necessarily recommend it, but for the right reasons we will allow it, support it, and give them individual help.

John Southworth

8

What enrichment or extras should we look for? Those

that relate to whatever field the talents of your son or daughters lies in. An integral part of our ethos is to give students an opportunity to progress their talents. Richard Lees

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REGULARS MPW’s art classroom

9

Is it possible to retake a year of sixth form in case of illness?

Yes. There’s a variety of reasons why a student might choose to retake a year – for illness, or a complete change of subject. Socially, it can be tough for any student to slip into the year below, but provided they are taking a long-term view of the future then there’s no reason why it can’t happen effortlessly. Cosmo Jackson

10

Single-sex or mixed?

I prefer young people to be coming into schools that are inclusive and diverse, and that are also co-ed.

Ultimately, that is where we produce wellrounded young people. For some there are benefits to being in a single-sex school, but we get a lot of students coming from single-sex schools to our co-ed environment before they go to university. John Southworth

11

Out on the water at Kew House

How will pastoral care be handled? Pastoral care is still

key, but 16-year-olds don’t want to feel that they’re being treated as they were when they were 13, so it’s about having conversations on a more grown-up level. Although you are giving them the impression of some independence, they still need great pastoral support, and this will come through the housemaster, the tutor, and the school nurses. Cosmo Jackson

12

Is uniform still the norm?

We are starting to move away from uniform as we look more at how we prepare students for the future, and part of that is expecting them to dress in a businesslike manner. I think they are too grown up now, particularly for those in central London, for a sixth form uniform as such. Caroline Townshend

TIPS FROM THE HEAD’S OFFICE There are many fantastic schools within the independent sector, says Cosmo Jackson.

‘While we all want to think that we are marginally better than the other schools, there are lots of good choices. If you’ve got an enthusiastic, up-forit child, they’re going to be successful in any one of these schools, so it’s just a question of which particular flavour you are after.’

It’s not you, the parent, that will be attending the school, it’s the young person, warns John Southworth. ‘Don’t push your son or daughter into a school just because you think it’s the right place – let them have the final say.’

Make sure that you question specifics about any subject pathways, suggests Caroline Townshend.

‘When you join at 11+ or 13+, everybody does every subject, but if you’re going to do fine art or chemistry at A-level, understanding the differences in the quality of the facilities and how that course is delivered at that institution makes a difference.’

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Experience educational excellence at Reddam House Berkshire From 3 months old to Sixth Form, our unique approach to learning empowers every child to fulfil their potential.

V I S I T R E D DA M H O U S E . O R G . U K OR SC AN THE QR CODE TO LEARN MORE.

Contact us to arrange an in-person or bespoke virtual tour and discover what makes Reddam House Berkshire Day and Boarding School so special: take a look around our school’s stunning mansion house setting and grounds; visit our classrooms and see our state-of-the-art facilities.

Address Bearwood Rd, Sindlesham, Wokingham RG41 5BG, UK

Reddam House.indd 1

Telephone 01189748300 Email registrar@reddamhouse.org.uk

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LEARN DIFFERENTLY

Design your future

Whatever your starting point, we will work with you to design an education fitting your unique interests and future goals. Our wide range of vocational and traditional courses, and our genuinely different approach to learning, set every learner on the path to success.

Find out more at our Online Open Morning on Saturday 5th February or visit our Open Day in person on Saturday 19th March. admissions@miltonabbey.co.uk | 01258 881804 | www.miltonabbey.co.uk "An exciting, unique, adventurous, proactive school." | Good Schools Guide 13-18 | Co-ed | Full Boarding or Day School (Spring 1 2022).pdf 1 Milton House Abbey.indd

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HEALTH & WELLBEING

Waking up from a good night’s sleep

RISE TO SHINE Embedding good sleep habits now will help teenagers’ physical and mental health, says Canford’s Melissa Clinton

PHOTOS: GETTY IMAGES

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hen I began research into sleep patterns among young people, I discovered some worrying facts. According to experts, 68 per cent of teens do not get enough sleep on a school night (The Sleep Charity) and 75 per cent of those with mental health problems say they originated in Year 10, with sleep having a massive impact on this (Mental Health First Aid).

Hospital admissions for sleep disorders, says the NHS, have also risen exponentially from 6,000 in 2012 to over 11,000 by December 2019.

And the Japanese government believes sleep problems and insomnia are the most serious social refractory diseases of the 21st century.

Yet, when I began to look for answers that I might use at Canford, the most powerful remedies were not – as one might have feared – those available on prescription. Indeed, research has shown increased evidence for a non-pharmacological approach, with a focus on addressing the behavioural and cognitive approach through education.

The result of my investigation led to the creation of the Sleep Programme at Canford, which has just launched – something we believe to be truly unique to our school.

This programme has been designed to be holistic, empowering through education, supporting different areas and stages of a teenager’s journey through the school. We plan for it to be something all our pupils experience as part of their core Canford experience.

Why is it vital? Good sleep patterns are a fundamental area of health that provides increased concentration, improved productivity, more accurate hand-eye coordination and more stable emotional regulation. Our sleep programme will act in reality much like an injury prevention programme.

Moreover, we are using our role as educators to empower our pupils with the knowledge so that they can in time make more informed, better choices on sleep health and carry these life skills onwards into the world of employment.

So how does it work? The Sleep Programme covers core areas such as why sleep matters, the

science of sleep and why sleep issues occur plus, of course, practical strategies and methods to improve sleep.

Delivered through Houses by Designated Sleep Champions, tutors and matrons have been trained to support sleep health in our pupils across every year group. So there will be a designated person that pupils know they can talk to about sleep issues or concerns.

Base line testing will be completed for all pupils at the start of the year using the Teen Sleep Index provided by the Sleep Charity.

This index will be repeated throughout each term to help monitor sleep health objectively.

Pupils joining the school in September will also be sent information in advance about the transition to senior school, particularly for those new to boarding school life, and ways to develop positive sleep patterns and start aligning body clocks after the summer holidays.

We know the programme is going to be popular. There has been an enthusiastic response from parents who are pleased that the school is supporting pupils on important aspects of wellbeing.

One, who is also a local GP, said: ‘Sleep problems have become an overwhelming issue in our society and its impact is something I am dealing with on a day-to-day basis.’

Among the staff, who received support and training via the Sleep Charity, we hope the Canford Sleep Programme will stop issues with sleep being ignored or pupils feeling they ‘just have to get on with it’. We want to ensure we enrich our pupils’ wellbeing with the knowledge and understanding on the science and importance of sleep, so that they will feel empowered to make better choices around sleep health and hygiene.

These are vital life skills that they can carry through with them in future years.

Melissa Clinton is joint head of wellbeing at Canford School, Dorset

Canford School in bloom

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At Gordonstoun, a new menu has been calibrated to boost concentration and performance, says Principal Lisa Kerr

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here is now a multitude of scientific studies which demonstrate the link between food, and mental and physical wellbeing. Poor diet is linked to poorer mental health in children as well as obesity.

According to a recent University of East Anglia study published in the journal BMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health in September 2021, nutritional intake was associated with mental wellbeing scores in children of all ages. In particular, higher fruit and vegetable consumption was significantly associated with better mental wellbeing in secondary pupils.

That’s why at Gordonstoun we’ve decided to marry our menu to the curriculum all year round in order to improve wellbeing and outcomes for our pupils: what we call a ‘Phased Learning Menu’ for the whole school.

On weekday mornings, we offer a breakfast to boost concentration, memory and focus.

Basing our menu on the latest research, that might be porridge with a variety of healthboosting options such as sunflower seeds, goji berries and cranberries; or omega-rich smoked salmon and poached eggs with homemade artisan bread and Hollandaise sauce, containing essential fatty acids to absorb vitamins A, D and E. On Friday and Saturdays, students are active

in sports, therefore a new Carb and Protein Bar offers chicken, fish, rice and wholegrain bread to boost their carb and protein intake.

Alongside this we offer nitrate-rich fresh vegetables to help oxygenate the blood.

During exam periods, we increase the amount of fish and antioxidants on the menu, and during inter-house sporting competitions we increase carbohydrate and low-fat meat or protein-rich alternatives.

In order to improve mental health overall,

Lisa Kerr is principal of Gordonstoun, Scotland

Gordonstoun in the sunshine

PHOTOS: PEXELS

FEEDING THE BRAIN

we make sure that macronutrients (carbs, protein and fats) are the main part of each dish and that meals are also full of antioxidants.

We have added foods packed with nutrients often missing in our diets including more fish, asparagus, red kale, purple sprouting broccoli, alongside spices such as turmeric which is an antioxidant. We use whole-wheat and wholegrain flours and more than 90 per cent of the menu is now homemade so that we can limit the amount of saturated fat. More beans, lentils and vegetables have been added to vegetarian and vegan dishes to ensure they equally nutritious.

To support the learning menu, we are now growing our own produce in a newly established kitchen garden and our chefs have been out foraging with an expert to identify local wild ingredients such as wild garlic and porcini mushrooms.

This ambitious programme took hard work, dedication and financial investment – we are now investing 25 per cent more in nutritious ingredients. However, in the first year of our new menu, our GCSE results were the best ever, levels of obesity are far lower than average and our students have reported higher than expected mental wellbeing during a very challenging year.

This backs up our previous work in 2018, when the school – as part of an innovative ‘Active Revision’ course – offered ‘brain-boosting’ foods rich in essential nutrients alongside exercise sessions to help with revision. All students on this course improved by at least one grade in their exams compared to their mocks, with 60 per cent improving by two grades.

But most importantly, our refectory team carries out regular tasting sessions with students who give very honest and frank feedback. The new menu has to taste good!

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HEALTH & WELLBEING

Bowling the cobwebs away

FIT FOR LIFE

A winning formula at Westbourne House helps pupils make the most of sport, says head of boys’ sport, Kevin Smith

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ere in the glorious Sussex countryside, just outside Chichester, we are passionate about sports. For Westbourne House, it’s not just about encouraging children to excel but also to love sport – and all kinds of activity – throughout their lives. There are nine pillars on which our platform rests, and just like players in a team, these concepts work together to create a winning formula. So how do we do it?

1. CO-OPERATION: Team sports help children develop a special skill in co-operation which is a key foundation for good working relationships and friendships. Playing sport is one of the best ways to develop children’s skills in working together for a common aim as they learn to communicate clearly, listen to each other, encourage everyone to join in, and be a leader one day and a follower the next.

2. PERSEVERANCE: Our ethos in sport helps children learn to keep a positive mindset, even in the face of setbacks. Children work towards goals, without giving up, whether this is endeavouring to win more hockey matches, to get a personal best in a cross-country event or develop a fantastic spin bowling technique in cricket.

3. WINNING: Do we have a healthy approach to competition or is it all about the winning? As well as aiming to take first place, our children are learning there are other advantages to games and matches. These include visiting

different schools in this and other countries (Holland and South Africa), meeting new people and becoming friends, enjoying doing your best and having fun along the way.

4. BEING MODEST WITH SUCCESS: While we celebrate our achievements and enjoy them, we encourage our pupils to be proud but modest with their success. It can be hard to be humble when you’ve just scored an amazing goal. However, in life, being modest is a great skill, twinned with confidence in yourself and your abilities.

5. COPING WITH ADVERSITY: Our children don’t fail, they learn. It is often said

that when you experience difficulties, you are one step closer to succeeding. Losing never feels great, but we encourage children not to dwell on the disappointment. By looking at what we could do better, we can learn from it then adapt and improve.

6. BEING AN AMBASSADOR AND HOST: Our pupils really look forward to the match day experience. This includes meeting and greeting our opponents, playing hard and fair, and enjoying the post-match debriefing and tea. Additionally, when our children go to other schools for sports matches, they represent Westbourne House. We often receive positive feedback about our good sporting behaviour.

7. LEADERSHIP: Inter-house competitions provide an excellent chance for many different children to try their hand at leadership. It is wonderful to see the captains taking their role so seriously and rallying every member of the house with incredible warm-up routines and well thought out plans for rotating players and ensuring there is fair play.

8. CONFIDENCE: We believe in sport for all. Our experienced coaches work with our pupils across the age groups day in day out and know their skills extremely well. The coaches rotate through the teams to ensure that everyone has an equal chance to improve.

At Westbourne you can be a hero in any of our teams, perform well at any level and the whole school celebrates the success.

9. LIFELONG LOVE OF BEING ACTIVE: At the end of the day, being active is healthy and being outside in the fresh air is important for children’s mental and physical health.

Every day our children take part in sport lessons, running around, having fun and getting fit which we hope will inspire a love of activity to last forever.

Kevin Smith is Head of Boys’ Sport, Westbourne House School, Chichester Pupils at Westbourne House

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25 years

full of

opportunities

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For 25 years, Fulham students have enjoyed an education that prepares them for success in any path they choose to pursue.

Discover the academic excellence that our co-educational school for 3-18 year olds could offer your child.

New Nursery School opening in April 2022

To find out more visit fulham.school or contact admissions@fulham.school

29/11/2021 10:23

SCHOOL’S OUT

Young drivers on the Goodwood Racecourse

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THE CULTURE KIT Give your spring and summer a cultural kick. By Ruby Featherstone

WHAT TO SEE ON THE STAGE

To Kill a Mockingbird at the Gielgud Theatre Aaron Sorkin has adapted Harper Lee’s iconic novel into a wonderful play which comes to the West End from 31 March. The story of Scout and Atticus Finch, played by Rafe Spall, is a vital part of our literary experience – don’t miss the chance to see it come to life on stage this spring. tokillamockingbird.co.uk

BRITISH BEAUTY SPOTS FOR THE HOLIDAYS Lavender Fields in Norfolk Take a tour of Norfolk Lavender’s stunning lavender fields and feel the calming effects of the violet plant wash over you. You can visit the lavender oil distillery in the summer months and fill your shopping bag with countless delightful flowery products, from hand creams to homeware. norfolk-lavender.co.uk Theddlethorpe Dunes, Lincolnshire If you’ve read Where the Crawdads Sing, escape your regular life by making your way to England’s version of Kya’s salt marshes at the wild, grassy sand dunes of Theddlethorpe Dunes in North Lincolnshire. The designated nature reserve is the ideal escape from reality on a half term staycation. linctrust.org.uk

Romesh Ranganathan’s The Cynic Tapes Join comedian Romesh Ranganathan on his British tour as he spreads his hilarious cynicism across the country. The Crawleyborn comedian has made a name for himself through the Edinburgh Fringe and now features on shows like The Last Leg, 8 out of 10 Cats Does Countdown and The Great British Bake Off: An Extra Slice. romeshranganathan.co.uk

Castle Drogo, Devon Make your way down to Dartmoor and take a long walk around the stunning Teign gorge beneath Castle Drogo. With options for different lengths of walk, this location is perfect for all ages of family, with the Fingle Bridge Inn at the centre of the gorge perfect for a refreshing drink or warming hot chocolate after exploring the castle and the striking landscape’s heights and depths. nationaltrust.org.uk

ON THE BIG SCREEN Uncharted After Tom Holland’s huge success in the latest Spider-Man movie, Uncharted is an escape into yet another world of action and exploration. Starring the 25-year-old as Nathan Drake, alongside Mark Wahlberg as Victor Sullivan, the film follows the pair in dangerous pursuit of ‘the greatest treasure never found’ while they also track clues that may lead to Drake’s long-lost brother. 18 Feb Top Gun: Maverick Pete ‘Maverick’ Mitchell, Tom Cruise, is making a comeback 36 years after the release of the original film in 1986. Facing an uncertain future while confronting the ghosts of his past, Maverick is drawn into a confrontation with his own deepest fears, culminating in a mission that demands the ultimate sacrifice from those who will be chosen to fly it. 27 May

PHOTOS: RORY JAMES; UNSPLASH; SHUTTERSTOCK

Dear Evan Hansen at the Noel Coward Theatre, London This tearjerker is a smash-hit on Broadway and has now made it onto the big screen.

The plot follows an isolated high schooler who finds himself in the middle of a whirlwind of lies and internet fame as he finally creates his chance to fit in. With music by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul, this musical is both uplifting and heartbreaking as the audience soaks up a young man’s struggle with mental health and social anxiety. dearevanhansen.com

Where the Crawdads Sing Adapted from the bestselling book which took the world by storm during the early months of the pandemic, this love-letter to the natural world is coming to the big screen. Starring Daisy Edgar-Jones, the story follows the life of the ‘marsh girl’ as she navigates a world as an outcast and now murder suspect after living much of her life alone. 22 July

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SCHOOL’S OUT

WHAT TO READ MY PEN IS THE WING OF A BIRD: NEW FICTION

BY AFGHAN WOMEN

This collection of short stories by 18 anonymous Afghan women is unique and striking. It introduces new voices and narratives to the world at a time when the livelihoods of Afghan women has become even more uncertain.

UNTOLD is a writer development programme for marginalised writers in areas of conflict and post-conflict. It has been working one-to-one with Afghan women on their stories, developing their writing and helping translate them from Pashto and Dari into English for a local and global audience to enjoy in this collection.

The stories are written by women whose voices deserve to be heard despite the conflict and social upheaval their country is experiencing to this day. Some delve into the horrors of home life many women face, others follow young women demanding education and resources for them to have a leg up to a better life or experiencing the discrimination of the patriarchy.

This collection reminds the reader of the humans at the core of the news stories we read, the actual lives behind each statistic or tragedy.

The introduction by Lyse Doucet, the BBC’s Chief International Correspondent, highlights the power of the following stories, and the ability storytelling has to lift the reader out of their own life and into someone else’s previously unknown one. She says, ‘Women’s lives, in their own words – they matter.’ Quercus, £12

SCHOOL HOUSE LIBRARY

PHOTOS: RORY JAMES; UNSPLASH; SHUTTERSTOCK

BURNING QUESTIONS

Margaret Atwood brings us a brilliant collection of 50 essays which seek the answers to many of her burning questions over the past 17 years. Having written two previous anthologies, Second Words and Moving Targets, Atwood tackles fresh questions such as: Why do people everywhere, in all cultures, tell stories? How much of yourself can you give away without evaporating?

How can we live on our planet? Vintage Publishing, £16.40

SILENCE IS NOT AN OPTION

Stuart Lawrence, brother of Stephen Lawrence who was murdered in an unprovoked racist attack in 1993, has written this book to help young people tackle life positively. It draws on Stephen’s legacy and teaches them the tools Stuart has used to overcome his grief of losing his brother in such an emotionally charged situation and how he became an educator and speaker.

Scholastic, £14.99

THE LORD OF THE RINGS ILLUSTRATED EDITION

First published in 1954, the epic, well-loved world of Middle Earth has been artfully re-imagined in 30 colour illustrations, maps and sketches drawn by Tolkien himself as he composed his monumental work. The incredible detail of the world Tolkein created comes alive in this edition.

We can sneak a peek deeper into the author’s powerful imagination.

HarperCollins Publishers, £60

KIDS’ CORNER

AGES 2+

The Wintertide Bear Natalie Whitfield, teacher at Bedales’ nursery Dunnanie, in Hampshire, has written her first published children’s book. This bedtime story follows a bear who dreams of being at one with the snow, ice and cold, and invites young readers to join him on his journey and complete his mission. Blue Falcon Publishing, £9.99

AGES 3–5

Little Bunny’s Book of Friends Part of Steve Smallman’s Little Bunny series, this book follows Little Bunny as he discovers how important friends can be and how they help you tackle emotions as well as how to be a good friend to others.

Graffeg, £6.99

AGES 4-8

Daisy Finds Her Smile Daisy Finds Her Smile is Melanie Broughton’s uplifting children’s book about the true story of Daisy the duck, who had a hidden disability which made her clumsy. It follows Daisy from being bullied to being a happy young duck with friends around to support her. Panocub, £6.99

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SCHOOL’S OUT

WHAT TO DO Art History Abroad Is your child particularly interested in art history and the beautiful architecture and culture of locations like Venice? Art History Abroad is the place to go for summer holiday courses, semester courses and in-depth gap year courses. With a range of different options, these experiences are like an ultimate school trip with more freedom, touring countless European cities with opportunities to relax and enjoy the sunshine in among the intense cultural education. arthistoryabroad.com

RHS Gardening Courses The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) offers fantastic training courses such as ‘Gardening Basics’, growing food in your ‘Edible Garden’ and instruction on seasonal plants in the ‘A Year in Your Gardening Club’. These courses can teach young people to appreciate how their food is grown and reconnect with the process which takes a plant from seed to their plate.

The RHS has great courses for adults too, with a wide range of broad and specific options from wisteria pruning to having success with house plants to understanding what soil you have in your garden.

For a holiday or weekend treat, head to any of the number of RHS gardens which are perfect for getting out and growing an appreciation for the natural world. rhs.org.uk

Goodwood Driving Courses Goodwood Racecourse, the home of horseracing and fantastic classic car revivals, are ready to fulfil a great deal of childhood fantasies, both as a young driver and a license holder. The Young Driver Learning Experiences give teens below the age of 17 the chance to get their hands on the steering wheel of an iconic MINI cooper in a safe space. Meanwhile, licensed drivers can try their hand at the Spin and Slide or on the Performance Track following the tyre tracks of racing heroes such as Jim Clark and Sir Jackie Stewart. goodwood.com

Easter Revision Courses at Kensington Park Easter Revision courses at Kensington Park School are designed to motivate students and provide them with a structured learning environment to boost their knowledge and confidence ahead of their GCSE/IGCSE and A-level examinations. Delivered in small class sizes (maximum six students per group), the exam board-specific revision sessions cover exam technique and past paper practice, as well as core topics, providing a high degree of individual attention and support. Courses run in the first three weeks of April, prices from £740. kps.co.uk

PHOTOS: BLACK TOMATO; TREVOR RAY HART; KENSINGTON PARK SCHOOL

Black Tomato Designed for ages 12 and over, Black Tomato travel company has created its Field Trip initiative, aimed at taking education outside of the classroom through traveling and experiencing the world. The hope is to create an environment where young people are keen to learn for the sake of learning, not because there is an exam to sit at the end of the year. The subjects range from Sustainability, Social Studies, Earth Sciences to History and the Arts in places across the world. blacktomato.com

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“

Every evening when we pick our daughter up she has a smile on her face and is full of tales of her day. She loves her class, her surroundings, her lessons and her teachers.

Most importantly for us she is thriving at school.

As parents we could not be happier with the choice we made.

Year 7 parent, December 2020

T o le arn m ore about us an d what C lare m on t F an C ourt S ch ool c an d o f or your ch ild , vi sit cl are m on t f an o c urt .co .uk

Claremont Fan Court School I n d e p e n d e n t | C o- e d uca t ion al | 2 ½

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- 1 8 ye ars | E she r, S urre y K T 1 0 9 L Y

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TEEN REVIEW

I THE RIGHT INGREDIENTS Rowena le Poer Trench and Kit Mackay try out a two-day teenage cookery course at Leiths School of Food and Wine

TEEN VERDICT:

‘Definitely going back.’

PARENT VERDICT:

‘Astonishingly high-quality food brought home.’

The Two Day Teen’s Cookery Toolbox, £325; Leiths School of Food and Wine, London W12; 020 8749 6400; leiths.com

PHOTOS: LEITHS SCHOOL OF FOOD AND WINE STOCK IMAGES

L

eiths offers lots of experiences for teenagers, from one-day courses learning to make curries or sushi to a six-week full length course teaching everything. You can even do them online if you can’t get to the Leiths kitchens in west London.

For this review, Kit and I were sent on a two-day basics course.

Probably a good idea as we are both hopeless in the kitchen. I can make macarons and a full cooked breakfast, but Kit had never even boiled an egg on his own. We do both like to eat though.

I think we were both a bit worried about what might be expected, especially as I am a vegetarian and really wouldn’t have wanted to cut any meat up. It also looked hard work.

But I didn’t have to worry: my menu plans were altered so that when Kit was chopping up a poussin with an evil grin and making a TikTok of himself doing it, I was carefully slicing out a healthy cauliflower steak.

From the start, we learnt to work safely with knives and hot plates, and there weren’t any accidents. And we made a huge range of food in the two days: chicken or aubergine schnitzel with potato salad and apple cake on day one. spatchcock poussin or cauliflower with hasselback potatoes, carrots and tenderstem broccoli plus chocolate mousse and monkey bread on day two.

I really enjoyed learning new skills and I’m planning to make more of the Monkey Bread which was a huge favourite with my family and friends. I was amazed to see both how hard and easy cooking is. If you learn the skills, you can make really impressive dishes. And we got to take home our own personal recipe booklets as well. So, I guess there is no excuse not to keep cooking. Rowena

t was such a pleasure and I really appreciated spending a couple of days at Leiths. The teenage course was great as everyone was my age and just as useless as me. I have never even boiled an egg but while I was there, I learnt incredible recipes.

My favourite was probably making fried chicken; quite frankly better than my mum’s, with a potato salad and vine roasted tomatoes.

I also made the most professional-looking monkey bread and an enormous apple cake, a bit like a crumble, which I took home to eat with the family.

On the course, we all had lunch together every day and I made a couple of mates.

Caroline was one of our teachers and an excellent chef. She kept her beady eyes on the knives and made sure we were chopping correctly.

I felt her watching me as well throughout the course as half of the ingredients I was given ended up being devoured in raw form!

I would definitely go back to Leiths; it was a really informative and fun course.

When home, I melted down all the Christmas Lindt Reindeer and made a very good chocolate ‘moose’. Kit

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SCHOOL HOUSE PARTNERSHIP

inclusive as they can be and that we will continue to learn from growth experiences as we progress.

Fear of being called out for doing the wrong thing can no longer be a barrier to progress in this area – we simply do not have the luxury of time to wait and see what others might do. This means getting comfortable with having uncomfortable conversations. I am very aware of the privileged position I hold and that I have little personal experience of the barriers which members of our community face.

Sometimes that means having to hear harsh truths about the lived experiences of pupils and staff under my care, but I know we can no longer afford to be squeamish about these conversations.

We decided to align all of the activities we undertake in support of inclusion with our strategic priorities. This way, we knew that inclusion would be a thread flowing through all areas of the school, making all key areas accountable for their success.

This took some reflection from our own leadership team as well as some help from external consultants, including those who helped us to anonymously collect our community’s attitudes to and experience of race and racism at the School.

Once this period of reflection was complete, we created an action plan which explained what we would do in each of the strategic areas and who would be responsible for the delivery of each activity. These activities were included in the annual objectives for the leadership team to be cascaded throughout the school.

The final part of the creation of this document was to communicate it to the various parts of our community.

Again, I approached this with some trepidation – what if people didn’t think it went far enough? What if people thought we had missed the point completely? What if we’d gone about the piece of work in the wrong way and we’d cause more damage than good?

Royal Russell has an Inclusion Group made up of staff members, current parents and former parents which discuss topics of inclusion each term. This group was an ideal sounding board to test whether our approach was resonating with our community and also to give some feedback as to whether there were any elements which they felt were missing.

One of the best pieces of feedback we received was a resounding ‘thank you’ for having the courage to reflect upon what we need to do and for asking ourselves tough questions. We know there is a lot of work to do and that not every element of our plan will be successful, however, we’re committed to playing our part in creating societal change and excited about the work we’ll do together as a community to achieve it.

IT’S TIME TO SHIFT GEAR ON INCLUSION Chris Hutchinson, Headmaster of Royal Russell School in Surrey, explains why inclusion is so important in his school

T

he pathways we made in education in racial inclusion over the past 10 years are no longer adequate. This is obvious in conversations I have with young people and staff on the matter, as well the wider mood in society. The pupils’ voice is loud and clear, and their message is that it’s time we shift gear on inclusion and bring our communities along on that journey together.

It can be difficult to know how to start to effect change. I know many of my peers may feel a sense of uneasiness in attempting to lead in this area for fear of either doing the wrong thing or having instances when the school has fallen short and is held up as an illustration of our failures – something that I have felt very keenly this year.

At Royal Russell School, I have been really clear that driving change in inclusion is a journey and that inclusion does not stop with a ‘check list’ of activities, reported upon once per year. Our community knows that we will continue to question whether actions and initiatives are as

Royal Russell School, Surrey, is a happy, vibrant and forward-looking community, providing girls and boys from age 3 to 18 with an outstanding range of exciting learning opportunities. You are warmly invited to our next Junior School open day on 28 Feb 2022 between 9am and 11am. For more information, email admissions@royalrussell.co.uk or visit royalrussell.co.uk

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CELEBRITY

MY SCHOOL REPORT

Brighton College alumna Tamzin Merchant is a film and TV actor. She has also written two children’s books The Hatmakers and, new out in February, The Mapmakers What school did you go to? I went to five different schools on four continents ending up at Brighton College, for GCSEs and A-levels.

Boarder or day? I was a day pupil except for the two years when I went to an all-boarding school called Windlesham House School, in Sussex.

How was the school food? It smelled like armpits when they were cooking frittata... you could smell frittata day 100 yards from the dining hall. And once there were sausages which inspired a small food-fight. They were too rubbery to eat but perfect for hurling across the dining hall.

Your A-level choices ?

Can you recall the school smell? The floor in the

English, History and Theatre Studies.

entrance hall smelled of a particular kind of polish that beeswaxy camphor-y floor polish smell was lovely.

And the library smelled beautiful and book-y.

Any regrets? I liberated some tadpoles we were meant to be doing experiments on. I smuggled in a jar of pondwater and slipped my tadpoles into the jar and took them away to release them in the wild. My regret? I didn’t liberate ALL the tadpoles.

What were your passions at school? I loved doing plays,

I auditioned for every single play I could. I didn’t always get a role (one time I did the costumes because I didn’t get a part in the play itself and once I was the director’s assistant). I think I learned almost as much about acting from doing costumes and assisting than I did from doing the plays themselves.

I also adored the after-school creative writing club.

Have you been back?

Yes, a few years ago to talk to my old boarding house about my career as an actor.

Maybe now I’ve written a book I can go back to talk to the creative writing club.

Did you have a memorable teacher? Dr Jo Seldon

who taught English and ran the creative writing club with Jonathan Smith: they made Wednesday afternoons inspiring. And my history teacher Mr Crichton, because he would do brilliant impressions of the historical figures we were learning about.

Describe your one perfect day. One summer term

PHOTOS: PENGUIN BOOKS, PUFFIN; GETTY IMAGES

Tamzin Merchant

we put on a play of The Canterbury Tales all around the school grounds. We finished the play and had a barbecue on the field – best day ever. Not much schoolwork done, but school is about so much more than classes.

The Mapmakers publishes on 17 Feb (Penguin)

QUICKFIRE ROUND MATHS OR ENGLISH? English! Maths + me = trouble.

HOCKEY OR TENNIS? Hockey – but only if the ball is nowhere near me. UNIFORM OR MUFTI? ‘Own Clothes Day’ was excellent, so mufti. PIANO OR GUITAR? Piano – but I only play one song. HEAD GIRL OR REBEL? I would love to be notorious as an out-and-out rebel. Let’s tell everyone that.

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TEN OF THE BEST Country and town properties to feast your eyes upon, by Ruby Featherstone

COU N T RY

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1

The Hermitage, Oxfordshire, £2.5m

If you are thinking of relocating to the south of Cornwall, you need look no further than this stunning house to the west of the River Fowey Estuary near St Austell. Four bedrooms, a wide central hallway and spacious living areas are hidden behind its symmetrical main façade while the outbuildings and well-kept, mature gardens add to the house’s sense of serenity. jonathancuncliffe.co.uk

This is a beautiful Grade II-listed Cotswold stone family home with a separate annexe, located in an attractive Oxfordshire village. With three bedrooms and three bathrooms, the upstairs complements the light and airy living space which overlooks the landscaped, walled gardens below. It sports a pizza oven, rose garden and the potential conversion of the cellar to a home cinema or gym space. knightfrank.co.uk

3

Milbourne Hall, Milbourne Newcastle upon Tyne, £3.9m

This light and airy property in the centre of lush greenery in Northumberland is believed to date back to 1807. The Grade I-listed, eight-bedroom property has a range of fantastic rooms in numerous wings and around the courtyard, including an octagonal library, rotunda galleries, and self-contained carriage houses. struttandparker.com

Great Treverran, Cornwall, £1.5m

4

West Hill, Orpington, Kent, £2.7m

Having been in the same family for 50 years, this sprawling ninebedroom house, with its high ceilings, variety of fireplace styles and shuttered sash windows, is full of possibility when it comes to revamping. With its village location within the M25 and just 17 miles from London, it lends itself to a family, who can make use of the detached cottage included in its six acres. hamptons.co.uk

5

Old Dairy Farm, Edenbridge, Kent, £5m

Can you think of anything more idyllic than living in an old dairy farm? This Grade II-listed five-bedroom home mixes airy modernity with historic attributes. Standout technological features include surround sound, climate control and a fully automated smart home technology system. Its vaulted ceilings, wood beams and Minstrel Gallery remind you of the history of this 15th-century building. johndwood.co.uk

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PROPERTY

6

Bywater Street, Chelsea SW3, £3.75m

This pretty Chelsea home with neutral decor, sits in a row of pastel houses just off the King’s Road.

With three bedrooms (the master occupying the whole top floor), two bathrooms and a basement which currently serves as a media room, it is perfect for a family with plenty of space for everyone to relax. johndwood.co.uk

7

Chartfield Avenue, Putney SW15, £4.25m

This property is a truly sprawling six-bedroom home just a few roads away from Putney station. Its impressive décor and design features make it stand out and gives it quite the wow factor. It comes complete with a soundproof recording studio which doubles up as a cinema with an inbuilt bar which spills directly out into the garden. thelondonbroker.com

8

Gloucester Crescent, Camden NW1, £3.95m

This wonderful period home is set behind gates with a front and back private garden inside the Primrose Hill Conservation area in the Camden area. With plenty of space in a double reception room, four bedrooms and even a walkin wardrobe, it is the ideal North London family home. knightfrank.co.uk

TOW N

9

Battersea Power Station, Battersea, SW8, £3.2m

Sitting plum by the River Thames, Battersea Power Station’s Switch House West houses this three-bedroom flat with an open plan living/dining area and a very large private terrace. The impressive en-suite bath and shower room in Art Deco-style complement the quiet elegance of the master bedroom. Couple that with the buzzy, central location and you’re all set. radstockproperty.com

10

Preston Road, Wimbledon, £5.5m

This vast modern six-bedroom property sits next to Wimbledon Common, and offers an indoor pool (with sauna), wine cellar and outdoor kitchen for those perfect summer evenings.

The integrated garage is fitted with a charger for your electric vehicle. savills.co.uk Spring/Summer 2022 | SCHOOLHOUSEMAGAZINE.CO.UK | 91

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HEALTH

FROM BOYS TO MEN Earlier male generations avoided their GPs, Dr Jeff Foster tells Victoria Lambert – it’s time for a sea change in attitude, starting with teenagers and young adults more aware that many illnesses start impacting on the body at an early age,’ Dr Foster says. ‘For example, cardiovascular disease from high cholesterol, obesity and high blood pressure can start damaging our arteries in our 20s.’

‘Poor mental health can be really severe in men in their teens and 20s, with higher rates of suicide in men than women, even though diagnosed depression is greater in women.’ It must also be stressed that if you feel unwell either physically or mentally, he says, ‘that it is important to ask for help either from a doctor, family member or friend.’

As it is, when teen or young adult boys get to primary care, they present with relatively trivial issues: coughs, colds, eczema, and acne.

‘We rarely see mental health as this is something we do not address well,’ he says, ‘but we do see concerns over sexual function a lot and – particularly with erectile dysfunction or low libido – some of this is medical, but a lot is to do with lifestyle, sexual identity Dr Jeff Foster and confidence.’

Equally concerning, he says, is GPs reporting about boys and young men worrying about having breast tissue; ‘Body image… too fat, too thin or not the right shape. This is a confidence thing and about feeling comfortable and being aware of their own body.’

Young men, he says Inside Royal Grammar have to ‘transition through School Guildford’s gym the ignorant confidence of youth through the uncertainty of our teens as they become more self-aware, and question how they fit in the world.

Understanding it is a normal process but it can be very hard, and learning to feel comfortable with who they are can be very challenging – it takes time, patience, self-reflection, and for some men, many years.’

Dr Jeff Foster is Medical Director H3Health (h3health. co.uk). Man Alive, The Health Problems Men Face and How to Fix Them (Little Brown Book Group, £11.99)

DR FOSTER’S TOP TIPS START NOW Don’t wait until you are 40 to look after your health. Time goes quickly and in a blink of an eye, the cocky, immortal 20-year-old who can eat anything and never put on weight, is an obese, tired and testosterone-deficient 40-year-old man. By getting into good habits in your 20s, it can set you up for a better lifetime of health and reduce the risk of illness when you are older.

PARENTS Two areas where Dr Foster says you should encourage your teen boy to be more open are mental health and sexual function. ‘Tell them they don’t necessarily need to speak to a doctor if they feel they are struggling mentally,’ he reassures, ‘but speak to someone. It can make all the difference in preventing a downwards spiral. And physical health comes into that: a good diet, plenty of exercise, quality sleep.’

Its equally vital to broach concerns around sexual function. ‘There is a massive problem with watching porn among younger men,’ he says, ‘and hence the expectation of what they think they should be able to achieve through sex.’

Keep talking and be honest, he advises.

PHOTOS: UNSPLASH

W

e tend to assume men don’t take good care of their health and the statistics bear that out: women aged between 20 and 40 are twice as likely to visit a GP, men typically visit a pharmacy four times a year while the average for women is 18 times per year, and Danish research suggests that there is a link between men’s lower use of primary care and their higher rate of hospital service.

So, when does that attitude start?

Dr Jeff Foster, a GP with an interest in men’s health and author of Man Alive, The Health Problems Men Face and How to Fix Them (Little Brown Book Group, £11.99), believes there is a societal issue at play – which goes far beyond that ‘well known feeling of immortality in youth,’ as he puts it.

‘Men, young men in particular,’ says Dr Foster, ‘are in a difficult position.

Not to say that it was better, but in the mid-20th century the stereotyped role of men going out to earn, being responsible for the finance and household, and women looking after the home and family, meant that, while morally dubious, men had a clearer identity.’

He adds: ‘Since the start of the 21st century and over the past few years, we have encouraged much more equality between the sexes, and also encouraged men to change the way they think about themselves.

‘We now tell men to talk about their feelings, that they should be open and share and it’s “OK to cry”. But the background position on where men sit in the world has not changed that much.’

So, when they get hurt, he says, ‘we still tell boys “Don’t cry like a girl” and to “man up”! As such, despite our efforts, there is still a deep-seated mindset that has not changed in boys and young men that says you need to be tough and not show weakness.’

That means it’s more important to get the right health messages across to them. ‘We are becoming

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Yes, we teach pupils how to excel in exams, but we also teach them how to collaborate, how to solve problems and how to think critically.

We are Change Makers

We equip our pupils with the skills, resilience and ideas they need to adapt and thrive in a world that’s changing faster than ever before.

Stowe, Swanbourne House and Winchester House Schools are educating a generation of Change Makers ready to transform the world.

stowe.co.uk

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Alpha Plus Group 17 Individual Schools - 3 Individual Colleges

HAPPINESS

Chepstow House School is part of the Alpha Plus Group.

Learn more: www.chepstowhouseschool.co.uk

Tel: 020 7487 6000 Twitter: @Alpha_PlusGroup

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10/03/2021 10:18

NURSERIES

Farleigh School, Hampshire

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NURSERY SCHOOLS

Celebrating first steps and making progress

EARLY YEARS QUALITY MARK

HOLIDAY OPENING

Parkside School has announced that from September 2022, its co-educational Nursery and Reception for boys will be open to children from 8.00am to 6.00pm all year round, with no change to the core day in term time.

The structure of the education during the holidays will be aligned with the EYFS curriculum; where children experience activities like cooking, drama, swimming, forest school, arts and crafts, music, imaginative play, and a variety of sports in the Nursery and Pre-Prep buildings and grounds.

Cumnor House School’s Kindergarten and Pre-School has been awarded the Early Years Quality Mark. This national accreditation for Early Years promotes and supports the development of young children in their communication, language and early mathematical skills.

Such a positive start in their early years gives every child the ‘bedrock’ of a good education and sets them up with the skills they need for their future school and adult lives.

NEW DEVELOPMENTS NEW SECOND SITE

This spring, Hopes and Dreams Montessori Nursery is opening a second site at Old Street. The nursery was founded in 1997 and with the introduction of the newly redeveloped building on Paul Street, it will continue to build on the strengths it has developed in its history. The new site will accommodate 47 children in total, 15 in the baby room and 32 in the toddler room. Nursery Manager Mikki Parkes said: ‘Emerging from a post-pandemic world we are acutely aware of parents’ ever-changing work and childcare patterns, and we want to be better than ever at catering to those needs.’

MARMALADE NURSERY Marmalade Schools is expanding to Fulham. The Marmalade Hedgehog opened in January 2022 and is situated in a large bright hall with a wonderful garden. The nursery also benefits from being near Bishop’s Park for forest school time and much more. Marmalade Schools was set up in 2004 by Rozzy Hyslop, previously a primary and special needs teacher, for her son Orlando.

Seventeen years later, there are six schools, all ranked Outstanding, the latest one being The Marmalade Hedgehog.

The Marmalade staff want the best for every child in their nurseries. They aim to prepare the children for life in the ever-changing world which they are growing up in.

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NEWS

NEW NURSERY IN CHELTENHAM

Cheltenham Prep Nursery School, opening this September, will be nestled among the trees on The Prep site and has been purposedesigned to provide a warm and supportive, state-of-the-art environment for your child to grow.

Children at the nursery school will be cared for by expert early years staff and benefit from exclusive sessions and activities including outdoor learning in the woodland area, regular French and Music sessions with subject specialist teachers, PE using the extensive sports facilities, plus Wellbeing and Mindfulness sessions.

THE MALL SCHOOL The Mall School in Twickenham has announced that it is opening a new day nursery in September 2022. The Nursery at The Mall will cater for boys and girls aged from six months to four years and will be open 51 weeks a year from 7am to 7pm to meet the needs of busy working parents in the local area.

EXPANSION OF NURSERY PROVISION Brentwood Preparatory School held an official opening for its multi-million pound expanded facilities in November 2021, a year after its doors opened to pupils.

A whole day of celebration was held for pupils and their parents, many of whom hadn’t seen the facilities since they were completed in November 2020 due to lockdown restrictions.

A brand-new assembly and dining hall, a threestorey classroom block and reception area, and three interconnecting Foundation (Nursery) rooms, which overlook a bespoke and innovative play space, now grace the impressive campus of the 129-year-old preparatory school, and pupils have benefited hugely from the expansion.

The Mall will be working alongside Toddleworld Nursery Management to transform the school’s former pre-prep site into a vibrant and inspiring environment for young children in a purpose built setting, including a large outdoor space. The nursery children will also use the school’s extensive facilities, including swimming pool and theatre, and draw on expertise from the school’s specialist teaching staff to enrich the Early Years Curriculum.

Boys will automatically be offered a place in the school’s Reception, however the nursery is a standalone provision.

CHANGING FACES Heads on the move

Beachborough Preparatory school has appointed a new Deputy Head in Simon Preece. He will join the team alongside current headmaster, Christian Pritchard to continue his belief that teachers should see every student as an individual person who must be given the best opportunities to reach their full potential.

Highgate Pre-prep, in North London, is gaining a new Principal. Sally Hancock, who is currently the Deputy Principal (Curriculum), will be Acting Joint Principal, with Gideon Zucker, from January 2022. Hancock will succeed Katie Giles and assume her main role as Principal in September 2022.

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10 WAYS TO KEEP YOUR PRE-SCHOOLER HAPPY Try these fun activities to entertain your little ones, says Aimee Kimbell, Principal of Riverside Nurseries

1

Create a nature scavenger hunt

2

Help around the home

An important part of a Montessori classroom is the area referred to as ‘Practical Life’. At nursery, these tasks are usually set out on trays to isolate the activity; at home these can just be a list of jobs children can help with. These will

3

Make a mud kitchen

A mud kitchen is an outdoor setup for children to pretend to prepare and cook food using any combination of mud, sand and water. The messier the better and the more realistic pots and pans from a kitchen the better.

When they’ve finished making the mud pie, they can make flower petal soup!

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‘Education is a natural process spontaneously carried out by the human individual,’ said Maria Montessori, Italian educator who developed the well-known Montessori method, ‘… acquired not by listening to words but by experiences upon the environment.’ So, get outside and take the children on a nature scavenger hunt, either in the garden or out into the woods. Free online scavenger hunts (such as typicallytopical.com) can be printed out and ticked off when the child finds the item. And why not make up some riddles to make it a bit trickier and help with language development.

not only teach your child an important life skill but also will promote the refinement of fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and concentration. Suggestions include: spreading crackers or sandwiches, peeling bananas, dish washing, pouring water, flower arranging, matching socks, and looking after themselves like brushing hair.

NURSERIES

4

Get experimenting

Home experiments are great fun, and your child will be learning at the same time. Here are three different ones to try with items easily collected from around the house: Magnetic and non-magnetic: Find a tray and divide in half with a label at the top one side saying magnetic and the other non-magnetic. Then, on the tray put various magnetic and non-magnetic items.

Give your child a magnet (large enough to be safe) and allow them to explore the items on the tray. An older child can make a prediction (form and then test a hypothesis) as to what is magnetic and then sort them. Item ideas include: a pencil, rock, bulldog clip, toy digger, wooden block, key, spoon, coin, peg.

Sink and float: Find a tray large enough to hold a bowl full of water (which you could allow your child to fill from a jug) and a basket of items that will sink or float.

Divide a piece of paper in half with one column saying sink and the other float.

Your child will try each object in the water and identify whether it sinks or floats and place the object in the correct column on the paper. It’s a good idea to add a drying cloth, too. Examples of objects you can find around the house are: a toy car, a feather, rock, shell, wooden spoon, a leaf, a peg, a balloon, a cup, a coin.

Magic Milk Experiment: This teaches the child about chemical reactions. You’ll need: milk, a container, food colouring – two different colours, ear buds, washing up liquid. Begin by pouring milk into the shallow container. Add drops of the food colouring scattered over the surface of the milk. Pour in drops of the other coloured food colouring on to the surface of the milk. Dip the ear bud into the washing up liquid. Place the soap-covered ear bud into the centre of the milk. Watch as the colours magically swirl and twirl through the milk in the container.

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5

6

Art appreciation

Take your child to an art gallery and ask them to choose an artist or picture they like or do some research on the internet or in a book.

Once the child has identified which artist or picture they like, help them to explore.

Ask them what they like or how it makes them feel, talk about colours and shapes etc. Then have fun trying to produce their very own piece of inspired art.

7

Cook together

Cooking with your child is not only fun but it’s an excellent way to begin to talk about maths – counting eggs for a cake recipe, more or fewer toppings for a pizza. Let them pour liquids or spoon flour to develop eye-hand co-ordination and control.

8

Sensory play

Sensory play is any activity which involves touch, smell, taste, sight and hearing. This can be provided with a plate of jelly, aqua beads, ice, rice, or tubs of small plastic animals. It stimulates exploration and the building blocks of science and investigation.

9

Imaginative play

All play for pre-schoolers should be imaginative. If you leave your child with nothing but a random selection of objects, you’ll soon find them lost in a world of make-believe.

Giving a child time and space for imaginative play is essential. Developing their imagination is important for creativity, literacy skills and intellectual reasoning; it will increase your child’s sense of self, and self-esteem, help them understand the world around them and teach them how to handle boredom.

10

Obstacle courses

This is a great way to encourage thinking and problem solving. The obstacle courses will require lots of physical movement which is one of the prime areas for development for pre-schoolers.

The obstacle course can be created inside or outside, and you can let your child help design it. Find objects to climb on, crawl through and jump over. You can also ask children to take their shoes off and create stepping-stones of different textures for them to feel and describe.

Create a story bag

A story bag is a fantastic way to keep a child’s attention while reading stories. Choose a muchloved favourite or a new tale you want to explore and then create a story bag or box to go with it. For The Three Little Pigs, for example, you would need a toy wolf and three pigs and then some straw, some sticks and some Lego. By making the storytelling more playful and interactive you will win over those short attention spans; you may find that collecting all you need for the story bag alongside your child can be as much fun as the story itself.

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13 May – 02 Jul

12 Jul – 28 Aug

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20/01/2022 10:12

NURSERIES Heathside School

FAR FROM THE MADDING CROWD

Heathside School in Hampstead has been awarded Heath Friendly School status.

Headteacher Katherine Vintiner says there are benefits for children and parents

W

e are so fortunate to have Hampstead Heath on our doorstep. Our pupils start visiting the heath from pre-reception, learning the value of outdoor play and the natural world at a really young age. Being a Heath Friendly School means Heathside is committed to protecting and conserving Hampstead Heath and our pupils can take part in worthwhile nature-related projects such as creating animal boxes for hedgehogs and bats which help even our youngest pupils build lasting positive connections to our precious green spaces.

At Heathside, spending time outside is a central part of the school day.

Play time, known as Heathtime, takes place on the heath at least three times a week for classes from pre-reception to Year 9. Children have the space and freedom to run around, climb trees and build dens. Sports lessons also take place on the heath, with Reception and Year 1 using the heath for general fitness and Years 2 and 3 doing football practice there.

Forest School also takes place weekly up to Reception, twice weekly for Years 1 and 2 and fortnightly up to Year 4. Lessons are led by our own Forest School leaders and have an environmental and ecological focus, covering plant and animal lifecycles and habitats. At Forest School, pupils have access to three off-the-beaten track sites, given by special permission, giving them a chance to explore truly semi-wild areas of Hampstead Heath.

The heath is even an inspiration for art projects; last term, Reception children collected autumn leaves to make into crowns. And being a Heath Friendly school gives Heathside access to the Heath Hands charity and their volunteers who engage with the pupils on projects, such as the wreath making workshops which took place before Christmas.

The Heath Rangers, Heath Hands volunteers and our Forest School teachers helped the children select natural materials and showed them

how to weave a festive wreath. It was a lovely way for parents and children to enjoy the area together. It is the Heath Hands charity which created the Heath Friendly school status. Volunteers at the charity work to connect Hampstead Heath – one of London’s largest green spaces – with the local community. During the height of the pandemic, visitor numbers on the heath increased to an estimated 15 million which, combined with bad weather and heavy rain, had a devastating effect on the landscape as paths eroded and the land was churned up. Heath Hands is Heathside’s Charity of the Year and funds raised this year will go towards helping restore the landscape to its former glory.

But being a Heath Friendly School doesn’t just benefit the children, our staff get involved too. At a recent teacher training day, staff had a guided mindfulness session on the heath followed by a nature walk thanks to the Heath Hands volunteers.

Increasingly, educationalists are confirming what parents instinctively know, that time outdoors is of benefit to children; a study commissioned by the Wildlife Trusts to evaluate the impact that experiencing nature has upon children, shows how profound those benefits can be. Overall, the research revealed that children’s wellbeing increased after they had spent time connecting with nature: the children showed an increase in their personal wellbeing and health over time, and they showed an increased connection with nature and demonstrated high levels of enjoyment.

Time on the heath provides essential balance to a rich and varied curriculum and the pressures of modern city life. For our youngest pupils, outdoor play provides opportunities to take risks, improve their mental skills and have fun. There are also the physical benefits from being in natural light and getting plenty of exercise. We hope that our status as a Heath Friendly school will provide benefits for pupils, and for the treasure that is Hampstead Heath, for many years to come.

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GREEN SHOOTS

The natural world takes centre stage at these nurseries, says Emma Reed, where children are encouraged to explore and enjoy their surroundings

Grimsdell, Mill Hill Pre-Preparatory pupils happily roasting marshmallows

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NURSERIES

‘N

obody is going to protect the natural world unless they understand it.’ David Attenborough’s words feel more urgent than ever. It’s a stark fact that a heavy environmental burden lies on the shoulders of the younger generation as they face unscrambling the mess created by the older one. While a lot of hot air is expended in arguing how best to protect the planet, how refreshing it’s been to gain an insight into those places taking practical steps to educate those taking custody of its future.

Welcome to the world of the ‘eco nursery’.

The ethos behind Little Forest Folk, with nurseries across southwest London, is clear: ‘We want to raise a generation of young people that understand the benefits of the natural world and are motivated to protect it.’ They are distinctive in that everything takes place outdoors from daytime naps in sleeping bags and tents to toileting. Children are appropriately kitted out for the seasons and only in extreme weather is their indoor facility used. ‘If nurseries and primary schools in Scandinavia can spend the majority of the time playing in the woods in their challenging climate, we can certainly manage it in London.’

Conor Williams, the Training Lead at Little Forest Folk, told me how, at the end of the academic year in 2021, their Twickenham nursery achieved its Green Flag Award, an international accreditation that recognises and rewards the environmental actions of young people. This was no mean feat given the pandemic. To achieve this, the nursery created an Eco Council made up of children who carried out a review and judged the nursery on a range of environmental areas, choosing three they wanted to focus on through the year: waste, litter and global citizenship.

‘What was lovely to see was that the children took ownership over it and became so passionate about looking after the environment without it being anything other than normal to them,’ says Williams.

Children have taken part in litter picks, planted fruit

and vegetables that they have harvested and cooked, and made cardboard boxes into toys before recycling. ‘Feedback from parents has been really positive,’ says Williams. ‘Parents donate things to us rather than throwing them out and we’ve seen more parents walk, jog or cycle with their children to nursery instead of using cars.’

Dean Park Day Nursery in Bournemouth benefits from its location, surrounded by six acres of land within the historic Dean Park cricket ground. Children here work towards a ‘Sustainable Citizenship’ award by working through an ‘i-care’ booklet. Rebecca Ballington of Dean Park decided to introduce this system after coming across the OMEP (World Organisation for Early Childhood) award during lockdown. ‘It’s more than just ticking off a list of completed activities,’ Ballington says. ‘It’s about embedding the knowledge and working within the three pillars of sustainability: socio-cultural, environmental and economic.’

Here, a whole range of initiatives has been implemented. These include teaming up with a local artist and going on a beach clean and creating artwork; introducing a mending station where books and puzzles are repaired; setting up recycling signs and bins; using glass bottles for milk

ABOVE: Forest school at Dean Park Day Nursery in Bournemouth BELOW: Little Forest Folk out in nature

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NURSERIES

ABOVE: Berkhamsted Day Nursery, Hertfordshire BELOW: Learning about the world at Paint Pots, Chelsea, London

which are sent back to the supplier; converting to using bars of soap rather than pumps; and upcycling products where possible such as the tyre mountain where children enhance their gross motor skills climbing to the top.‘We also have a Forest School which we’re immensely proud of,’ says Rebecca. ‘The children are truly close to nature which we teach them to value. We have visiting foxes, birds and a pond, and the children learn to respect this.’

Another place that benefits from its location in acres of parkland is Grimsdell, Mill Hill’s Pre-Prep school. Lorraine Staniford, Grimsdell’s Forest School co-ordinator, says that taking part in regular Forest School sessions means, ‘the children develop a more rounded educational experience, as well as a deeper understanding of the world and environment around them.’

Young children’s sense of wonder in the natural world is fostered by the sense of a magical environment where their imaginations can run wild. ‘The Cabin’, completed in 2019, also provides a sheltered learning environment where there are secret hatches opening on to the Science Garden. Binoculars are available so that children can observe nature without disturbing it. The children’s efforts in looking after their environment by recycling more, turning off taps when brushing their teeth and turning off lights have earned them a Green Blue Peter Badge.

Berkhamsted Day Nursery also makes use of its eight-acre site alongside the Pre-Prep ensuring that regular walks are taken in the grounds to hunt for ‘minibeasts’ in the woods or admire the cows in the fields.

But an urban setting does not hold back nurseries from teaching young children how to respect and care for their planet. Georgina Hood of Paint Pots, a Montessori nursery based in Notting Hill, Chelsea and Hyde Park emphasises that, ‘Paint Pots invites and encourages children to appreciate our natural world and adopt a sense of responsibility for planet earth in all areas of our curriculum.’

The children’s interest in deforestation and orangutans has been helped by reading There’s a Rang-tan in my Bedroom by James Sellick, prompting discussions about palm oil and the issues surrounding it.

The children are also holding a sale of clothes they have outgrown, and the proceeds will be donated to an orangutan charity.

Zanna Clarke, who has been head of Pre-Prep at Eaton Square for 20 years and is now principal of the Miss Daisy’s group (all owned by Dukes Education), has seen how the children have benefitted from using the local squares and green spaces that London offers, with access to a weekly Forest School. Trips are also taken to the Chelsea Physic Garden.

Clarke has worked closely with designers House of Kin (who also worked on the Maggie and Rose children’s clubs) where the emphasis is very much on bringing the natural world inside.

Instead of the overstimulating bold colours and plastic we are often used to seeing in nurseries, Clarke has sought to bring in colours and materials that reflect the natural environment. Eaton Square has achieved its bronze and silver eco status and is now working towards its gold.

Clarke remarks how young children are like ‘absorbent sponges’, very much switched on to learning how to protect their planet. They find it empowering.‘If you can educate the children, you can educate the parents,’ Clarke notes.

There is much we can learn from them, and, from the efforts of these nurseries, it feels as if the future is going to be in much safer hands.

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Learning outdoors at Bassett House

HOMEWORK FOR PARENTS

D

First weeks at nursery can be an anxious time for parents and young children, but help is at hand, says Victoria Lambert

You will know if a place is right as you walk around it.’ One question ropping off a child at nursery for the first time can be highly emotional – on all sides. Yet, choose wisely and ask the right Gray says is perfectly normal, and indeed expected, is where can parents questions, and the event will turn into a highly rewarding realistically expect their child to go on to after this particular nursery. experience for everyone.

‘Parents are often looking several steps ahead,’ she says. ‘It’s not uncommon But that can depend on what happens at home as well as for us to find parents anxious about 11+ when a child is just coming into in the nursery setting. Experts point out there are lots of ways to help pre-school. We explain that by the time their child is due to leave, we will young children settle into the early have a thorough understanding of them years experience. Plus, parents can be and where they should go next. We are perfectly placed to give that guidance.’ supportive around the start of education too – without becoming Tiger Mums.

Once your child starts at nursery, typically at age four, you can expect It all starts with making the right choice in the first place. Kelly Gray, settling in to take a little time, says Gill Head of Bassett House, part of the Dukes Whiteside, Head of Little Chepstow Education group in west London, says it’s Nursery School in Notting Hill. important you visit potential nurseries ‘We work very closely with parents,’ Gill Whiteside, Head of Little Chepstow and get to know them and their heads. says Whiteside, ‘on the settling in process Nursery School, Notting Hill ‘I take a lot of time showing parents and encourage parents to be positive around and answering all their questions,’ about starting nursery as we have seen she says, adding that it is a job she refuses to deputise to other staff. anxiety really rubbing off on children. ‘It is an exciting time and children ‘At Dukes, we feel strongly that it is the head whom the parents want to generally take two-to-three weeks to settle so don’t expect it from day one.’ meet as it is their vision you are buying into.’

Your parental homework at this point is to make sure your son or She adds: ‘It is always about gut feel, not what your friends are saying. daughter is ready for this new chapter.

It is an exciting time and children generally take two to three weeks to settle, so don’t expect it from day one.

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NURSERIES That means, says Whiteside, thinking of what the next stage of development is and embracing it. ‘So that may mean giving up bottles and dummies,’ she says. ‘Letting children feed themselves, and not always travelling by pushchair.

Potty training is becoming something that is achieved later and later. In essence, allow children to grow, develop and become independent.’

She adds: ‘They are very capable little beings, often able to do far more than one thinks.’

That point is echoed by Sam Forster, Head of Nursery at Brookham School, Hampshire. ‘Help encourage independence,’ says Forster, ‘grow their ability to manage things themselves, for example tying their shoes and tidying their toys away.’

While you may be longing to hear how they have got on – away from you – Forster suggests you curb your curiosity. ‘Don’t expect children to tell you everything about their day,’ she says, ‘enjoy listening to what they want to share.’

This is in part due to what will be natural tiredness. Gray points out that, ‘Your child will have had a long day full of often entirely new content. As adults, what most of us do each day is based on things we already know – we are using well-versed neural pathways.

‘That is not true for young children – they are constantly building new neural pathways and that is exhausting.’

She says this is why you should treat the idea of homework with caution. ‘When tired, children won’t want to commit to more. My best advice is to let your children be children. Homework should only ever be a consolidation task and the worst thing would be to turn a child off learning.’

As your child gets older, quality is better than quantity: 20 minutes completely focused beats two hours of fighting over learning numbers.

And you can make the experience more pleasant

Time for reading together at Little Chepstow

by rewarding with a hot chocolate at the end.

Lastly, if you have real concerns, reach out to your child’s teacher, she says.

Gill Whiteside agrees: ‘Build up a relationship with your child’s key worker, become part of the team that is there to work with and support the child (parents are a vital part of that team). No questions are silly, worries can be put to rest so don’t be afraid to approach a nursery to chat.’

As does Sam Forster, who adds: ‘Three-way communication (parent-setting-child) is what matters; there’s no ‘them and us’, we are all working together for the benefit of the child.

‘Do share information; knowing your child’s background will help them settle. Ask questions so you are informed of your child’s progress.’

And especially reading – which really is an area where parents cannot put in enough time.

In the sand pit developing motor skills at Brookham School

‘Encourage a love of reading,’ says Forster, ‘make time to read and talk with your child.’

Read, read and read some more, says Gray.

‘Showing children the joy of books is vital particularly when they are young and sounding out every word so not experiencing the true joy of reading by themselves. It’s crucial they hear stories beyond their personal capability to read.’

Parents sometimes ask if books are ‘difficult enough’, she says. ‘Parents can have a tendency to want to push their children on.’ The answer to that is that a child should be able to read a book with 95 per cent accuracy and fluency before you move them on to a higher reading level.

‘That’s much better than reading a book which is too complex,’ says Gray, ‘where children have to sound out every single word or the content is way beyond their comprehension.’

She advises parents don’t just listen to their child read but also ask questions about what is happening. ‘It’s really important to get into that habit of being able to retrieve information from a book and learn to see subtext.’

Many parents get daunted by synthetic phonics, which is the system of learning to read by sounding out letters to make words.

Kelly Gray says parents can become worried or anxious about helping their child as ‘they don’t want to get it wrong’.

Yet most children will follow a rigorous phonics programme in school – so parents don’t need to worry about teaching it; they can just remind their children to do it. If you do join in, says Gray, make the sounds really clear and clean.

Keeping calm is good advice throughout this time, says Brookham School’s Sam Foster.

‘Avoid transfer of anxiety,’ she says. ‘Nervous adults make children nervous. Be upbeat, use positive language, try not to show your anxiety around your child.’

Adds Gray: ‘Remember this is a phase, just like when they were a baby and crying or having tantrums as a toddler. None of it lasts. It will all be okay in the end.’

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NURSERIES

START HERE, GO ANYWHERE... www.beachborough.com 01280 700071 • admissions@beachborough.com Beachborough School, Westbury, Brackley, NN13 5LB Follow our journey

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NURSERIES

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NURSERIES

A HA P P Y C H I L D H O O D E N R I C H E D B Y S U S TA I NA B L E L E A R N I N G “An Outstanding School, offering a lovely, nurturing, CHEPSTOW H O U S E S C H O O L creative, dynamic environment filled with numerous opportunities for children to learn and thrive.” – Ofsted AND LITTLE F or boy s and girls aged 2 - 1 1 y ears in N ot t ing H ill.

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NURSERIES

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NURSERIES

Hurlingham Nursery North Bridge House

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Individually tailored co-education, first-class outcomes From day one, we’re on a constant journey of getting to know every pupil as an individual, realising their true potential through specialist Early Years provision and bespoke senior school preparation.

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ADDRESS: The Old Methodist Hall, Gwendolen Avenue, London SW15 6EH WEBSITE: www.hurlinghamschool.co.uk FOUNDED: 1947 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 100 AGES: 2-5 FEES: £3,175 (Nursery 5 sessions) £5,150 (Nursery 5 full days). We offer the 15 or 30 hours Universal Funding to those who are eligible.

HEAD TEACHER: Daisy Robertson RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Non-denominational ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Register from birth.

CONTACT: Fiona Driver, Admissions Registrar, 020 8874 7186 EMAIL: admissions@hurlinghamschool.co.uk SCHOOL VISITS: Please contact the school to arrange an appointment.

THE CURRICULUM: Hurlingham School’s Nursery offers outstanding provision for girls and boys aged 2-5 in a cutting-edge setting on Gwendolen Avenue in west Putney. The final year emphasises all aspects of school readiness to give children a flying start to their formal education.

It includes a one day per week Forest School option.

GAMES & THE ARTS: Music, drama and sport are all co-ordinated by specialist staff. The children enjoy regular music, movement, yoga, karate and outdoor learning, including Forest School.

The Oval Montessori Nursery established in 1989, provides a happy, nurturing environment for 20 children from two and a half years to five years in a truly unique and magical park location.

We want you to feel confident that at The Oval Montessori Nursery, in Vauxhall Park we deliver the most stimulating and flexible learning programme where each child’s needs are planned and provided for.

Call 020 7735 4816 for the perfect start to your child’s education or email enquiries@theovalmontessori.co.uk

PASTORAL CARE: ‘Pupils are exceptionally well cared for. The school has excellent arrangements in place to ensure that pupils are safe at all times. The school is a kind place where adults are extremely caring and pupils are considerate towards others. A pupil summed this up by commenting, “children are kind and we share what we have with one another.”’ Ofsted, February 2018.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: Exit Schools: Hurlingham Nursery provides an excellent foundation for all children with a particular teaching and learning focus to prepare pupils for learning on the school’s main site on the Putney Bridge Road.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: Nursery provision at Hurlingham fosters and develops children’s interest in the world around them through initiating a life-long love of learning and academia.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: An idyllic, small school with large classrooms and lots of scope for self-expression in a nurturing, academic setting. In addition to the three terms in the academic year an additional 16 weeks of holiday club are offered to allow parents to opt in for specific weeks required, without having to financially commit to a full 50 weeks a year. (This excludes a 2-week period over Christmas and Bank holidays outside).

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NURSERIES

Shrewsbury House Pre-Preparatory School Now registering for Nursery & Reception places 2022 and 2023 At Shrewsbury House Pre-Prep we offer an excellent academic provision combined with outstanding pastoral care.

If you would like a personal tour of the School, please contact our Registrar, Mrs Jules Akhurst: shppadmissions@shstrust.net | 01372 462781

Shrewsbury House Pre-Prep offers an excellent educational experience to both boys and girls aged between 3 and 7 www.shrewsburyhousepreprep.net 22 Milbourne Lane, Esher, Surrey KT10 9EA

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Come and see for yourself at our next Open Morning 7 May 2022

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they thrive by engaging freely in the vast range of opportunities presented to them each day.

Our role is to prepare children for their future; our reward is to create the moments they will cherish forever. Moments we all want for our children.

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NURSERIES

Noah’s Ark Nursery Schools Devonshire House Preparatory School

Outstanding prep and pre-prep in Hampstead, with its own nursery Open Mornings:

Tuesday 17th March & Thursday 28th April 2022 To register please visit our website or contact Admissions Tel: 020 7435 1916 Email: enquiries@dhprep.co.uk Website: www.devonshirehouseschool.co.uk

(Dolphin School Trust)

ADDRESS: Dolphin School Nursery, London SW11 6QW | West Side Church, London SW18 2ED WEBSITE: www.noahsarknurseryschools.org.uk FOUNDED: 1986 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 58 AGES: 2-5 FEES: (termly) £2,095 HEAD TEACHER: Sam Gosden RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Christian ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Visit, then offers for siblings first, then in order of date of registration.

CONTACT: Vivienne Benson. Admissions Registrar.

EMAIL: admissions@dolphinschool.org.uk SCHOOL VISITS: Visits by appointment with the Admissions Registrar

THE CURRICULUM: We follow the new 2021 EYFS Development Matters alongside the Birth to 5 curriculum and use in-the-moment planning which responds to children’s interests, stretching those who need greater challenges and supporting those who need to embed basic skills. Visual aids, songs, rhymes and picture books, including Bible stories, are incorporated and we carefully prepare children for primary and prep schools.

MARMALADE SCHOOLS An outstanding nursery group across London “Children are highly motivated, independent, and confident.”

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The Marmalade Hedgehog, Fulham New in January 2022

Morning places available Enquiries to the school office: 0208 265 5224 marmaladeschools@gmail.com marmaladeschools.co.uk

GAMES & THE ARTS: We have a weekly PE lesson with a specialised PE teacher. We also offer weekly Rhythm and Movement sessions, responding to songs with voice, instruments and movement. Art materials are plentiful and aim to develop creative flair.

PASTORAL CARE: ‘Wonderful nursery that genuinely cares about bringing out the best in each and every child. The staff are incredibly kind and nurturing and the smaller class size means each child gets the support they need.’ We know each child well and they know they are loved and cared for by all staff. Noah’s Ark provides a great framework for character development. Excellent behaviour is modelled at every turn, kindness that supports each other is communicated with grace and confidence. Positive interaction with peers and adults is key to the nursery.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: Broomwood Hall, Dolphin School, Eaton House Schools, Finton House, Hornsby House, Parkgate School, The Roche, Thomas’s Schools, local state schools.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: Our approach is around the individual and supporting each child to foster a love for learning. We have a unique community of staff, parents and children which encourages the children to gain a sense of independence in themselves, their minds and their learning.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: Loving, kind, relational, listening, nurturing and skilled teachers. Child-centred learning. Children are allowed to be themselves, finding joy in the activities that interest them and their successes and discovering a deep love of learning.

They are encouraged to be independent, aspirational and positive in overcoming challenges. Kindness is at the heart of the nursery community. The children skip in and leave with big smiles on their faces and in their hearts – they love their teachers and friends.

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NURSERIES

St Hilary’s Preparatory School Godalming

Boys & Girls Ages 2—11

Open Mornings 11th March and 29th April Personal Tours by Arrangement

“Happy, charming and academically successful” The Good Schools Guide

sthilarysschool co Tel: 01483 416551 • @StHilarysSchool ail: re istrar@sthilarysschool co

The Willow Nursery

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‘Stay & Play‛ Forest School STEM RULER Programme

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LONDON SCHOOLS

Kensington Park School, London

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LONDON PREPARATORY SCHOOLS

Broomwood Hall Lower School

Broomwood Hall Upper School

ADDRESS: Reception & Year 1: The Vicarage, 192 Ramsden Road, London SW12 8RQ | Years 2&3: 50 Nightingale Lane, London SW12 8TE WEBSITE: www.northwoodschools.com FOUNDED: 1984 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 320 AGES: Co-ed, 4-8 FEES: Day, £5,820 (21/22). Fees are inclusive of all tuition, lunch, compulsory school trips and most schoolbooks and equipment.

HEAD TEACHER: Jo Townsend RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: C of E – but all welcome ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Register, visit and random ballot.

CONTACT: The Admissions Team, 020 8682 8830 EMAIL: admissions@northwoodschools.com SCHOOL VISITS: Open mornings: 23 Feb; 5 May; 7 Oct 2022. Friday morning showarounds. Private tours. Booking essential.

ADDRESS: 68-74 Nightingale Lane, London SW12 8NR WEBSITE: www.northwoodschools.com FOUNDED: 1984 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 240 AGES: 8-13 FEES: Day, £7,140 (21/22). Fees inclusive of all tuition, lunch, compulsory school trips and most schoolbooks & equipment.

HEAD TEACHER: Louisa McCafferty RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Church of England but all welcome ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Main entry 8; additional places at 11.

Automatic entry from pre-prep (Broomwood Hall Lower School) if it’s right for them. External candidates via digital testing & Head’s interview.

Priority entry for Dukes Education schools.

CONTACT: Northwood Schools Admissions – 020 8682 8830 EMAIL: admissions@northwoodschools.com SCHOOL VISITS: Open mornings: 23 Feb; 5 May; 7 Oct 2022. Friday morning showarounds. Private tours. Booking essential.

THE CURRICULUM: Broad, modern, and innovative – designed to provide mastery of the building blocks of education in an inclusive, exciting, and enjoyable way. Specialist teaching in arts, sport, music, and French from the off.

THE CURRICULUM: A broad and stimulating mastery approach, with technology used at every level fosters a love of learning and bolsters selfconfidence, creativity, and critical thinking, helping girls to maximise their potential. We support and stretch in equal measure.

GAMES & THE ARTS: Emphasis on building confidence, skills, and enjoyment: PE and games five periods per week; competitive matches from Year 3. Weekly art, drama, and music. A multitude of clubs from Year 1 onwards include karate, coding, art, and cookery. Winners of prestigious Gold Artsmark Award.

GAMES & THE ARTS: Wide variety of sports, e.g. netball, hockey, tennis, football, rugby, cricket, cross-country, athletics, and swimming.

Exceptionally strong music, art & DT, and drama departments. New art and DT block. Winners of prestigious Artsmark Gold Award. On-site Leiths cookery school.

PASTORAL CARE: We are proud to offer outstanding pastoral care. The school is split between two buildings, a short walk from each other. Each site is small and intimate enough for all children to be well-known to all staff. We have a strong pastoral team which includes learning support, a full-time school nurse and a qualified school counsellor.

PASTORAL CARE: We know that happy children thrive academically.

With small class sizes, an excellent tutor system and mindfulness and wellbeing programmes built into the curriculum, we pride ourselves on nurturing the whole child and developing individual strengths, so that when girls leave us at 11 or 13, they are happy, well-rounded individuals, academically and socially prepared to tackle the future with confidence.

2021 Finalist – ‘School of the Year for Student Well-being’

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: Automatic entry to Northwood Schools’ prep schools - Northcote Lodge (boys) or Broomwood Hall Upper School (girls) (providing they are right for the child).

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: Modern, innovative teaching in a traditional setting delivers an outstanding education that excites, stimulates, and nurtures the whole child. Our five learning powers: curiosity, communication, confidence, independence, and resilience; combined with our mastery approach and emphasis on a growth mindset, equip children with the problem solving and analytical skills they need to succeed in the future.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: An excellent and rounded education that recognises that achievement and success come in many forms and at different stages with happy children who love learning and can move on to the prep stage brimming with confidence. 2021 Finalist, Pre-Prep School of the Year. Part of the wider Northwood Schools family delivering outstanding education for ages 4 to 16, which in turn, is part of the wider Dukes Education family.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: c. 25% of leavers win awards across all areas: academic, drama, art, sport, and music. Senior exit schools include a mix of London day (e.g., Emanuel, JAGS, Streatham & Clapham High) and out of town boarding (e.g., Benenden, Wellington, Bradfield) at 11 and 13.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: We prepare for life, not just the next school. Girls are stimulated, supported, and stretched in equal measure and helped to develop the essential skills of creativity, critical thinking, resilience, independence, and confidence that are so important for future success.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: The only all-girls’ prep school preparing for both 11+ and 13+ in SW London. Our combination of innovative teaching within a traditional setting, coupled with an exciting enrichment programme stimulates both breadth and depth of learning.

Broomwood girls are happy, confident, rounded individuals who are well prepared for future success. Part of the wider Northwood Schools family delivering outstanding education for ages four to 16, which in turn, is part of the wider Dukes Education family.

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LONDON PREPARATORY SCHOOLS

Northcote Lodge

ADDRESS: 26 Bolingbroke Grove, London SW11 6EL WEBSITE: www.northwoodschools.com FOUNDED: 1993 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 250 AGES: 8-13 FEES: Day, £7,140 (21/22). Fees inclusive of all tuition, lunch, compulsory school trips and most schoolbooks & equipment.

HEAD TEACHER: Clive Smith-Langridge RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Church of England but all welcome ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Main entry 8; additional places at 11.

Automatic entry from pre-prep (Broomwood Hall Lower School) if it’s right for them. External candidates via digital testing & Head’s interview.

Priority entry for Dukes Education pupils.

CONTACT: Northwood Schools Admissions – 020 8682 8830 EMAIL: admissions@northwoodschools.com SCHOOL VISITS: Open mornings: 23 Feb; 5 May; 7 Oct 2022. Friday morning showarounds. Private tours. Booking essential.

Northwood Senior

ADDRESS: 3 Garrad’s Road, London, SW16 1JZ WEBSITE: www.northwoodschools.com FOUNDED: 2020 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 140 (capacity) AGES: Co-ed, 11-16 FEES: Day: £7,140 (21/22). All-rounder scholarships worth up to 20 per cent of fees available for both Year 7 and Year 9 entry.

HEAD TEACHER: Susan Brooks RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Church of England but all welcome ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Selective. Assessment via current school reference, digital data and Head’s interview.

CONTACT: Tash McDonald, Senior School Admissions EMAIL: nwssenior@northwoodschools.com SCHOOL VISITS: Open mornings: 23 Feb; 5 May; 7 Oct 2022. Private tours. Booking essential.

THE CURRICULUM: Boys thrive in our busy, friendly environment with outstanding teaching that stimulates, stretches, nurtures and develops ‘the whole child’ for entry to top secondary schools at 11 and 13 – both in and out of London.

THE CURRICULUM: Transformative teaching lies at the heart of our modern, stimulating curriculum creating motivated pupils who develop the analytical and problem solving skills that pay dividends in public examinations and the workplaces of the future.

GAMES & THE ARTS: All boys play matches in the major sports. Teams are very competitive even against much bigger schools. Wide-ranging clubs programme includes karate, coding, and spy club. Thriving and vibrant music, drama and art departments with ambitious projects, multiple ensembles, and exciting performances.

GAMES & THE ARTS: Own sports court. Keen to explore both traditional and alternative sports and make use of nearby facilities – e.g. Tooting common, Lido, athletics track, Streatham Leisure Centre, ice rink and velodrome. Creativity is important: art, DT, drama, coding, and film clubs.

PASTORAL CARE: Our tutor system ensures that each boy has someone looking out for him over and above the care he receives from every staff member. The small and friendly community enables staff and boys to get to know each other well. Parent partnership is actively encouraged, and the headmaster’s door is always open.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: 2021 Leavers won eight Scholarships: academic (5), sport (2), drama (1). Exit at 11 or 13 to mix of London day (e.g., Emanuel, Dulwich, Whitgift, Alleyn’s) and out of town boarding (e.g., Harrow, Charterhouse, Eton, Wellington, Bradfield).

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: ‘The whole child is the whole point’: academic rigour, a focus on traditional manners, outstanding extracurricular opportunities, holistic pastoral care and most importantly, a school that puts boys’ happiness centre stage to enable them to fulfil their academic potential.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: Northcote Lodge really understands how to get the very best out of boys, giving them an outstanding all-round education in a stimulating, yet nurturing, learning environment. 2021 Finalist, Prep School of the Year. Part of the wider Northwood Schools family delivering outstanding education for ages four to 16, which in turn, is part of the wider Dukes Education family.

PASTORAL CARE: We offer outstanding pastoral care to help each pupil develop the skills required for the challenges of modern life. Wellbeing is built into the weekly timetable and our tutorial system and thematic learning approach ensures that every pupil is well known, with all staff invested in the success and happiness of each child. Our house system ensures that we have built-in both vertical and horizontal support structures.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: Pupils leave at 16 for A-levels, IB or BTECs at another school or specialist sixth form college.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: We are academically ambitious but pastorally supportive. As a new school, we combine the best of modern educational practice with committed, innovative teachers who can transform the educational experience of our pupils so that they can move on to the next stage of their education with confidence and purpose.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: A smaller school that stretches and supports in equal measure; where each pupil is known by all and is part of and contributes not only to the whole school community but the wider community too, using local facilities and working with local groups. Dynamic, modern teaching that transforms pupils’ educational experience – with proven measurable impact. Part of the wider Northwood Schools family delivering outstanding education for ages four to 16, which in turn, is part of the wider Dukes Education family.

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LONDON PREPARATORY SCHOOLS

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Bassett House School

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ADDRESS: 60 Bassett Road, W10 6JP WEBSITE: www.bassetths.org.uk FOUNDED: 1947 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 120 AGES: 3-11 FEES: (termly) £3,160 – £6,585 HEAD TEACHER: Kelly Gray RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Non-denominational ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Non-selective in early years. Priority placement to siblings of current students and children of alumnae.

Taster and assessment morning required for pupils in Year 1 and above.

CONTACT: Head of Admissions and Marketing or the School Office EMAIL: info@bassetths.org.uk or registrar@bassetths.org.uk SCHOOL VISITS: Virtual open events are held once a month. Personal tours are offered.

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THE CURRICULUM: We boast a rich and bespoke curriculum across the school which is flexible to achieve for the best outcomes of our pupils across a variety of subjects taught by specialist teachers.

GAMES & THE ARTS: Our specialist PE and sports teachers encourage pupils to try a host of activities and games from introduction to team sports. Music, drama and art are also taught by specialist teachers and allow for pupils to express themselves with confidence across a spectrum of media.

PASTORAL CARE: No child is unknown of at Bassett House. We have a SENCO on staff, and through weekly whole staff meetings, every staff member is aware of each child and their needs at Bassett House. We encourage children to voice their concerns and have built a culture of care that is exhibited by every staff member.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: Scholarships and over 70 places offered to top senior schools in London.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: There’s no bigger privilege than enabling staff and pupils to experience the magic of childhood learning.

We blend tradition with innovation and champion the arts alongside academic rigour to develop rounded individuals. I take the gift of leadership seriously, ensuring the relationship between Family Bassett and our families is cherished.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: Bassett House School is a unique, small school nestled in leafy Notting Hill, London. Nurturing each child to develop into an interested and interesting person is what we do exceptionally well, as well as encouraging confidence and kindness throughout. Boasting robust and child-centred provision in newly-renovated Bassett Bear House and a highly successful prep school curriculum, we are small enough to be bespoke, yet big enough to thrive.

Be part of the community Blackheath Prep is an outstanding, co-educational prep school in South East London for children aged 3 to 11. We are a school where curiosity is stimulated, a love of learning is encouraged and fun, kindness, ambition and courage are at the very heart of our school community. Regular Open Mornings take place during term-time.

Take a virtual tour: www.blackheathprep.co.uk #BeBlackheathPrep

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Devonshire House Preparatory School

Outstanding prep and pre-prep in Hampstead, with its own nursery Open Mornings:

Tuesday 1st March & Thursday 17th March 2022

To register please visit our website or contact Admissions Tel: 020 7435 1916 Email: enquiries@dhprep.co.uk Website: www.devonshirehouseschool.co.uk 2 Arkwright Road, NW3 6AE 2 London Prep.indd 123

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LONDON PREPARATORY SCHOOLS

Chepstow House

ADDRESS: 108a Lancaster Road, Notting Hill, London W11 1QS WEBSITE: www.chepstowhouseschool.co.uk FOUNDED: 2010 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 384 AGES: 2-13 FEES: (termly) £3,520 (Nursery – it does not offer different arrangments for half or full days); £7,430 (School) HEAD TEACHER: Angela Barr RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Non-denominational ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Register from birth for nursery and reception intake. Informal assessment for 7, 8, 11 and 13+ entry.

CONTACT: Linda Farrow, School Administrator, 0207 243 0243 EMAIL: info@chepstowhouseschool.co.uk SCHOOL VISITS: Tours available on request.

THE CURRICULUM: A rigorous curriculum prepares children for 11+ and the 13+ Common Entrance. However, we encourage boys and girls to strive in all areas through providing a broad and balanced learning experience.

GAMES & THE ARTS: Music recitals, whole school productions and art specialist weeks are highlights throughout the key stages. PE lessons enhance physical skills and knowledge of the sports the children play and a strong emphasis is placed on competitive sporting activities through weekly fixtures.

PASTORAL CARE: Staff encourage pupils to apply themselves diligently to tasks and develop positive attitudes both in their work and in their personal relationships. The house system creates a strong community within the school and the extremely successful links with both local and international charities promotes a sense of wider social interaction and responsibility.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: Children follow on to a variety of schools including St Paul’s, City of London, The Harrodian and Wetherby.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: Chepstow House is a happy and purposeful family environment, where every member of the school community is important and all are valued as individuals, We aim to discover the best in every child and challenge them to go beyond their expectations.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: The highly nurturing and welcoming ethos and environment. By the end of Year 3, the majority of pupils achieve well above expected levels of attainment in reading, writing, speaking and mathematics. ‘They develop excellent creative and aesthetic skills in art, drama, music and cookery. Their physical development is excellent’ (most recent Ofsted report).

Dolphin School (Incorporating Noah’s Ark Nursery Schools)

ADDRESS: 106 Northcote Road, London SW11 6QW WEBSITE: www.dolphinschool.org.uk FOUNDED: 1986 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 163 AGES: 2-11 FEES: (termly) Nursery £2,095; reception, Years 1 and 2 £4,295; Years 3–6 £4,695 HEAD TEACHER: Sam Gosden RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Christian ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Reception class, early registration recommended. Non-selective; Year 1–6, assessment day and past school reports.

CONTACT: Vivienne Benson, 020 7924 3472 ext 2 EMAIL: admissions@dolphinschool.org.uk SCHOOL VISITS: Please contact the Admissions Registrar.

THE CURRICULUM: Our small class sizes enable us to get to know your child extremely well so that we can not only set specific individualised academic targets, but also discover how they learn best. We prioritise English and maths, however, we do offer a holistic programme including science, geography, history, Spanish, computer coding, gardening and a vast array of extracurricular activities, clubs and outings.

GAMES & THE ARTS: We train pupils in the arts (drama, music, painting, drawing, clay and design and technology) with specialist teaching and a plethora of performing and exhibiting opportunities. We also coach children in a wide range of sports (football, tag rugby, hockey, netball, cricket, dance, athletics and cross-country) through dynamic teaching and superb fixtures.

PASTORAL CARE: We are committed to giving both time and care to grow your child’s character on their journey from nursery to Year six. Our Christian ethos leads us to believe that personal growth ultimately matters more than lists of achievements. So we are thrilled both by children’s awards and accolades and equally excited about who they are. Dolphin children are known to be caring, compassionate, supportive, funny, ambitious, ‘give-it-a-go’ people who value integrity and truth, going the extra mile to inspire others to achieve, RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: Alleyn’s, Box Hill, Christ’s Hospital, Dulwich College, Eaton Square Senior, Emanuel, Epsom College, Francis Holland, Frensham Heights, Ibstock Place, James Allen’s Girls’ School, Kew House, King’s College Wimbledon, Northwood Senior, Priors Field, Royal Russell, Thomas’s Battersea Square, Trinity, Whitgift, Woldingham, Worth School.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: If we want children to be the best they can be, academically, artistically, in sport or as people, we must start by valuing them for who they are and to appreciate that they have different intelligences which need opportunities to be developed.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: With a combination of nurture and dynamism and the passionate and compassionate commitment of the highly skilled staff Dolphin School provides a fantastic all-round education – allowing children to be known, heard and to have joy in finding their interests and gifts.

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LONDON PREPARATORY SCHOOLS

Cumnor House School for Girls

Cumnor House School for Boys

ADDRESS: 1 Woodcote Ln, Purley CR8 3HB WEBSITE: www.cumnorhouse.com FOUNDED: 1931 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 112 AGES: 2-11 FEES: £4,970 HEAD TEACHER: Amanda McShane RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Church of England with pupils following many faiths ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Non selective but with high academic standards. Pupils spend a morning taking part in lessons and we observe and talk to the child to see if they will thrive in our environment.

CONTACT: Thea Phillips, Head of Admissions; 02086 603445 EMAIL: admissions@cumnorhouse.com SCHOOL VISITS: Open Mornings and Private Tours

ADDRESS: 168 Pampisford Road, South Croydon CR2 6DA WEBSITE: www.cumnorhouse.com FOUNDED: 1931 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 335 AGES: 2-13 FEES: From £4,135 - £4,970 HEAD TEACHER: Emma Edwards RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Church of England with pupils following many faiths.

ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Non selective but with high academic standards. Pupils spend a morning taking part in lessons and we observe and talk to the child to see if they will thrive in our environment.

CONTACT: Thea Phillips, Head of Admissions EMAIL: admissions@cumnorhouse.com SCHOOL VISITS: Open Mornings and Private Tours

THE CURRICULUM: Our academics are outstanding but we believe that we are educating a whole person so we offer a broad curriculum and place emphasis on developing character and skills for the future.

THE CURRICULUM: We follow the National Curriculum Plus, where our pupils work ahead of the age related expectations and are taught by specialist teachers in music, Spanish, games and swimming at a young age.

As they reach the Upper School we introduce more specialist teachers in all subjects.

GAMES & THE ARTS: Cumnor girls love their sport, developing skills and competing. Music and Drama play a key part of our curriculum with opportunities to shine on stage. Pupils’ beautiful artwork is displayed around the school inspiring others.

PASTORAL CARE: Pastoral care is embedded in all that we do at Cumnor, every teacher knows every child whether they teach them or not.

Teachers take the time to know each child as an individual, whether that is in form time, in the playground or over lunch. As a result, our girls are happy, confident and feel valued, safe and secure.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: Every year many girls achieve scholarships to outstanding senior schools.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: First and foremost I want my pupils to be happy. It is about educating the whole child, equipping them with life skills – this includes self-assuredness, skills of oracy and self-reflection.

I want my girls to be unafraid to think creatively and to be bold enough to share that thinking.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: Happy, confident learners with outstanding academics and results. A true family and community ethos with a breadth of opportunity both in and out of the classroom. We are a forward thinking and innovative preparatory school with traditional values where each pupil is recognised for who they are.

GAMES & THE ARTS: The annual school production casts over 70 pupils and is performed at a local theatre. We also have an annual art exhibition and our games teams have won regional and national competitions. We are a top 50 school for cricket in the country.

PASTORAL CARE: This is the place where children learn to be empathetic, have self-belief, be brave, do their utmost with earnestness and build strong moral principles. Our guiding values of compassion, belief, courage, endeavour and integrity are embedded through the school from Kindergarten to Year 8. Our teachers pride themselves in putting the wellbeing of the child first. With outstanding class and form teachers are pupils are happy and excited to come into school.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: 32 scholarships this year to independent senior schools for our 11+ and 13+ cohorts.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: My philosophy is closely aligned to our school values and is one of compassion and kindness. All pupils need to know that they are valued and that we care by supporting their pastoral and academic needs and by creating an exciting and inspiring environment in which they will thrive.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: We have a long tradition of excellent Sport and Music. With our excellent facilities including the sports ground our pupils excel in Football, Rugby and Cricket. Swimming Pool – Croydon Schools’ Winners 11 years running. DT workshop, art room, science lab, Music House.

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LONDON PREPARATORY SCHOOLS

Book your open day place now: admissions@ cameronvaleschool.com

CAMERON VALE SCHOOL DA MIHI SAPIENTIAM

Open Mornings 2nd February and 9th March 2022 Come and find out how Cameron Vale School can help your child be their very best.

Email admissions@cameronvaleschool.com or call 0207 352 4040 to book.

A springboard for life 4 The Vale, London, SW3 6AH | admissions@cameronvaleschool.com | +44 (0)207 352 4040 | www.cameronvaleschool.com

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LONDON PREPARATORY SCHOOLS

Eaton Square Prep and Nursery Schools

ADDRESS: 55-57 Eccleston Square, London SW1V 1PP WEBSITE: www.eatonsquareschools.com FOUNDED: 1981 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 260 AGES: 2-11 FEES: (termly) from £7,230 HEAD TEACHER: Trish Watt RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Non-denominational ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: For Reception entry, an informal assessment takes place, usually in the November of the prior-planned entry year. Occasional place for other year groups are available.

CONTACT: Registrar; 020 7225 3131 EMAIL: registrar@eatonsquareschools.com SCHOOL VISITS: Regular Open Mornings. Private tours or meetings with the Headmistress and/or Principal can be arranged.

THE CURRICULUM: Eaton Square is renowned for its stimulating, rigorous and tailored academic programme, enabling pupils to fulfil their potential in all areas of the curriculum. Based on the National Curriculum, consistently exceptional 11+ and 13+ Common Entrance results are achieved. Subject coordinators, class teachers and subject specialists work together from the core curriculum to build an exciting teaching programme that differentiates to accommodate the learning style and ability of each child.

GAMES & THE ARTS: Sport is impressively strong and wide-ranging at Eaton Square. National success is a routine part of school life: in 2021 alone, accolades included IAPS Football winners, ISA Nationals Swimming champions and RYA Sailing Gold Medallist. Creative self-expression is a valued, integral part of the curriculum, be it through Art, Music, Drama, Debating or Public Speaking. 11+ scholarships to top senior schools regularly awarded in all.

PASTORAL CARE: The wellbeing of every pupil is a fundamental priority at ES. Pastoral support rated ‘Excellent’ by all recent ISI inspections. The school offers a unique ‘The Listening Space’ programme for all pupils, plus ‘worry post boxes’ for children to post any concerns in confidence. School in Top 3 ISA Schools 2021 for its commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: 25 scholarships offered in 2021 (academic and art). Schools included: Dulwich, JAGS, Francis Holland, Alleyn’s, Queen’s College, Cheltenham Ladies College, Emanuel, Queen’s Gate, St Mary’s Calne.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: We ignite a passion for learning in our pupils, exposing them to a broad curriculum, dynamic classrooms and opportunities to discover who they are and what place they wish to take in the world. Our nurturing ‘home from home’ environment is underpinned by our ‘POISE’ values: perseverance, ownership, integrity, service and empathy.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: Eaton Square’s academic achievement without a ‘hot-house’ culture is unrivalled, and proven by the outstanding senior school destinations of its 11+ pupils. School also champions confidence and communication skills: it is an accredited Tedx Centre and pupils audition, rehearse and perform on Tedx’s global platform – achieving 5 million+ views to date. A certified ‘Eco-School’ with pupil-driven Eco Comittee.

Dulwich Prep London

ADDRESS: 42 Alleyn Park (Years 1 - 8), 8 Gallery Road (Early Years), Dulwich, London SE21 WEBSITE: www.dulwichpreplondon.org FOUNDED: 1885 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 841 AGES: 3-13 FEES: (termly) Nursery and Reception, £4,760 (part-time; £2,860), Years 1 and 2, £5,485. Years 3 and 4, £6,220. Years 5 to 8, £6,965.

HEAD TEACHER: Louise Davidson RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Non-denominational ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Selective and looks for children who will flourish and take advantage of their outstanding provision.

CONTACT: Viki Cryer, Registrar EMAIL: admissions@dulwichpreplondon.org; 020 8766 5525 SCHOOL VISITS: Private and small group tours are available throughout the academic year.

THE CURRICULUM: An innovative and challenging curriculum that seeks to foster a growth mindset in all pupils. At Dulwich Prep London, we believe that there is no limit to a child’s potential.

GAMES & THE ARTS: We have 25 acres of open space, woodland, playing fields and a swimming pool. Over ten different sports played at every level are on offer. There are 32 different musical groups and ensembles and over 15 stage productions a year.

PASTORAL CARE: At Dulwich Prep London, pastoral care is the starting and endpoint of all we do. Our years of experience working with boys up to 13 years old ensure that we understand the unique physical, emotional, and developmental challenges they face. Every child is known and nurtured to form the necessary skills to equip them for their future. Our greatest success is measured by the character of our boys.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: 2021 saw a record 75 scholarships awarded to top senior schools.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: Miss Davidson is passionate about boys learning holistically, building good character and developing meaningful skills for their future. She effectively strikes a balance between the school’s heritage and traditions with the need to consider what is new and best in education.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: Our unique educational philosophy has eight Values at the core, including love and is underpinned by twelve Excellent Learning Characteristics totalling 20 key attributes that we aim to instil in our children to help them navigate the world around them now and in the future.

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LONDON PREPARATORY SCHOOLS

S C H O O L H O U S E M AG A Z I N E

Old Vicarage School IAPS School for girls aged 3 to 11 years

OPEN MORNING FRIDAY 4TH MARCH 9-11AM WE AIM TO FULFIL YOUR DAUGHTER’S POTENTIAL AND EXCEED YOUR EXPECTATIONS

“The quality of the pupil’s academic and personal development is excellent”

The next issue of SCHOOL HOUSE MAGAZINE is out in Autumn 2022

ISI Educational Quality Inspection June 2019

To advertise in the next issue of School House Magazine, or on our website www.schoolhousemagazine.co.uk, please contact Camilla van Praagh on 020 7384 9023 or alternatively, email her on camilla@schoolhousemagazine.co.uk

• Two form entry in small classes up to 15 • Excellent academic standards with a rich, challenging curriculum & a wide range of sports, drama & music • Girls develop into confident, articulate individuals • We successfully prepare for 11+ with most achieving their first choice schools • After school care available up until 6pm For more information about the school, or to book a tour on our forthcoming open morning, please contact the Registrar on 020 8940 0922 or email f.murdoch@oldvicarageschool.com

Old Vicarage School, 48 Richmond Hill, Richmond, Surrey TW10 6QX www.oldvicarageschool.com

LATYMER UPPER & PREP SCHOOL

Bursaries at 7+, 11+ and 16+

Up to 100% fee reduction

We provide able young people from all backgrounds with a life-changing education that equips and inspires them to excel in the world.

Latymer Prep School 36 Upper Mall Hammersmith W6 9TA 0208 148 4515

Latymer Upper School King Street Hammersmith W6 9LR 0208 148 4519

registrar@latymerprep.org @LatymerPrep @LatymerPrep

admissions@latymer-upper.org @LatymerUpper @LatymerUpperSchool

7+ Entry latymerprep.org 11+ and Sixth Form Entry latymer-upper.org

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Hampton Court House Independent day school for children aged 3 — 18

Scan to register your place or visit hamptoncourthouse.co.uk

Give your child a head start Lower Years Open Day (Years 1 — 4) 24th March 2022

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LONDON PREPARATORY SCHOOLS

Heathside School Hampstead

Hurlingham School

ADDRESS: 84a Heath Street, Hampstead NW3 1DN WEBSITE: www.heathsideschoolhampstead.com FOUNDED: 1995 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 235 AGES: 2-13 FEES: (termly) £5,601 to £6,464 HEAD TEACHER: Katherine Vintiner RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Non-denominational ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Non-academically selective. Children invited for a taster day and school requests last two school reports.

CONTACT: Admissions Department; 020 3058 4011 EMAIL: admissions@heathsideschoolhampstead.com SCHOOL VISITS: School tours are held weekly during term time for all year groups and open days held termly. Ad hoc tours can be arranged by appointment

ADDRESS: 122 Putney Bridge Road, Putney, London SW15 2NQ WEBSITE: www.hurlinghamschool.co.uk FOUNDED: 1947 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 330 AGES: 4-11 FEES: Lower School (Reception to Form II) £5,975, Upper School (From III to Form VI) £6,185 HEAD TEACHER: Simon Gould RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Non-denominational ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Non-selective.

CONTACT: Fiona Driver, admissions secretary, 020 8874 7186 EMAIL: admissions@hurlinghamschool.co.uk SCHOOL VISITS: Please contact the school to arrange an appointment.

THE CURRICULUM: Heathside is non-academically selective, and students are supported to become confident, independent learners achieving high academic standards. Small class sizes ensure teaching is tailored so every child gets the best from each lesson.

GAMES & THE ARTS: Clubs include capoeira, chess, choir, coding, debating, drama, fencing and science. Specialist sport teachers coach a range of team sports and arrange fixtures with schools in the area. All children take part in two performances each year and music groups play regular concerts.

PASTORAL CARE: The wellbeing of all pupils at Heathside is of paramount importance and pupils are supported to develop healthy and happy friendships with their classmates and peers. A team of student Wellbeing Champions works with school leaders to help promote wellbeing throughout the school. If a class teacher has any concerns about any pupil’s wellbeing, they can call on the school’s Place2Be counsellor to provide support. Mindfulness is taught using specialist curriculum, Dots.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: Westminster, Francis Holland, Haberdashers’ Aske’s, Channing, South Hampstead High School, North Bridge House, Emanuel.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: Heathside is friendly, inclusive and academic. Children and young people are really happy at Heathside. The atmosphere is relaxed, but academic standards are high. What makes Heathside special is the focus on each individual student, giving them the confidence to feel they can succeed and go on the next step of their learning.

THE CURRICULUM: Hurlingham initiates a love of learning in all children: wherever each and every pupil’s strengths lie, we value and celebrate their gifts and talents. This was recognised by the National Association for Able Children in Education in 2017 through success in gaining the prestigious Challenge Award.

GAMES & THE ARTS: Children enjoy a range of sports including football, netball, rugby, hockey, cricket, athletics, ballet and karate. These are all taught by specialists both on-site and in Wandsworth Park and Rocks Lane.

Music, including four choirs and an orchestra, is a particular strength of the school. Creative art is dynamic and original. The school achieved Artsmark Gold in 2017 and featured in the recent ‘London Schools Talk Artsmark’ film.

PASTORAL CARE: Happiness is central to everything that goes on at Hurlingham. Our pupils’ successes result from their confidence, enjoyment of school life and ever-increasing appetite for new learning and discovery.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: Surbiton High, Lady Eleanor Holles, Kingston Grammar School, Notre Dame, Woldingham, Epsom College, Ewell Castle, St Paul’s Girls’, Emanuel, Whitgift, Wimbledon High School.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: Children at Hurlingham are never just taught, but are educated in the broadest sense of the word as each day brings fresh opportunities, challenges, discoveries and achievements.

As a school, we aim to capitalise on them all and not to waste a single one.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: Fantastic children, wonderful, dedicated staff, purpose-built learning environment for the 21st century.

Rated ‘outstanding’ in all areas of recent inspection.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: A village school with a global community, Heathside welcomes families from across the world. Heathside parents are hugely supportive and play a key role in shaping the future of the school. Set in the historic centre of Hampstead, a few minutes’ walk from Hampstead Heath, where the children play at lunchtimes.

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Make the right move for your child A Preparatory & Nursery School for boys and girls in Kensington.

Contact us to arrange a private tour with the Headmistress.

020 7727 9090 admin@hawkesdown.co.uk www.hawkesdown.co.uk

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LONDON PREPARATORY SCHOOLS

Kew Green Preparatory School

ADDRESS: Layton House, Ferry Lane, Kew Green TW9 3AF WEBSITE: www.kgps.co.uk FOUNDED: 2004 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 280 (140 boys, 140 girls) AGES: 4-11 FEES: £6,304 per term, all ages HEAD TEACHER: Jem Peck RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Non-denominational ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Non-selective at four years old.

CONTACT: Michelle Wadsley, 020 8948 5999 EMAIL: admissions@kgps.co.uk SCHOOL VISITS: Open mornings: 23 February 2022, 9 March 2022, 11 May 2022, 8 June 2022

THE CURRICULUM: Kew Green delivers a curriculum that far exceeds the national curriculum in both breadth and depth. Highly differentiated lessons are delivered to nurture creativity and collaboration, resilience and determination while also developing a strong sense of self-confidence in every child. We embrace technology in our educational approach to all subjects which invariably produces excellent academic results. In its 2015 ISI inspection report, Kew Green was judged Excellent in all categories.

GAMES & THE ARTS: We have strong art, music, drama and sports departments as any visitor would realise immediately. All our children compete, perform and enjoy the exceptional standards we achieve in these areas.

PASTORAL CARE: We operate a genuine ‘open door’ policy where parents play a very active role in school life. Every adult in school knows every child. Relationships are strong, children are happy, well-motivated and confident to ask questions, make mistakes and give opinions. They are valued and listened to.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: Hampton, Tiffins, Francis Holland, Notting Hill and Ealing, Putney High, Surbiton High, Wimbledon High, Aldenham, Emanuel and Radnor House.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: Children thrive in an environment that is loving and supportive. Physically, socially, emotionally, creatively and intellectually, our children experience an exciting and stimulating learning journey where they are able to flourish and reach for the top.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: The school is situated in an exceptionally beautiful position in a peaceful corner of Kew Green. It is flanked by the River Thames and the Royal Botanical Gardens which we use regularly along with the green itself. Each term is packed with activity where a loving, energetic and happy atmosphere is generated.

Our pupils have enjoyed a French ski trip, a choir tour to Venice, tournament wins in netball, rugby and football, drama productions and music soirées, all alongside our continued pursuit of academic excellence. Above all, we believe that children need to be nurtured, guided, motivated and inspired to allow them to blossom.

Knightsbridge School

ADDRESS: 67 Pont Street, London SW1X 0BD WEBSITE: www.knightsbridgeschool.com FOUNDED: 2006 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 424 AGES: 3-16 FEES: Upper seniors 9 to 11, £7,770; upper seniors 7 to 8, £7,430; senior 4 to 6, £7,360; junior, 1-3, reception & nursery, £6,932 HEAD TEACHER: Shona Colaço, Principal & Founder: Magoo Giles RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Non-denominational ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Assessment in the previous year to entry; non-academically selective.

CONTACT: Mary Caldecott-Smith, Registrar, 020 7590 9006 EMAIL: m.caldecott-smith@knightsbridgeschool.com SCHOOL VISITS: Tours take place every Tuesday and Wednesday at 9 am for juniors and Thursday at 9 am for seniors. Please call to book.

THE CURRICULUM: KS delivers an all-around and all-through education up to GCSE, ensuring students are equipped to pursue the path they choose in the future. Over the course of the pandemic, KS has provided an extensive online education, including 38 extra-curricular delivered virtually. A KS parent says, ‘Based on what you hear other schools are offering, we are just on another planet here at KS.’ GAMES & THE ARTS: There are 300 sports matches per year and we excel in netball, fencing, skiing, music, and performing arts. We have had teams and individuals reaching National standards including gymnastics (team GB), fencing, and triathlon. In addition, our pupils have performed on stage with the English National Ballet and in The Sound of Music.

We are lucky to have many peripatetic music teachers on-site who guide children in one-to-one lessons. We have over 70 extra-curricular weekly clubs allowing our students to extend their skills such as robotics, horse riding, lacrosse, and many more.

PASTORAL CARE: The school runs timetabled wellbeing and personal reflection sessions each week so that our pupils can understand who they are and what they need to achieve. KS was the first independent day school to introduce children’s mental health counselling service, Place2Be and has raised funds to gift a year of this service to a local (Ashburnham Community) Primary School. We have a pupil wellbeing lead and a wellbeing prefect strengthening our commitment to pastoral care.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: All-round Achievement in an ecosystem of happiness; we all learn and achieve better when we feel happy and secure. By having the very best team supporting our wonderful children, they can take risks and learn together. Strong home-school communication ensures that the messages around our pupils are consistent and clear. Happy children, happy parents, happy staff...

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: At KS we expect our community to follow the KS Code in and out of school. We have an active Eco-committee focused on reducing our carbon footprint and increasing sustainable practice.

We received an award from Dukes Education for our charity work and support of the local community. We have bursaries enabling a maximum of four pupils in each senior year group from the local community to enjoy a KS education.

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LONDON PREPARATORY SCHOOLS

Prince’s Gardens Prep School

ADDRESS: 10-13 Prince’s Gardens, London, SW7 1ND WEBSITE: www.princesgardensprep.co.uk FOUNDED: 2020 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 150 AGES: 3-11 FEES: (termly) £3,842 – £5,098. pre-reception, £6,310; reception, Year 1 and 2, £7,400; Year 3 – 6, £7,860 HEAD TEACHER: Alison Melrose RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: None ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Open day, register, tour and assessment.

CONTACT: Ceri Christensen-Jones, Admissions Manager; 020 7591 4620 EMAIL: admissions@princesgardensprep.co.uk SCHOOL VISITS: Open days and personal tours are available. For more information, please contact Admissions.

THE CURRICULUM: Our curriculum is driven by academic excellence and a passion for learning. Equally important is the broad and engaging enrichment programme, delivering opportunities for every child to experience a wide range of clubs, activities, sports and trips; to make friends, share ideas and build self-confidence.

GAMES & THE ARTS: Prince’s Gardens boasts a two-acre garden for exploration and play. Hyde Park is close by for outdoor sports and Imperial College’s swimming pool is next door for PE and indoor sports. There are dedicated spaces within the school for expressive learning, including art, music and drama. Regular opportunities for children to perform include recitals, plays and end of term concerts.

PASTORAL CARE: Small class sizes and a kind environment mean that children are nurtured and feel confident to approach their teachers. We build close relationships between home and school to make sure any small worries do not grow to be larger concerns. It is our responsibility to know every child, to support their journey through school and ensure that they flourish and grow.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: Music Scholarship offered to children keen to join Year 4 or 5 with excellent potential in and commitment to music.

All-Rounder Scholarship offered to children keen to join Year 3 or 4 who show academic excellence and talent in art, drama, music, sport, STEM or languages.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: We want our little learners to enjoy coming to school, where they can flourish to become confident young people, ready to embrace every new challenge. At Prince’s Gardens our pledge is to ensure that your child is prepared for everything.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: A secret two-acre garden, state-of-the-art science labs and the makerspace, an innovative learning environment that encourages children to develop ideas, collaborate and problem solve. Access to Hyde Park and outstanding facilities including Imperial College’s Ethos sports centre. World class museums are a 5-minute walk allowing for regular immersive learning experiences – London truly is our classroom.

Kew College

ADDRESS: 24-26 Cumberland Road, Kew, Surrey TW9 3HQ WEBSITE: www.kewcollege.com FOUNDED: 1927 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 296 AGES: 3-11 FEES: (termly) Nursery, £2,550; Kindergarten to Year 6, £4,480 HEAD TEACHER: Jane Bond BSc MA (Ed) PGCE RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Non-denominational ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Children must be registered as soon as possible after birth CONTACT: Michelle Warburton, 020 8940 2039 EMAIL: registrar@kewcollege.com SCHOOL VISITS: Please contact the registrar to arrange a visit or to attend an open morning

THE CURRICULUM: The importance of English, maths and science is emphasised at the school, but within a broad curriculum. This includes art, drama, French, history, geography, technology, music and sport.

GAMES & THE ARTS: Netball, hockey, rounders, rugby, football, swimming, athletics and gymnastics. Inter-school matches. Drama and music are encouraged, there are summer plays, Christmas and Spring concerts, as well as several school choirs, an orchestra, string and wind groups and music technology.

PASTORAL CARE: The welfare and happiness of the children is of primary importance to us. This was highlighted in the ISI Inspection report of October 2019 which concluded that ‘the quality of the pupils’ personal development is excellent.’ The school holds regular wellbeing days for its pupils.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: Year 6 pupils this year were awarded 37 scholarships.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: Pupils should feel excited about learning and about communicating their ideas. They need an excellent grounding in core skills combined with inspirational teaching to give them the confidence to achieve their personal best in all curricular and extracurricular areas. Mutual respect between staff and pupils is of paramount importance.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: Kew College is an outstanding prep school achieving high academic standards and a consistent record of scholarships to West London secondary schools. ISI Inspection report of October 2019 rated the personal development of the pupils as ‘excellent’. In the ISI Regulatory Compliance Inspection of November 2016 the school was deemed to have met all of the ISI standards, with no action points. Well-resourced ICT facilities. Residential week in France for Year 6 pupils. Excellent teaching with a creative flair. Forest school in Autumn term for Kindergarten.

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LONDON PREPARATORY SCHOOLS

Kensington Wade

A small traditional Pre-School, Pre-Prep and Prep School providing outstanding education.

NEW Year-round Pre-School The Hampshire School Chelsea is extending its existing outstanding Pre-School (Nursery and Reception) term-time provision.

Families with children in Nursery and Reception will now have the opportunity to enrol their children all-year round, or for periods throughout the school holidays to suit their individual needs.

ADDRESS: 205 Warwick Road, London W14 8PU WEBSITE: www.kensingtonwade.com FOUNDED: 2017 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 100 AGES: 3-11 FEES: (termly) £6,275 HEAD TEACHER: Suzanne Haigh RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Non-denominational ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Non-selective at age 4, older candidates may be subject to assessment CONTACT: 020 3096 2888 EMAIL: admissions@kensingtonwade.com SCHOOL VISITS: Arranged throughout the week. Go to www. kensingtonwade.com/visit to book

THE CURRICULUM: Our curriculum is devised and delivered to prepare pupils for the leading British independent senior schools. Our academic programme is based on the best of both British and Chinese pedagogy systems and subjects are taught in both English and Chinese to ensure children master vocabulary in both languages.

GAMES & THE ARTS: We place a big emphasis on physical education for health & fitness and the arts for cultural education. There is a 680m2 sports hall (unusual for a central London school) and a magnificent roof terrace where the children can run and play.

PASTORAL CARE: From the school’s 2018 Ofsted report: ‘The school’s work to promote children’s personal development and welfare is outstanding. All staff know children and their families well and are highly effective at meeting children’s care and welfare needs.’

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: The school was founded on the idea that a progressive educational model can be combined with Mandarin immersion to create a vibrant, innovative school where children will thrive. It provides children with a double-first – a first-class prep school education coupled with the first bilingual experience – a life-changing opportunity to engage with and succeed in an interconnected 21st-century world.

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OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: The first Prep School in the United Kingdom to offer a dual-language English-Chinese education from ages 3–11, we provide children with a traditional prep school education combined with rigorous Mandarin immersion. A ‘unique and inspirational school’ and rated ‘Outstanding’ in all areas in our 2018 Ofsted inspection.

www.thehampshireschoolchelsea.co.uk /extendedpreschool admissions@thehampshireschoolchelsea.co.uk 020 7352 7077

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LONDON PREPARATORY SCHOOLS

Orchard House School

ADDRESS: 16 Newton Grove, London, W4 1LB WEBSITE: www.orchardhs.org.uk FOUNDED: 1993 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 262 AGES: 3-11 FEES: (termly) £3,160 – £6,585 HEAD TEACHER: Kit Thompson RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Non-denominational ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Non-selective in the Early Years with priority placement given to siblings of current students. Places offered from Form 1 upwards after a taster morning and academic assessment.

CONTACT: Director of Admissions and Marketing EMAIL: registrar@orchardhs.org.uk SCHOOL VISITS: Individual and group tours available weekly. Several open mornings held every year. Contact the registrar to arrange visits.

Ibstock Place Prep School

ADDRESS: Clarence Lane, London SW15 5PY WEBSITE: www.ibstockplaceschool.co.uk FOUNDED: 1894 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 140 boys, 140 girls AGES: 4-11 FEES: £5,705 – £5,870 per term HEAD TEACHER: Christopher J Wolsey RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Church of England ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Registration in the academic year preceding entry, followed by assessment.

CONTACT: C Voysey, The Registrar; 020 8392 5803 EMAIL: registrar@ibstockplaceschool.co.uk SCHOOL VISITS: Please contact the Registrar for guidance.

THE CURRICULUM: Tailor-made specialist teaching opens up young minds to endless possibilities, encouraging them to think creatively and form their own ideas. In addition to guiding pupils to high academic achievement, our programme of learning celebrates personal strengths and builds confidence from an early age.

THE CURRICULUM: Our curriculum is forward-looking, challenging and dynamic. Small class sizes and the skilful deployment of specialist teaching allows our pupils to make rapid progress against their peers. The superb and beautiful facilities of the School add lustre to our provision, as does the extensive programme of co-curricular provision.

GAMES & THE ARTS: Orchard House offers a wide spectrum of activities which encourage self-expression and the development of talents outside the classroom, including sports, music and drama. OHS recently won the prestigious TES award for sport.

GAMES & THE ARTS: The expressive arts feature prominently and art, drama, music and dance are handsomely provided for, but so too is sport.

We want our pupils to draw from the widest possible pool of experience.

PASTORAL CARE: Pastoral care comes first. Children blossom when they feel secure, happy, and valued. OHS puts huge store on pastoral care to ensure every pupil gains the confidence to achieve their best. Each child has a Pupil Pastoral Plan where they can note any private worries so teachers may monitor their happiness and wellbeing. Our buddy system helps newcomers through their early days, and we encourage older children to mentor younger pupils.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: Destination Schools include Godolphin & Latymer, St Paul’s, Westminster, Frances Holland, Putney High, King’s College HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: I hold a deep belief that children are at their best when they feel safe, happy and are inspired to try their very best every day.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: An impressive seven-figure redevelopment of Orchard House is currently underway. The new school will include: full refurbishment of all classrooms and learning spaces; brand-new STEAM centre (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Maths); student wellbeing space; sports facilities at the Old Actonians Sports Ground and Rocks Lane featuring football, cricket, rugby and hockey pitches, netball courts, all weather pitches for lacsrosse and a sports field; three natural, ergonomic outside spaces with extra playground areas.

PASTORAL CARE: Our pastoral care is second-to-none. Our pupils feel safe and secure, never lost nor left behind. We value the home-school link and invest real time in getting to know our families. When we work in concert, we can be truly transformative. Together, we can create a joyful childhood which will last a lifetime.

SENIOR SCHOOL PROGRESSION: External applicants for 7+ (Prep 3) entry and upwards who are offered a place for September 2023 following successful completion of the assessment procedure, will be granted an automatic right of progression to the Senior School at 11+.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: Our Prep Department shares its aims with the Senior School: foremost is a desire to unlock that which is most special within each of our pupils. We want our young people to develop the knowledge, skills and, most importantly, the character which they shall need to flourish. Ibstonians aspire to curiosity, independence and ambition. They are self-disciplined but creative, confident yet compassionate. More than anything, they enjoy the extraordinary opportunities which we can provide for them and they turn their experiences to good use.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: A nurturing start in stunning greenery with delightful play spaces. The Senior School’s extensive facilities – Refectory, swimming pool, sports pitches – are all on the doorstep.

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LONDON PREPARATORY SCHOOLS

#whywelovehornsby To visit our school, call 020 8673 7573 or visit www.hornsbyhouse.org.uk Hearnville Road, SW12 8RS Telephone 020 8673 7573 school@hornsbyhouse.org.uk

#Sparking Imaginations

OPEN EVENING

Joint school and nursery open evening Thursday 24 March 6.00pm-7.00pm

A happy, nurturing and inspiring environment for boys aged 4 to 11 in Twickenham

OPENING

SEPTEMBER 2022

New day nursery for boys and girls aged from 0-4

“Our son is thriving. The progress he has made both academically and pastorally has been magical.” Current parent 185 Hampton Road, Twickenham TW2 5NQ • 020 8614 1082 admissions@themallschool.org.uk • www.themallschool.org.uk

Extended day 51 weeks a year Large outdoor area Website launching January 2022: www.themallnursery.org.uk 84 Hampton Road, Twickenham TW2 5QS • 020 8898 3528 info@themallnursery.org.uk

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LONDON PREPARATORY SCHOOLS

Founded in 1977 Founded in 1977

“10 minutes from Chelsea” “10 minutes from Chelsea ” 3-6 year olds International Bilingual Pre-Primary school for International Bilingual Pre-Primary school for 3-6 year olds

““Children become Children become

confident individuals confident individuals and can speak and can speak two languages by the two languages by the time they leave.” time they leave.”

OFSTED 2020 Report OFSTED 2020 Report TEL. 020 7371 8350 • admin@lecoledespetits.co.uk • www.lecoledespetits.co.uk TEL. 020 7371 8350 • admin@lecoledespetits.co.uk • www.lecoledespetits.co.uk 2 HAZLEBURY ROAD, FULHAM, LONDON SW6 2NB 2 HAZLEBURY ROAD, FULHAM, LONDON SW6 2NB

Founded in 2005 Founded in 2005

“5 minutes from Chelsea” “5Pre-Primary minutes from Chelseaschool ” International Bilingual and Primary for 3-11 year olds International Pre-Primary and Primary school for 3-11Français year olds leading on toBilingual top English and French schools, including Lycée leading on to top English and French schools, including Lycée Français

In In Tatler’s Tatler’s Top Top 225 Private 225 Private Schools Schools list, list, 2009-2022 2009-2022

OFSTED 2018 Report: “Outstanding in all categories” OFSTED 2018 Report: “Outstanding in all categories” TEL. 020 7371 8350 • admin@lecoledespetits.co.uk • www.lecoledebattersea.co.uk TEL. 020 7371 8350 • admin@lecoledespetits.co.uk • www.lecoledebattersea.co.uk TROTT STREET, BATTERSEA, LONDON SW11 3DS TROTT STREET, BATTERSEA, LONDON SW11 3DS Spring/Summer 2022 | SCHOOLHOUSEMAGAZINE.CO.UK | 137 Spring-Summer 22 (225x298).indd 1

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Join our Junior School in Years 4, 5 or 6 Following the opening of our new state-of-the-art Junior School building, we are delighted to be expanding to three forms of entry in Years 4, 5 and 6 from Septemberw 2022 Register now at www.stdunstans.org.uk for our upcoming assessment days Stanstead Road, London, SE6 4TY 2 London Prep.indd 138

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LONDON PREPARATORY SCHOOLS

Eaton House The Manor & Eaton House Belgravia Nursery Schools

ADDRESS: 58 Clapham Common Northside, London SW4 9RU and 3-5 Eaton Gate, Belgravia, London SW1W 9BA WEBSITE: www.eatonhouseschools.com FOUNDED: 1993 & 2017 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 64 in total AGES: 2-4.5 FEES: (termly) from £610 for one afternoon to £3,495 for five mornings. Costs vary with time slots.

HEAD TEACHER: Roosha Sue (EHTM); Katie Bostelmann (EHB) RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Non-denominational, Christian ethos ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Non-selective CONTACT: Sam Feilding, Head of Admissions, 020 3917 5050 EMAIL: sfeilding@eatonhouseschools.comk SCHOOL VISITS: Book Open House tours online at eatonhouseschools.com, or via admissions@EHTM.co.uk

Eaton House The Manor Pre-Preparatory School

ADDRESS: 58 Clapham Common Northside, London SW4 9RU WEBSITE: www.eatonhouseschools.com FOUNDED: 1993 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 417 (Pre-Prep & Prep) AGES: 4-8 FEES: (termly) £6,010 HEAD TEACHER: David Wingfield RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Non-denominational, Christian ethos ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Non-selective at age 4, older children may be subject to assessment.

CONTACT: Sam Feilding, Head of Admissions, 020 3917 5050 EMAIL: sfeilding@eatonhouseschools.comk SCHOOL VISITS: Book Open House tours online at eatonhouseschools.com, or via admissions@EHTM.co.uk

THE CURRICULUM: Our nurseries are a constant hive of activity where children are happy, busy and curious to learn. Every child is challenged at their own level in a kind and caring atmosphere and the sky is the limit. Individual and small group work allows both nurseries to constantly differentiate between pupils. There are many activities on offer, from sports and swimming to IT, drama and design in our brand new state-of-the art nurseries.

THE CURRICULUM: We teach boys in an active and inspiring way, accelerating their learning by leaps and bounds. Inspiring teachers and excellent resources help to develop a life-long love of learning. Boys are encouraged to take ownership of their learning and adopt a ‘can do’ attitude. Learning is highly academic, exploratory, and above all, fun! Boys love learning by doing and the curriculum is very varied.

GAMES & THE ARTS: At the Manor, large wooden blocks and sand and water develop fine and gross motor skills, with free flow into the playground that allows children to play in an inviting space. At Belgravia, children enjoy a dedicated, educative environment in a wonderful mansion house nursery. All children take part in our annual Nativity with smaller shows in the year.

GAMES & THE ARTS: Sport plays an essential role in the development of character and teamwork. Specialist sports staff nurture a love of sport through positive experiences. Drama, art and music have a boosting impact on all-round academic performance, all seen as fundamental in developing communication skills and confidence.

PASTORAL CARE: Pastoral care is extremely strong, 100% rated it ‘excellent or good’ – Cappco. Each child is supported and encouraged, gaining independence and confidence. When children leave our nurseries they are fully prepared for school at 4+. This allows them an easy transition to Eaton House Belgravia Pre-Prep and Eaton House The Manor Pre-Prep.

PASTORAL CARE: Our exceptional teachers understand and support the boys so that they grow in self-belief. Our buddy system helps to integrate the newest boys into the school right from the beginning. Our house system provides another layer of support and guidance. Teamwork is encouraged along with a healthy competitive spirit.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: An impressive number of scholarships in 2021, including 13 Scholarships and Awards including an Academic Exhibition at Westminster and the Cowdrey Sports Scholarship at Tonbridge.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: Eaton House The Manor Pre-Prep’s Cambridge-educated Headmaster, Mr David Wingfield, joined the school in September 2020. A mathematics specialist, he has been hailed as one of ‘the most motivated teachers’ that Tatler Schools Guide (2021) has ever met and he is passionate about early years education and maths mastery, which is also known as the Singapore method. He has many exciting plans for the school in the years ahead, which will result in an even fuller and more action-packed curriculum and pupil-led learning. He is a strong believer in wellbeing as the foundation of academic achievement and has set to work empowering the staff and pupils to develop their leadership skills at every level of school life.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: Roosha Sue: ‘My philosophy for our nursery is for every child to settle in, be happy and treated as unique. Our pastoral care is second to none. We hope that all of our Cubs and Bears are excited and curious to learn through being exposed to a variety of experiences, from cooking, yoga and pottery to languages. Our children leave school-ready, confident and eager to continue their learning journey.’ Katie Bostelmann: ‘I believe that Nursery should be a ‘happy place’ where children have the freedom to explore and discover. They should be encouraged to take risks to achieve their full potential.’

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: Easy transition to Eaton House The Manor Pre-Prep for the boys and Eaton House The Manor Girls’ School for the girls. We empower children to be happy, independent and curious learners.

We aim to have your child ‘school ready’. Children are unique and so is their learning journey. Part of Eaton House Schools and part of Dukes Education.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: Boys transition easily to Eaton House The Manor Prep School, where a number win scholarships every year.

Boys are taught to be kind, considerate, thoughtful and mannerly and to always strive to do their best, both academically and personally. We offer the perfect blend of traditional values with a forward-thinking, active education.

Part of Eaton House Schools, which is part of the Dukes Education family.

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LONDON PREPARATORY SCHOOLS

Eaton House The Manor Girls’ School

ADDRESS: 58 Clapham Common Northside, London SW4 9RU WEBSITE: www.eatonhouseschools.com FOUNDED: 2008 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 260 AGES: 4-11 FEES: (termly) £6,010 (KG to Y3); £7,020 (Y4-Y6) HEAD TEACHER: Oliver Snowball RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Non-denominational, Christian ethos ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Non-selective at age 4; English & Maths assessment for older girls CONTACT: Sam Feilding, Head of Admissions, 020 3917 5050 EMAIL: sfeilding@eatonhouseschools.comk SCHOOL VISITS: Book Open House tours online at eatonhouseschools.com, or via admissions@EHTM.co.uk

THE CURRICULUM: ‘Teaching is highly effective in promoting pupils’ excellent progress and attainment.’ (ISI Report). A relaxed but highly stimulating classroom environment promotes intellectual curiosity.

Academic exploration and risk-taking are two essential ingredients in Eaton House The Manor Girls’ teaching.

GAMES & THE ARTS: Being regularly active enhances the girls’ physical and emotional health. They have access to excellent facilities both indoors and outdoors. We teach our girls how to generate original and meaningful ideas for themselves, and actively encourage a fresh, imaginative response.

PASTORAL CARE: The Good Schools Guide (2021) says the headmaster ‘wants to be sure that each girl is treated as a special and unique individual.’ He says: ‘At Eaton House The Manor Girls’ School we believe that when girls are happy they are more effective learners and more confident participators.’ Pastoral care is about understanding and supporting each individual child. The house system, excellent form teachers and visible senior management team all combine to ensure that each girl feels supported in her learning.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: In 2021, the girls received an outstanding 17 Scholarships and Awards to JAGS, Putney High, Roedean, Streatham and Clapham High, Wimbledon High and Woldingham.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: The Good Schools Guide (2021) says: ‘Mr Snowball seems to have hit the ground running with his vision for the school.’ He says: ‘I want each of the girls to have an adventure at school, to feel they are known, nurtured, encouraged and challenged and I want our school to inspire a genuine love of learning.’

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: There is a ‘sky is the limit’ approach to learning – anything is possible. Each girl is treated as a confident individual so that she can blossom academically, socially and behaviourally, ready to take on the world. The school aims to develop the girls spiritually, morally and intellectually, producing intelligent, kind and socially aware girls. Part of Eaton House Schools, which is part of the Dukes Education family.

Eaton House The Manor Prep

ADDRESS: 58 Clapham Common Northside, London SW4 9RU WEBSITE: www.eatonhouseschools.com FOUNDED: 1993 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 417 (Pre-Prep & Prep) AGES: 8-13 FEES: (termly) £7,215 HEAD TEACHER: Sarah Segrave RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Non-denominational, Christian ethos ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Non-selective for internal candidates, 8+ for external candidates CONTACT: Sam Feilding, Head of Admissions, 020 3917 5050 EMAIL: sfeilding@eatonhouseschools.comk SCHOOL VISITS: Book Open House tours online at eatonhouseschools.com, or via admissions@EHTM.co.uk

THE CURRICULUM: The Good Schools Guide (2021): ‘This is a school with excellent academic outcomes, good value added – and consequently one of really high expectations.’ We believe passionately in the benefits of single-sex education. We do everything we can to nurture every boy to achieve his senior school of choice. Offering a curriculum adjusted to fit boys’ developmental stages, interests and strengths, we create the best start for each boy.

GAMES & THE ARTS: Sport is an integral part of life at school, whether boys are representing the school or their House, or simply learning to be part of a team. Nearly 75 per cent of our boys play a musical instrument and every boy has weekly drama lessons. There are many plays and musical events in the school – all to a high standard and greatly enjoyed by parents.

PASTORAL CARE: We know the boys, share their highs and lows, and are there for them in every way. Pastoral care is intrinsic in all we do, the fundamental cornerstone of the school. Our form tutors and established house system provide the structure for pastoral care, but attention to detail from the staff ensures the care is outstanding. Every boy is supported at EHTM. RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: An impressive number of scholarships in 2021, including 13 Scholarships and Awards including an Academic Exhibition at Westminster and the Cowdrey Sports Scholarship at Tonbridge.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: he Good Schools Guide (2021) comments that Mrs Segrave ‘lives and breathes Eaton House’ having worked in the Eaton House Schools Group since 1993. She asks her staff to consider every single day whether they have made a difference. She feels that: ‘A school is a place where children grow intellectually and emotionally, guided by teachers who are determined that children succeed and are happy.’

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: Academically outstanding. Many generations of boys go to Eton, Westminster, St Paul’s, Dulwich, Tonbridge, Harrow, King’s College Wimbledon, Winchester, and all pupils receive offers to an excellent range of schools. EHTM is one of the top four feeder schools for Westminster and the only one of these that is non-selective at 4+ entry. ‘The pupils demonstrate an outstanding natural courtesy’ (ISI Report). ‘Everyone is so happy and so encouraging’ (Zach, Year 8). Part of Eaton House Schools, which is in turn part of the Dukes Education family.

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LONDON PREPARATORY SCHOOLS

Eaton House Belgravia Pre-Preparatory

ADDRESS: 3-5 Eaton Gate, Belgravia, London SW1W 9BA WEBSITE: www.eatonhouseschools.com FOUNDED: 1897 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 240 AGES: 4-8 FEES: (termly) £6,895 HEAD TEACHER: Huw May RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Non-denominational, Christian ethos ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Non–selective at age 4, older children may be subject to assessment. Co-educational Nursery age 2-4.

CONTACT: Sam Feilding, Head of Admissions, 020 3917 5050 EMAIL: admissions@EHTM.co.uk SCHOOL VISITS: Book Open House tours online at eatonhouseschools.com, or via admissions@EHTM.co.uk

THE CURRICULUM: Our curriculum is designed to offer our boys a breadth of experience and prepare them for examinations to the highest academic standards through their individual learning plan.

GAMES & THE ARTS: Sport and arts are central to our philosophy, as we want the boys to be very creative and fulfilled. PE lessons, offsite games and swimming sessions help develop key sports skills. A wide range of performance opportunities enable boys to share their talent. Drama and music are popular, and there are many after-school clubs and extra-curricular trips to make every day action-packed and interesting, with new things to try and learn.

PASTORAL CARE: This is a happy school, full of energy, fun and laughter.

Wellbeing is central to the school’s philosophy and the staff ‘know their boys and care for them.’ Good Schools Guide (2021). Our buddy system helps integrate new boys into the school from the beginning and the house system provides another layer of support. Teamwork is encouraged, alongside healthy competition. Form teachers ensure the boys’ emotional development is supported. Parents are encouraged to pick up their son and talk to teachers.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: EHB Pre-Prep School is a Westminster and St Paul’s feeder, with an impressive number of 7+ and 8+ boys receiving offers in 2021. Boys received offers to other top schools, including Westminster Cathedral Choir School, King’s College Junior School, Eaton House Belgravia Prep, The Dragon School and Summer Fields HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: The Good Schools Guide (2021) says Mr May is ‘ambitious for his school, shows vision and is full of enthusiasm for developing each boy’s all-round potential, emotionally as well as academically.’

He asks that boys are ‘intelligent, articulate, self-aware, kind, considerate and that they look after each other’.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: We achieve some of the best 7+ and 8+ pre-prep results in London, with many 7+ and 8+ boys receiving offers in 2021. Highly Commended in the Boys’ School of the Year category in the Independent School of the Year Awards. We offer a blend of traditional values with a forward-thinking education using personalised learning plans agreed with the boys. Our ‘open door’ policy means parents are fully involved. Part of Eaton House Schools, which is part of the Dukes Education family.

Eaton House Belgravia Preparatory

ADDRESS: 3-5 Eaton Gate, Belgravia, London SW1W 9BA WEBSITE: www.eatonhouseschools.com FOUNDED: 2017 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 240 (Pre-Prep and Prep) AGES: 8-11 FEES: (termly) £7,640 HEAD TEACHER: Huw May RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Non-denominational, Christian ethos ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Non-selective for internal candidates, 8+ for external, maths and English assessment.

CONTACT: Sam Feilding, Head of Admissions, 020 3917 5050 EMAIL: sfeilding@eatonhouseschools.comk SCHOOL VISITS: Book Open House tours online at eatonhouseschools.com, or via admissions@EHTM.co.uk

THE CURRICULUM: Eaton House Belgravia takes on the baton from Eaton House Belgravia Pre-Prep, which prepares boys for 7+ and 8+ examinations. The Prep takes boys at age 8 and prepares them for the 11+ examination. Our 2021 results reflect our credentials as an ambitious and aspirational school showing a wide representation of senior schools, including offers from Westminster Under, Dulwich College and Merchant Taylor’s School.

GAMES & THE ARTS: Sport is an integral part of life at school, whether representing the school or their House, or simply learning to be part of a team. Nearly three-quarters of our boys will learn to play a musical instrument and all the boys also have art lessons.

PASTORAL CARE: Pastoral care is intrinsic in all we do, the fundamental cornerstone of Eaton House Belgravia Prep. Our Form Tutors and wellestablished House system provide the overarching structure for our pastoral care, but it is the attention to detail from the staff that ensures that our care is outstanding. Every boy matters and is noticed.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: We encourage boys to try everything, be aware of the world around them, have an opinion, listen to others, adapt, be confident, persevere, learn from their mistakes, be responsible, make good choices, be kind, considerate and to look after each other. Boys will thrive in a school which makes personalised learning important and focuses on each boy’s potential. We want all the boys to develop a lifelong love of learning and a real appetite for study and to have fun!

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: Prep boys to sit 11+ exams as another option to 7+ or 8+ exams in the Pre-Prep. Eaton House Belgravia won a Highly Commended in the Boys’ School of the Year category in the Independent School of the Year Awards. The teacher:pupil ratio is outstanding, with boys receiving an exceptional degree of personal input towards exam preparation. The boys brim with academic confidence and are fully prepared for 11+ examinations. Part of Eaton House Schools, which is part of the Dukes Education family.

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LONDON PREPARATORY SCHOOLS

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We would be delighted to show you our brand new Reception classroom, dedicated STEAM room and library and share our plans towards becoming a major STEAM school and enhancing our outdoor spaces.

PGP IS A WONDERFUL SCHOOL WITH STRONG ACADEMICS AND A LOVELY, CARING ETHOS.

Key entry points: 2+ (co-educational Nursery) 4+ (boys only Reception) Early Years specialists Wraparound care: 7:45am – 5:00pm & Holiday Clubs Weekly Forest School 7+ preparation including preferential transition to Falcons Prep Richmond

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LONDON PREPARATORY SCHOOLS

North Bridge House Junior

Open Mornings

Friday 11th March 2022 Friday 20th May 2022 9am - Arrival and Coffee | 9.30am - Head’s Welcome Talk 10am - School Tours Book your place at: www.milbourneloge.co.uk/admissions

Register now for Reception Entry in September 2023 ~ Places will be offered in May 2022 Milbourne Lodge offers a traditional, very personalised education for energetic, bright pupils in pursuit of excellence. The school motto says it all really – “ad optima petenda”, in other words, “strive for excellence”‘Outstanding in All Areas’ -

ADDRESS: Nursery & Pre-Prep, 85-87 Fordwych Road, NW2 3TL | Nursery, 33 Fitzjohn’s Ave, NW3 5JY | Pre-Prep, 8 Netherhall Gardens, NW3 5RR | Prep, 1 Gloucester Ave, NW1 7AB WEBSITE: www.northbridgehouse.com FOUNDED: 1939 NUMBER OF PUPILS: Nursery & Pre-Prep: 315; Prep: 400 AGES: 2-13 FEES: (yearly) £8,145 – £20,520 HEAD TEACHER: Christine McLelland, James Stenning RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Non-denominational ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Families meet with the head teacher. For 7+ entry and above, there is also a maths and English assessment.

CONTACT: admissions office; 020 7428 1520 EMAIL: admissionsenquiries@northbridgehouse.com SCHOOL VISITS: Open events held year round, check their website THE CURRICULUM: Sensory, practical and social experiences inspire a love of learning during the most formative years of education. The EYFS curriculum includes specialist teaching in French, Italian, music, dance and PE, while progress-enhancing initiatives such as Philosophy and Forest School are also timetabled. At KS1, a range of subjects bring real-life issues such as BLM to the forefront and pupils delve into subject specific learning, including computing. The Prep School curriculum extends as far as Politics, Economics and Art History, and students are prepared for senior school entrance exams.

GAMES & THE ARTS: Sport is essential to pupil wellbeing and growth.

Disciplines range from traditional track and field to more alternative fencing and street dance. The Nursery & Pre-Prep Schools have large garden playgrounds and Regent’s Park is the playground and home of sport at Prep.

The arts are key to NBH’s curricular and extra-curricular offering with annual exhibitions, plays and concerts. NBH has five choirs, an orchestra and several brass bands, and pupils achieve highly in LAMDA. PASTORAL CARE: With an embedded wellbeing programme and dedicated pastoral leads, the school promotes children’s personal and emotional growth.

Staff are committed to cultivating character and nurturing confidence. There is a strong sense of community in the small tutor groups and the wider school.

Happiness is key to successful learning and the results speak for themselves.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: Pupils are placed at leading senior schools with academic, art, music and sports scholarships.

www.milbournelodge.co.uk

Arbrook Lane, Esher, Surrey KT10 9EG T: 01372 462737 E: registrar@milbournelodge.co.uk

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: NBH provides an individually tailored co-education, celebrating high-achieving pupils in a mixed ability environment. With a strong focus on knowing the individual and developing character strength, pupils achieve academic success. Specialist teaching and extra-curricular opportunities challenge and inspire children to fulfil their potential, while providing a foundation for their future studies and careers.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: All NBH pupils can transition from nursery to sixth form without entrance examination pressure. Early Years and KS1 results in English and maths exceed the national average by over 20 per cent. NBH Prep works closely with families to choose the right senior school for each child, and celebrates many scholarship offers.

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LONDON PREPARATORY SCHOOLS

Prospect House School

ADDRESS: 75 Putney Hill, London, SW15 3NT WEBSITE: www.prospecths.org.uk FOUNDED: 1993 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 310 AGES: 3-11 FEES: (termly) £3,160 – £6,585 HEAD TEACHER: Michael Hodge RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Non-denominational ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Non-selective in early years. Places offered from Year 1 after taster morning and assessment in Maths and English.

CONTACT: School Office or Head of Admissions EMAIL: registrar@prospecths.org.uk / info@prospecths.org.uk SCHOOL VISITS: Personal tours are held ad hoc during the week.

Two open mornings a year. Contact Emily, Head of Admissions to book on registrar@prospecths.org.uk.

THE CURRICULUM: Our curriculum is designed to be challenging and engaging, as well as highly motivating and inspiring. We aim to instil in pupils a real sense of enjoyment and passion for learning.

GAMES & THE ARTS: A fully inclusive ‘sports for all’ ethos with an emphasis on teamwork and technique. Leading to numerous sports scholarships awarded every year. Drama and Music is at the heart of Prospect House and everyone is given the chance to perform.

PASTORAL CARE: The pastoral care and wellbeing of the children is our highest priority. A warm and nurturing environment along with the excellent relationships between the children and the staff means that no child has any doubt their teachers will lend a safe and sympathetic ear whenever they may need it. Every child is given a voice and the opportunity to talk to an adult, including 1:1 with an in-house Level 2 counsellor.

St Philip’s School

ADDRESS: 6 Wetherby Place, London SW7 4NE WEBSITE: www.stpschool.co.uk FOUNDED: 1934 NUMBER OF PUPILS: Approx. 100 AGES: 7-13 FEES: (termly) £6,050 HEAD TEACHER: Alexander Thomas RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Roman Catholic, welcomes all faiths ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Register from birth, entry by assessment CONTACT: Fi Kaye, Registrar; 020 7373 3944 EMAIL: f.kaye@stpschool.co.uk SCHOOL VISITS: Please contact the Registrar to arrange a tour or to attend one of our open days

THE CURRICULUM: A broad and liberal curriculum which prepares pupils well for the ISEB Common Pre-Test, Common Entrance and scholarships, integrated within a broad introduction to three pillars – artistry, discovery and civic structure – of some of the great civilisations of world history.

GAMES & THE ARTS: The school makes full use of its facilities at Barn Elms where the boys take part in a variety of sports two afternoons a week including: cricket, rugby, hockey, athletics and cross-country. Music is an intrinsic part of school life, and there is a strong choral tradition. Plenty of extra-curricular activities are available, with a wide variety of clubs on offer from cricket and fencing to ornithology and astronomy.

PASTORAL CARE: Pastoral care is particularly strong with excellent individualised support in a caring environment with a strong Catholic ethos. Parents often say that the school feels like an extended family.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: King’s College, Lady Eleanor Holles, Latymer, Hampton, JAGS, Wimbledon High, Kingston Grammar.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: Eton, Harrow, City of London, Charterhouse, Worth School and Ampleforth.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: Prospect House is a unique and happy place where children and staff alike want to be. When you walk through the door you feel a sense of belonging; I believe that this is what makes us stand out and so special. An outstanding educational experience encompasses not only the academic curriculum, but also includes wellbeing, developing confidence, self esteem and happiness. At Prospect house we value these elements equally.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: We are a Catholic school and our patron Saint Philip is the patron saint of happiness, joy and humour.

Whether it be in the classroom, at our vast games fields by the side of the Thames, or in our wonderful garden back at base, we put fun at the heart of everything we do. Our boys work hard, and are well-taught within a bespoke and broad liberal curriculum. They leave Saint Philip’s aged 13 ready for the next stage of their education at some of the leading schools in the country.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: We are a non-selective co-ed independent prep with a village feel. We are all about happy childhoods this is why we do what we do and why our families choose us. Excellent results with a focus on individuality. All achievements are celebrated. High expectations. Transparency and warmth.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: Inspirational teaching in a warm and nurturing environment that delivers exceptional results. Leavers go on to: City of London, Dulwich, Eton, Harrow, KCS Wimbledon, St Paul’s, Westminster, Winchester.

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LONDON PREPARATORY SCHOOLS

St Anthony’s Boys School

St Anthony’s School for Girls

ADDRESS: Junior School: Reception to Year 3: St. Anthony’s School, NW3 6NP; Senior School: Year 4–Year 8: St. Anthony’s School, NW3 6AA WEBSITE: www.stanthonysprep.org.uk FOUNDED: 1893 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 280 AGES: 4-13 FEES: (termly) Nursery £4,800, Junior House £6,750, Senior House £6,950 HEAD TEACHER: Richard Berlie, MA (Cantab) RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Roman Catholic /all faiths welcome ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Academically selective including interviews and tests.

CONTACT: Adriana Fritz, 020 7431 1066 EMAIL: pahead@stanthonysprep.co.uk SCHOOL VISITS: Please contact the Registrar who will arrange a tour

ADDRESS: Ivy House, 94-96 North End Road, London NW11 7SX WEBSITE: www.stanthonysgirls.co.uk FOUNDED: 2016 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 80+ AGES: 2.5–11 FEES: (termly) £6,315 HEAD TEACHER: Donal Brennan RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Catholic / all faiths welcome ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Selective. The school has an inclusive policy and all girls’ needs are assessed on entry CONTACT: Margaret Vaughan, School Secretary EMAIL: admissions@stanthonysgirls.co.uk SCHOOL VISITS: Private school tours can be arranged upon request

THE CURRICULUM: Boys study a range of subjects and lessons are designed to foster intellectual inquiry and a love of learning. Boys are encouraged to think deeply and question and challenge ideas. There has been great success at integrating digital literacy into classroom learning.

THE CURRICULUM: The curriculum offers pupils a greater depth of experience in linguistic, mathematical, scientific, technological, human and social, physical and aesthetic and creative education in a happy, secure and stimulating environment.

GAMES & THE ARTS: The school has a great reputation in sport, music and the arts. Boys participate in rugby, football, athletics, swimming and there are fixtures with other leading preps. We offer individual instrumental tuition, as well as choirs, art and drama clubs.

GAMES & THE ARTS: The sporting activities available include athletics, swimming, gymnastics, dance and team games. Individual musical tuition is offered in violin, cello, piano, drumming, guitar and singing. LAMDA lessons are available to 7+ pupils.

PASTORAL CARE: St Anthony’s is a nurturing and caring school. Pastoral care of the boys is at the heart of everything we do and is promoted in particular through the form teacher who is the key link between home and school. The deputy head, pastoral produces a wellbeing magazine for parents each month and the school has recently employed a counsellor who works from a dedicated wellbeing room.

PASTORAL CARE: The school prides itself on the high-quality pastoral care on offer. Pupils feel safe, secure and valued as part of the St Anthony’s family. They are taught the importance of caring for their emotional wellbeing and work in an environment where they can freely express concerns or anxieties. The curriculum provides valuable learning experiences which promote practical life skills in independence and resilience.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: Academic Scholarships and means-tested bursaries are available.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: Academic scholarships and means tested bursaries are available.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: St Anthony’s exists to give every boy in our care the best possible start in life. We believe a happy child learns best and that a nurturing environment produces excellent academic outcomes.

This is evidenced by the number of offers from leading Independent senior schools including academic, sport and music scholarships.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: ‘The social, moral, cultural and spiritual development of children is the most integral part of my role as Headmaster of St Anthony’s School for Girls. I deem it my duty to help shape young minds into morally and ethically responsible individuals and to inspire children to seek the opportunities in life that will lead them to become valued members of their society.’ – Donal Brennan, Headmaster.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: The school achieved ‘Excellent’ in all categories of the ISI full school inspection in November 2019.

The atmosphere is relaxed and purposeful with strong relationships amongst the boys and between pupils and staff. Boys are encouraged to be ambitious and resilient; they look out for each other and all value developing a moral compass.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: Rated Ofsted Outstanding in all areas, St Anthony’s School for Girls provides a safe, nurturing environment for young girls to thrive academically, socially and spiritually.

The small class sizes and individualised curriculum enable the teachers to tailor learning to the needs of each child, therefore enabling success in all curriculum areas: academic, sporting and creative. A wide range of extracurricular activities are held before, during and after school.

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LONDON PREPARATORY SCHOOLS

Ravenscourt Park Preparatory School

ADDRESS: 16 Ravenscourt Avenue, London W6 0SL WEBSITE: www.rpps.co.uk FOUNDED: 1991 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 420 (210 boys, 210 girls) AGES: 4-11 FEES: (termly) £6,304 for all ages HEAD TEACHER: Carl Howes MA (Cantab) PGCE RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Non-denominational ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Register from birth. Entry by ballot; priority given to siblings. Thereafter, candidates are invited to meet with the Headteacher.

CONTACT: Charlie Hayden, 020 8846 9153 EMAIL: secretary@rpps.co.uk SCHOOL VISITS: Open events: 9 March 2022, 5 May 2022, 26 May 2022 (virtual), 28 June 2022 THE CURRICULUM: Our curriculum far exceeds the national average in both breadth and depth and has been carefully crafted to enable each child to fulfil their individual potential. As a non-selective and inclusive school, we take pride in motivating and developing every child, bringing out individual talent, realising abilities to the full and instilling a lifelong love of learning. In its 2016 ISI Inspection report, RPPS was judged ‘Excellent’ in all categories.

GAMES & THE ARTS: We offer a plethora of opportunities for our pupils to immerse themselves in music, the arts and sport. Our pupils participate in competitive sporting fixtures, perform in regular concerts and events, or learn an instrument. Pupils frequently take part in external competitions.

PASTORAL CARE: The pastoral care and well-being of our children is paramount. Our ‘open door’ policy reflects a genuine partnership between teachers and parents – the family atmosphere is noticeable when you visit.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: Francis Holland, Hampton, Ibstock Place, Kensington Park, Queen’s College, St Benedict’s.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: At RPPS, laughter and learning go hand in hand and we ensure that the years with us are happy, successful and fulfilling for each and every child. Our pupils engage in the excitement of learning and develop the confidence to question, analyse and express their opinions. They leave at the end of Year 6 ready to make the most of the opportunities ahead of them, both at their senior school and in later life.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: RPPS is a thriving school, situated on Ravenscourt Park. We pride ourselves on our excellent pastoral care and believe that learning should be limitless. All our children from Year 3 to Year 6 take part in residential weeks which help to develop teamwork, resilience and perseverance. This is in line with our belief that children should develop a ‘growth mindset’ approach to their learning where taking on challenges and learning from mistakes is encouraged.

The White House School

ADDRESS: 24 Thornton Road, London SW12 0LF WEBSITE: www.whitehouseschool.com FOUNDED: 1985 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 168 AGES: 3-11 FEES: (termly) Reception – Year 2, £5,075; Year 3 – 6, £5,545 HEAD TEACHER: Tony Lewis RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Non-denominational ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Early registration essential, places allocated in order of registration. Settling-in day for children 1-6 CONTACT: Grace McCahery, Admissions; 020 8674 9514 EMAIL: admissions@whitehouseschool.com SCHOOL VISITS: Weekly showrounds available by appointment only. Please contact Admissions to arrange

THE CURRICULUM: The White House Prep School offers an excellent education, as recently confirmed by the ISI. It delivers strong literacy, maths, extra-curricular lessons and activities. Children relish challenges, enjoy working together to solve problems, have an excellent attitude to learning and are both enthusiastic and eager to participate.

GAMES & THE ARTS: Physical education is an integral part of the curriculum at the White House and all pupils are given the opportunity to develop personal fitness and participate in team activities. The annual drama production and art exhibition are highlights in the school’s calendar and illustrates their commitment to performing and creative arts and the involvement of all children in these activities.

PASTORAL CARE: The school provides an outstanding education which is shown through excellent 11+ results and achievements from pupils throughout the year. More importantly, the children are happy. They are encouraged to develop emotionally as well as intellectually and the ISI commented that both pupils’ personal and moral development was excellent. Dedicated and experienced staff work closely with parents to enable all children to excel as people with confidence.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: Over 50 per cent of pupils receive academic, music, sports and all round scholarships to top London day schools and boarding schools when they leave at 11+.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: A culture of supporting one another combined with a safe, inspiring, engaging and fun learning environment that sets high expectations and ensures children have an empowering educational experience.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: A vibrant, forward thinking school with purposefully small class sizes which encourages and supports independent thinking. The school feels like one big family; this develops strong self-esteem in pupils who are confident but without arrogance.

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LONDON SENIOR SCHOOLS

Alleyn’s School

V

Alleyn’s offers co-educational excellence in a caring community for children aged 11-18.

We offer a range of scholarships and means-tested bursaries.

For more details, and to learn about life at Alleyn’s and our next Open Event dates, please visit our website.

www.alleyns.org.uk 020 8557 1500 | Townley Road, Dulwich SE22 8SU

How do you spot a Croydon High girl?

Croydon High girls are confident, compassionate, engaged and ambitious. And they just love telling people all about their school!

To find out more, why not call 020 8260 7543 or email admissions@cry.gdst.net and arrange to visit us?

Our inspirational pupils would love to tell you more about a whole new world of possibilities for girls.

Founded in 1442 and located in the heart of the city, we offer boys an outward-looking, forward-thinking education that prepares them for life.

Teaching pupils between the ages of 10 and 18, we are one of London’s leading independent day schools.

www.croydonhigh.gdst.net

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LONDON SENIOR SCHOOLS

DLD College London

ADDRESS: 199 Westminster Bridge Road, London SE1 7FX WEBSITE: www.dldcollege.co.uk FOUNDED: 1931 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 400 AGES: 14-19 FEES: Domestic day students: £24,670 HEAD TEACHER: Irfan Latif RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: All religions welcome ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Selective based on assessment and interview.

CONTACT: Admissions EMAIL: dld-admissions@dld.org SCHOOL VISITS: Private tours welcomed by appointment, termly open evenings. Details at dldcollege.co.uk

Ibstock Place School

ADDRESS: Clarence Lane, London SW15 5PY WEBSITE: www.ibstockplaceschool.co.uk FOUNDED: 1894 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 325 boys, 325 girls AGES: 11-18 FEES: (termly) £7,450 HEAD TEACHER: Christopher J Wolsey RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Church of England ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Admission at 11 and 16 via entrance examination and other assessment; occasional places at 12, 13, 14 CONTACT: C Voysey, The Registrar; 020 8392 5803 EMAIL: registrar@ibstockplaceschool.co.uk SCHOOL VISITS: Open evening, 4 May 2022, 5-7pm; open morning, 17 Sept 2022, 9am-1pm

THE CURRICULUM: DLD offers a range of courses and programmes including A-level, BTEC, one year intensive and two year GCSE courses.

Small class sizes allow for dedicated and focused student-staff contact.

THE CURRICULUM: Committed to a liberal and humane education, we also recognise the primacy of traditional academic subjects as essential devices through which our pupils can build an understanding of the world.

GAMES & THE ARTS: We excel at creativity and have many opportunities across art, design, photography, film and drama. Weekly PE lessons use the on-site gym or local outdoor sports area. Clubs include basketball, boxing, football, yoga, circuit training and badminton.

GAMES & THE ARTS: A wealth of opportunity for co-curricular participation: A purpose built sports hall; playing fields; swimming pool; all-weather pitch; stunning 300-seat theatre. IPS Singers tour internationally; Berkeley Ensemble is ensemble-in-residence. IPS artists exhibited by Royal College of Art. National Theatre Live screenings.

PASTORAL CARE: Student wellbeing is at the centre of our philosophy with a dedicated wellbeing centre in the heart of the school. Judged Excellent at inspection and the first UK school to receive the Gold Standard Boarding School Mental Health Award, we are STEER accredited and a beacon school, able to demonstrate proactive, targeted, evidencebased pastoral care. Also winners of both the recent ISA and BSA Awards in the Wellbeing category.

UNIVERSITY PLACES: Oxbridge, Russell Group universities, and art and music colleges in the UK and USA with applications supported by specialist university tutors.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: ‘I believe education is about more than grades. It is an awareness of the world, independent thought and values, the benefits of team sport, of culture, of academic ambition and learning with enthusiasm; of growing up in a safe and caring community where all are passionate about what they do. That is what we aspire to and, I am confident, deliver.’

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: Winner of 5 national awards including Independent School of the Year Special Judges’ Award and Boarding School of the Year 2020. The college offers exceptional student wellbeing and the best in urban boarding. It is noted for friendliness and informality, treating students as young adults with autonomy. There is flexible pupil-centred learning, helping students to build confidence in their own abilities. Contemporary and cutting-edge teaching is performed in ultra-modern educational facilities in its iconic location overlooking the Houses of Parliament.

PASTORAL CARE: Central to our exceptional pastoral care are our four Houses and their vertical tutor groups, which allow pupils of different ages to support each other. An in-school counselling service offers valuable support to our experienced and sensitive pastoral staff, while a thriving pupil mentoring scheme also contributes to the outstanding provision which we make for our pupils’ wellbeing.

UNIVERSITY PLACES: Oxford, Cambridge, Durham, Exeter, Imperial, UCL, LSE, Warwick, Exeter, Bath, Bristol, York.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: No young person should grow up in a bubble. Above all, an IPS education is all about making connections; intellectual ones most certainly, but social and cultural ones as well. We seek an open and diverse community, one in which everyone can grow and feel heard.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: Co-educational London day school for pupils aged 11 to 18 in beautiful grounds adjacent to Richmond Park. Challenging and inspirational curriculum extends and stretches. Pupils renowned for creativity, resilience and empathy.

Enthusiastic and ambitious staff. Stunning new Refectory opened 2020.

Rated ‘Excellent’ in every area of last ISI inspection.

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LONDON SENIOR SCHOOLS

Kew House School

ADDRESS: 6 Capital Interchange Way, London TW8 0EX WEBSITE: www.kewhouseschool.com FOUNDED: 2013 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 550 AGES: 11-18 FEES: (termly) £7,674 HEAD TEACHER: Will Williams RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: All Faiths ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Entrance exam and relaxed interview.

CONTACT: Dawn Hassett EMAIL: admissions@kewhouseschool.com SCHOOL VISITS: By appointment or open event. Visit the website for more information: www.kewhouseschool.com/openevents

THE CURRICULUM: Our aim is to provide a rich and broad education to all pupils whatever their specialism, pursuing excellence in all areas, examinable or not. The daily timetable is six taught hours plus the extracurricular programme involving academic, non-academic and sports-based clubs.

GAMES & THE ARTS: Our pupils are highly creative, with a reputation for excellence in music and the performing and visual arts. Our dynamic PE department ensures success at both regional and national level across rowing, athletics, tennis, table tennis, cross country and netball. Inclusivity, opportunity and choice ensure participation is maximised at every ability.

PASTORAL CARE: We aim for a family and social hub giving emotional support and security to all pupils and employees. Each pupil receives individual attention both educationally and pastorally. Our approach is holistic, as we believe that there can be no artificial barriers between a pupil’s intellectual, emotional, social and spiritual growth. A number of staff are involved in the life of each pupil, but in particular, the personal tutor who meets their tutee on a daily basis. Pupils have the same tutor throughout their seven years with us.

UNIVERSITY PLACES: Pupils apply to courses best suited to their individual strengths and aspirations. In 2021, 90 per cent achieved their first choice pathway, including 30 per cent to Russell Group Universities.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: We recognise and enhance the individual abilities of each child, welcoming pupils with varying academic profiles and placing emphasis on confidence, self-esteem and creativity. By operating a true ‘open door’ policy, welcoming parents and wider community members to become a part of school life, Kew House has developed a feeling of family and social hub providing emotional support and security for all.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: In 2017, a brand new sixth-form centre opened with a beautifully designed Independent Learning Centre.

This building reflects the fact that sixth-form students are approaching adulthood and encourages independent study. Facilities include a café, library, roof terrace, audio-visual suite, and seminar rooms. Following an inspection in February 2018 by the ISI, Kew House was delighted to learn from the lead inspector that the results of the pupil and parent questionnaires were the most positive they had ever seen.

Maida Vale School

ADDRESS: 18 Saltram Crescent, London W9 3HR WEBSITE: www.maidavaleschool.com FOUNDED: 2020 NUMBER OF PUPILS: Maximum 600 students AGES: 11-18 FEES: (termly) £7,674 HEAD TEACHER: Steven Winter RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: All faiths welcome ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Entrance exam and relaxed interview.

CONTACT: 020 4511 6000 EMAIL: admissions@maidavaleschool.com SCHOOL VISITS: By appointment or open event. www. maidavaleschool.com/openevents

THE CURRICULUM: Maida Vale School takes a fresh approach to all areas of school life and is not bound by current conventions and practices.

While retaining core traditional values, we have a broad curriculum, a vast enrichment programme and an extended school day, providing variety and flexibility to develop individual talent and fulfil pupils’ potential.

GAMES & THE ARTS: Although academic rigour is at the centre of our school, sports and the arts form an important part of school life at Maida Vale. The school houses spacious studio facilities for dance, yoga and HIIT (high intensity interval training) classes. We have access to a number of nearby sports grounds and facilities allowing our dynamic PE department to thrive, whilst our theatre and art studios provide a wide variety of drama, musical and artistic opportunities.

PASTORAL CARE: Every member of staff, no matter who they are, has a responsibility for the pastoral care of every pupil. Each pupil receives individual attention both educationally and pastorally. Children and young adults flourish when their self-esteem and confidence is bolstered.

Our Personal Tutor Group system contributes greatly to this with each tutor meeting their tutee daily and remaining the same member of staff throughout the pupil’s seven years with us.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: We seek to recruit intelligent pupils with a confident sense of identity and an original approach to learning, problem solving and creativity. We operate an ‘open door’ policy welcoming parents into school life, developing the feeling of a family and social hub that provides emotional support and security for all pupils and employees. Maida Vale School is an energising and nurturing place to be.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: Maida Vale School is a beautiful Victorian building that was once a former college. The Victorians believed in light-filled classrooms with high ceilings and large windows, something from which Maida Vale School certainly benefits. We have, however, taken the school into the 21st century and Maida Vale is fitted with cutting edge facilities and equipment.

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LONDON SENIOR SCHOOLS

Each day, discovery

Eltham College is a co-educational day school which welcomes girls and boys for entry in Years 3, 7 and Sixth Form.

For more information about our school and admissions at 7+, 11+ and 16+ or to request a prospectus, visit www.elthamcollege.london/admissions

Leading Independent School for Girls aged 11-18

Open Events 2022

Grove Park Road London SE9 4QF

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Leading Independent School for Girls aged 4 -18

Open Events 2022 Junior Open Mornings 11th March 14th June

Senior Open Evening 14th June

Senior Open Mornings 9th June 22nd June

Scholarships and Bursaries up to 100% available

Scholarships and Bursaries up to 100% available

To reserve a place, please contact the Registrar

To reserve a place, please contact the Registrar

registrar@fhs-nw1.org.uk

registrar@fhs-sw1.org.uk

www.fhs-nw1.org.uk/admissions

www.fhs-sw1.org.uk/admissions

020 7723 0176 Reg. Charity No 312745

020 7730 2971 Reg. Charity No 312745

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Together, boundless BU R SA R I E S A N D SC H O L A R SH I P S A V A I L A BL E A T BO T H O U R SC H O O L S

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LONDON SENIOR SCHOOLS

Happy girlsgirls Happy are successful girls are successful girls

Q

Excellent academic value added 72% A*–B five-year average at A-Level

Door-to-door transport Flexi, weekly and full boarding ‘Pastoral care uniformly “phenomenal”’ – Good Schools Guide

Open Open morning Morning

ueenswood

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March, September Saturday 5 March and 2022November

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A LEADING INDEPENDENT BOARDING AND DAY SCHOOL FOR GIRLS AGED 11-18

Brookmans Park, Hertfordshire AL9 6NS | 01707 602500

Charity number 311060

NORTHWOOD SCHOOLS Academically ambitious, pastorally kind A family of four schools in South West London offering an outstanding education from 4-16

Lower School Co-educational. 4-8 years

THE VICARAGE - 192 RAMSDEN RD, SW12 8RQ 50 NIGHTINGALE LANE, SW12 8TE

FINALIST Prep School of the Year 2021

68-74 NIGHTINGALE LANE, SW12 8NR

Scholarships available for 11+ and 13+ entry to Northwood Senior

Boys 8-13 years

26 BOLINGBROKE GROVE, SW11 6EL

Upper School Girls 8-13 years

FINALIST School of the Year 2021 for Student Well-Being

All Sites Open Mornings

Co-educational. 11-16 years 3 GARRAD’S ROAD, SW16 1JZ

Wednesday 23 February 2022 • Thursday 5 May 2022 • Friday 7 October 2022 Regular small group Friday tours. Private tours available. Virtual tours on website.

Junior Admissions Senior Admissions admissions@northwoodschools.com NWSsenior@northwoodschools.com Tel 020 8682 8830 Tel 020 8161 0301

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LONDON SENIOR SCHOOLS

I N D E P E ND E NT DAY SCHO OL FO R GI RLS AGE D 4 TO 18 I N SO UT H K E N S I NGTO N

OUR TRADITION

your future

JUNIOR & SENIOR SCHOOL OPEN EVENTS FIND OUT MORE www.queensgate.org.uk South Kensington · 5-minute walk Gloucester Road · 6-minute walk

Excite Challenge Inspire An independent, co-educational day and boarding school for students aged 11 to 18, a stone’s throw away from Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park.

Open Evenings Wednesday 2nd February 2022 Tuesday 1st March 2022 www.kps.co.uk | admissions@kps.co.uk | 0207 616 4402

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LONDON SENIOR SCHOOLS

North Bridge House Senior

Where enquiring minds meet creative thinkers ADDRESS: Senior School Hampstead, 65 Rosslyn Hill, London NW3 5UD | Senior & Sixth Form Canonbury, 6-9 Canonbury Place, London N1 2NQ WEBSITE: www.northbridgehouse.com FOUNDED: 1939 NUMBER OF PUPILS: Hampstead – 440 | Canonbury – 230 AGES: 11-18 FEES: (annually) 20,520 – £21,735 HEAD TEACHER: Brendan Pavey RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Non-denominational ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Assessments and interview.

CONTACT: Admissions office; 020 7428 1520 EMAIL: admissionsenquiries@northbridgehouse.com SCHOOL VISITS: Open events are held throughout the year. Please check our website for more details: northbridgehouse.com THE CURRICULUM: Highly qualified teachers deliver broad academic and creative curriculums, tailored to challenge and stimulate pupils according to individual needs. The curriculum is designed to educate each child, promoting resilience and adaptability while ensuring real-life issues, such as BLM, are brought to the forefront. Students prepare for 16+ and university with one-toone mentoring, careers fairs and the Inspiring Futures Programme.

GAMES & THE ARTS: The broad-ranging games curriculum is designed to promote pupils’ physical and emotional well-being and provide a sport for everyone, with students frequenting the best facilities for outdoor adventure and water sports, as well yoga, martial arts and fitness classes.

The arts are just as key to both the curricular and extra-curricular offering: Plays and concerts are regularly staged, art exhibitions are an annual event and pupils relish the opportunity to perform in the local area.

PASTORAL CARE: Pupil wellbeing is at the heart of everything: The school day is tailored around the teenage body clock to provide a later midweek start, while an onsite counsellor and confidence workshops ensure pupils are not just provided with people to talk to but with people they want to talk to. All staff are committed to nurturing character and wellbeing within the small tutor groups and warm community, so that every pupil thrives on a strong sense of belonging and security.

UNIVERSITY PLACES: Students receive offers from a range of universities, typically accepting places at Oxbridge and Russell Group institutions.

Open Mornings 5 May 14 June 22 June morehouse.org.uk

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: NBH provides an individually tailored co-education, celebrating high-achieving pupils in a mixed ability environment. With a strong focus on knowing the individual and developing strength of character, pupils achieve academic success. Specialist teaching and extra-curricular opportunities challenge and inspire children to fulfil their true potential, while providing a foundation for their future studies and careers.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: Students benefit from a later start on Wednesdays in line with leading research into the teenage brain – namely, sleeping patterns. Oxbridge preparation and ‘World of Work’ guest speaker events best inform students for successful futures, while staff work with UCL’s Institute of Education on the latest research-informed teaching methods.

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LONDON SENIOR SCHOOLS

Excellent in all areas

Independent Schools Inspectorate Report 2019

Open Event: Wednesday 4th May 2022 (morning) Our School in Action Open Event offers an opportunity to visit us on a regular school day. The event will comprise a tour of the school, talks from the Headmistress and current pupils and an optional tour of our Sixth Form Centre.

Speak the Truth

|

Live Generously

Earsby Street | London W14 8SH

|

To book: 020 7348 1748

admissions@sjsg.org.uk www.stjamesgirls.co.uk

Aim for the Best Registered Charity No. 270156

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LONDON SENIOR SCHOOLS

Portland Place School

ADDRESS: 56-58 Portland Pl, London W1B 1NJ WEBSITE: www.portland-place.co.uk FOUNDED: 1996 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 210 AGES: 10-16 FEES: (termly) Day School: £7,470, Online School: £2,985 HEAD TEACHER: David Bradbury RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: All faiths welcome ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Attend interview, provide a reference and complete a baseline assessment CONTACT: Registrar, 020 7307 8700 EMAIL: admissions@portland-place.co.uk SCHOOL VISITS: Open events & tours are in the autumn term.

Private tours are available year-round.

THE CURRICULUM: Portland Place School was founded as an alternative to the intense, large, examination focused independent day schools of which there are many in London. At Portland Place, our creative approach to academic study helps your child find their own path to learning. It’s the same goal, but with a different journey. The result? Our students are successful – on their own terms.

GAMES & THE ARTS: Arts, music and drama are very popular at Portland Place, and our students benefit from visits to the wealth of art and performances on offer in London. Symphonfree is offered to all Year 7 pupils, supplying them with a free musical instrument and lessons for a year. Competitive and recreational sport has always had a special place in Portland Place. While some pupils have gone on to represent their county and country, we also take pride in stating that most of our pupils have represented Portland Place in an inter-school fixture, because we recognise that sport develops self-confidence and leadership.

PASTORAL CARE: We believe that the happier your child is, the more likely it is that they’ll be receptive to new ideas and in the right state of mind to learn. At Portland Place, your child won’t be tested left, right and centre, but will have the time and space to discover how they like to learn.

The atmosphere is relaxed so our students are more relaxed.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: Here at Portland Place we believe that exceptional teaching, combined with a modern curriculum inside and outside the classroom, provides the best stimulus for children to become inquisitive and creative learners and achieve beyond exams.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: The Good Schools Guide describes us as ‘small, nurturing and refreshingly relaxed. A haven of creativity in the pushy, academically competitive world of London day schools.’ At Portland Place, we also offer a unique hybrid school for Years 6-11, combining four days of online teaching with the option to attend the school in person one day a week. Termly fees for Portland Place Online are £2,985.

Wetherby Senior School

ADDRESS: 100 Marylebone Lane, London W1U 2QU WEBSITE: www.wetherbysenior.co.uk FOUNDED: 2015 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 415 AGES: 11–18 FEES: (termly) £8,670 HEAD TEACHER: Joe Silvester RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Non-denominational ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Boys enter at Year 7, Year 9 or Year 12.

Entry is by competitive examination.

CONTACT: Kathryn Easthope, Registrar EMAIL: registrar@wetherbysenior.co.uk SCHOOL VISITS: Visitor mornings are held throughout the year.

Booking is required.

THE CURRICULUM: Through nurturing a genuine enjoyment of learning, intellectual curiosity and academic excellence we aim to develop our pupils into confident and independent learners.

GAMES & THE ARTS: Sport is an important part of the boys’ development and wellbeing. Rugby, football, cricket and tennis are played at exceptional facilities at Ealing Trailfinders, with a gym and spinning studio on site in Marylebone. Music, Drama and Art are vibrant dimensions of school life at Wetherby Senior with many concerts, exhibitions and dramatic productions held throughout the year.

PASTORAL CARE: The wellbeing and personal development of our pupils is at the heart of all our endeavours. Form tutors play a key role, supporting the boys throughout their time at school, and are in regular contact with parents about their son’s progress. A Wellbeing Team provides coaching that focuses on nurturing the confidence, resilience and self-awareness of our pupils.

UNIVERSITY PLACES: 84% of pupils achieve their first choice university (2021 results). Leavers’ destinations include Cambridge, Durham, Exeter, Imperial, LSE and UCL in the UK, IE Business School, Madrid and KU Leuven, Belgium in Europe and Georgetown, University of Chicago and McGill in North America.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: Our goal is to provide an outstanding all-round education, supporting our pupils to achieve academically and to develop as people, fully preparing them to meet the challenges of being a young man in the 21st century and ready to contribute to the communities in which they live.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: At Wetherby Senior, we pride ourselves on our outstanding teaching and excellent pastoral care that nurtures the boys as individuals. Philosophy is embedded in the curriculum from Year 7 to develop independent thinking and creativity.

Boys leave Wetherby Senior well-rounded and prepared for the challenges of the modern world.

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LONDON SENIOR SCHOOLS

Independent Day School for Boys Co-Educational Sixth Form Croydon

Extraordinary

Curiosity After school in the library, Aden and Ronaal discover the next instalment in their favourite adventure series.

Leading through values

Discover more trinity-school.org

Scholarships and Bursaries available at 11+, 13+ and 16+ Find out more at one of our upcoming open mornings To find out more, visit www.stdunstans.org.uk or email admissions@stdunstans.org.uk 020 8516 7200 Stanstead Road, London SE6 4TY

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LONDON SENIOR SCHOOLS

Celebrating 135 years of empowering pupils to forge their own path.

Visit us to discover more.

@sydenhamhigh

@sydenhamhighschool

Prep | Senior | Sixth sydenhamhighschool.gdst.net

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LONDON SENIOR SCHOOLS

S RIE O TEG A LL C A T' IN N E ELL C 'EX D E AT R I IS

WHOLE SCHOOL OPEN EVENT 23 JUNE 6-8PM BOOK HERE

SUTTONHIGH.GDST.NET

ST BENEDICT’S SCHOOL a

m i n i m i s

i n c i p e

Outstanding Catholic Independent school for boys & girls aged 3 - 18

SENIOR SCHOOL OPEN MORNING Thursday 5 May NURSERY & JUNIOR SCHOOL OPEN MORNING Thursday 19 May

SCHOLARSHIPS AND BURSARIES ARE AVAILABLE View our website for a full list of our Open Events or arrange a personal visit with our Registrar, Louise Pepper, on 020 8862 2254 www.stbenedicts.org.uk

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COUNTRY SCHOOLS

Oakham School, Rutland

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Day & Boarding school for boys & girls 7-11

OPEN MORNINGS 2022 Sat 5 March 10-11.30 Thurs 12 May 10-11.30 Sat 11 June 10-11.30

To book a place, visit aldro.org or email admissions@aldro.org

Benenden School: Modern Boarding for girls in the heart of the Kent countryside

New School Hall and Mu

sic School Opening 202

2

www.Benenden.school

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Banstead Prep School

Bedales School

ADDRESS: Sutton Lane, Banstead, Surrey SM7 3RA WEBSITE: www.bansteadprep.com FOUNDED: 2017 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 220 AGES: 2-11 FEES: (termly) £3,790 – £4,870 HEAD TEACHER: Jonathan Chesworth BEd. (Hons.)

RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: None ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Non-selective. Nursery and reception: attend one of early years activity mornings held throughout the year. Years 1 – 5 taster day.

CONTACT: Adrienne Forster, Head of Admissions & Marketing EMAIL: admissions@bansteadprep.com SCHOOL VISITS: For event dates and Virtual Open Day visit bansteadprep.com/admissions

ADDRESS: Church Road, Steep, Petersfield GU32 2DG WEBSITE: www.bedales.org.uk FOUNDED: 1893 NUMBER OF PUPILS: Pre-prep Dunannie: 89; Prep Dunhurst: 190; Senior School: 472 AGES: 3-8 (Dunannie); 8-13 (Dunhurst); 13-18 (Bedales) FEES: (termly) Nursery: £458-£635; Dunannie: £3,495-£4,610; Dunhurst: Day £5,930-£6,575; Boarding £7,780-£8,735; Bedales: Day £9,990; Boarding £12,710 HEAD TEACHER: (acting head) Will Goldsmith RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Non-denominational ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Entry at 2 yrs 9 mths, 7+, 8+, 11+, 13+, 16+. Selection by assessment/residential assessment and interview.

CONTACT: 01730 711733 (Bedales Senior) and 01730 711558 (D&D) EMAIL: admissions@bedales.org.uk SCHOOL VISITS: Open Mornings, Bedales: 5 February, 23 April 2022. Dunhurst: 5 March, 14 May. Dunannie: 1 February, 15 March, 26 April. Contact Admissions for Taster Days.

THE CURRICULUM: Our curriculum goes above and beyond what most prep schools are able to offer with exceptional facilities and specialist subject teaching right from the early years, developing into a fully specialist teaching programme from Year 4.

THE CURRICULUM: From the very youngest, pupils ‘learn through doing’ with a curriculum that has breadth and depth. In the senior school, students take a combination of iGCSEs and our own Bedales Assessed Courses (recognised by UCAS) in Global Awareness and Digital Game Design, for example. Sixth formers take enrichment courses in addition to A-levels.

GAMES & THE ARTS: Our impressive facilities, sport for all approach and specialist art, drama and music teaching spaces enable us to offer to provide a broad, rich curriculum and co-curricular programme.

PASTORAL CARE: We’re dedicated to equipping children with skills for life, while helping each of them grow in character and be the best they can, every single day. We believe happy children learn best and confident children go far.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: 2019, 11 academic, art, music and sport scholarships; 2020 seven academic, art and sport scholarships; 2021 eight academic, art, drama and music scholarships.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: School should be fun. Offering an exceptionally broad curriculum and co-curricular programme creates opportunities for children to be excited by and truly engaged with their learning and leads naturally to academic progress. Promoting positive mental health and wellbeing is critical to our success.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: Banstead Prep School has been rated Excellent in all areas in an ISI Inspection in September 2021. The school provides wraparound care from 07:30 – 18:00 and an in-house holiday club. Sports facilities include an on-site swimming pool, allweather pitch, netball court and full-size sports hall. Children of all ages benefit from subject specialist teaching and use of dedicated teaching spaces for art, drama, food technology, music and science. Forest school for children in nursery to Year 2 and life skills lessons for children in Years 3 – 6 encourage the development of independent learning and creative problem solving skills.

GAMES & THE ARTS: Bedales competes in many sports including football, hockey, tennis, cricket and netball. Excellent facilities include floodlit astroturf hockey pitches, tennis and netball courts and an indoor swimming pool. The school is acclaimed for its drama, theatre, art and music with opportunities for participation in performances and concerts.

PASTORAL CARE: Every student is assigned a house parent with whom they build a close relationship, and a tutor to monitor and guide their individual academic progress. Tutor groups and dormitories are mixed age, to encourage communication and shared experience across the years with a separate 6.2 (upper sixth) house.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: Scholarships are available from 10+ for music and academic, 13+ for art, and 16+ for drama, sport and design.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: Bedales was founded as an alternative to the mainstream 19th century British ‘public school’ and we still strive to educate the young people in our care with the same questioning approach to learning and living. Our motto – ‘work of each for weal of all’ – emphasises our attention to nurturing the individual as well as our collective endeavour.

Today, our approach draws on our innovative traditions with Bedales Assessed Courses taught alongside five core GCSEs, project-based learning as part of our Block 3 (Year 9) curriculum and approaches to boarding, pastoral care and interpersonal relationships that break down unnecessary barriers. Students go on to a range of prestigious academic and artistic institutions in the UK and internationally, joining a host of alumni who are Bedalian for life.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: Shared progressive ethos across the three schools with impressive university destinations including Oxbridge, music conservatoires, art college and institutions like Cornell and Columbia.

Innovation in the curriculum with high expectations. 120-acre estate in the South Downs National Park and chance for involvement at the working farm.

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Dunottar School

Cottesmore School

ADDRESS: Dunottar School, High Trees Road, Reigate, Surrey RH2 7EL WEBSITE: www.dunottarschool.com FOUNDED: 1926 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 460 AGES: 11–18 FEES: £6,127 for Direct Debit payments and £6,207 for other methods HEAD TEACHER: Mark Tottman RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Church of England (welcomes all faiths) ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Assessment, interview and group activities.

CONTACT: Romey Tottman, Head of Admissions EMAIL: admissions@dunottarschool.com SCHOOL VISITS: Open events are held throughout the year. Please visit the school website for details.

ADDRESS: Pease Pottage, West Sussex RH11 9AU WEBSITE: www.cottesmoreschool.com FOUNDED: 1894 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 200 AGES: 4-13 FEES: Prep boarding, £9,550; day boarding, £6,290; pre-prep, £3,360–£4,480 HEAD TEACHER: Tom Rogerson RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Church of England ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Interview with Head, previous term’s report and an English and Maths assessment if necessary.

CONTACT: Lottie Rogerson EMAIL: admissions@cottesmoreschool.com SCHOOL VISITS: Open mornings: 10am, Sat 5 Feb, 7 May, 24 Sept and 3 Dec 2022. Virtual 1:1 coffee breaks available with the Headmaster.

THE CURRICULUM: A well-balanced curriculum is the foundation for innovative teaching where technology is used creatively to enhance learning. Pupils are encouraged to be determined, inquisitive and actively engaged in their learning.

GAMES & THE ARTS: Sport is competitive, enjoyable and inclusive.

Rugby and football are the main boys’ sports, with netball and lacrosse for girls and cricket, swimming and athletics for all. The arts flourish with choirs and ensembles, dramatic productions and excellent creative facilities.

PASTORAL CARE: The atmosphere at Dunottar is truly special.

Pastoral wellbeing is vital to children’s development and Dunottar recognises that pupils need to feel safe, fulfilled and happy in order to thrive. The school strives to allow every pupil to be themselves, with their own unique needs, strengths and potential. This exceptional standard of care ensures that each student has the confidence to contribute and succeed.

UNIVERSITY PLACES: Tailored support ensures success in UK and international institutions.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: My philosophy on education is that it is all about learning to improve. I love being able to inspire pupils to achieve more than they thought possible. We create a vibrant, supportive community where pupils grow in confidence, responding well to setbacks and seeking out new challenges for themselves.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: The stunning Palladian mansion is set in 15 acres of beautiful grounds and the excellent facilities include a swimming pool, large sports hall with four-lane cricket net system, a state-of-the-art sixth-form centre with study space, cafeteria and recreation room and a £4.5m Performing Arts Centre with 500-seat theatre, drama studio and music rooms.

THE CURRICULUM: Cottesmore achieves excellent academic results.

The strength of Cottesmore’s academic programme lies within its breadth.

There are 21 different curriculum subjects taught. Through this rich variety of intellectual experience, each girl and boy finds their particular strength and this in turn lifts their academic potential.

GAMES & THE ARTS: Cottesmorians are equally likely to be found on the stage, the games field or in the art and design studios. A dizzying array of activities and hobbies give each individual pupil confidence, making strong academic results more achievable.

PASTORAL CARE: Every new boy or girl is given a ‘shadow’ or buddy who looks after them when they first arrive. Every pupil is matched with, and becomes, a peer mentor or ‘listening ear’. Each pupil has a form tutor (daily logistics), a pastoral tutor (wellbeing), a matron (domestic) and a house master or mistress. Every adult at Cottesmore contributes to the wellbeing of every child.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: Eton College, Downe House, Harrow, Cheltenham Ladies’ College, Radley College, Benenden, Winchester College, Wellington College, Marlborough College, Charterhouse, St Edward’s and other top schools.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: Everyone has a talent. Whatever creative or academic outlet makes a child tick, Cottesmore finds and nurtures it. Endeavour and fun are the most important elements of intellectual life at Cottesmore. Success follows an explosion of discovery and purposefulness.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: Cottesmore is an award-winning academic boarding prep school for boys and girls in West Sussex, less than an hour from London. Cottesmore provides a coach service to SW London, which is popular with London families. Cottesmore has been preparing children for major public schools since 1894 and continues to provide excellent preparation for senior boarding schools who share Cottesmore’s belief in nurturing a rounded, dynamic individual.

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Cranleigh Preparatory School

ADDRESS: Horseshoe Lane, Cranleigh, Surrey GU6 8QH WEBSITE: www.cranprep.org FOUNDED: 1913 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 340 AGES: 7-13 FEES: (annually) boarding, £26,040; day (Years 5–8), £21,570; day (Years 3 and 4), £16,620 HEAD TEACHER: Neil Brooks RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Church of England ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Age appropriate assessments and report from the head of the pupil’s current school.

CONTACT: CJ Staples, Head of Admissions EMAIL: cjs@cranleigh.org SCHOOL VISITS: Please contact Admissions to book a school visit: www.cranprep.org/admissions THE CURRICULUM: A stimulating academic programme, leading to Common Entrance or scholarship exams at 13+. Latin from NC Year 6.

Food tech, music, drama, art and DT are part of the balanced curriculum.

GAMES & THE ARTS: An outstanding reputation for sport, with individual pupils and teams regularly playing at county and national level. The arts are an integral part of the school, with excellent plays and concerts throughout the year and a brilliant, inspirational art department.

PASTORAL CARE: A warm and welcoming atmosphere is present from a child’s first day. There is a remarkable sense of community, and of pupils and staff working together. Form tutors are a constant source of encouragement, praise and advice, supported by a strong pastoral team within this very happy school.

Cranleigh School

ADDRESS: Horseshoe Lane, Cranleigh, Surrey GU6 8QQ WEBSITE: www.cranleigh.org FOUNDED: 1865 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 400 boys, 279 girls AGES: 13–18 FEES: Boarding, £40,710 annually; day, £33,510 annually HEAD TEACHER: Mr Martin Reader MA (Oxon), MPhil, MBA RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Church of England ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: To learn about the admissions process for both 13+ and 16+ entry, please contact our admissions team directly.

CONTACT: Jane Gallie, 01483 276377 EMAIL: admissions@cranleigh.org SCHOOL VISITS: Please e-mail admissions@cranleigh.org if you wish to book a visit. Visit www.cranleigh.org/admissions/virtual-open-day/ to view our virtual open day THE CURRICULUM: A broad fourth-form curriculum leads into an options system allowing between nine and ten GCSEs. At sixth-form pupils take A-levels with the option of adding EPQ and Pre-U. Classes are a good size (approx. ten in sixth-form), and extra support is readily available.

GAMES & THE ARTS: ‘Outstanding facilities include a huge sports centre, indoor pool, equestrian centre, 31 pitches and a golf course. The music school features a wide range of ensembles and top-class practice/ performance facilities; drama has its own modern theatre, while Duke of Edinburgh, CCF and canoeing are popular.

The Woodyer Art Studios provide some of the best art facilities in the country, with specialist provision for painting, printmaking, photography, sculpture and ceramics. The Design Engineering department has three design studios and workshops, including 3D printing facilities.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: 28 scholarships in 2021, 227 scholarships over the last five years to some of the country’s best schools, including Brighton College, Cranleigh School, Charterhouse, Eton College, KCS Wimbledon, Marlborough College, RGS Guildford, Tonbridge, Wellington College and Winchester College.

PASTORAL CARE: Cranleigh’s philosophy is to nurture pupils as individuals, ensuring happy and fulfilling school years while preparing them for the wider world. The housemasters/mistresses, matrons and personal tutors who closely follow their tutees’ progress, Deputy Heads and Chaplain all play a key part in the pupils’ pastoral care.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: We focus on enabling each child to fulfil their intellectual potential, while encouraging them to find enjoyment, and to seek success from their participation, at whatever level in the many artistic, cultural and sporting opportunities available. We believe that children should grow up with an understanding of the importance of personal responsibility, respect and teamwork.

UNIVERSITY PLACES: 99 per cent go on to higher education, with around 80 per cent getting into their first-choice university (including Oxbridge, Bristol, Durham, LSE, UCL) in recent years.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: The School is set in 40 acres of stunning Surrey countryside, less than 50 minutes from London with first class sports and music facilities and an exceptional art department.

Unique pastoral care in a wonderfully relaxed, inspirational environment leads to outstanding academic results.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: Family values feature strongly at this ‘local boarding school’. A highly regarded school/home partnership enables pupils to remain close to family while participating fully in school life.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: The 280-acre setting and outstanding facilities offer an enviable environment in which to develop in both academic and co-curricular spheres. Cranleigh believes feeling valued within various spheres impacts positively on grades, and results in confident, open-minded individuals who leave with lifelong friends.

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Dorset House School

ADDRESS: The Manor, Church Lane, Bury, Pulborough, West Sussex, RH20 1PB WEBSITE: www.dorsethouseschool.com FOUNDED: 1784 NUMBER OF PUPILS: Circa 150 AGES: 4 – 13 FEES: (termly) £3,105 (Reception) to £6,316 (Year 8) HEAD TEACHER: Matt Thomas M.Ed BA Ed (Hons) (Exeter) FRGS RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Church of England ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Non-Selective – offers based on ‘taster days’ and school reports CONTACT: Admissions Registrar, Sarah O’Brien EMAIL: sobrien@dorsethouseschool.com SCHOOL VISITS: Prospective parents are always welcome to make an appointment to visit and meet the Headmaster

Farleigh School

ADDRESS: Red Rice, Andover, Hampshire SP11 7PW WEBSITE: www.farleighschool.com FOUNDED: 1982 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 460 AGES: 3-13 FEES: (termly) KG: £1,955; pre-prep, £3,920; Year 3 day to Year 8 boarding, £6,740-£9,280 HEAD TEACHER: Fr Simon Everson RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Roman Catholic, welcoming all faiths, or none ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Non–selective.

CONTACT: Sarah O’Rorke, Registrar, 01264 712838 EMAIL: admissions@farleighschool.com SCHOOL VISITS: Individual visits, as well as two to three Open Mornings per year.

THE CURRICULUM: Academic rigour with focus on ‘skills for life’. Plenty of ‘micro opportunities’ are on offer which build children’s confidence.

The new Year 7 & 8 curriculum ensures preparation for senior school and life beyond.

THE CURRICULUM: The stimulating curriculum is broad and tailored to individual needs. Our multi-sensory approach encompasses every type of learner; specialist teachers and imaginative teaching methods ensure all children thrive.

GAMES & THE ARTS: Games taught by specialised staff throughout.

Competitive matches weekly for all children. Ambitious staff encourage participation and improvement. Music is taught by an inspirational Kodaly specialist. 90+% of children have individual instrument lessons. Art and DT department produce impressive, high quality work.

GAMES & THE ARTS: Sport, art, DT, music and drama are pupil-centred and all-inclusive with countless opportunities to develop interests and discover talents.

PASTORAL CARE: This is a family school where children thrive in an inclusive ‘high challenge/low threat’ atmosphere. Staff know all the children. At weekly staff meetings, any issues affecting children, however small, are discussed. Our boarders grow in confidence within our homely setting. Our leadership programme ensures that children `have a go’ and do not fear failure and our Independent Listener is available to help with any bumps in the road.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: 40% of leavers over the past six years have gained scholarships or awards to their next school.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: His philosophy is reflected in that of the school, i.e. you only have one childhood and it is to be cherished. It is vital to give children opportunities to succeed and not to underestimate what they can achieve, if given the right support and encouragement.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: Dorset House is a traditional yet forward thinking, high challenge/low threat environment with a palpable family ethos. Set in a stunning rural location, it offers plenty of opportunities for all pupils. Enthusiastic and committed staff.

Excellent number of scholarships and awards to senior schools. Focus on preparation for senior school and life beyond. Ambitious for all children, while identifying and fostering each child’s strengths.

PASTORAL CARE: Our Catholic ethos values every individual and we go to great lengths to ensure the fulfilment and happiness of every child, preparing them not only for senior school but for fulfilling and rewarding lives in the years to come. Boarders and day pupils alike benefit from the exceptional pastoral care, which is inextricably linked to the structural organisation of the school, through the quality of teaching and learning, the home-from-home environment in the boarding houses, the exceptional relationships between staff and pupils, and between the pupils themselves.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: Academic (Ampleforth, Dauntsey’s, Downe House, Marlborough, Sherborne, Sherborne Girls), Art (Ampleforth, Bryanston, Radley), Drama (Ampleforth, Bryanston, Downside, Radley, Sherborne, Sherborne Girls, Tudor Hall), Music (Bryanston, Marlborough, Radley, Wellington) and Sport (Ampleforth, Canford, Downside, Sherborne).

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: Farleigh is a place of energy and spirited enquiry. Boys and girls of all abilities thrive in the warm and safe environment which values every individual and prepares them for senior school and beyond.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: Outstanding boarding provision, value-added academic and social development for children of all abilities with successful transition to senior schools due to excellent, individualised preparation. A stunning 70-acre site with exceptional facilities that enhance pupils’ learning: a new music school, floodlit all-weather pitch and tennis courts, theatre, indoor swimming pool, Forest School, huge variety of after school activities and wrap around care.

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OPEN S G N I N MOR ARCH & M 2 1 Y A SATURD APRIL 0 3 Y A D SATUR

Transformation through education Christ’s Hospital: The leading independent boarding school for fee assisted places T: 01403 246 555 E: hello@christs-hospital.org.uk Christ’s Hospital, Horsham, West Sussex RH13 0LJ www.christs-hospital.org.uk Registered Charity No. 1120090

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“

Inspiring academic ambition in children aged 2-13 years Open mornings and visits throughout the year

”

Nursery, Pre-Prep & Prep • 2-13 years Liphook, Hampshire GU30 7LQ • highfieldandbrookham.co.uk • 01428 728000

TO BE YOURSELF TO BE A PILGRIM A SCHOOL FOR BOYS THAT DEVELOPS CURIOUS AND CONFIDENT LEARNERS “Pilgrims’ combines a forward-thinking outlook with excellent academic results and breathtaking music.”

As reviewed by The Good Schools Guide

Arrange a visit: admissions@pilgrims-school.co.uk | 01962 854189

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The Pilgrims’ School, Winchester Day and boarding for boys aged 4-13 www.thepilgrims-school.co.uk

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MULTI AWARD-WINNING EDUCATION ON CAMPUS AND ONLINE HMC Independent Day and Boarding School for boys & girls aged 3 to 18 years

For more information contact admissions@caterhamschool.co.uk

Academically, Caterham is up there with the big guns... all achieved without any undue stress. If Caterham isn’t on your list already, it most certainly should be.’

TATLER SCHOOLS GUIDE

caterhamschool.co.uk

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Reed’s School

DISCOVER

THE ROYAL ALEXANDRA AND ALBERT SCHOOL, A STATE BOARDING SCHOOL FOR BOYS AND GIRLS AGED 7-18 “The School provides a secure environment in which children and young people flourish, achieve academically, stretch their abilities and develop social skills.” Ofsted

Situated in 260 acres of parkland near Reigate, Surrey, within 20 minutes from Gatwick Airport and 40 minutes from Heathrow Airport. admissions@gatton-park.org.uk Tel: 01737 649000 www.raa-school.co.uk @RAASchoolGatton

ADDRESS: Sandy Lane, Cobham, Surrey, KT11 2ES WEBSITE: www.reeds.surrey.sch.uk FOUNDED: 1813 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 770 (672 boys, 98 girls) AGES: 11-18 (boys); 16-18 (girls) FEES: Day: £6,980 (Years 7 – 8), £8,720 (Years 9 – 13); boarding: £9,300 (Years 7 – 8), £11,240 (Years 9 – 13) HEAD TEACHER: Mark Hoskins BA MA MSc RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Church of England, although open to and respectful of all religious faiths ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Admission at 11+, 13+ and 16+ via entrance examination and interview CONTACT: Registrar, 01932 869001 EMAIL: admissions@reeds.surrey.sch.uk SCHOOL VISITS: See the website for virtual visit and open mornings THE CURRICULUM: The philosophy behind the educational curriculum at Reed’s is based on three dimensions: core knowledge, skills, and values. The ability to impart information, share knowledge and make connections across multiple disciplines is crucial.

GAMES & THE ARTS: The excellent Activities Curriculum is integral to the broad educational experience and there is an expectation that pupils will take advantage of every opportunity on offer. Service is a key aspect encouraging pupils to show integrity and responsibility as well as compassion toward others.

PASTORAL CARE: The bedrock of a Reed’s education is the quality of the pastoral care given. It underpins the very essence of school life and places pupils at the heart of the school, with an emphasis on values and character to provide a rounded education. This is critical to produce happy and secure children who will thrive in and outside the classroom.

The House system and boarding infrastructure provide the wrap-around care that benefits all pupils.

UNIVERSITY PLACES: Every year pupils achieve a number of Oxbridge and medical offers. The vast majority go to Russell Group universities.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: We are a dynamic school providing an excellent education that inspires our pupils to achieve their full potential, prepares them for a rapidly changing world and equips them with the ability to think critically and independently, Instilling our values of Compassion, Curiosity, Resilience, Responsibility and Independence means they leave Reed’s as rounded individuals with a strong moral compass.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: A forward-looking educational curriculum based on core knowledge, values and skills. An all-boys structure from 11 to 16 with a co-educational Sixth Form. A strong sense of community with teachers, parents and pupils working together.

Exceptional pastoral care based on the rich heritage of the school. Wraparound care benefits all pupils. Rated ‘excellent’ in all categories in latest ISI Inspection.

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St Catherine’s, Bramley GSA Day & Boarding School since 1885 | 4 - 18 years | Guildford GU5 0DF | www.stcatherines.info

PREP SCHOOL

SENIOR SCHOOL

(9.45 am - 11.45 am)

(9.15am-Midday)

Friday 4th February 2022 Thursday 10th March 2022 Wednesday 4th May 2022 Friday 10th June 2022

Wednesday 26th January 2022 Friday 11th March 2022 Thursday 5th May 2022 Wednesday 15th June 2022

01483 899665 prepadmissions@stcatherines.info

01483 899609 admissions@stcatherines.info

To book your place, visit our website and complete the online booking form www.stcatherines.info/bookingform

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Sevenoaks, Kent

Co-ed Pre-School for ages 3-4 and Girls’ Prep School for ages 4-11 The girls achieve outstanding results for senior school places. To book a personal tour please visit our website or scan our QR code.

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Hundreds of individuals.

One community.

17/12/2021 16:02

How do we prepare children for jobs that don’t exist yet?

None of us knows today what the world is going to require of us tomorrow. But some of us are keeping an extremely close eye on things.

At Sevenoaks School, many of the skills that will be called for in the future are embedded in our curriculum now.

Critical thinking for instance, is exercised here daily from the start. So is complex problem solving.

A leading independent, co-educational, day and boarding school for pupils aged 3 to 18 in Chislehurst, Kent BR7 6LR.

www.farringtons.org.uk #OneFarringtons

With one eye firmly trained on the world beyond our gates, we equip all our students with the skills they will need to reshape it.

So if sixty per cent of roles have yet to be invented*, Sevenoaks alumni will be ready to take them on when they are.

www.sevenoaksschool.org *The Future of Jobs report, World Economic Forum. Potential jobs listed include: Space Pilot, Recycling Enforcer, Nano-medic, Memory Augmentation Surgeon, Hydroponic Farmer, Graphene Engineer, Experimental Food Developer, Ethical Hacker, Climate Change Reversal Specialist, Avatar Manager/Virtual Teacher

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MAY_

Mayfield

AN INDEPENDENT BOARDING AND DAY SCHOOL FOR GIRLS AGED 11 TO 18, SET IN THE BEAUTIFUL SUSSEX COUNTRYSIDE JUST AN HOUR FROM LONDON OUTSTANDING ACADEMIC RESULTS • SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE EXTENSIVE CO-CURRICULAR PROGRAMME EXEMPLARY PASTORAL CARE & NURTURING ENVIRONMENT STATE OF THE ART EQUESTRIAN CENTRE FLEXI, WEEKLY AND FULL BOARDING OPTIONS

Open Mornings THURSDAY 10 TH FEBRUARY, SATURDAY 26 TH FEBRUARY (VIRTUAL) & SATURDAY 26 TH MARCH. TO ARRANGE A VISIT PLEASE CONTACT MRS SHIRLEY COPPARD, REGISTRAR@MAYFIELDGIRLS.ORG

WWW.MAYFIELDGIRLS.ORG

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St Edmund’s Canterbury

Sevenoaks Prep School

ADDRESS: St Thomas Hill, Canterbury, Kent CT2 8HU WEBSITE: www.stedmunds.org.uk FOUNDED: 1749 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 262 girls, 296 boys AGES: 3-18 FEES: Nursery and pre-prep, from £2,698; prep day, from £5,325; prep boarding, from £8,697; senior day, £7,220; senior boarding, from £11,682 HEAD TEACHER: Edward O’Connor, MA, MPhil, MEd RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Church of England ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Entry into school by visit, assessment and report. Scholarships at 11+, 13+ and 16+ CONTACT: Admissions; 01227 475601 EMAIL: admissions@stedmunds.org.uk SCHOOL VISITS: Recruitment events are taking place throughout the year, please visit the school’s website to book.

ADDRESS: Godden Green, Sevenoaks, Kent TN15 0JU WEBSITE: www.theprep.org.uk FOUNDED: 1919 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 400 AGES: 2-13 FEES: Nursery and Kindergarten from £385 per session. (annually) Reception, £11,244; Years 1 & 2, £12,828; Years 3-8, £15,540 HEAD TEACHER: Luke Harrison RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Church of England but accept all faiths ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Non-selective CONTACT: TJ Richards EMAIL: admissions@theprep.org.uk SCHOOL VISITS: The school is open to visits and tours any day during term time

THE CURRICULUM: A challenging and exciting curriculum throughout the school. Offers GCSE, iGCSE and A-level.

THE CURRICULUM: Our children feel challenged within a happy, diverse community of learners. They are stretched at a time appropriate to them, producing their individual best without unwarranted pressure.

The academic curriculum is enhanced by activities including forest school, coding, debating and critical thinking.

GAMES & THE ARTS: Music, art and drama is at the heart of the school and the cathedral choristers are part of St Edmund’s. Almost all children are involved in some way from pre-prep all the way up to sixth form. The school has its own 450-seat, tiered theatre as well as a recital hall, practice rooms and music tech suites. The drama department continually stage stunning performances every year, in front of sell-out crowds. The school also enjoys an excellent reputation for its sport, which plays a key part in the curriculum. The school has started an elite athlete development programme and are flexible with the timetable to fit in training sessions.

PASTORAL CARE: The wellbeing of every pupil is supported by a comprehensive system of pastoral care. The chaplain performs a central role for the whole school. Regular communication fosters the relationships between the parents, the school and the pupils. ‘The school does pastoral care to perfection,’ says a parent and everyone we have spoken to concurs. ‘Pastoral care is the bedrock of a successful education,’ says the headmaster, ‘and if a child is happy everything else follows.’

UNIVERSITY PLACES: Pupils are given close guidance in making their choices and are successful in achieving places at top universities.

Approximately 30 per cent attend a Russell Group to read anything from maths, history and law to agriculture and international relations. Oxford Brookes and Canterbury Christchurch are the most popular universities at the moment followed by Exeter, King’s College London and Edinburgh. Others go onto study drama, art and music at top drama schools and conservatoires.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: We inspire creativity through a lifelong love of learning and nurture original thinkers who have a desire to make a difference.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: St Edmund’s offers an exceptional school experience where pupils are treated as individuals. One site for all pupils aged 3–18 including the Canterbury Cathedral choristers. Located on a beautiful site overlooking Canterbury, the school is within reach of the South East and London, and under an hour from London on the high speed train.

GAMES & THE ARTS: Creativity and energetic self-expression are encouraged throughout the school. Drama and music afford many opportunities from orchestras, choirs, rock bands, house plays to school productions – both on stage and behind the scenes. We enjoy excellent facilities on our 25-acre site and believe that sport is for all. From Year 3, all children have opportunities to represent the school competitively in a range of sports.

PASTORAL CARE: Our ethos is one of nurturing each child and supporting parents and children alike. We understand that children are individuals who mature at different times and in different ways. The children are encouraged to work and play according to our Way of Life.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: In 2021, all Year 8 leavers were awarded places in their senior schools of choice, some with academic, sport, drama and music scholarships.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: The Prep is a family school that values every member of its community. The school achieves tremendous academic success and encourages its pupils, amongst other things, to tread the boards, play for sports teams, perform in music concerts and participate in after-school clubs.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: We place great value on giving pupils the opportunity to flourish in all areas of school life. They achieve excellent academic results in 11+ and 13+ examinations and scholarships.

Underpinning the success of the school is our way of life – an ethos that encourages pupils to be responsible, kind and empathetic.

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FROM HOUSE

TO HOME It all starts with a sense of belonging, which in turn all starts in the House – a latticework of the many things that a teenage boy needs to thrive.

Our Houses play the role of families, where no one will be left out. The House is the fulcrum of friendships, often between boys of very different temperaments, talents and enthusiasms. Our Houses are, indeed, diversity in action – eating three meals every day together, relaxing together, playing House sport together, singing together... the ’together’ is the key.

Arrange a visit: admissions@tonbridge-school.org tonbridge-school.co.uk

Independent Day School for Girls aged 4-18 years

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in what happens if? (and certainties)

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“Happy kids, great results” The Good Schools Guide

Reigate Grammar School, Reigate Road, Reigate, Surrey RH2 0QS 01737 222231 admissions@reigategrammar.org

reigategrammar.org

I am Walhampton

Discover the Walhampton difference and visit us to find out about our scholarships in: Academic, Sport, Equine, Music, Art and Drama.

Situated in a beautiful location on the south coast and close to the New Forest, we are an independent co-educational preparatory day, flexi and full-time boarding school for ages 2-13 years.

WALHAMPTON SCHOOL, LYMINGTON, HAMPSHIRE SO41 5ZG

Open Day 6 May

Contact our School Registrar Call: 01590 613303

Email: registrar@walhampton.com

www.walhampton.com

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Walthamstow Hall Junior School

ADDRESS: Bradbourne Park Road, Sevenoaks, Kent TN13 3LD WEBSITE: www.walthamstow-hall.co.uk FOUNDED: 1838 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 145 AGES: 3-11 FEES: (termly) Nursery, £325 per session; Reception to Year 2, £4,045; Year 3 – Year 6, £5,180 HEAD TEACHER: Stephanie Ferro, MA (Oxon), MA (London), PGCE (Surrey) RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Christian non-denominational ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: All girls attend a taster day where they are assessed, this includes test papers from Years 3 – 6.

CONTACT: Alex Knight, Registrar; 01732 468703 EMAIL: registrar@whall.school SCHOOL VISITS: Live broadcast virtual open day Saturday 5 February 2:00pm, followed by two weeks of individual tours on site. To book a place go to www.walthamstow-hall.co.uk. Please contact Mrs Knight to arrange a visit at other times.

THE CURRICULUM: A broad and well-balanced curriculum is taught by committed teachers. Learning outside the classroom, including a Forest School on-site, and half-termly whole School theme days, e.g.

Courage Day, Calculation Day, Community Day, are cornerstones to a creative curriculum.

GAMES & THE ARTS: An extensive co-curricular programme encourages the exploration of a diverse range of sporting and artistic interests. Pupils are taught by dedicated sports, art, music and drama specialists.

PASTORAL CARE: A caring and nurturing School where effort is celebrated and where learning is fun. The kind of School that pupils run into every morning and leave ‘as the best version of themselves – not someone else’s version of what they should be,’ as one parent put it. – The Good Schools Guide 2019.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: On average, 19 per cent of leavers gain scholarships, mainly to Walthamstow Hall Senior or Sevenoaks School.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: For over 180 years we have been true to our founding aim to provide an education which is full of opportunity, challenge and possibility. At Walthamstow Hall pupils discover that learning is an active process that enables them to get personally involved; it is not one that just passively happens to them. Pupils recognise that learning is a consequence of thinking. They do not merely pass through a door but are set on a voyage of discovery. We are not promising a polished product, but a profound process.

We are not about growing grass that will wither once it faces the real world, but cultivating patterns and disciplines of learning that will last a lifetime.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: Specialised teaching facilities for young pupils include a science lab, art and DT room, music block and EYFS classrooms. Use of Walthamstow Hall Senior School facilities includes weekly swimming and use of the School theatre for plays and concerts. A ‘Creative Curriculum’, which is enquiry-led and topic-based, runs across the Early Years Foundation stage.

Walthamstow Hall, Sevenoaks

ADDRESS: Holly Bush Lane, Sevenoaks, Kent TN13 3UL WEBSITE: www.walthamstow-hall.co.uk FOUNDED: 1838 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 420 AGES: 11-18 FEES: (termly) Senior School & Sixth Form, £7,070 HEAD TEACHER: Stephanie Ferro, MA (Oxon), MA (Lond), PGCE (Surrey) RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Christian non-denominational ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: ISEB Pre-Test for Year 7, and Year 9 Deferred Entry. Sixth Form offers based on GCSE grades. Interviews at 11+, 13+ and 16+. Separate academic scholarship papers offered at 11+, 13+ and 16+.

CONTACT: Alex Knight, Registrar; 01732 468703 EMAIL: registrar@whall.school SCHOOL VISITS: Open morning, Thursday 10 March. Book at www.walthamstow-hall.co.uk THE CURRICULUM: Offers unusual breadth, choice and flexibility. Lively teaching from highly qualified, enthusiastic specialists to optimum-sized groups. Students study GCSE and A-level.

GAMES & THE ARTS: All pupils are encouraged to get involved. There are many opportunities to participate in a rich panoply of artistic, musical, dramatic and sporting activities. Students compete strongly at national and county level in sport and gain places at the National Youth Theatre and Orchestra. National titles currently held in badminton and swimming.

PASTORAL CARE: A supportive and harmonious community where all individuals are respected and contribute. Belief that strong pastoral systems underpin academic progress and that emotional, personal and intellectual development go hand in hand. The personal development of pupils is excellent. They are confident and articulate young people, with a welldeveloped sense of right and wrong and a high degree of emotional maturity.

UNIVERSITY PLACES: Typically over 95 per cent of students go to university, over 90 per cent to their first choice and over 75 per cent to Russell Group. Higher level apprenticeships also taken up at Deloitte and IBM. HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: For over 180 years we have been true to our founding aim to provide an education that is full of opportunity, challenge and possibility. At Walthamstow Hall pupils discover that learning is an active process that enables them to get personally involved, not one that just passively happens to them. Students recognise that learning is a consequence of thinking. They do not merely pass through a door, but are set on a voyage of discovery. We are not promising a polished product, but a profound process. We are not about growing grass that will wither once it faces the real world, but cultivating patterns and disciplines of learning that will last a lifetime.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: Inspiring teaching, wonderful facilities, close partnerships between parents, staff and pupils and a shared sense of pride in our history and achievements lie at the heart of our success.

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OPEN MORNINGS FRIDAY 18 MARCH FRIDAY 6 MAY

Appointments Required To book, visit beaconschool.co.uk Also Welcoming Private Visits and Tours Email admissions@beaconschool.co.uk or call on 01494 432764

beaconschool.co.uk | 01494 432764

Discover the Dragon An extraordinary day and boarding Prep School where boys and girls discover and develop their talents inside the classroom and beyond.

Visit our website for more information on: - Full, weekly and flexi boarding options - Dragon QUEST enrichment programme - Weekly London bus service To make an enquiry please contact the Admissions team on 01865 315 405 or admissions@dragonschool.org

Dragon School, Bardwell Road, Oxford, OX2 6SS

dragonschool.org

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Christ Church Cathedral School

ADDRESS: 3 Brewer Street, Oxford OX1 1QW WEBSITE: www.cccs.org.uk FOUNDED: 1546 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 154 AGES: 2-13 FEES: (termly) from £1,535 for Nursery; from £4,040 for Pre-Prep; £6,025 for Prep; £3,800 for Cathedral Choristers.

HEAD TEACHER: Richard Murray RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Church of England ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Non-selective in Nursery and Pre-Prep, subject to a satisfactory taster session; selective in Prep.

CONTACT: Laura Kemp, Registrar EMAIL: registrar@cccs.org.uk SCHOOL VISITS: Forthcoming open mornings will be announced on the website.

THE CURRICULUM: We aim to instil a love of learning in all our pupils.

Our curriculum prepares boys for Common Entrance and scholarships to senior schools. French is taught from nursery; from form five English and maths are taught in sets of ten boys. Reading is central to the life of the school.

GAMES & THE ARTS: Our playing fields are among the most beautiful in the world. All boys participate in rugby, football, cricket, and athletics.

Real tennis, squash and swimming are also on offer. Being a small school, all boys have the opportunity to play in matches. Music permeates the school, which provides choristers for three choirs in Oxford: the Cathedral, Worcester College and Pembroke College. We have a large number of instrumentalists who achieve high grades. School productions are written by our head of classics.

PASTORAL CARE: Pupils are treated as individuals and, as such, their personal needs are always taken into consideration. The School’s approach is one of compassion within the context of an environment where people know there are proper boundaries. Every pupil and member of staff plays a vital part in the creation of a culture of kindness. Every week, pupils’ welfare is discussed by the entire staff. No pupil is ever “lost”.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: Bradfield College, Winchester College, Oratory School, Magdalen College, Abingdon School and St Edward’s School.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: We have high expectations of our pupils; to take any other approach is an insult to those in our care. Our teachers are exceptional, and it is their inspiration which sows the seeds of a love of learning. Manners are seen as the outward sign of a civilised life, of kindness, thoughtfulness and proper self-confidence.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: We are an intimate school set in an incomparably beautiful city with stunning playing fields and Woodland School. Three outstanding choirs, one of which is world famous, are at the heart of our community. Our children are intellectually vibrant, charming and self-motivated. Our school dogs, Gordon, Thistle and Tikka, help the children feel at home.

d’Overbroeck’s

ADDRESS: 333 Banbury Road, Oxford OX2 7PL WEBSITE: www.doverbroecks.com FOUNDED: 1977 NUMBER OF PUPILS: Years 7-11: 195; Sixth Form: 400 AGES: 11-18 FEES: (termly) Year 7-11 day, £6,325; Sixth Form day, £8,300; Sixth Form boarding, £12,450–£15,100 (full-time); £12,800 (weekly) HEAD TEACHER: Jonathan Cuff RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Non-denominational ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Year 7-9: apply, taster day, references, entrance exams. Sixth Form: apply, interview, references.

CONTACT: Admissions, 01865 688600 EMAIL: registrar@doverbroecks.com SCHOOL VISITS: Individual visits by appointment. Virtual and inperson open events throughout the year – register via the website.

THE CURRICULUM: A broad curriculum in Years 7-11 and a varied range of 35 A-level subjects in Sixth Form. Subject choices are available in any combination; there are no option blocks. Broad range of academic enrichment options including the Extended Project Qualification.

GAMES & THE ARTS: A busy co-curricular programme of over 50 sports and activities across the school. A Tennis Academy is available to develop exceptional tennis players. Strong art, drama and music departments. New Sixth Form facilities include a dedicated Arts Centre for art, photography and textiles.

PASTORAL CARE: Outstanding pastoral care regularly praised by students and parents. Major strength is support and encouragement for students. d’Overbroeck’s is very much a ‘people place’ where each individual thrives.

First-name terms highlight a sense of working together, underpinned by a high level of mutual respect. Years 7-11 is for day pupils only and they are taught in small classes. At the Sixth Form, each student has a Director of Studies who meets with them individually to discuss progress.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: Years 7-11: academic, art, drama and music.

Sixth Form: academic, art, drama, music, media, sport and Tennis Academy.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: d’Overbroeck’s is built on personal relationships, a lack of stuffiness and a strong belief that every individual lies at the heart of the school. Students are creative, think for themselves, relish stretching the boundaries of their knowledge and do very well academically.

It’s a forward-thinking school full of energy, laughter and achievement.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: An inclusive, collaborative approach with a strong focus on learning being enjoyable as well as successful. Students’ views are valued, while teaching is interactive and motivating in small classes. Students gain confidence expressing themselves, questioning and being independent thinkers. Large direct entry into the Sixth Form (day, weekly and full-time boarding options).

Outstanding value added: 34 per cent A* at A-level in 2020 and 43 per cent grades 9-8 at GCSE.

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Elstree School

“An outstanding school - bright children and dedicated staff” Good Schools Guide

ADDRESS: Woolhampton, Berkshire RG7 5TD WEBSITE: www.elstreeschool.org.uk FOUNDED: 1848 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 265, co-educational AGES: Nursery & pre-prep, 3-7; prep, 7-13 FEES: (termly) Prep day £6,300 – £7,400; prep boarding £7,190 – £9,530 pre-prep: £4,100 HEAD TEACHER: Sid Inglis, BA (Hons), P.G.C.E. RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Church of England: All faiths are welcome.

ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Tour of the school, registration followed by a successful taster day. We also ask for copies of a child’s latest reports.

CONTACT: Tish Gauci, Registrar; 0118 971 3302 EMAIL: registrar@elstreeschool.org.uk SCHOOL VISITS: Open mornings: 26 Feb and 7 May 2022. Individual visits available in term-time & virtual tours on the website.

High Road, Woodford Green, Essex IG8 0RF 0208 505 4821 www.bancrofts.org

THE CURRICULUM: A first-class, progressive education, which prepares pupils for Common Entrance/Scholarship to their first-choice senior school. We have an excellent track record of our pupils gaining places and scholarships at leading senior schools.

THE MAR IS T S C HOOL

INDEPENDENT CA THOLIC DAY SCHOOL FOR GIRLS AGED 2 - 1 8 W I TH A C O- ED NU RS ER Y

GAMES & THE ARTS: Sport is an integral part of life at Elstree. Every child receives daily sport coaching and can represent the school. With 4 choirs, orchestras, ensembles, and 80 per cent learning an instrument, music also thrives at Elstree. Drama plays a huge role with multiple school productions per year.

PASTORAL CARE: Elstree School prides itself on the individual care that each child receives. Our dedicated staff play an essential role in supporting the pastoral programme which is a fundamental part of life in and out of the classroom. Each child’s academic and personal progress is monitored, attesting to our belief that personal growth and academic development derive from a happy, caring environment where children are encouraged and feel valued.

Join us

FOR ONE O F OUR UPC OMING OPEN EVENTS Prep Phase Open Morning 11 March

Senior Phase Open Morning

Whole School Open Day

18 February

14 May

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: Abingdon, Bradfield, Charterhouse, Eton, Harrow, Radley, Sherborne, Wellington and Winchester.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: At Elstree we are academically ambitious and provide a first class all-round education. Our pupils go on to the top senior schools and we are immensely proud of the strong Common Entrance and Scholarship record. The emphasis is on building confidence, developing talent and maximising potential.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: Set in 150 acres of Berkshire countryside an hour west of London, Elstree has extensive facilities yet is small enough to feel personal and family-focused. Children are nurtured and encouraged to work hard, but be kind; they thrive and achieve great things without feeling under pressure. With class sizes averaging 13, all pupils are given the opportunity to shine and encouraged to get involved in the wide range of co-curricular activities. Elstree is non-selective, but still sends pupils to the top senior schools with seventy scholarships and exhibitions awarded to Elstree pupils since 2015.

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Your goals – our expertise.

– Online & face-to-face – Individualised tuition – Personal academic mentoring – Flexible timing

+44 (0)1865 664400

www.greenes.org.uk

Design your education. Transform your future.

Shortlisted

Boarding school of the year

Felsted for me Leading all-round education with pupil wellbeing at its heart.

Give your child the space to thrive with our variety of modern boarding & day options and dynamic curriculum, which includes the choice of A Levels or the IB Diploma in the Sixth Form.

Based on a safe rural campus just one hour from London.

Visit felsted.org/opendays to book your visit and find out more Developing character, making a difference.

Co-educational, ages 4-18, boarding & day. #FelstedForMe

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“Build friendships that will last a lifetime.”

Ours is a community that will lift up your heart.Established in 1862, Haileybury is a top co-educational boarding and day school for 11–18 year olds on a historic 500 acre campus in Hertfordshire, just 20 miles north of London.

2022 Open Events: Friday 4 February Virtual Open Day Saturday 12 March Whole School Open Morning applying for 11+, 13+ and 16+ UK enquiries: uk.admissions@haileybury.com International enquiries: int.admissions@haileybury.com 01992 706 353 Haileybury.com

Scan to see the film

Prep School for ages 4 -13

HaileyburyUK

Lifting Hearts

To book your personal tour please contact Registrar@HorrisHill.com or call 01635 40594

CONSISTENTLY BRILLIANT Come and experience how Horris Hill can nurture and challenge your child so they see learning as an exciting adventure.

Book your personalised tour now at Registrar@HorrisHill.com or call us on 01635 40594 to find out more.

Horris Hill School Newtown, Newbury, RG20 9DJ www.horrishill.com

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Papplewick

ADDRESS: Windsor Road, Ascot, Berkshire SL5 7LH WEBSITE: www.papplewick.org.uk FOUNDED: 1947 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 210 AGES: 6-13 FEES: Boarding, £10,720; International (Child Student Visa), £11,980.

Day, Year 2, £5,930; Years 3 and 4, £7,765; Years 5 and 6, £8,235.

HEAD TEACHER: Tom Bunbury BA, P.G.C.E RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Church of England ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Visit and meeting with Headmaster Bunbury – all boys assessed but no entrance exam.

CONTACT: Rebecca Lindley, 01344 621488 EMAIL: registrar@papplewick.org.uk SCHOOL VISITS: Next Open Morning on Sat 14 May 2022 from 9am – 11:30am

Ludgrove

ADDRESS: Ludgrove, Wokingham, Berkshire RG40 3AB WEBSITE: www.ludgrove.net FOUNDED: 1892 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 186 all boys AGES: 8-13 FEES: (termly) £9,775 HEAD TEACHER: Simon Barber RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Church of England predominantly ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Non-selective in Year 4, with assessment in subsequent years CONTACT: Rebecca Philpott, Registrar; 01189 789881 EMAIL: registrar@ludgroveschool.co.uk SCHOOL VISITS: Open days in May and Sept, two years prior to entry for registered boys. Individual visits by appointment with the registrar

THE CURRICULUM: Outstanding record academically at both CE and scholarship level to major public schools. We aim to challenge and excite boys through inspirational teaching. The school maintains a broad but challenging curriculum with small class sizes.

THE CURRICULUM: Our main focus is to build firm academic foundations and encourage a love of learning. We aim to realise the highest academic expectations for all the boys with first class teaching and small classes.

GAMES & THE ARTS: Rugby, football, cricket (12 teams), athletics, hockey, tennis, squash, golf, fencing, shooting, karate, scuba, polo.

Covered swimming pool. Art and drama flourish. Papplewick has a Cathedral standard choir and three quarters of the school learn one or more musical instruments.

GAMES & THE ARTS: We offer a vibrant extracurricular programme with exposure to music, drama, the creative arts in a 350-seat theatre, and many sports, making the most of playing fields, cricket nets, squash and Fives courts, astroturf and a 20m indoor swimming pool.

PASTORAL CARE: A school which celebrates individuality and where boys can still be boys. The tutor/houseparent system ensures outstanding pastoral care.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: Papplewick maintains its high academic record gaining no less than 41 scholarships to top UK Senior schools in the past three years, including two coveted King’s Scholarships to Eton College.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: The excellence our boys achieve is worth little unless they are happy – thus, our most coveted prize is for greatest enthusiasm for life, contribution to the community and kindness to others.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: Tatler Good Schools Guide award: Prep School of the Year 2018-19. Exceptional scholarship record.

Outstanding preparation for top public schools. Best known for happy, confident and well-mannered boys. Three daily London transport services run from Brook Green, Hammersmith, and Gloucester Road area. Comprehensive daily activities programme (30 activities including 100-strong snake club). Daily chapel. Modern and family-friendly approach to boarding.

PASTORAL CARE: We have an outstanding body of staff who get to know the boys incredibly well, thereby understanding what makes each individual tick. Sophie Barber, the Headmaster’s wife, oversees the pastoral care and together with the resident matrons, school nurse, boarding house parents and all other staff is committed to ensuring that every child’s confidence and character are nurtured at every opportunity.

Only if the boys are healthy and happy will they flourish in and outside the classroom.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: Eton College, Music Exhibition; Tonbridge School, Academic.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: We are unashamedly ambitious for every boy and are proud of our strong academic record. Most importantly, we aim to develop the boys’ confidence in a caring supportive environment, where each boy is valued as an individual, makes friends for life and can flourish and realise their potential.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: Outstanding academic results, with over 70 per cent leaving to go to Eton, Harrow, Radley and Winchester. Set in 130 acres of spectacular grounds, just 45 minutes from London. The school opened a £2.5m Exploration Centre in 2021, which provides one of the finest facilities for Science, Coding, Art, CDT and Ceramics in a prep school anywhere in the country. Exceptional pastoral care. 100 per cent full boarding with fortnightly exeats.

Delicious food cooked on-site using fresh local ingredients.

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Moulsford Preparatory School

Queen Anne’s School, Caversham

ADDRESS: Moulsford-on-Thames, Wallingford, Oxfordshire OX10 9HR WEBSITE: www.moulsford.com FOUNDED: 1961 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 370 AGES: 4-13 FEES: Pre-Prep – £4,200; Prep – £6,725; Boarding – £7,850 HEAD TEACHER: Ben Beardmore-Gray RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Church of England ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Reception: no selection process, entry on a first come, first served basis, with waiting list based registration date.

Year 3+: formal entrance assessment CONTACT: Jill Morrin, Registrar EMAIL: admissions@moulsford.com SCHOOL VISITS: Three open days per year in Sept, Feb and May. Visits may be arranged privately throughout the year.

ADDRESS: Henley Road, Caversham, Reading, Berkshire, RG4 6DX WEBSITE: www.qas.org.uk FOUNDED: 1894 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 424 AGES: 11-18 FEES: (termly) day £8,370; flexi-boarding £12,250 – £12,920; full boarding £13,590 HEAD TEACHER: Elaine Purves BA PGCE RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Church of England, accepts girls of no/ all faith/s.

ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Assessment day and Common Entrance.

CONTACT: Admissions; 01189 187 300 EMAIL: admissions@qas.org.uk SCHOOL VISITS: Visit website to book termly open events. Sixth form open evening in Sept 2022. Contact admissions for individual visits.

THE CURRICULUM: Moulsford’s academic curriculum has moved away from the full set of Common Entrance exams. It is modern and forward thinking, promotes creativity, collaboration, and cross-curricular connections and as well as preparing boys for senior schools, it develops skills for life.

THE CURRICULUM: Academic teaching is structured to allow each and every girl’s needs to be met so they can continue to thrive and achieve highly. The broad curriculum encourages subject engagement which leads to a long-lasting passion for learning.

GAMES & THE ARTS: Within an atmosphere of fun, enjoyment and achievement, we strive to promote and develop the natural creative skills and abilities of all boys with great success in music, drama, art and DT. Sport is a vital part of life at Moulsford, and teamwork, the development of self-esteem and social skills, the healthy exercise, as well as the fun, are all equally valuable.

Boys in A to F teams regularly represent the school.

GAMES & THE ARTS: A rich programme of co-curricular activities provides students with many opportunities in the arts, drama, music and sport. Young musicians thrive in the state-of-the-art Scott Music Centre and it’s not uncommon for girls at Queen Anne’s to represent their county and country at a range of sporting events.

PASTORAL CARE: Exceptional pastoral care permeates every aspect of life within the school. Our core values of respect, compassion and independence are at the heart of all that we do. Expectations are high, in terms of manners, discipline and general behaviour, and there is a strong rapport between staff and boys. Mental wellbeing for both staff and pupils is taken very seriously.

Above all, we want boys to be happy and enjoy coming to school.

PASTORAL CARE: The excellent reputation of the school’s pastoral care is widespread. Queen Anne’s recognises that girls perform best when they are happy and secure. To ensure this security there are effective pastoral systems in place. The girls enjoy success whilst having fun and building strong relationships within a caring environment and community which encourages girls to find their own path and flourish as individuals.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: 15 Scholarships in 2021 – Academic, Drama, Design Technology, Sport, Music.

UNIVERSITY PLACES: Many students continue their education at top UK and overseas universities, studying a range of subjects.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: We want Moulsford boys to receive the broadest possible education, while remembering that they will learn best when happy and settled. Our down-to-earth, family-focussed approach embraces the fact that boys of this age should be having fun at the same time as learning.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: Elaine joined Queen Anne’s in January 2022; she brought a wealth of experience along with a passion for student wellbeing.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: Located on the banks of the River Thames, boys have the opportunity to kayak, sail and paddleboard. Flexi boarding gives boys the opportunity to try out boarding before moving to senior school. Moulsford prides itself on sending boys to a wide variety of top independent senior schools. A brand new state-of-the-art Pre-Prep building is under construction, opening in September 2022. As well as an all-boys Pre-Prep, it will also have a co-ed Pre-School for boys and girls aged three. An outstanding extra-curricular programme is on offer for all boys from Pre-Prep to Year 8. Moulsford is extremely fortunate to have a Forest School site which boys in the Pre-Prep visit weekly. No Saturday school.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: The school’s 35-acre site combines traditional and contemporary architecture, which hosts cutting-edge facilities. Queen Anne’s boasts a TES award-winning Sixth Form Centre alongside state-of-the-art facilities within the music centre, including a recording studio and recital hall. It provides an excellent transport network to the surrounding area and into London.

An ISI Inspection in 2017 rated the school as ‘EXCELLENT’.

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HOME COUNTIES NORTH SCHOOLS

ST GEORGE’S ASCOT Independent boarding and day school for girls aged 11-18

TERMLY OPEN MORNINGS VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR DETAILS Weekly transport service to and from Central London for London boarders and a new daily bus service from Richmond

www.stgeorges-ascot.org.uk | admissions@stgeorges-ascot.org.uk | 01344 629 900

CONFIDENT | CAPABLE | CONNECTED

St. Francis’ College LETCHWORTH GARDEN CITY

Opening minds fulfilling hearts For Open Days... www.st-francis.herts.sch.uk For individual visits year round... admissions@st-francis.herts.sch.uk PREPARATORY - SENIOR - SIXTH FORM

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York House

Adventure Awaits... at York House, a Leading Prep School for Girls & Boys, from 3 to 13 years.

www.york-house.com 01923 772395 York House School, Sarratt Road, Croxley Green, Rickmansworth, Herts, WD3 4LW

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A LEADING PREP SCHOOL FOR STUDENTS AGED 3 – 13

ST GEORGE’S SCHOOL WINDSOR CASTLE

School Reimagined UPCOMING OPEN EVENTS Friday, 18 March at 9:30am Saturday, 21 May at 10.30am Book your place at one of the open days: www.stgwindsor.org/admissions/open-events

Co-Educational Day and Boarding School for Pupils aged 2 -18 BOOK A TOUR TODAY

E: admissions@smbushey.org T: 020 8416 4400 W: www.stmargarets-school.org.uk Merry Hill Road, Bushey, Herts, WD23 1DT

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Where enjoyment creates achievement

Independent day & boarding school for girls and boys aged 3 – 18.

Open Days Virtual Open Day at stchris.co.uk

Junior School Tuesday 29 March Tuesday 14 June

Senior School & Sixth Form Tuesday 26 April +44 (0) 1462 650947 admissions@stchris.co.uk stchris.co.uk

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Sunningdale School

ADDRESS: Dry Arch Road, Sunningdale, SL5 9PY WEBSITE: www.sunningdaleschool.co.uk FOUNDED: 1874 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 110 AGES: 7-13 FEES: (termly) £7,150 - £10,650 HEAD TEACHER: Tom Dawson RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Church of England ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Individual school tour and informal interview with the Headmaster. Report from previous school.

CONTACT: Tom Dawson EMAIL: admissions@sunningdaleschool.org.uk SCHOOL VISITS: By appointment

St Andrew’s School

ADDRESS: St Andrew’s School, Pangbourne, Berkshire, RG8 8QA WEBSITE: www.standrewspangbourne.co.uk FOUNDED: 1934 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 311 – co-ed 158 girls, 153 boys AGES: 3-13 FEES: (termly) Full time nursery £3,890 (half days available); Reception to Year 2, £3,890-£4,140; Year 3-Year 8, £5,910-£6,525. Boarding £35 per night ad hoc or four nights a week each term at £1,250.

HEAD TEACHER: Ed Graham RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Non-denominational, Christian ethos ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Non-selective, taster day and last reports.

CONTACT: Jane Taylor, Director of Admissions, Marketing & Communications EMAIL: taylorj@standrewspangbourne.co.uk SCHOOL VISITS: Book with Jane Taylor

THE CURRICULUM: Broad curriculum delivered by specialist subject teachers throughout. All boys work towards Common Entrance or senior school scholarships. Forms based on academic development and not just age.

THE CURRICULUM: Excellent reputation for stimulating, challenging lessons delivered by inspiring teachers. The classroom is a joyful place where pupils engage fully and take pride in their work. A renewed focus on stretch, not stress, that helps each child reach their potential.

GAMES & THE ARTS: The main sports are football, rugby and cricket but offer a huge range including Eton Fives, athletics, golf, squash, tennis, badminton, polo, archery, fencing and many more. Almost every boy learns a musical instrument. LAMDA classes are also offered. We have regular concerts and performances throughout the year.

GAMES & THE ARTS: Rugby, hockey, netball, lacrosse, football, girls and boys cricket, athletics, tennis, golf, taekwondo, dance. Impressive sports centre with 25m indoor pool. Three choirs, over 200 music lessons per week.

Drama productions throughout the year. New performing arts centre planned.

PASTORAL CARE: Sunningdale is like a family. Boys at the school receive an unrivalled level of individual attention and support. Every boy has a personal tutor who they see every day, although all members of staff are involved in nurturing the boys, making sure that they are happy and helping them to make the most of their time at school. Kindness is at the heart of everything we do.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: A range of Scholarships across all disciplines to top senior schools including: Eton – Music; Harrow – Outstanding Talent; Winchester – Music; Charterhouse – Academic; Marlborough – Sport; Sherborne – Academic, Sports, Music; The Oratory – Academic.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: Our aim is to ignite the spark in every boy through curiosity, friendship and challenge. Our size means that no boy can slip under the radar and they all get to be involved in what we do. There is a strong emphasis on teamwork, on building confidence and on making sure they love being at school.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: A unique form system that adapts to the needs of each boy. Outstanding subject specialist teachers that foster a love of learning. Outstanding extra-curricular opportunities through excellent staff and first-class facilities. A truly family school where every boy feels valued and includes games and extensive cocurricular offerings.

PASTORAL CARE: Holistic approach to pastoral care with the view that a happy child returning home each day is vital. The Form Tutors are the backbone of the pastoral system, offering support, encouragement and a listening ear, alongside innovative programmes like The Lobby (a place for quiet discussions with pastoral team) and Bother Boxes. Children’s voices are heard through the School Council, Charity, RIDE (Respect, Inclusion, Diversity & Equality) and Eco Committees.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: Academic, Art, Sports and Music scholarships awarded by Bradfield College, St Edward’s Oxford, Pangbourne College, Marlborough, Abingdon, Downe House, and Radley.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: To create a happy and secure childhood environment, filled with an engaging curriculum, delivered by teachers who are passionate about their subjects. We are ambitious for our children and support them to fulfil their potential and move on to top day and boarding schools. All of this is done with a sense of proportion; St Andrew’s pupils are stretched, not stressed; they enjoy learning and become considerate, cheerful and well-rounded citizens.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: Beautiful grounds, impressive sports centre and pitches, stand-alone music centre, high-level of pastoral care and academic prowess, as well as wrap-around care and extensive cocurricular calendar. Outstanding preparation in life skills for senior schools and beyond. Renowned for out-going, grounded children who thrive in this homefrom-home environment. Monday - Thursday boarding, daily bus routes.

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SOUTHWEST SCHOOLS

“The School of choice in Devon”

FOUNDED 1604

CO-EDUCATIONAL INDEPENDENT SCHOOL FOR PUPILS FROM AGES 3 TO 18

• Extensive and safe 90 acre campus.

OPEN MORNING SATURDAY 19TH SEPTEMBER 2020 Building on excellent foundations and opening up a world of opportunities with an exceptional all-round education in a stunning rural location.

Full, weekly and flexi boarding and day pupils from ages 11 to 18.

13+ Scholarships and Bursaries available

• Located in the heart of Devon, close to breathtaking coastline and Dartmoor and Exmoor National Parks.

• 25 minutes from the cultural and historic Cathedral city of Exeter.

To find out more about our Open Morning, Bursaries, Scholarship examination dates or to arrange a personal visit please contact our admissions team.

Tel: 01884 252543 admissions@blundells.org

• Only 2 hours from London by train.

Blundell’s School, Tiverton, Devon EX16 4DN www.blundells.org

BOARDING AND DAY

AGES 2-18

We prepare girls for life beyond education. They are confident, resilient and, most importantly, free to be themselves.

Whatever age children come to us, we ensure that they receive a broad and well-rounded experience.

Outstanding Academic Success

A*/A – 79% ∙ A*/B – 94% 50% of ALL girls achieved A*/A 90 minutes from London • No Exeats Extensive Extracurricular Programme Inspirational Learning Environment Stunning Location • Scholarships Available • Flexible Entry

BELONG

•

SUCCEED

•

GROW

For further information please contact Tessa Howard-Vyse, Director of External Relations on admissions@brutonschool.co.uk

www.brutonschool.co.uk

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Badminton School BRYANSTON KNIGHTON HOUSE

OPEN MORNING

6 MAY 2022 | 9.30AM - 12.30PM To arrange a visit call Bryanston admissions 01258 484633 or visit bryanston.co.uk/bkh-open-morning

ADDRESS: Westbury-on-Trym, Bristol BS9 3BA WEBSITE: www.badmintonschool.co.uk FOUNDED: 1858 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 550 AGES: 3–18 FEES: (termly) day, £3, 465 – £5,810; boarding, £7,900 – £13,500.

Nursery sessional fees, £29 per session HEAD TEACHER: Rebecca Tear, MA, BSc, PGCE, PGDip RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Non-denominational ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Entrance exams, online adaptive test and interview by a senior staff member.

CONTACT: Katherine Stewart, Admissions Manager; 01179 055 271 EMAIL: admissions@badmintonschool.co.uk SCHOOL VISITS: Individual visits welcome. Whole school open day: 2 May 2022. Contact Admissions for further information or book online.

THE CURRICULUM: The emphasis at Badminton is on a holistic education, not narrowly academic. Both the curriculum and the timetable are constructed to create a balance between academic achievement, personal development, life skills and other enterprising activity.

GAMES & THE ARTS: The Creative Arts Centre provides girls with the inspiration and facilities to excel in the various mediums of art. Music is a large part of School life with countless opportunities to perform and develop. Sports and wellbeing is an important part of the School day. The new Sports Centre, opened in 2018, provides top of the range facilities on site. With activities ranging from sporting performance pathways through to community and relaxation events, girls can really get involved.

PASTORAL CARE: The campus and community at Badminton gives off a homely, vibrant feel. Coupled with excellent pastoral care the school lends itself to strong mutually supportive relationships between girls and the girls and staff. We wish every girl to feel happy and confident about her school life. Working to ensure a well ordered and supportive environment, we ask the girls to take responsibility for themselves and others. This gives them opportunities to face challenge and build resilience.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: Awards and scholarships, which carry remission on fees, are available and awarded to girls with particular talents which could be in academia, sport, art, STEM, music or in a variety of areas. Scholarships are available for entry to Years 5, 6, 7, 9 and Lower Sixth.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: At Badminton, our focus continues to be on nurturing natural curiosity and fuelling their passion for learning. We believe in practically engaging with the subjects and really getting under the skin of them. The enduring excellence that Badminton girls achieve stems from the positive atmosphere and holistic approach to education.

START YOUR ADVENTURE HERE...

JUNIOR SCHOOL OPEN MORNING THURSDAY 10 FEBRUARY PRE-PREP & NURSERY OPEN MORNING WEDNESDAY 16th FEBRUARY th

For Ages 3-11. Please register at kesbath.com or call 01225 820 399

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: While Badminton retains a nationally outstanding academic record, the community gives girls a chance to develop an understanding of the viewpoints of others and to think about contributing to the world around them. Girls leave Badminton ready to face the wider world and, when they do, they take with them a strong network of lifelong friends developed through a wealth of shared experiences.

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SOUTHWEST SCHOOLS

Bournemouth Collegiate School (Prep & Senior)

ADDRESS: 40 St. Osmunds Road, BH14 9JY | College Road, BH5 2DY WEBSITE: www.bournemouthcollegiateschool.co.uk FOUNDED: 1899 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 669 boys and girls AGES: 2-18 FEES: (termly) 2,455 – £5,080 Boarding: £9,580 – £10,695 HEAD TEACHERS: Russell Slatford & Kay Smith RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Non-denominational ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Selective, with entrance papers for Year 7 and above and an informal interview with the Head CONTACT: Kelly Rumbelow EMAIL: registrar@bcschool.co.uk SCHOOL VISITS: Available as appointment only, with open days termly for both schools.

THE CURRICULUM: We’re proud to offer a broad and vibrant curriculum that places importance on holistic education. There is a fantastic cocurricular offering including musical and sporting events, celebration of the arts, academics, chess, orchestral evenings, house events, careers talks, scholar twilight seminars and much more.

GAMES & THE ARTS: The multi-award-winning Sport Academy programme allows pupils to combine their studies with high-level coaching from professionals in several sports, with full facilities including swimming pools at both sites. Our school is also highly regarded for its Performing Arts.

PASTORAL CARE: Pastoral care is central to life at BCS with plenty of support available at every age. There are appointed Pastoral Deputy Heads at both schools, who make sure that the welfare of the children is a top priority.

Boarders are supported by live-in staff who provide around-the-clock care and assistance. We place a real importance on the ‘student voice’ at the school, with weekly check-ins to ensure any concerns are raised and addressed. We’re also proud to work closely with leading mental health charity, Dorset Mind.

UNIVERSITY PLACES: A wide variety of offers are given each year including to the Russell Group of universities.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: Our vision is to achieve the extraordinary across personal, academic and professional endeavours, and equip our students with the tools and experience for a successful and enriching future. We honour our heritage and create a nurturing, innovative and happy environment to support our students as they undertake their BCS journey.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: We’re proud to be a school that does not solely focus on academic success. We help play to students’ strengths as well as nurture their weaknesses to turn them into confident young adults. Both schools are minutes away from Bournemouth and Poole’s sandy beaches, with the Senior School located right on the beachfront in Southbourne, providing students with the opportunity to use our stunning location in multiple aspects of their day.

Bryanston School

ADDRESS: Blandford, Dorset DT11 0PX WEBSITE: www.bryanston.co.uk FOUNDED: 1928 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 378 boys, 315 girls AGES: 13-18 FEES: (termly) Boarding: £13,630; Day: £11,175 HEAD TEACHER: Richard Jones (MEd, BA) RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Church of England, all faiths welcome ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: At 13, assessments and interviews (full details at bryanston.co.uk/admissions). At 16, entrance tests and interview CONTACT: Anne Megdiche, Director of Admissions, 01258 484 500 EMAIL: admissions@bryanston.co.uk SCHOOL VISITS: Group, individual and virtual visits during term time.

To arrange a visit please contact the admissions office THE CURRICULUM: Alongside high academic standards and expectations, we provide an emotionally and intellectually supportive environment, allowing pupils to develop independent, creative, and unbounded thinking. We encourage innovation in all areas of the curriculum, believing that imagination and boldness are as applicable in history and maths as in music or art.

GAMES & THE ARTS: Bryanston is committed to breadth and stretch within the academic and beyond. We encourage pupils to enhance their personal development and prepare for life beyond the School. Our extensive co-curricular programme provides many opportunities for pupils to find their passions.

PASTORAL CARE: Pastoral care sits at the heart of everything we do, and the Pastoral and the Academic integrate through our one-to-one tutorial system. Each pupil is carefully matched to their tutor and the relationship lasts for the duration of the pupil’s time at Bryanston. The tutor guides each pupil in becoming responsible for their own learning and discusses their wellbeing and progress. At all times, they act as each pupil’s champion and advocate.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: Pupils apply to courses best suited to their strengths and aspirations, at a range of universities, prestigious music conservatoires and art foundation courses, as well as universities overseas.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: The purpose of education is to light your fire, to help find your magic, learn to love your mind, discover what you are capable of and what you can bring to the world. Each child should come out singing their own song. It might not be easy, but it will be exciting!

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: Bryanston is different from other independent schools. Inspired by 90 years of innovative practice, our approach to education and our distinctive culture nurtures purposeful, curious and well-rounded individuals. We live by our values that reflect our commitment to individuality. This is evident in our people, along with a specific kind of creativity that inspires innovative thinking and challenge across all disciplines.

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WA N T TO E X P R E S S YO U R S E L F ?

YOU HAVE THE STAGE TO PERFORM

BURSARIES & 11+ / 13+ / 16+ SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE

We give you the strength to be an individual

‘PUPILS’ ACHIEVEMENT IN MUSIC IS HIGH ACROSS A RANGE OF STYLES, INCLUDING PUPILS GAINING CHORAL AND ORGAN SCHOLARSHIPS AT UNIVERSITY.’ ISI REPORT

OPEN MORNINGS: SAT 5TH MARCH & SAT 14TH MAY 2022 Vir tual and private visits are also available on a date to suit you admissions@downside.co.uk 01761 235103 www.downside.co.uk

Prep, Senior, Sixth

All Girls Education, Salisbury, Wiltshire Day, Weekly and Full Boarding

Tel. 01722 430545 admissions@godolphin.org

www.godolphin.org #WeAreGodolphin

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SOUTHWEST SCHOOLS

HANFORD

Independent Boarding and Day School for Girls Aged 7 to 13

HANFORD IS LEARNING TO GROW To find out more call us on 01258 860219 or visit our website www.hanfordschool.co.uk

AN EDUCATION THAT TRANSFORMS

Find out more at

kingswood.bath.sch.uk 9 months - 18 years Co-educational • Day & Boarding

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Hazlegrove

ADDRESS: Hazlegrove, Sparkford, Yeovil, Somerset BA22 7JA WEBSITE: www.hazlegrove.co.uk FOUNDED: 1947 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 204 boys, 167 girls AGES: 2-13 FEES: Pre-prep, £3,076; prep day, £4,890 – £6,237; prep boarding, £7,235 – £9,232 HEAD TEACHER: Mark White MA (Hons) RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Church of England ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Informal interview and assessment.

CONTACT: Ali Rogers, admissions, 01963 442606 EMAIL: admissions@hazlegrove.co.uk SCHOOL VISITS: Visitors always welcome by appointment, please contact the school for further details.

St Mary’s Calne

ADDRESS: Curzon Street, Calne, Wiltshire SN11 0DF WEBSITE: www.stmaryscalne.org FOUNDED: 1873 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 360 AGES: 11-18 FEES: (termly) boarding £13,760; day £10,265 HEAD TEACHER: Felicia Kirk BA (University of Maryland), MA (Brown University), PhD (Brown University) RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Church of England ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Common Entrance, own entrance papers and interviews.

CONTACT: Sally Dickens, Registrar, 01249 857341 EMAIL: admissions@stmaryscalne.org SCHOOL VISITS: Individual visits throughout the term.

Open days: 12 Feb and 7 May 2022. Pre-booking essential

THE CURRICULUM: The breadth and balance in the curriculum give pupils an opportunity to get excited about the lessons they have each day. The development of a creative and innovative curriculum sits alongside outdoor learning and sustainability.

THE CURRICULUM: Our focus is ‘connected teaching and learning,’ encouraging girls to think broadly and deeply. We challenge girls to grow and develop personally, academically and socially, empowering them to be independent learners.

GAMES & THE ARTS: Sport is a clear strength and significant success is achieved by pupils in team and individual sports. Drama and music are part of our DNA with choirs, ensemble groups and theatre productions filling in any gaps. Every pupil performing in a major drama production every year means the stage should hold no fears.

GAMES & THE ARTS: Sport is key to school life and success is achieved at local, national and international level. The arts are very strong, with world premieres in music, London theatre transfers and art exhibitions.

St Mary’s offers a unique course with the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts in the sixth form.

PASTORAL CARE: There is a distinctive sense of community and wellbeing at Hazlegrove. The happiness of every child is a priority, especially for the 100 or so boarders. ‘The pastoral care of the pupils is exemplary,’ ISI.

PASTORAL CARE: Praised as consistently outstanding, St Mary’s has a close and caring atmosphere, with a vibrant, warm community. Every girl is known and cared for as an individual. Girls can approach anyone for support, with tutors fulfilling a vital role. They support and guide the girls through every aspect of school life; from organisational skills and subject choices through to university application.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: Over the last four years an impressive 121 scholarships and awards have been gained to 28 different schools.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: We delight in children being children and are committed to actively celebrating childhood, protecting those in our care whilst fully preparing them for when they leave the school at the age of 13.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: The Good Schools’ Guide writes: ‘Try as we might, we could not find anything to fault about this super one-off school.’ Pupils are able to lay down firm foundations in all areas of the curriculum, on which they can build in future years.

Academic rigour sits alongside creative ambition, teamwork and a longterm love of learning. Hazlegrove encourages individuality and values determination and perseverance, as well as qualities such as compassion and kindness. For the boarders there is a genuine sense of belonging to the Hazlegrove family.

UNIVERSITY PLACES: The majority of the girls gain places at their first-choice university, including Russell Group universities and leading universities in the USA. HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: St Mary’s Calne offers a transformative and empowering education in a relaxed environment where girls love learning and aspire to be their best selves. In a successful, happy school such as St Mary’s the pupils feel good about themselves; their talents and gifts are spotted and nourished.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: We provide an enriching, personalised curriculum, inspirational teaching and outstanding exam results. The school experience is enhanced by superb facilities as well as trips, outings and over 40 co-curricular clubs. We are ranked 2nd independent secondary school in the South West (The Sunday Times Schools’ Guide, Parent Power 2020).

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SOUTHWEST SCHOOLS

Salisbury Cathedral School

Wells Cathedral School

ADDRESS: 1 The Close, Salisbury, SP1 2EQ WEBSITE: www.salisburycathedralschool.com FOUNDED: 1091 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 225 AGES: 3-13 FEES: (termly) from £3,075 to £5,540. Boarding supplement, £2,600 HEAD TEACHER: Clive Marriott, MA, BEd (Hons) RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Church of England ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Non-selective.

CONTACT: Jojo Orange; 01722 555300 EMAIL: admissions@salisburycathedralschool.com SCHOOL VISITS: We host three open days each year and welcome visitors with a prior appointment

ADDRESS: The Liberty, Wells, Somerset BA5 2ST WEBSITE: www.wells.cathedral.school FOUNDED: 909 AD NUMBER OF PUPILS: Nursery 45, junior school 138, senior school 571 AGES: 2-18 FEES: (termly) junior school, from £2,770 day, £8,502 boarding; senior school from £6,436 day, £10,738 boarding HEAD TEACHER: Alastair Tighe RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Christian. All faiths welcome ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Non selective. Informal interview, Cognitive Ability Test, previous term’s reports and report from current Head. Scholarship Day in January. Auditions for specialist music scheme.

CONTACT: Jo Prestidge, Registrar; 01749 834441 EMAIL: admissions@wells.cathedral.school SCHOOL VISITS: Families welcome all year, contact admissions for appointments. Open days are held in March, May and Oct.

THE CURRICULUM: Through our wide-ranging and creative curriculum, we aim to give children opportunity to discover themselves and develop a life-long love of learning.

THE CURRICULUM: We provide an innovative and bold curriculum with an Integrated Arts Programme, Modern Foreign Languages, STEM, a Specialist Music Scheme and a Specialist Maths Scheme. We offer over 25 subjects at GCSE and A-level and the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ). Around one quarter of senior school pupils are specialist musicians.

GAMES & THE ARTS: Our approach to music, sports and the arts is to encourage enjoyment, participation and progress, and the results speak for themselves. Around 80% of leavers annually win scholarships awards in different disciplines including: academic, music, sport, DT, Stem, art and drama.

PASTORAL CARE: High quality pastoral care is a priority at Salisbury Cathedral School and we take a multi-faceted approach. We proactively promote a continued sense of school community to bolster everyone’s mental health. Regular form times are an open environment for children to raise any practical or emotional issues they face. Year group and whole school assemblies address pastoral themes and often feature our school chaplain to lead thought and prayer.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: 2021 examples: Winchester College: Academic; Sherborne: Music; Warminster: STEM; Bryanston: Sports.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: Here at Salisbury Cathedral School, we are dedicated to the happiness and enrichment of every child in our care. We focus on building confidence, without arrogance, by celebrating each pupil’s individual talents and ensuring they know their own importance within our community. We hold your child in our hearts.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: Housed in a Bishop’s Palace with a 900-year educational history. An incomparable 27-acre setting beneath the famous spire of Salisbury Cathedral. Exceptional music at every level of the school. Impressive academics taught by specialist staff. Extensive outdoor learning opportunities. A welcoming school community inspired by our head master’s caring ethos.

GAMES & THE ARTS: We believe sport is an integral part of school life and encourage all pupils to take part. Good representation at County level and above. We offer over 15 sport options and are proud to have the best cricket grounds in Somerset. Drama has a reputation for ambitious productions such as Les Misérables which was attended by Sir Cameron Mackintosh. Art flourishes with regular exhibitions in our dedicated performance centre, Cedars Hall.

PASTORAL CARE: At Wells we aim to provide all pupils with a family environment within a kind and caring community where they can be happy, healthy and, most importantly, who they are. With the mixed day and boarding houses situated in the heart of the school, this warm atmosphere extends into the day-to-day life of every pupil making Wells not just a school but a home.

UNIVERSITY PLACES: Over 60 per cent to Russell Group, 10 per cent to Oxbridge, 25 per cent to one of the world’s leading music conservatoires (we have a 100 per cent success rate for musicians applying to conservatoires).

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: Our motto esto quod es – ‘Be what you are’ – powerfully represents our school’s belief in the individuality of each pupil, who grow and become the very best version of themselves. We encourage every Wellensian to be curious and open-minded, to develop their character in a positive way, and to nurture existing passions and discover new ones.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: Wells has been described by the Good Schools Guide and the Daily Telegraph as being the loveliest place of learning in the UK. The school’s buildings include medieval halls, and a state-of-the-art concert hall. Wells is one of just four specialist music schools in England, and is utterly unique as the only specialist music school in the world in the context of an all-round school.

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SOUTHWEST SCHOOLS

Talbot Heath School has been named as one of the most innovative and influential independent schools in the country. (i25 Excellence in Education Awards 2019)

TENNIS & SWIMMING ACADEMIES WITH BOARDING

THINK BIG Boarding and day school for girls and boys aged 2-13 years

Rushmore Park, Tollard Royal, Salisbury, Wiltshire, SP5 5QD 01725 530 124 • admissions@sandroyd.com • www.sandroyd.com

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Talbot Heath

Independent School for Girls aged 3-18

Ground breaking curriculum for the future taught from age 3, key content areas are DESIGN THINKING Modelling, Engineering, Architecture, Urban Design, Sustainability, Product Design ETHICS Links to AI, Philosophy, Sustainability, Technological Advances DIGITAL DESIGN Coding, Robotics, Animation, Electronics, Film-making MATERIAL SCIENCE Key skills within all subjects will include critiquing work, problem solving and project management.

SCHOLARSHIPS, BURSARIES, CLERGY & MILITARY DISCOUNTS.

Bournemouth | Dorset | Tel: 01202 761881 | talbotheath.org Connect with us @TalbotHeathSch | Day and boarding | Private Mini Buses to London

03/12/2021 13:04:31

Where potential meets opportunity An exceptional coeducational, full boarding education for 13-18 year olds

For details of admissions, scholarships and bursaries:

+44 (0)1672 892300 email: admissions@marlboroughcollege.org or visit: www.marlboroughcollege.org 5138 Country and Town House 129.5x195_[2].indd 1

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SOUTHWEST SCHOOLS

Open Day Saturday 5th March 10.00am

To book your place: https://wells.cathedral.school/openday admissions@wells.cathedral.school

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CENTRAL, NORTHERN & WALES SCHOOLS

The first step in the adventure of life.

P R E PA R AT O R Y SCHOOL

Family friendly full, weekly and flexi-boarding from ages 7 to 13 Now part of the Rugby School Group

Come and see us on SATURDAY 26 FEBRUARY 2022 Call 01788 810217 Visit www.biltongrange.co.uk

RUGBY SCHOOL GROUP

FO R BO Y S AND G I R LS A GED 3 TO 1 3 D U NC HU RC H . WA RW I CKSH I R E

Discover your child’s potential at Cheltenham A modern, all-round education at the heart of the Cotswolds Co-educational day and boarding places available

Find out more at:

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CENTRAL, NORTHERN & WALES SCHOOLS

Cheltenham Ladies’ College

Queen Ethelburga’s Collegiate

ADDRESS: Bayshill Road, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire GL50 3EP WEBSITE: www.cheltladiescollege.org FOUNDED: 1853 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 873 girls AGES: 11-18 FEES: (termly) Boarding, £13,260; day, £8,900; new sixth-form entrants boarding, £14,930; new sixth-form entrants day, £10,130 HEAD TEACHER: Eve Jardine-Young MA RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Christian – all faiths welcome ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: 11+, 13+, 14+ and 16+: CLC’s own exams.

Sixth-form: exams in chosen subjects for A-level or IB. CONTACT: Charlotte Coull BA, Admissions Director; 01242 707070 EMAIL: admissions@cheltladiescollege.org SCHOOL VISITS: See the website for details.

ADDRESS: Thorpe Underwood Hall, Thorpe Underwood Estate, York, North Yorkshire YO26 9SS WEBSITE: www.qe.org FOUNDED: 1912 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 1400 AGES: Three months – 19 FEES: (termly) Day: £2,132 – £6,169; boarding: £11,214 – £14,012 HEAD TEACHER: Dan Machin RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Non-denominational ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Interview, test, previous school report CONTACT: Sue McKee, Admissions Manager; 01423 333330 EMAIL: admissions@qe.org SCHOOL VISITS: Please contact us to arrange an individual tour, or join us on one of our Open Days on 12 March or 14 May 2022.

THE CURRICULUM: Students are taught in small classes by teachers with a deep enthusiasm for their subjects. We are committed to providing high-quality teaching, developing intellectually curious, self-motivated, enthusiastic young women with an enduring love of learning.

THE CURRICULUM: An excellent rated (ISI 2019) group of independent day and boarding schools, for boys and girls aged between three months and 19 years. Pupils are supported through four schools – Chapter House (three months to year 5), King’s Magna (Year 6 to 9), The College and Faculty (both year 10 to 13) – to become resilient, confident and independent young adults who are prepared for their future. We offer a rich variety of GCSEs, A-levels and BTECs and consistently rank in the top ten schools in the UK for exam performance, with leavers going to the most prestigious UK and international universities.

GAMES & THE ARTS: We understand that every student is an individual, appreciating the talent and potential of every pupil. CLC offers over 140 co-curricular opportunities, including over 30 different sports and multiple drama performances and music concerts throughout the year.

PASTORAL CARE: Pastoral care isn’t something that happens when things go wrong; it’s a constant support system for each girl’s time in College. Our academic staff, tutors, house system, chaplain and medical centre create a pastoral network to support every student, from the reserved to the extrovert. Pupils also undertake a wide range of activities as part of a whole-school Wellbeing Programme.

UNIVERSITY PLACES: Our dedicated Professional Guidance Centre offers a wealth of insight and opportunities to help encourage, guide and support students as they find their path. The Centre runs comprehensive programmes for applications to higher education, both in the UK and abroad, including specialist provision for US and Oxbridge applications.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: A 21st-century education needs to inspire and prepare young people to sustain a lifetime of independently sought learning, and give them the flexibility and resourcefulness to flourish in our rapidly changing world. Academic excellence is the basis of College life, but girls also embrace the co-curricular programme, develop a global outlook, and enrich the communities to which they belong.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: Academic achievements go hand-in-hand with co-curricular activities that interest and challenge our pupils, a community that supports them, and opportunities to pursue their passions and learn from their failures. By nurturing well-rounded and selfconfident girls, we help them to develop the skills they need to manage the choices and opportunities ahead of them, leaving College as inspirational and empowered young women. CLC was named South West Independent Secondary School of the Decade by The Sunday Times Parent Power 2021.

GAMES & THE ARTS: All QE students follow a sports programme designed to stimulate the values of fair play, honesty, determination and application, through a wide variety of pursuits. Our Performance Sports Programme is available for students from Year 7. We have an outstanding and growing creative and performing arts provision, with a full-scale professional theatre on site. Small class sizes and one-to-one support outside normal lessons enable us to nurture young talent and achieve excellent results.

PASTORAL CARE: Care is the most important element within the QE community; every member of the collegiate, staff and student, is responsible for the pastoral care and happiness of the site. Students across all years have access to our dedicated programme of activities and support – THRIVE@QE – aimed at supporting their mental health and well-being.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: We offer academic (Year 12), sport, music and drama scholarships in Years 7 to 13.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: To be the best I can with the gifts I have.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: QE is set in more than 220 acres of North Yorkshire countryside, between Harrogate and York. It can be reached from London in under two hours by train. A renowned, extensive co-curricular programme of trips and enrichment activities for all students. A dedicated Sports Village, with professional coaching and over 30 acres of professionally maintained sports pitches and elite level facilities. State-of-the-art boarding facilities, which support students’ development and provide the safe and productive environment for them to thrive.

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“Like a jigsaw, everyone seems to fit in“ SIXTH FORM PUPIL

INDEPENDENT DAY & BOARDING EDUCATION FOR BOYS & GIRLS AGED 7-18 YEARS

www.christcollegebrecon.com 01874 615440 | admissions@christcollegebrecon.com

Girls 3-18 | Boys 3-13

“Your school runs with kindness, acceptance and flexibility” A combination of rigorous academics with a relaxed, family atmosphere gives Wotton House Prep and Senior an energetic feeling of fun and purpose.

WINNER

Boarding School of the Year

The MYP offers a progressive alternative to GCSEs which provides a sound preparation for the future. We counterbalance digital literacy with a strong grounding in the real worlds, both cultural and natural.

Wotton House School Horton Road, Gloucester, GL1 3PR

Wilderness Centre Plump Hill, Mitcheldean, GL17 0HA

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CENTRAL, NORTHERN & WALES SCHOOLS

Be yourself, become yourself.

This is boarding at St Peter’s.

Excellent academics. Outstanding sporting and cultural opportunities.

The benefits of boarding last a lifetime.

Visit our website: www.stpetersyork.org.uk/boarding

Winner Independent school of the year

Shortlisted Prep school of the year

Winner Pre-prep school of the year

St Peter’s School, York

St Peter’s School, York

St Peter’s School, York

Shrewsbury School

Visit Shrewsbury The Independent School of the Year 2020 Boarding and Day School for Girls and Boys aged 13-18

admissions@shrewsbury.org.uk 01743 280 552 | shrewsbury.org.uk

Start your journey now at:

shrewsbury.org.uk/open-days SHORTLISTED Boarding School of the Year

WINNER Independent School of the Year 2020 WINNER Community Outreach Award 2020

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EASTERN SCHOOLS

Open Days 2022: Saturday 12th March

Saturday 7th May

Saturday 11th June

www.obh.co.uk Brettenham Park

Brettenham

Ipswich

Norfolk Suffolk Life January 2022.indd 1

Suffolk

IP7 7PH

11/01/2022 10:53:22

East Anglia Independent Secondary School of the Decade A family of co-educational independent day schools from nursery to sixth form in Cambridge and Saffron Walden, recently judged ‘Excellent’ by ISI and regularly one of the UK’s best performing schools.

Offering A Levels and the IB, with flexible boarding options in the sixth form and just 45 minutes from London by train.

To find out more please visit stephenperse.com

Richard Girvan, Principal

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IRELAND & SCOTLAND SCHOOLS

Discover the benefits of a Fettes education Full Boarding Ethos 100 acre campus in Edinburgh Co-educational 13-18 Excellent IB, A Level & GCSE results ‘Sector leading’ pastoral care

www.fettes.com 208 | SCHOOLHOUSEMAGAZINE.CO.UK | Spring/Summer 2022

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DIRECTORY IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

Repton Prep, Derbyshire

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NURSERIES & LONDON SCHOOLS

London

108 Banstead Pre-Prep Sutton Lane, Banstead SM7 3RA T: 01737 363601 bansteadprep.com 109 Berkhamsted Day Nursery Chesham Rd, Berkhamsted HP4 2SZ T: 01442 358276 berkhamsted.com 108 Beachborough Westbury, Nr. Brackley, Northamptonshire, NN13 5LB T: 01280 700071 beachborough.com 109 The Chelsea Nursery 4 The Vale, London SW3 6AH T: 020 7352 4040 cameronvaleschool.com 111

Claremont Fan Court Claremont Dr, Esher KT10 9LY T: 01372 467841 claremontfancourt.co.uk

108 Cumnor House Nursery 91 Pampisford Rd, Croydon, South Croydon CR2 6DH T: 02086 603445 cumnorhouse.com 113

Cygnets Art Schools T: 07903132064 cygnetsartschool.com

116 Devonshire House 123 Prep School 2 Arkwright Rd, London NW3 6AE T: 020 7435 1916 devonshirehouse school.co.uk 139 Eaton House Belgravia Nursery 3-5 Eaton Gate, London SW1W 9BA T: 020 3917 5050 eatonhouseschools.com 139 Eaton House The Manor Nursery 58 Clapham Common Northside, London SW4 9RU T: 020 3917 5050 eatonhouseschools.com

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Eaton Square Nursery, Pimlico 32a Lupus Street, London SW1V 3DZ T: 020 7976 6511 eatonsquareschool.com

110 Phileas Fox Nursery St Mary’s Square, London W2 1SE T: 020 7723 2106 phileasfoxnursery.com

Grimsdell, Mill Hill Pre-Prep Winterstoke House, Wills Grove Mill Hill, London NW7 1QR T: 020 8959 6884 millhill.org.uk

114 RGS Prep Guildford Maori Rd, Guildford GU1 2EL T: 01483 880650 rgsg.co.uk

110 Hampton Court House Hampton Ct Rd, London KT8 9BS T: 020 8614 0857 hamptoncourthouse.co.uk 112

Hurlingham School Pre-Prep The Old Methodist Hall, Gwendolen Ave, London SW15 6EH T: 020 4530 9581 hurlinghamschool.co.uk

110 Little Chepstow 108A Lancaster Rd, London W11 1QS, T: 020 7243 0243 chepstowhouseschool. co.uk 116 Marmalade Nursery Clapham, Balham, Wandsworth, Fulham and Kensington T: 020 8265 5224 marmaladeschools.co.uk 116 Noah’s Ark Nursery 106 Northcote Road, SW11 6QW | Melody Rd, SW18 2QQ T: 020 7924 3472 noahsarknursery schools.org.uk 144 North Bridge House Nursery 33 Fitzjohn’s Ave, London NW3 5JY T: 020 7428 1520 northbridgehouse.com 144 North Bridge House Nursery & Pre-Prep West Hampsted 85-87 Fordwych Road, London NW2 3TL T: 020 7428 1520 northbridgehouse.com

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Riverside Nursery Grosvenor House Grosvenor Road Twickenham TW1 4AD, T: 020 3475 0455 riversidenursery schools.com

114 Shrewsbury House Pre-Prep 22 Millbourne Lane, Esher Surrey, KT10 9EA T: 01372 462781 shrewsburyhouse preprep.net 118 St Hilary’s Holloway Hill, Godalming, Surrey GU7 1RZ T: 01483 416551 sthilarysschool.com 118 Tadpoles Nursery Chelsea Park Walk, SW10 0AY T: 020 7352 9757 tadpolesnursery.com 118 Tadpoles Nursery Kensington The Studio, 8 Hornton Pl London W8 4LZ T: 020 7352 9757 tadpolesnursery.com 118 Willow Nursery School 55 Grafton Square Clapham Old Town London SW4 0DE T: 020 7498 0319 willownursery.co.uk 118 The Willow At The Farm Nursery School Nill Farm, Hook Norton Banbury, Oxon OX15 5DQ T: 01608 730143 willownursery.co.uk

PREPARATORY 148 Alleyn’s Junior School Townley Road, London SE22 8SU T: 020 8557 1519 alleyns.org.uk 122 Bassett House School 60 Bassett Road, London W10 6JP T: 020 8969 0313 bassetths.org.uk 115

Belmont, Mill Hill Prep The Ridgeway Mill Hill Village London NW7 1QS T: 020 8908 7270 millhill.org.uk

122 Blackheath Preparatory School 4 St Germans Place, London SE3 ONJ T: 020 8858 0692 blackheathprep school.com 120 Broomwood Hall Lower School 192 Ramsden Road, SW12, 50 Nightingale Lane, SW12 & 3 Garrad’s Road, SW16.

T: 020 8682 8820 northwoodschools.com 120 Broomwood Hall Upper School 68–74 Nightingale Lane, London SW12 8NR T: 020 8682 8810 northwoodschools.com 126 Cameron Vale 4 The Vale, London SW3 6AH T: 020 7352 4040 cameronvale school.com 124 Chepstow House 108a Lancaster Road, London W11 1QS T: 020 7243 0243 chepstowhouse school.co.uk 148 Croydon High School GDST Old Farleigh Road, Selsdon, South Croydon CR2 8YB T: 020 8260 7543 croydonhigh.gdst.net

New school? New home?

It’s not an estate agent you need.

It’s a partner in property.

Your partners in property.

Job No: 63568-14

Oval Montesorri Vauxhall Park, Fentiman Rd, London SW8 1PU T: 020 7735 4816 theovalmontessori.co.uk

Eaton Square Nursery, Belgravia 28 & 30 Eccleston Street, London SW1W 9PY T: 020 7823 6217 eatonsquareschool.com

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Due to the pandemic we unfortunately cannot publish open days in this issue.

Please go to the individual schools’ websites for further information.

Nurseries

knightfrank.co.uk

020 3813 5005

Tel: 020 7291 4700

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LONDON SCHOOLS

125 Cumnor House School for Boys 168 Pampisford Rd, South Croydon CR2 6DA T: 020 8660 3445 cumnorhouse.com

140 Eaton House The Manor Prep School 58 Clapham Common Northside, London SW4 9RU T: 020 3917 5050 eatonhouseschools.com

125 Cumnor House

140 Eaton House The Manor Girls’ School 58 Clapham Common Northside, London SW4 9RU T: 020 3917 5050 eatonhouseschools.com

School for Girls 1 Woodcote Ln, Purley CR8 3HB T: 020 8668 0050 cumnorhouse.com

123 Devonshire House Prep School 2 Arkwright Rd, London NW3 6AE T: 020 7435 1916 devonshirehouse school.co.uk 124 Dolphin School 106 Northcote Road, London SW11 6QW T: 020 7924 3472 dolphinschool.org.uk Dulwich College Junior School Dulwich Common, London SE21 7LD T: 020 8299 8432 dulwich.org.uk/ junior-school

Due to the pandemic we unfortunately cannot publish open days in this issue.

Please go to the individual schools’ websites for further information.

127 Dulwich Prep 42 Alleyn Park, London SE21 7AA T: 020 8766 5500 dulwichpreplondon.org 126 Durston House 12-14 Castlebar Rd, London W5 2DR T: 020 8991 6530 durstonhouse.org 141

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Eaton House Belgravia Pre-Prep 3–5 Eaton Gate, London SW1W 9BA T: 020 3917 5050 eatonhouseschools.com Eaton House Belgravia Prep 3–5 Eaton Gate, London SW1W 9BA T: 020 3917 5050 eatonhouseschools.com

139 Eaton House The Manor Pre-Prep School 58 Clapham Common Northside, London SW4 9RU T: 020 3917 5050 eatonhouseschools.com

111 Eaton Square School 127 79 Eccleston Square, London SW1V 1PP T: 020 7931 9469 eatonsquareschool.com 137 L’Ecole de Battersea Trott Street, London SW11 3DS T: 020 7371 8350 lecoledespetits.co.uk 137 L’Ecole des Petits 2 Hazlebury Road, London SW6 2NB T: 020 7371 8350 lecoledespetits.co.uk 61

EIFA International School London 36 Portland Place, London, W1B 1LS T: 020 7637 5351 eifaschool.com

152 Eltham College Junior School Mottingham Ln, Mottingham London SE9 4RW T: 020 8857 3457 elthamcollege.london 152 Francis Holland School (Sloane Square) 39 Graham Terrace, London SW1W 8JF T: 020 7730 2971 fhs-sw1.org.uk 80 Fulham Pre-Prep School 47A Fulham High Street, London SW6 3JJ T: 020 7371 9911 fulham.school/pre-prep 80 Fulham Prep School 200 Greyhound Road, London W14 9SD T: 020 7386 2444 fulham.school/prep

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Godolphin & Latymer School Iffley Rd, London W6 0PG T: 020 8741 1936 godolphinandlatymer.com

134 The Hampshire School 15 Manresa Rd, London SW3 6NB T: 020 7352 7077 thehampshireschool chelsea.co.uk 110 Hampton Court House 129 Hampton Court Road, London KT8 9BS T: 020 8614 0857 hamptoncourthouse.co.uk 131

Hawkesdown House School 27 Edge Street, London W8 7PN T: 020 7727 9090 hawkesdown.co.uk

4/5 Kew Green 132 Preparatory School Layton House, Ferry Lane, Kew Green, Richmond TW9 3AF T: 020 8948 5999 kgps.co.uk 132 Knightsbridge School 67 Pont Street, London SW1X 0BD T: 020 7590 9000 knightsbridgeschool.com 143 Lyndhurst House Prep School 24 Lyndhurst Gardens, London NW3 5NW T: 020 74354936 lyndhursthouse.co.uk 136 The Mall School 185 Hampton Road Twickenham, TW2 5NQ T: 020 8977 2523 themallschool.org.uk

130 Heathside School 16 New End, London NW3 1JA T: 020 3058 4011 heathsideprep.co.uk

144 Milbourne Lodge School 43 Arbrook Lane, Esher, Surrey KT10 9EG T: 01372 462737 milbournelodge.co.uk

136 Hornsby House Hearnville Road, Balham, London SW12 8RS T: 020 8673 7573 hornsbyhouse.org.uk

144 North Bridge House Prep 1 Gloucester Ave, London NW1 7AB T: 020 7428 1520 northbridgehouse.com

130 Hurlingham School 122 Putney Bridge Road, London SW15 2NQ T: 020 8874 7186 hurlinghamschool.co.uk

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135 Ibstock Place Junior Clarence Lane, London SW15 5PY T: 020 8392 5803 ibstockplace school.co.uk

128 Old Vicarage School 48 Richmond Hill, Richmond TW10 6QX T: 020 8940 0922 oldvicarageschool.com

James Allen’s Prep School 144 East Dulwich Grove, London SE22 8TE T: 020 8693 0374 jags.org.uk 134 Kensington Wade 205 Warwick Road, London W14 8PU T: 020 3096 2888 kensingtonwade.com 133 Kew College 24–26 Cumberland Road, Kew, Surrey TW9 3HQ T: 020 8940 2039 kewcollege.com

Northcote Lodge 26 Bolingbroke Grove, London SW11 6EL T: 020 8682 8830 northwoodschools.com

135 Orchard House School 16 Newton Grove, London W4 1LB T: 020 8987 9886 orchardhs.org.uk 122 Orley Farm School South Hill Avenue, Harrow on the Hill HA1 3NU T: 020 8869 7634 orleyfarm.harrow.sch.uk 142 Parsons Green Prep School 1 Fulham Park Road, London SW6 4LJ T: 020 7371 9009 parsonsgreenprep.co.uk

New school? New home?

It’s not an estate agent you need.

It’s a partner in property.

Your partners in property.

Job No: 63568-14

12

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knightfrank.co.uk

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LONDON SCHOOLS

London 145 St Philip’s School 6 Wetherby Place, London SW7 4NE T: 020 7373 3944 stphilipschool.co.uk

133 Prince’s Gardens Preparatory School 10-13 Prince’s Gardens, London SW7 1ND T: 020 7591 4620 princesgardensprep.co.uk

161 Sydenham High Prep School GDST 15 Westwood Hill, London SE26 6BL T: 020 8557 7004 sydenhamhighschool .gdst.net

156 Queen’s Gate Junior School 131–133 Queen’s Gate, London SW7 5LE T: 020 7589 3587 queensgate.org.uk 4/5 Ravenscourt Park 147 Preparatory School 16 Ravenscourt Ave, London W6 0SL T: 020 8846 9153 rpps.co.uk 12

Redcliffe School Prep 47 Redcliffe Gardens, London SW10 9JH T: 020 7352 9247 redcliffeschool.com

146 St Anthony’s School for Boys 90 Fitzjohn’s Avenue, London NW3 6NP T: 020 7435 3597 stanthonysprep.org.uk 146 St Anthony’s School for Girls Ivy House, North End Road, London NW11 7SX T: 020 3869 3070 stanthonysgirls.co.uk 162 St Benedict’s Junior School 5 Montpelier Avenue, London W5 2XP T: 020 8862 2253 stbenedicts.org.uk 138 St Dunstan’s College Junior School Stanstead Road, London SE6 4TY T: 020 8516 7200 stdunstans.org.uk 158 St James Prep School Earsby Street, London W14 8SH T: 020 7348 1793 stjamesschools.co.uk

158 University College Junior School 11 Holly Hill, London NW3 6QN T: 020 7435 3068 ucs.org.uk 159 Wetherby Prep Bryanston Square, London W1H 2EA T: 020 7535 3520 wetherbyprep.co.uk 147 The White House Preparatory School & Woodentops Kindergarten 24 Thornton Road, London SW12 0LF T: 020 8674 9514 whitehouseschool.com SENIOR 32

ACS International Hillingdon 108 Vine Lane, Hillingdon, Middlesex UB10 0BE T: 01895 259771 acs-schools.com/acshillingdon

148 Alleyn’s School Townley Road London SE22 8SU T: 020 8557 1500 alleyns.org.uk 149 Blackheath High School Vanbrugh Park, London SE3 7AG T: 020 8852 1537 blackheathhighschool. gdst.net 148 City of London School Queen Victoria Street, London EC4V 3AL T: 020 3680 6300 cityoflondonschool.org.uk

Listings SS22 V9ST.indd 212

150 DLD College 199 Westminster Bridge Road, London SE1 7FX T: 020 7935 8411 dldcollege.co.uk

129 Hampton Court House Hampton Court Road, East Molesey, KT8 9BS T: 020 8614 0857 hamptoncourthouse.co.uk 150 Ibstock Place School Senior Clarence Lane, London SW15 5PY T: 020 8392 5803 ibstockplaceschool.co.uk James Allen’s Girls’ School 144 East Dulwich Grove, London SE22 8TE T: 020 8693 1181 jags.org.uk

Dulwich College Dulwich Common, London SE21 7LD T: 020 8299 9263 dulwich.org.uk 154 Eaton Square Mayfair 106 Piccadilly, London W1J 7NL T: 020 7491 7393 eatonsquareschool.com 61

EIFA International School London 36 Portland Place, London, W1B 1LS T: 020 7637 5351 eifaschool.com

156 Kensington Park 59 Queen’s Gate, South Kensington London SW7 5JP T: 020 8161 0301 kps.com 4/5 Kew House School 151 6 Capital Interchange Way, London TW8 0EX T: 020 8742 2038 kewhouseschool.com

152 Eltham College Grove Park Rd, Mottingham, London SE9 4QF T: 020 8857 1455 elthamcollege.london

132 Knightsbridge Senior School 67 Pont Street, London SW1X 0BD T: 020 7590 9000 knightsbridgeschool.com

152 Francis Holland School (Regent’s Park, NW1) Ivor Place, London NW1 6XR T: 020 7723 0176 fhs-nw1.org.uk

128 The Latymer School Haselbury Rd, Edmonton London N9 9TN T: 020 8807 4037 laymer.co.uk

152 Francis Holland School (Sloane Square, SW1) 39 Graham Terrace, London SW1W 8JF T: 020 7730 2971 fhs-sw1.org.uk 80 Fulham Senior School 1-3 Chesilton Road, London, SW6 5AA T: 020 7386 2444 fulham.school/senior 153 Haberdashers’ Boys’ School Butterfly Lane, Elstree WD6 3AF T: 020 8266 1700 habsboys.org.uk

4/5 Maida Vale School 151 18 Saltram Crescent, London W9 3HR T: 020 4511 6000 maidavaleschool.com Merchant Taylors’ School Sandy Lodge, Northwood HA6 2HT T: 01923 845514 mtsn.org.uk 115

Mill Hill Senior The Ridgeway Mill Hill Village London NW7 1QS T: 020 8959 1176 millhill.org.uk

157 More House School 22-24 Pont St, London SW1X 0AA T: 020 7235 2855 morehouse.org.uk

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148 Croydon High School GDST Old Farleigh Road, Selsdon, South Croydon CR2 8YB T: 020 8260 7543 croydonhigh.gdst.net

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145 Prospect House School 75 Putney Hill, London SW15 3NT T: 020 8246 4897 prospecths.org.uk

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LONDON & COUNTRY SCHOOLS

Home Counties South 2/3 MPW London 90–92 Queen’s Gate, London SW7 5AB T: 020 7835 1355 mpw.ac.uk

162 St Benedict’s School Senior & Sixth Form 54, Eaton Rise, London W5 2ES T: 020 8862 2254 stbenedicts.org.uk

157 North Bridge House Senior Canonbury 6-9 Canonbury Place, London N1 2NQ T: 020 7428 1520 northbridgehouse.com

160 St Dunstan’s College Stanstead Road, London SE6 4TY T: 020 8516 7200 stdunstans.org.uk

157 North Bridge House Senior Hampstead 65 Rosslyn Hill, London NW3 5UD T: 020 7428 1520 northbridgehouse.com 121 Northwood Senior School 155 3 Garrad’s Road, London SW16 1JZ T: 020 8161 0301 northwoodschools.com Old Palace of John Whitgift School Old Palace Road, Croydon CR0 1AX T: 020 8688 2027 oldpalace.croydon.sch.uk 159 Portland Place School 56-58 Portland Place, London W1B 1NJ T: 020 7307 8700 portland-place.co.uk

Due to the pandemic we unfortunately cannot publish open days in this issue.

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Putney High School GDST 35 Putney Hill, London SW15 6BH T: 020 8788 4886 putneyhigh.gdst.net 156 Queen’s Gate 131-133 Queen’s Gate, London SW7 5LE T: 020 7589 3587 queensgate.org.uk 155 Queenswood Shepherd’s Way, Brookmans Park, Hatfield AL9 6NS T: 01707 602500 queenswood.org Radnor House Pope’s Villa, Cross Deep, Twickenham, London TW1 4QG T: 020 8891 6264 radnor-twickenham.org 87

161 St Helen’s School Eastbury Road, Northwood HA6 3AS T: 01923 843210 sthelens.london 158 St James Senior Girls’ School Earsby Street, London W14 8SH T: 020 7348 1748 stjamesschools.co.uk 162 Sutton High School 55 Cheam Rd, Sutton SM1 2AX T: 020 8642 0594 suttonhigh.gdst.net 161 Sydenham High Senior School GDST 15 Westwood Hill, London SE26 6BL T: 020 8557 7004 sydenhamhighschool. gdst.net 160 Trinity School Shirley Park, Croydon CR9 7AT T: 020 8656 9541 trinity-school.org 158 University College School Frognal, London NW3 6XH T: 020 7433 2117 ucs.org.uk 159 Wetherby Senior School 100 Marylebone Lane, London W1U 2QU T: 020 7535 3530 wetherbysenior.co.uk Whitgift School Haling Park Road, South Croydon CR2 6YT T: 020 8688 9222 whitgift.co.uk

Royal Russell School Coombe Ln, Croydon London CR9 5BX T: 020 8657 4433 royalrussell.co.uk

Listings SS22 V9ST.indd 213

32

ACS International Cobham Portsmouth Road, Cobham, Surrey KT11 1BL T: 01932 869744 acs-schools.com/acscobham ACS International Egham London Road, Egham, Surrey TW20 0HS T: 01784 430611 acs-schools.com/acsegham

164 Aldro Lombard St, Shackleford, Godalming, Surrey GU8 6AS T: 01483 813535 aldro.org

169 Christ’s Hospital School Horsham, West Sussex RH13 0YP T: 01403 211293 christs-hospital.org.uk 85 111

Claremont Fan Court School Claremont Dr, Esher KT10 9LY T: 01372 467841 claremontfancourt.co.uk

166 Cottesmore School Buchan Hill, Pease Pottage, West Sussex RH11 9AU T: 01293 520648 cottesmoreschool.com

165 Banstead Prep School Sutton Lane, Banstead SM7 3RA T: 01737 363600 bansteadprep.com

34 Cranleigh Preparatory 167 School Horseshoe Lane, Cranleigh, Surrey GU6 8QH T: 01483 542051 cranprep.org

108 Beachborough Westbury, Nr. Brackley, Northamptonshire, NN13 5LB T: 01280 700071 beachborough.com

34 Cranleigh School 167 Horseshoe Lane, Cranleigh, Surrey GU6 8QQ T: 01483 273666 cranleigh.org

165 Bedales Church Road, Steep, Petersfield, Hampshire GU32 2DG T: 01730 711733 bedales.org.uk

125 Cumnor House School for Boys 168 Pampisford Rd, South Croydon CR2 6DA T: 020 8660 3445 cumnorhouse.com

56

Bede’s Prep School Duke’s Drive, Eastbourne East Sussex BN20 7XL T: 01323 734222 bedes.org

56

Bede’s Senior School Upper Dicker, East Sussex BN27 3QH T: 01323 843252 bedes.org

164 Benenden School Cranbrook, Kent TN17 4AA T: 01580 240592 benenden.school 13

171

17

Brighton College Eastern Road, Brighton BN2 0AL T: 01273 704200 brightoncollege.org.uk Caterham School Harestone Valley Rd, Caterham, Surrey CR3 6YA T: 01883 343028 caterhamschool.co.uk Charterhouse Godalming, Surrey GU7 2DX T: 01483 291501 charterhouse.org.uk

125 Cumnor House School for Girls 1 Woodcote Ln, Purley CR8 3HB T: 020 8668 0050 cumnorhouse.com 168 Dorset House Church Lane, Bury Pulborough RH20 1PB T: 01798 831456 dorsethouseschool.com 166 Dunottar School High Trees Rd, Reigate, Surrey RH2 7EL T: 01737 761945 dunottarschool.com Edgeborough School Frensham, Surrey, GU10 3AH T: 01252 792495 edgeborough.co.uk 168 Farleigh School Red Rice,Hampshire SP11 7PW T: 01264 712838 farleighschool.com 174 Farringtons School Perry St, Chislehurst, Kent BR7 6LR T: 020 8467 0256 farringtons.org.uk

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32

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COUNTRY SCHOOLS

Home Counties North

170 Highfield and Brookham Schools Highfield Ln, Liphook GU30 7LQ T: 01428 728000 highfieldschool.org.uk

172 The Royal Alexandra and Albert School Gatton Park, Reigate, Surrey RH2 0TD T: 01737 649000 raa-school.co.uk 176 Sevenoaks Prep School Godden Green, Sevenoaks, Kent TN15 0JU T: 01732 762336 theprep.org.uk

32

ACS International Hillingdon 108 Vine Lane, Hillingdon, Middlesex UB10 0BE T: 01895 818402 acs-schools.com/acshillingdon

182 Bancroft’s School High Road, Woodford Green, Essex IG8 0RF T: 020 8505 4821 bancrofts.org

Hurst College College Ln, Hurstpierpoint, West Sussex BN6 9JS T: 01273 833636 hppc.co.uk

174 Sevenoaks School Sevenoaks, Kent TN13 1HU T: 01732 455133 sevenoaksschool.org

BC

Hurtwood House Holmbury St Mary, Dorking, Surrey RH5 6NU T: 01483 279000 hurtwoodhouse.com

173 St Catherine’s, Bramley Station Rd, Bramley, Guildford GU5 0DF T: 01483 899609 stcatherines.info

108 Beachborough School Westbury, Nr. Brackley, Northamptonshire NN13 5LB T: 01280 700071 beachborough.com

8

Lancing College Lancing, West Sussex BN15 0RW T: 01273 465805 lancingcollege.co.uk

176 St Edmund’s School Canterbury St Thomas’ Hill, Canterbury, Kent CT2 8HU T: 01227 475601 stedmunds.org.uk

180 The Beacon School 15 Amersham Road Chesham Bois, Amersham, Bucks HP6 5PF T: 01494 433654 beaconschool.co.uk

88

175 Mayfield School The Old Palace, Mayfield, East Sussex TN20 6PH T: 01435 874642 mayfieldgirls.org 184 The New Beacon School Brittains Lane, Sevenoaks Kent, TN13 2PB T: 01732 452131 newbeacon.org.uk 60

Parkside School The Manor, Cobham, Surrey KT11 3PX T: 01932 862749 parkside-school.co.uk

170 The Pilgrims’ School The Close, Winchester SO23 9LT T: 01962 854189 thepilgrims–school.co.uk 172 Reed’s School Sandy Lane, Cobham, Surrey KT11 2ES T: 01932 869001 reeds.surrey.sch.uk 178 Reigate Grammar School Reigate Road,Surrey RH2 0QS T: 01737 222231 reigategrammar.org

114 RGS Prep Guildford Maori Rd, Guildford GU1 2EL T: 01483 880650 rgsg.co.uk

118

St Hilary’s Prep School Holloway Hill, Godalming, Surrey GU7 1RZ T: 01483 416551 sthilarysschool.com

177 Tonbridge School High St, Tonbridge, Kent, TN9 1JP T: 01732 304297 tonbridge-school.co.uk 177 Tormead School Cranley Rd, Guildford, Surrey GU1 2JD T: 01483 796040 tormeadschool.org.uk

Listings SS22 V9ST.indd 214

14

181

178 Walhampton School School Ln, Walhampton, Lymington SO41 5ZG T: 01590 613300 walhampton.com 179 Walthamstow Hall Junior Bradbourne Park Rd, Sevenoaks Kent, TN13 3LD T: 01732 453815 walthamstow-hall.co.uk 179 Walthamstow Hall Senior Holly Bush Lane, Sevenoaks Kent TN13 3UL T: 01732 451334 walthamstow-hall.co.uk

181

Cheam School Headley, Newbury, Berkshire RG19 8LD T: 01635 267822 cheamschool.com Christ Church Cathedral School 3 Brewer Street, Oxford OX1 1QW T: 01865 242561 cccs.org.uk d’Overbroeck’s 333 Banbury Road, Oxford OX2 7PL T: 01865 688600 doverbroecks.com Downe House Hermitage Rd, Cold Ash Thatcham, Berkshire RG18 9JJ T: 01635 200286 downehouse.net

182 Elstree School Woolhampton, Reading, Berkshire RG7 5TD T: 0118971 3302 elstreeschool.org.uk 183 Felsted Preparatory School Felsted, Essex CM6 3JL T: 01371 822611 felsted.org/prephome 183 Felsted School Felsted, Essex CM6 3LL T: 01371 822600 felsted.org 183 Greenes College Oxford 45 Pembroke Street, Oxford OX1 1BP T: 01865 419998 greenes.org.uk 185 Haileybury Haileybury, Hertford SG13 7NU T: 01992 706353 haileybury.com 6/7 Heathfield School London Road, Ascot SL5 8BQ T: 01344 898 343 heathfieldschool.net 185 Horris Hill Newtown, Newbury, Hampshire RG20 9DJ T: 01635 40594 horrishill.com 186 Ludgrove School Ludgrove, Wokingham, Berkshire RG40 3AB T: 01189 789881 ludgrove.net 182 The Marist School Kings Rd, Sunninghill, Ascot Berkshire SL5 7PS T: 01344 624291 themarist.com 187 Moulsford Preparatory School Moulsford-on-Thames, Oxfordshire OX10 9HR T: 01491 651438 moulsford.com

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40 Berkhamsted School 109 Overton House, 131 High Street, Berkhamsted, Herts HP4 2DJ T: 01442 358001 berkhamsted.com

180 Dragon School Bardwell Rd, Oxford OX2 6SS T: 01865 315413 dragonschool.org

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174 The Granville School 2 Bradbourne Park Rd, Sevenoaks TN13 3LJ T: 01732 453039 granvilleschool.org

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COUNTRY SCHOOLS

South West 188 St Francis’ College Broadway, Letchworth Garden City, Hertfordshire SG6 3PJ T: 01462 670511 st-francis.herts.sch.uk

194 Badminton School Westbury Rd, Westbury-on-Trym, Bristol BS9 3BA T: 0117 905 5271 badmintonschool.co.uk

197 Hanford School Child Okeford, Blandford, Dorset DT11 8HN T: 01258 860219 hanford.dorset.sch.uk

188 St George’s Ascot Wells Lane, Ascot, Berkshire SL5 7DZ T: 01344 629920 stgeorges-ascot.org.uk

193 Blundells Blundell’s Rd, Tiverton EX16 4DN T: 01884 353543 blundells.org

198 Hazlegrove Preparatory School Hazlegrove, Sparkford, Somerset BA22 7JA T: 01963 442606 hazlegrove.co.uk

187 Queen Anne’s School Henley Rd, Caversham, Berkshire RG4 6DX T: 01189 187300 qas.org.uk

190 St George’s School Windsor Castle Datchet Road, Windsor SL4 1QF T: 01753 865553 stgwindsor.org

195 Bournemouth Collegiate School College Rd, Southbourne Bounremouth BH5 2DY T: 01202 436550 bournemouthcollegiate school.co.uk

155 Queenswood Shepherd’s Way, Brookmans Park Hatfield, Herts AL9 6NS T: 01707 602500 queenswood.org

190 St Margaret’s Bushey, Merry Hill Road, Bushey, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD23 1DT T: 020 8416 4400 stmargaretsbushey.co.uk

193 Bruton School Sunny Hill, Bruton BA10 0NT T: 01749 814400 brutonschool.co.uk

197 Kingswood Prep College Road, Bath BA1 5SD T: 01225 734460 kingswood.bath.sch.uk/ prep-school

192 Sunningdale School Dry Arch Road, Sunningdale Ascot SL5 9PY T: 01344 620159 sunningdaleschool.co.uk

195 Bryanston Blandford Forum, Dorset DT11 0PX T: 01258 452411 bryanston.co.uk

197 Kingswood Senior Lansdown Road, Bath BA1 5RG T: 01225 734200 kingswood.bath.sch.uk

194 Bryanston Knighton House Durweston, Blandford Forum, Dorset DT11 0PY T: 01258 452065 bryanston.co.uk

200 Marlborough College Bath Rd, Marlborough Wiltshire SN8 1PA T: 01672 892200 marlboroughcollege.org

Oxford Media & Business School Southern House, 1 Cambridge Terrace, Oxford OX1 1RR T: 01865 240963 oxfordbusiness.co.uk

Due to the pandemic we unfortunately cannot publish open days in this issue.

Please go to the individual schools’ websites for further information.

186 Papplewick Windsor Road, Ascot, Berkshire SL5 7LH T: 01344 621488 papplewick.org.uk

75

Reddam House Bearwood Road, Sindlesham, Wokingham, RG41 5BG T: 01189 748300 reddamhouse.org.uk

93

Stowe School Stowe, Buckingham MK18 5EH T: 01280 818205 stowe.co.uk

192 St Andrew’s Pangbourne Buckhold, Pangbourne Reading RG8 8QA T: 01189 744276 standrewspangbourne. co.uk 191

Swanbourne House Swanbourne, Buckinghamshire MK17 0HZ T: 01296 720264 swanbourne.org 15

St Christopher School Barrington Rd, Letchworth Garden City, Herts SG6 3JZ T: 01462 650947 stchris.co.uk 191

184 St Columba’s College King Harry Lane, St Albans AL3 4AW T: 01725 855185 stcolumbascollege.org 11

St Edward’s Oxford Woodstock Rd, Oxford, OX2 7NN T: 01865 319200 stedwardsoxford.org

Wellington College Crowthorne, Berkshire RG45 7PU T: 01344 444013 wellingtoncollege.org.uk

Canford School Wimborne, Dorset BH21 3AD T: 01202 847207 canford.com

Winchester House School High Street Brackley, Northamptonshire, NN13 7AZ T: 01280 702483 stowe.co.uk

Dauntsey’s School West Lavington, Devizes, Wiltshire SN10 4HE T: 01380 814500 dauntseys.org

Wychwood School 74 Banbury Road, Oxford OX2 6JR T: 01865 557976 wychwoodschool.org

Listings SS22 V9ST.indd 215

196 Godolphin School Millford HIll, Salisbury, Wiltshire SP1 2RA T: 01722 430500 godolphin.org

189 York House Sarratt Road, Rickmansworth, Herts WD3 4LW T: 01923 772 395 york-house.com

Millfield School Butleigh Rd, Street, Somerset BA16 0YD T: 01458 444296 millfieldschool.com 76

Milton Abbey School Blandford Forum, Dorset DT11 0BZ T: 01258 880484 miltonabbey.co.uk Port Regis Motcombe Park, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 9QA T: 01747 857800 portregis.com

199 Salisbury Cathedral School 1 The Close, Salisbury, SP1 2EQ T: 01722 555300 salisburycathedral school.com

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196 Downside School Stratton-on-the-Fosse, Bath, Somerset BA3 4RJ T: 01761 235103 downside.co.uk

194 King Edward’s School Bath North Road, Bath BA2 6HU T: 01225 820399 kesbath.com

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COUNTRY SCHOOLS

200 Sandroyd School Rushmore, Tollard Royal, Salisbury SP5 5QD T: 01725 516264 sandroyd.org

202 Bilton Grange Dunchurch, Rugby Warwickshire CV22 6QU T: 01788 810217 biltongrange.co.uk

202 Cheltenham College Bath Rd, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire GL53 7LD T: 01242 265600 cheltenhamcollege.org

198 St Mary’s Calne Calne, Wilts SN11 0DF T: 01249 857200 stmaryscalne.org

203 Cheltenham Ladies’ College Bayshill Rd, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire GL50 3EP T: 01242 520691 cheltladiescollege.org

200 Talbot Heath Rothesay Rd, Bournemouth BH4 9NJ T: 01202 761881 talbotheath.org

204 Moreton Hall Weston Rhyn, Oswestry, Shropshire SY11 3EW T: 01691 773671 moretonhall.org

201 Taunton School Staplegrove Road, Taunton Somerset TA2 6AD T: 01823 703703 tauntonschool.co.uk

51

199 Wells Cathedral School 201 The Liberty, Wells, Somerset BA5 2ST T: 01749 834200 wells.cathedral.school

EASTERN

208 Fettes College Carrington Road, Edinburgh EH4 1QX T: 0131 332 2281 fettes.com

Beeston Hall School West Runton, Cromer, Norfolk NR27 9NQ T: 01263 837324 beestonhall.co.uk

Bromsgrove School Worcester Road, Bromsgrove, Worcestershire B61 7DU T: 01527 579679 bromsgrove-school.co.uk

Sherborne School Abbey Rd, Sherborne, Dorset DT9 3AP T: 01935 810403 sherborne.org Sherborne Girls Bradford Rd, Sherborne, Dorset DT9 3QN T: 01935 818224 sherborne.com

Scotland, Wales and Ireland

Oakham School Chapel Close, Oakham, Rutland LE15 6DT T: 01572 758758 oakham.rutland.sch.uk Repton Prep Milton, Derbyshire DE65 6EJ T: 01283 707100 reptonprep.org.uk Repton Repton, Derbyshire DE65 6FH T: 01283 559200 repton.org.uk

202 Rugby School Lawrence Sheriff St, Rugby Warwickshire CV22 5EH T: 01788 556216 rugbyschool.co.uk

Gresham’s Cromer Rd, Holt, Norfolk NR25 6EA T: 01263 714500 greshams.com 207 King’s Ely Ely, Cambridgeshire, CB7 4EW T: 01353 660700 kingsely.org The Leys School Cambridge CB2 7AD T: 01223 508904 theleys.net 206 Old Buckenham Hall Brettenham Park, Ipswich, Suffolk IP7 7PH T: 01449 740252 obh.co.uk Orwell Park School Nacton, Ipswich, Suffolk IP10 0ER T: 01473 653224 orwellpark.co.uk

204 Christ College Brecon Christ College, Llanfaes, Brecon, Wales LD3 8AF T: 01874 615440 christcollegebrecon.com 208 Campbell College Belmont Road, Belfast, Northern Ireland BT4 2ND T: 02890 763076 campbellcollege.co.uk SWITZERLAND 49

Hochalpines Institut Ftan Chalchera, 7551 Scoul Switzerland T: +41 81 861 22 11 hif.ch

10

Malvern College Switzerland Belvedere 35, 1854 Leysin Switzerland T: +41 79 133 60 00 malverncollege international.org

206 Stephen Perse School Union Road, Cambridge CB2 1HF T: 01223 454700 stephenperse.com NORTHERN 203 Queen Ethelburga’s Thorpe Underwood Estate, York YO26 9SS T: 01423 333300 qe.org 205 St Peter’s School, York Clifton, York, YO30 6AB T: 01904 527300 stpetersyork.org.uk 62

Due to the pandemic we unfortunately cannot publish open days in this issue.

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Central

Eastern and Northern

Stonyhurst College Stonyhurst, Clitheroe Lancashire BB7 9PZ T: 01254 827073 stonyhurst.ac.uk

205 Shrewsbury School The Schools, Shrewsbury Shropshire SY3 7BA T: 01743 280552 shrewsbury.org.uk 204 Wotton House International School Horton Rd, Gloucester GL1 3PR T: 01452 764248 wottonhouseschool.co.uk

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New school? New home?

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27/01/2022 09:48

YES, IT’S A CRYING SHAME…

…that she left it too late to apply for Hurtwood House, because it’s simply the best for acting, dancing, singing, film-making – “A utopia for creative minds” – as the Good Schools Guide says.

And crucially, this exciting school is equally successful academically. In fact, it’s statistically one of the top co-ed boarding schools in the UK. So, if you’re looking for a really exciting and rewarding change of school at 16 – don’t leave it too late.

Contact Cosmo Jackson or visit our website for more information.

T: 01483 279000

E: info@hurtwood.net

hurtwoodhouse.com

Hurtwood House.indd 1

02/08/2021 10:08