School House - Autumn/Winter 2020

AUTUMN/WINTER 2020

CARPE DIEM

Sir Anthony Seldon calls on schools to revolutionise education SENIOR NHS DOCTOR REMEMBERS SUTTON HIGH

SILVER LININGS Locked-down

students raising money for charity

RACIAL AND CULTURAL DIVERSITY

Heads are talking about it

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Safe Safe environments environments and and green green spaces spaces outside outside central central London London Girls Girls and and boys aged boys aged 2–18 2–18 IB IB (DP) (DP) and and Advanced Advanced Placement Placement (AP) (AP) Safe Safe busing busing and and pick-up pick-up from from multiple multiple destinations destinations

COBHAM COBHAM| EGHAM | EGHAM| HILLINGDON | HILLINGDON REGISTER REGISTER ONLINE ONLINE FOR FOR OUR OUR REGULAR REGULAR VIRTUAL VIRTUAL OPEN OPEN DAYS DAYS VIA VIA WWW.ACS-SCHOOLS.COM/OPENDAYS WWW.ACS-SCHOOLS.COM/OPENDAYS

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ACHIEVEMENT IS EXCELLENT. ISI REPORT

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PLAN YOUR CHILD’S FUTURE

Keep your child learning How is your family coping?

Are you loving home-learning or do you find you cannot work with children in the house?

Every week we are organising online and live events to support parents and help you plan the next steps for your family. Whether you will be staying in the city, moving to the suburbs or the countryside, the Independent Schools Show has the advice, support and information you need.

Parents are acutely aware that independent schools, unlike others, have managed to deliver a first-class education throughout this crisis.

The Independent Schools Show brings together the leading independent schools, the brightest thinkers and the most respected heads to help you make the right decisions for your child.

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CONTENTS AUTUMN/WINTER 2020

38

30

UNIVERSITY 98 100

106

56

112

EDUCATION 46 48

56

NEWS 25 26

EDUCATION Academic updates PREP AND SENIOR SCHOOLS Pupils excelling, heads moving and schools expanding

62

68

74

AND VIEWS 35

36 38 40 42

FIRST WORD Sir Anthony Seldon calls on independent schools to lead the way post-COVID SENIOR HEAD W hy Charterhouse School has finally gone co-ed PREP HEAD Neil Brooks berates snowploughing parents OPINION Blundell’s head weighs up the pros and cons of relocating COMMENT Nikolas Kairinos on how AI will democratise learning

HEADS OF SCHOOL Lancing College has four of them PLEASE SIR, MAY I BOARD? As registrations increase Victoria Lambert examines the enduring popularity of boarding schools UNIFORM SUCCESS Schools with a military inheritance are thriving,

by Eleanor Doughty BE WOKE Annabel Heseltine explores how schools are managing the sensitive issue of cultural diversity MUSIC TO MY EARS Eleanor Doughty finds some thoroughly modern music rooms FOCUS: COVID-19: The Fallout

REGULARS 84

86 88

94

CONFESSION’S OF A CAREERS ADVISOR Rugby School’s Debbie Horner reveals all TEEN SPIRIT Imogen Macdonald, of Benenden, aspires to the Olympics BEST OF... SCHOOL BUILDINGS Alex Bloom-Davis discovers some impressive facilities ON THE SOFA Victoria Lambert talks to Alicia Drummond about teenagers

NEWS Key information for savvy students ARMCHAIR GAP YEAR Sally Jones suggests alternative ways of enjoying a gap year CROSSING THE POND Victoria Lambert weighs up the pros and cons of university in America OPPORTUNITY KNOCKS Annabel Heseltine meets students who used lockdown to raise money for charity

SCHOOL’S OUT 119 121 122

125

128

WHAT’S ON Ideas for the holidays LIBRARY Books and apps THE LONDON EXODUS Anna Tyzack suggests the best places to buy family properties BEST OF BOTH WORLDS Balancing work and play on holiday is possible says Henry Faber SCHOOL MEMORIES Director of NHS Primary Care Dr Nikita Kalani remembers Sutton High

DIRECTORY 145 191 250

LONDON SCHOOLS COUNTRY SCHOOLS SCHOOLS’ LISTINGS

ON THE COVER: Brighton College, Sussex.

Photography

by Hugo Burnand

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C O N T R I B U TO R S SIR ANTHONY SELDON

The vice-chancellor of The University of Buckingham was previously head of Brighton and Wellington Colleges.

He is one of Britain’s leading contemporary historians, educationalists, commentators and political authors, and co-founded the Institute for Contemporary British History and Action for Happiness.

He is an honorary historical adviser to 10 Downing Street.

VICTORIA LAMBERT

Victoria Lambert is education and careers editor at the Daily Telegraph. She has been a journalist for over 30 years, is a regular contributor to School House and works for newspapers and magazines globally. Victoria co-authored Boundaries: How to Draw the Line, in your Head, Heart and Home (Harper Collins) and speaks at schools on careers in journalism.

NEIL BROOKS

Following a notable career as an army officer on active service, Neil Brooks started his educational career as a housemaster at Cothill House and then became head for ten years. He then set up various initiatives for the Cothill Trust which looks after eight prep schools, and was briefly its principal. Formerly head of Fulham Prep School he is currently head of Cranleigh Prep School.

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‘Leading the way in educational initiatives is instinctive for this

DYNAMIC Oxford school.’

TATLER SCHOOLS GUIDE 2020

‘A HAPPY, FIZZING SCHOOL plumb in the middle of an inspiring city’ THE GOOD SCHOOLS GUIDE 2020

School coach from London via Beaconsfield every Sunday evening

WEEKLY & FULL BOARDING | DAY A LEVEL & IB | CO-EDUCATIONAL | 13 – 18

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C O N T R I B U TO R S DR NIKITA KANANI

In 2018 Dr Nikita Kanani, a GP in south-east London, became the first woman to be Medical Director for Primary Care for NHS England and NHS Improvement. The former Chief Clinical Officer of NHS Bexley CCG is a member of The King’s Fund General Advisory Council and co-founded STEMMsisters, a social enterprise supporting study of STEM with medicine.

NIKOLAS KAIRINOS

For over 20 years, Nikolas Kairinos has participated as an entrepreneur, investor and advisor in building numerous software start-ups. He is the CEO and founder of Soffos, the world’s first AI-powered KnowledgeBot and Fountech. ai, which is driving innovation in the AI sector and helping consumers, businesses and governments understand how this technology is making the world a better place.

DAVID HAWKINS

Oxford graduate, David Hawkins is a teacher-turned university-applicationsspecialist, and founder of theuniversityguys.com.

He works with students, parents and schools such as Alleyn’s, Marlborough and Uppingham. He has extensive knowledge of course requirements and application procedures and is in contact with admissions departments around the world.

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schoolhousemagazine.co.uk EDITOR Annabel Heseltine EDITORIAL & PRODUCTION ASSISTANT Alex Bloom-Davis CREATIVE & PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Parm Bhamra PRODUCTION DESIGNER Samuel Thomas ONLINE EDITOR Rebecca Cox ONLINE WRITER Ellie Smith ONLINE ASSISTANT Daniella Saunders ONLINE INTERN Dina Nagapetyants EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Lucy Cleland MANAGING EDITOR Amy Wakeham FEATURES ASSISTANT Sofia Tindall

PUBLISHER Camilla van Praagh ADVERTISING EXECUTIVE Melissa Campbell SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGER Pandora Lewis ADVERTISING SALES DIRECTOR Ellie Rix DIGITAL MANAGER Adam Dean TECHNICAL MANAGER Hannah Johnson TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Mark Pearson FINANCE CONTROLLER Lauren Hartley PROPERTY & MARKETING ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR Gemma Cowley FINANCE DIRECTOR Jill Newey GROUP PUBLISHING DIRECTOR Tia Graham MANAGING DIRECTOR Jeremy Isaac CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Max Davidson, Eleanor Doughty, Charlotte Fairbairn, Sally Jones, Victoria Lambert, Emma Love, Anna Tyzack EDITORIAL ENQUIRIES annabel.heseltine@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 © 2020 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.

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The start of an incredible journey

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Hanford School, Dorset

Royal Hospital School, Suffolk

EDITOR’S LETTER N

ever have the words ‘back to school’ been more loaded, with most pupils returning to school this week not having set foot on educational ground for almost six months. It sounds like a child’s dream, but for parents, pupils and teachers alike it’s been an extraordinary time walking in uncharted waters as all respond to the challenges of home-schooling, lack of routine and the mental health difficulties surrounding the loss of predictability in a suddenly rather uncertain world. But, as ever, independent schools have shown their mettle and responded with aplomb, ingenuity and resilience, as discovered by Victoria Lambert who opens our Focus on the fallout of COVID-19 (p74).

For A-level students it has been particularly hard with exams cancelled, passing out rituals postponed, perhaps indefinitely, gap years gone or at least changed, but as always, when one door closes, another opens.

Sally Jones offers up some interesting, more homespun ideas on how to do gap years differently (p100).

But for some, COVID-19 has presented an opportunity; as school leavers and students have honed their entrepreneurial skills while supporting NHS and key workers on the front line (p112).

With so much tragedy and bleakness it is

as important as ever to find the best of this situation, says wellness and mindfulness Wells Cathedral advocate, Sir School, Somerset Anthony Seldon, the historian and brilliant headmaster who changed the course of two eminent schools, Brighton College and then Wellington. In our leader column on page 35, he see this as an opportunity for independent schools to fight back against a 19th century mode of education and to grasp the initiative, using the technology now available to give pupils the right education for a world that changed so abruptly and quickly.

It will require courage, reflection and honesty to take those silver linings and flourish them as a banner for tomorrow, but equipped with all the lessons learned through COVID-19, it seems perfectly possible that British schools have the ability to seize the advantage.

See you on the cutting edge of education.

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UPFRONT NEWS | EVENTS | COMMENT | OPINION Cothill House, Oxfordshire

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NEWS

WHAT’S UP? Academic news and some vital statistics

THE GRETA EFFECT

HELPING THE HELPERS Research from environmental charity Global Action Plan reveals that 77 per cent of pupils find thinking about climate change induces anxiety and 51 per cent of teachers feel illequipped to help. Global Action Plan worked with Transform Our World, an online teaching resource hub, to launch a new campaign, Turning Anxiety into Action, which will aid teachers in managing pupils’ worries and to also help climate action in schools.

TEAMING UP

FEED ME TRUTH

Countryfile’s Adam Henson has launched the national campaign #FEEDMETRUTH, to educate children about the food on their plate. Henson wants schools to commit to making their food supply chain transparent, thereby changing the way the nation engages with food.

‘The appreciation and understanding of food starts with children knowing how and where the ingredients on their plate were produced,’ explains Henson. ‘Every school dinner has a story to tell. It leaves a footprint. We need every child to explore it and be inspired and learn from it.’

LEGAL LESSONS

PHOTOS: GETTY IMAGES

During Justice Week, Young Citizens, who promote activity, engagement and motivation among young people, called on all schools to take part in The Big Legal Lesson, which taught children about the justice system.

Young Citizens worked with legal firm Allen and Overy to cover the rule of law, the role of parliament, government and the justice system.

The European Investment Bank (EIB) and UNICEF announced a partnership at the start of the year to increase access to quality education and reduce the impact of climate change on children. Nicholas Schmit, commissioner for jobs and social rights, said, ‘We want to protect children from poverty and make sure they have access to the skills and training they need to navigate the green and digital transitions.

Nobody should be left behind.’

SAY ‘NO’ TO EATING DISORDERS

COMIC CLUB

John Porrett, of Newcastle, has revived a childhood passion to distract children from smartphones and gaming. The Comic Club delivers fun, colourful and humorous comics to children using stories and activities to help break their addiction. As well as getting children away from their screens, the service helps improve reading, writing and creativity skills. thecomicclub.co.uk

Wednesday’s Child, a social enterprise supporting those with eating disorders and other mental health illnesses, has developed a comprehensive protocol to guide schools, providing focused education about mental health with coaching support on awareness, prevention and intervention. One in five children will suffer from an eating disorder during their academic career.

Framlingham College, Suffolk, is using the Wednesday’s Child team and ‘believe that its delivery model is essential for the entire academic community’.

A LEAGUE OF THEIR OWN

As home schooling became the norm this year, parents had to step up to the mark.

But research carried out by Oxford Home Schooling reveals only one third of parents feel confident when helping their children with their schoolwork. Indeed, only six per cent of the 1,000 parents tested by Oxford Home Schooling with typical year three homework questions answered all three of the questions correctly.

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NEWS

PREP SCHOOLS STEM, charity work and a race around the world

WINNING ROBOTICS

Cottesmore School, Sussex, was crowned regional champion in Tomorrow’s Engineers EEP Robotics Challenge 2019-2020s, out of 500 competing schools. The team of seven girls and boys, years six to eight, had to design, build and program Lego robots capable of completing seven different challenges. The team also came third in the ‘speed and control challenge’.

The Lego success story continues at The Marist School, Sunningdale, whose pupils competed in the FIRST LEGO League Challenge, held at Queen Mary University, London. The girls, aged eight to ten, won the best newcomers trophy for their vision in shaping future cities. The Marist Missioneers had to code a robot to carry out tasks on a city map, identify and solve a problem as part of the Innovation Project, while upholding the FIRST LEGO Leagues core values of discovery, innovation, impact, inclusion, teamwork and fun.

Making their mark at All Hallows School

The Whipsnade Zoo elephants enjoying the most serendipitous arrangement

All Hallows School, Somerset, was delighted to receive 420 birch and hazel saplings from the Woodland Trust as part of their initiative to help tackle climate change. So far, all junior school pupils at All Hallows have planted a tree in the grounds and the school hopes to roll out a similar scheme for the senior pupils soon.

Meanwhile in Hertfordshire, Beechwood Park School made sure they didn’t waste the branches lopped off their trees by donating them to the local ZSL Whipsnade Zoo, where they were appreciatively devoured by the resident Asian elephants. This is a recycling arrangement both parties are eager to continue.

Teen Spies A team of 13 year olds from King Edward’s School, Bath, won the 2020 CyberFirst Girls Competition in Cardiff. The competition is organised by The National Cyber Security Centre of GCHQ, the branch of British intelligence and security dealing with technological threats.

The budding codebreakers tackled a fictional scenario of protecting the Olympic Games from cyber-attacks. The girls each won a laptop, an invitation to Downing Street and a thousand pounds for school IT equipment.

WALTZING MATILDA

Hazlegrove Prep School in Somerset formed a human map of Australia while singing the much-loved bush ballad, Waltzing Matilda, to raise money for the Australian Bushfire Appeal through the WWF. The idea to raise money for the cause came from two pupils, one in year five and the other in year one, who were stirred into action having seen the devastating effects on the news.

PHOTOS: GETTY IMAGES

WITH RESPECT TO TREES

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NEWS

SCHOOLS RISING TO LOCKDOWN CHALLENGES

Getting PPE to the front line

LITERARY STARS

Pupils at Chandlings, Oxfordshire, played host to a local primary school, Dry Sandford, when Konnie Huq, former Blue Peter presenter-turned-author presented her new book, Cookie and the Most Annoying Boy in the World, and introduced the children to the skills of writing a comic strip.

George Kauders, a pupil at Cranleigh Prep School, Surrey, has won a national story competition in the children’s newspaper, First News. The competition was started by Cressida Cowell, the author of How To Train Your Dragon and Waterstone’s Children’s The Dreams of Anne Frank, at Dunhurst Prep School Laureate, who wrote the first part of the story and invited her readers to write the next one for the following instalment.

Bernard Kops, playwright of The Dreams of Anne Frank, was the guest of honour at a performance of his play by the year sevens and eights of Dunhurst, the prep school to Bedales in Hampshire. 2020 was an especially fitting year for such a production as it marked the 75th anniversary of Auschwitz’s liberation.

Virtual Choirs

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SPORTING PROWESS

Just before lockdown Belhaven Hill School in Dunbar hosted the 35th annual Scottish Independent Schools’ Invitational Cross-Country Championships. 332 runners from schools including Fettes Prep, Loretto, Merchinston Castle and Cargilfield ran through woodland and along beaches cheered on by 1,200 spectators.

Meanwhile in Hertfordshire, the U13 boys’ hockey team at Bishop’s Stortford College were this year crowned County Champions for the eighth time in the last ten years. ‘All the boys should be incredibly proud of themselves for an excellent display of hockey,’ said team coach, Nick Prowse.

Schools across the country heeded the call to arms in striving to protect key workers during the coronavirus lockdown. Falcons Prep School, in Richmond, by producing over 2,000 visors for West London and City Hospitals, and after donating any existing PPE to local GP surgeries, Dr Julie Spears, head of design and technology at Marlborough House School, Kent, started making face protectors with the school’s laser cutter and 3D printer.

Beyond making PPE, three teachers from Elstree Prep School, Berkshire, answered a plea on social media they saw from Ealing Council asking for volunteers to deliver PPE, resulting in the Elstree trio delivering 37,000 aprons and 6,000 pairs of gloves to hospitals in London. Their motto for the day was: ‘If we ride together, we stop the NHS dying together.’

And at just six years old, Patrick Dixon from Taunton School in Somerset, has been sewing masks for the NSH as part of a community group called The Taunton Scrubbers. Patrick has cystic-fibrosis and has had to wear a face mask from a very young age, meaning he is used to having to be careful about germs and bacteria. But he understands that for most people this sort of caution is new and potentially quite scary, spurring him on to help in the way he has been – to keep people safe.

Hosting harriers, from Belhaven School

The lockdown didn’t stop the choirs of Winterfold School, Worcestershire, and Westbourne House, Sussex, from singing together, albeit remotely.

Winterfold pupils in years three to eight learned Bob Marley’s Three Little Birds in their remote music lessons and then performed the song during their celebration assembly online.

Westbourne House School’s chapel choir sang Look To The Day, by John Rutter to bring hope to all in the most uncertain times many of us have ever faced. They also made a video to pay homage to the NHS.

Race Around the World

Bishop’s Stortford College

Boys from Papplewick School, Berkshire, were challenged to virtually race 40,075 kms around the world in teams with distance ratios weighted according to age. The friendly competition between the boys and a staff team helped maintain fitness during lockdown, with participants eating up the kilometres by running, walking, cycling or even rollerblading.

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NEWS

SCHOOLS EXPANDING

FURTHER DEVELOPMENTS

A MAGIC MERGER

The Godolphin and Latymer Foundation – the charity that runs Godolphin and Latymer School, London – has entered into a formal agreement with Redcliffe School, Chelsea, which will result in the prep school being run by the foundation from September 2020.

On a day-to-day basis the schools will continue to operate separately, each under the leadership of their current heads, but the overall governance will be the responsibility of the foundation.

OFFERING MORE

Abingdon Prep School is adding a few more strings to its bow by planning a new building to house a music school, a second science lab and purpose-built facilities for craft, design and technology. Additionally, the new build will allow for the school library to more than double in size, while becoming brighter and more modern after refurbishment, which will provide the pupils with a contemporary place to lose themselves in stories while in the highest comfort.

A triple development Great Ballard School in Chichester is investing £2m to expand the school’s teaching capacity and redevelop existing buildings. This news comes after the announcement that from September 2021, pupils will be able to stay at the Great Ballard School to take their GCSEs, having previously moved to on to senior schools after year eight. To top the exciting news, an additional £200,000 was invested to replace the school’s IT infrastructure with computer science being added as a core subject.

WELCOMING THE YOUNGEST

Bromsgrove School, Worcestershire, will get bigger by getting smaller. For the first time two year olds can join the school using the pre-prep’s facilities, including play areas, both inside and outside and but they will have their own places to play as well, along with separate cloakroom facilities.

NEW BEAUTY

Christ Church Cathedral School in Oxford is planning to add a £750,000 pavilion and outdoor centre to its list of fantastic facilities. Set in the world-famous Christ Church Meadow, the school’s Christ Church Merton Field – which boasts stunning views of Christ Church, Corpus Christi and Merton Colleges – will home the new build and act as a multi-purpose facility for sport, outdoor learning and social events. The building includes two changing rooms, kit storage, spectator seating and a reception to host the all-important match teas and other events, which will mean CCCS will be able to host more matches and engage in community outreach events involving other local schools. CCCS are looking forward for The Old Boys to be able to use the pavilion as a place to enjoy their annual cricket match and BBQ.

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NEWS

CHANGING FACES Heads on the move Christopher Hammond joins Abercorn School as Headmaster this term. Mr Hammond is coming to Abercorn from Lyonsdown Prep School, where he is currently headmaster, and dedicated to maintaining the school’s position as a leading London prep.

Laura Hall, formerly deputy head of the City of London School for Girls’ Prep School is now head of Queen’s College Prep School. Before teaching, Ms Hall travelled the world, giving lectures on a cruise ship on 19th-century American and European art.

Emma Studd has taught maths and English at Garden House School in London since 1998 and is now head of Garden House Girls. She is passionate about drama and has directed several of the school’s summer shows at the Royal Court Theatre.

Dan Jameson joined Garden House Boys School, as the new head in July. Mr Jameson was assistant head and teacher of English at Kensington Prep School and previously taught in the state sector. Mr Jameson believes happy children make the best learners.

Aislinn Clarke was thrown in at the deep end when she took up the post of head at Ripley Court School, Surrey, during COVID-19. Ms Clarke’s extensive experience in running independent prep schools ensured she could hit the ground running.

Victoria Richardson starts this term as the new head at Wellington Prep School in Somerset. Ms Richardson moves from being head of Wellington Lower School and was involved with the school’s Duke of Edinburgh programme and CCF.

Jill Walker starts as the new head of Maltman’s Green School, Buckinghamshire, this September. Ms Walker, who joins from St Nicholas Prep School, is a tap-dancer and can play any tune on the recorder by ear and is married to Ben, the headmaster of Lochinver boy’s prep school.

A classics graduate from Jesus College, Cambridge, and previously head of Felsted School and Chafyn Grove School, Eddy Newton takes up the headship of Marlborough House, Kent this September.

Giles Entwisle is the new head of Durston House School, London. He has worked in five prep schools, most recently as head of Bede’s Prep School and deputy head of Highfield School. Mr Entwisle is married to Regina, a Spanish teacher, and they have two teenagers.

Jonathan Timms will become headmaster of Walhampton School, Hampshire in January 2021. Mr Timms brings with him his wife and two young children from Caldicott Prep School where he was senior deputy head. Mr Timms is also an ISI Boarding and Team Inspector.

Helena Grant arrives at Wycliffe Prep School, Gloucestershire, this term to take over as head of a newer larger school as it opens its new nursery school for three year olds and upwards. Ms Grant comes to Wycliffe Prep from Monkton Prep School in Bath where she was deputy head and an English teacher. She has two teenage sons.

Jonnie Besley starts as headmaster of Abberley Hall, Worcestershire this term. A veteran of both Durham and Cambridge universities, Mr Besley moves from Orwell Park, loves the great outdoors and has recently built several treehouses.

Vikki Meier steers the helm as Eltham College Junior School, London embraces co-education for the first time. Ms Meier is an advocate of the co-curricular having run science, photography and quiz clubs, as well as a school scout troop.

St James Prep School in London has appointed Kris Spencer as headmaster. He moves from being deputy head of Notting Hill Prep, and has also worked at Westminster School, St Paul’s Girl’s School and Latymer Upper School.

Dominic Fitzgerald joins St Andrew’s School in Woking, as headmaster, moving from being deputy head of Homefield Prep School in Sutton. Mr Fitzgerald is a keen sportsman and historian, also enjoying music and the theatre.

Ms Vicky Ellis starts as head of The Study Prep School in Wimbledon from September 2020. Previous positions include head of Banstead Prep and director of studies at Redcliffe School, but before turning her head to education, Ms Ellis worked at Andersen and Deloitte.

Mark Hammond takes up the headship of Bede’s Prep School, Sussex, this term. Mr Hammond worked at a number of international schools in Europe, before returning to the UK in 2012.

Mr Hammond joins Bede’s Prep with his wife and two children.

Cumnor House, Sussex, welcomed Fergus Llewellyn when he arrived as new headmaster this September. Mr Llewellyn comes back to England from Kenya where he was the headmaster of St Andrew’s Prep School in Turi. He comes to Cumnor House with his wife Tamsyn and three children.

Dr Sarah Essex has been chosen to fill the position of head at Pilgrim’s School in Winchester. Dr Essex received a first in Natural Sciences and completed her PhD in Theoretical Inorganic Chemistry from Trinity Hall, Cambridge. Excited by the keen musical tradition of the school with Winchester Cathedral on its doorstop, she plans to join a choir in the city.

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SENIOR SCHOOLS Equality, royalty and lockdown resilience

EAST ANGLIA’S STEPHEN LAWRENCE AMBASSADOR’S SCHOOL

The Royal Hospital School (RHS), Suffolk, has been named East Anglia’s Stephen Lawrence Ambassador’s School, just one of 11 such institutions in the UK. Stephen Lawrence was only 18 when he was murdered in 1993 in an unprovoked racist attack. To qualify as a Stephen Lawrence Ambassador School, the school must demonstrate a community commitment to five key behaviours that challenge racism and support diversity and inclusion. Kellyanne O’Callaghan, head of religious studies at RHS, commented, ‘At RHS we want to be instrumental in a movement of schools working to create positive change and support pupils to live their best life.’

Six Nations Training Before the Six Nations rugby tournament was called off due to COVID-19, the competing teams were in rigorous training sessions, one of which was witnessed by the boys at Abingdon School, Oxfordshire, when they hosted the England Rugby team at the school. Abingdon sixthformer and England U18 fly half, Charlie Atkinson, spoke of how he was inspired and motivated, saying ‘it showed me the step up required in skills and game management to reach a similar level’.

MENTAL HEALTH ACTIVISM AWARDED

Life hasn’t been easy for Lottie Leach, 18, of Wellington College in Berkshire. But after years of depression, eating disorders and an attempt on her own life, she has become a mental health activist and has been awarded with the highest honour for social action and humanitarian efforts – The Diana Award, in memory of the late Princess of Wales. Lottie, who talks openly about her experiences, also organised a 24-hour-Danceathon, raising £3,200 for the mental health charity MIND.

Fly halves, George Ford and Charlie Atkinson

A Microsoft Showcase School

ROYAL VISITS

HRH The Earl of Wessex at Cobham Hall, Kent

Pupils from Cobham Hall, Kent, who are on the Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) award scheme, welcomed HRH The Earl of Wessex, and demonstrated some of their skills, including CPR and orienteering. HRH The Duchess of Gloucester attended an evening of dance to mark the 200-year anniversary of Princess Helena College, where she is president.

Yorkshire’s Giggleswick School was this year named a Microsoft Showcase School – one of only 18 in the UK and 241 internationally.

As a Microsoft Showcase School, Giggleswick is part of a global community of teachers, and the director of digital strategy at the school, John Hamilton, will take part in discussions and provide advice, blogs and other resources.

JUMPING FOR GOLD

Becca Scott, 14, of Bedford Modern School, is to join the GB Para Athletics Programme, which prepares athletes for Paris’ 2024 Paralympic Games.

She was scouted at the National Junior Disability Games for the long jump.

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NEWS

Mighty Musicians Mount Kelly’s chamber choir won the Barnardo’s Senior School Choir of the Year 2020 at the Royal Festival Hall. Choristers from the Devon school performed Fairest Lord Jesus by Frode Fjellheim and the traditional gospel song, Didn’t My Lord Deliver Daniel? As part of the choir’s award, Douglas Coombes MBE, conductor, composer and the competition’s head judge, will write them a new song to perform at a Bernardo’s Young Supports Concert at the Royal Albert Hall.

Meanwhile, Pernille Faye, a sixth-form student at St Swithun’s School, Winchester, has won a coveted music award for the second successive year, to win a place on the Martin Read Foundation’s 2020 Young Composers’ Scheme. The 17-year-old impressed the panel with her bass clarinet composition, Order and Chaos.

As a part of the award, Pernille will be commissioned to create a four-minute piece to be performed at the Royal College of Music by percussionist-inresidence, Patricks Skabadis.

POLITICAL GOLD Bryanston School, Dorset, teacher wins big at Westminster

Weather Warnings

THE AMBASSADOR’S PAINTING

Dame Karen Pierce, the UK ambassador to the USA, was so impressed by a painting that won the Earth Day competition, organised by the British embassy, that she wanted to buy it. But artist, Bella Churchward, 16, of Bruton School for Girls in Somerset, asked for a donation in lieu of a fee to One Tree Planted, charity which helps tackle deforestation.

King Edward’s Witley is broadcasting daily local weather forecasts from its own weather station.

‘Our weather station enriches the learning process and enhances geography lessons,’ says Tom Campbell, head of geography. ‘When pupils understand how the data can be used it is a real lightbulb moment.’ The forecasts are available through the Weatherlink app weatherlink.com.

Bryanston School in Dorset and its head of politics, Will Bridges, have both received the Gold Award as a UK Parliament Teacher Ambassador by UK Parliament’s Teachers’ Institute for their work in promoting teaching and pupil engagement in politics and parliamentary democracy.

Having attending a three-day training programme at the Houses of Parliament, Bridges says: ‘We are delighted; there is no doubt that Brexit and now the COVID-19 pandemic has prompted the younger generation to think much more about the importance of political debate.’

Pernille Faye, St Swithun’s School, Winchester

WE WILL REMEMBER HIM

David Williams-Ellis has been commissioned to create a sculpture of old Shirburnian, Alan Turing, the man who cracked the German enigma in World War II and invented the forerunner to the modern-day computer. Once completed, the sculpture will be unveiled in the grounds of Sherborne School in Dorset by Sir John Dermot Turing, nephew to Alan Turing who is also an old Shirburnian.

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IN SPITE OF COVID-19

CHANGING FACES Heads on the move

INTERNATIONALLY UPLIFTING

Beech Hall School, Cheshire, held its annual Musical Soirée online this year, with 14 musicians, including singers, guitarists and violinists, performing from their own homes to an international audience. Headmaster, James Allen, praised the event as ‘uplifting’ and ‘spectacular’; a much-needed tonic to the gloom at home.

BEST FOOT FORWARD

Molly Whymark, from King’s Ely School and an ambassador for the DofE award scheme, raised £600 to fund 20 gold Duke of Edinburgh awards. 68,000 of the 280,000 annual participants are from under-privileged backgrounds.

LIVE ON AIR

The deputy director of St Mary’s School, Colchester, Roque Vieito, thrilled the school community with its new breakfast radio show.

School radio presenters picked up training and tips when they visited the BBC’s Broadcasting House.

Showcasing The World’s Art DLD College’s site on the South Bank is perfectly placed to showcase work by artists around the world.

During the pandemic 57 artworks from 21 countries were placed in the windows.

UK artist, Ali Imperiale, created a piece especially for DLD’s display.

FURTHER DEVELOPMENTS International Expansion Kent College International proudly announce that in September 2022 Kent College Cairo will open its doors to 1,500 pupils. Kent College International already has a successful school in Dubai and plans to open one in Hong Kong imminently.

Cairo’s school will have 400 teachers, 70 classrooms, science laboratories, libraries, performance arts and sports spaces.

TOPPING OUT AT OUNDLE Oundle School, Northamptonshire, has completed its £24m project to create a new sports centre with a 50-metre pool, an eight-court sports hall, a 70-station fitness suite and a dance studio. The local community and sports clubs will be able to use the state-of-the-art facilities at the third largest independent, co-ed school in England with 1,115 pupils.

Richard Devey has been appointed the new head of Gordonstoun School, Moray. A true veteran of the school, having worked there for 25 years as a housemaster and head of department, he knows it well.

Both of his children have been through the school too.

Jane Evans is the new head of Bruton School for Girls in Somerset. Ms Evans moves from Queen’s College Taunton and has experience of both the independent and state sector.

With her husband, she founded the Jake Ladders Theatre Company to fulfil her vision of creativity.

Simon Fisher takes on the headship of Dover College, Kent.

Mr Fisher comes from Worth School, where was deputy head (academic) since 2015, with his wife and two children who are starting at the prep school at the same time.

Dr James Whitehead is the new head of Woldingham School, Surrey. ‘The Sacred Heart ethos and real and active Christian kindness are tangible in the school, students and the staff,’ says Dr Whitehead, who moves from Rugby School with his wife and two daughters.

Jane Lunnon is to be the first female head appointed at Alleyn’s School in Dulwich. Currently head of Wimbledon High School GDST, Ms Lunnon will start at Alleyn’s in January 2021 and is looking forward to meeting all of the school community when she arrives.

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NEWS

GROUND BREAKING

William le Fleming has been selected as headmaster of The Abbey School, Reading. An alumni of Eton and Clare College, Cambridge, Mr le Fleming was a journalist and author before starting his educational career at St Paul’s School and at St Paul’s Girls’ School.

Heathfield School, Ascot, has appointed Sarah Wilson as the new head, starting in January 2021. Ms Wilson was a former national gymnast, enjoys cycling, golf and tennis, and has played in various orchestras as a flautist, in addition to having two teenage children.

St Dunstan’s College, London, ‘broke ground’ in the construction of a new junior school, STEM building and sixthform centre, which headmaster Nicholas Hewlett described as the ‘most significant redevelopment of the college since 1888’.

Contractors, Willmott Dixon, gave the St Dunstan pupils a tour of the site, On site at St Dunstan’s College explaining about the new facilities.

In Hampshire, Lord Wandsworth College has started work on its mammoth new development to increase its pupil size to 650 within the next five years. The multi-million pound investment includes a tech-led creativity and science centre, further sporting facilities and improvements to the boarding houses.

ABOVE & BELOW: The Dyson Building, named for and donated by Gresham’s alumni, Sir James Dyson

Andrew GordonBrown is the new head of Kingswood School’s, Bath.

Educated primarily in South Africa and starting his career at Deloitte & Touche in Johannesburg, Mr Gordon-Brown rowed for South Africa in the 1992 Olympic Games and is passionate about music.

Areti Bizior joins Luckley House School, Berkshire, as head, moving from the deputy headship of Downe House. Ms Bizior is a published author with the Oxford University Press, a former examiner for AQA and was a governor of Holme Grange School.

Pippa Smithson is now the new head of The Royal School in Surrey. Ms Smithson was previously part of the leadership team at Reigate Grammar School and previously held teaching and management positions in a variety of Australian schools.

THE DYSON BUILDING

Sir James Dyson, British inventor, has donated £19m to his old school, Gresham’s, in Norfolk to construct a new STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics) centre that is aiming to be completed by September 2021. ‘The centre will inspire and educate more brilliant young minds,’ Dyson says, continuing ‘by creating state of the art spaces I hope that we can foster, inspire and educate brilliant young minds. I am so pleased that Gresham’s will be leading the charge.’

SCHOOLS EXPANDING BENENDEN WELCOMES DAY GIRLS

For the first time Benenden School is welcoming day pupils to the allgirls boarding school in Kent, the final school of its kind to make the move. In September 2021, it will start with day pupils in years nine and 12.

Boys invited to Roedean This year boys will be allowed into the all-girls school Roedean in Sussex.

As part of the Roedean Academy programme, year ten pupils from Brighton’s local secondary schools will be invited in to take a series of lessons beyond the national curriculum including genetic engineering, cryptology and the psychology of crime.

MILLFIELD EXPANDS SPORTS OFFERING Famed for its sports, Millfield School in Somerset is introducing a new GCSE for dance to cover performance, choreography and appreciation. It’s also teaming up with Joe Root, England’s cricket test captain, in an exclusive deal to bring R66T Academy, Root’s world-class cricket academy, to the school.

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LEADER

FIRST WOR D

TAKE NOTE

Sir Anthony Seldon, vice chancellor of Buckingham University, believes lessons learned during the pandemic lockdown can transform the future of education up children in secure and loving families. ndependent schools will never be the same again.

Character and wellbeing education should lie at the very COVID-19 will have as much impact as the two world heart of every school, not bolted on as an extra from three to wars, which totally reshaped independent schools four pm on a Friday afternoon. All young people should be taught in the 20th century. entrepreneurial skills, how to present in public, how to work In truth, change has been long overdue. Schools, harmoniously in groups, and the conventions and norms of the globally, have not been producing the young men and women that world of work, including punctuality, honesty and self-presentation. universities need, that employers want, or who can flourish The independent sector needs in society. British independent schools to buck up significantly in its have done a better job which is why Sir Anthony Seldon preparation for university life. they are so popular internationally.

It blithely funnels its sixth-formers But they too have to change. towards Russell Group universities Employers’ organisations, including with very little follow up. They need the Confederate of British Industry to consider a broader range of post and Chamber of Commerce have, for school options; universities abroad, a decade and more, argued that the direct entry into work, two-year degree focus on exams is not what employers options and accelerated degrees, as want. Universities complain that new my own university offers on all courses, students arrive overly regimented by including medicine. The institutional GCSE and A-levels, and don’t know conservatism of careers and university enough. They don’t know how to think advice in most schools is shocking. critically or how to work independently.

Independent schools need not The number of young people just to embrace existing digital experiencing mental health problems technology, as it has done so well at school and university meanwhile during the COVID-19 lockdown, but rises: there is more depression, more 4.0 technologies, artificial intelligence, self-harming and more anxiety than machine learning, virtual reality and since records began. The fees that quantum computing to be the world independent schools charge have been leader. This will change schools and allowed to rise too high which means learning more than anything has since that what was once accessible to doctors, the introduction of the printing press airline pilots, and professional people ‘The choice is simple. Stop being in the 15th century. is no longer so. cautious and start the process The independent schools sector Independent schools need to take of radical and fundamental has a worldwide reputation because their fate into their own hands, and of its traditions and pedigree: it needs to see COVID-19 as the catalyst for change. If the sector reverts to to acquire a reputation for cuttingprofound and fundamental change. how it was before COVID-19, edge innovation and technology as Too often the independent education I foresee only a slow descent well. Independent schools also need sector has been the supplicant of into irrelevance’ to reach out and work with the state government rather than using its muscle sector as never before. power and that of its parents to demand Crucially, independent schools need that the exam factory model changes to cut their fees by forming federations for ever. Exams are very important, but where central costs are pooled. This will help ensure the survival of in allowing them to become all important, the rural independent school and those far from the southeast which we have lost our way and forgotten what is the purpose of education. provide the diversity so much needed. Accessibility is key.

So how might independent schools lead in the post COVID-19 The choice is simple. Stop being cautious and start the process of world? They need to dictate national policy – to ensure that every radical and fundamental change. Pupils, parents, teachers, the school is preparing the young not just to succeed at exams but to Government and society will be the gainers. If the sector reverts to how flourish at work, to be confident and comfortable in their own skin, it was before COVID-19, I foresee only a slow descent into irrelevance. and to be productive members of society, capable of bringing

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Charterhouse School, Surrey, will welcome its first year 9 girls in 2021

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SENIOR HEAD VIEW

GROWING TOGETHER

Charterhouse headmaster, Alex Peterken, explains why the school is going fully co-ed after four centuries chance to create a more professional, fair and dynamic workplace. he growing movement in independent schools I am a firm believer that a co-educational boarding environment towards co-education shows no sign of slowing. is best placed to develop a complete person: normalising relationships The number of single-sex schools has fallen between boys and girls in the classroom and in collaborative social consistently since 2008, with girls’ schools making spaces; developing the essential life skills of empathy, creativity, up under 12 per cent of the Independent Schools resilience and problem-solving alongside one another; and coming Council’s membership and boys’ schools only eight. Meanwhile, to a mature understanding of different perspectives, emotional the number of schools with around the same amount of boys and responses and learning styles. In essence, boys and girls learning girls has more than doubled over together as equal partners, just a similar period. Why are schools as they will later work together of all shapes and sizes coming to as equals, is a superb formative the conclusion that co-education background in their teenage years. is the future?

At the same time, a great Fundamentally, education and often overlooked feature is about equipping young people of co-educational boarding to lead a rewarding adult life. schools is that there is still space Educators must look several within the individual houses decades ahead: the society in which for independent living in the we want those currently in our care evenings; for boys to be boys and to thrive will be very different to girls to be girls. Anyone who has the society we know today. It will regularly sampled the markedly offer new kinds of opportunity and different, but equally inspiring, make different demands of them. atmospheres in boys’ and girls’ When looking forward to 2030 the boarding houses will know picture is characterised by its very precisely what I mean. unpredictability. All around us we It has taken over 50 years see evidence of a fast-changing for full co-education to come and complex modern world where Alex Peterken is overseeing to fruition at Charterhouse, but globalisation and technology are Charterhouse’s change to a it will be worth the wait. transforming the way we live, work fully co-educational institution An extensive capital and relate to one another. Today investment programme has we must prepare young people to ‘In co-education, there is allowed us to create three girls’ rise to challenges we cannot fully an opportunity to create equality boarding houses in 2019 and the conceive. At Charterhouse, we and promote respect among those construction of two additional cultivate a mindset that embraces houses which is currently uncertainty and thrives on who then have the chance to create underway for completion by complexity for this very reason. a more professional, fair and September 2021. We will expand Amid this uncertainty, however, dynamic workplace’ and upgrade teaching, dining, I am sure of one thing: a deeplysporting and social facilities over rooted, empathetic and sensitive this period, and overall numbers understanding between the sexes, will rise from the current 820 to around 1,000 pupils, making forged over years of co-learning and co-living in a boarding Charterhouse one of the largest co-educational boarding schools environment, will be hugely important. in the country, and fit for the future in every way.

The newspaper headlines of recent times about the gender pay gap, sexual harassment and power differentials in the workplace The first year nine girls will join the school in 2021, 50 years after girls stem, in part, from an insidious lack of understanding – one first entered the sixth-form at Charterhouse. There will then be girls in we must tackle. In co-education, there is an opportunity to create every year group from September 2023. equality and promote respect among those who then have the

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Cranleigh Prep School, Surrey

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PREP HEAD VIEW

SNOWPLOUGHING PARENTS Children must be allowed to fail and to learn from their mistakes, says Neil Brooks, headmaster of Cranleigh Preparatory School

does not recognise the great value of making mistakes and learning he pandemic has been horrendous for many, but from them. The fear of failure and the associated ‘stigma’ comes as is often the case, a phoenix will rise from the from parents who are too eager to drive a snowplough in front ashes. Schools will inevitably change the way of their child, clearing away all problems and obstacles on a path in which education is delivered; they have finally to continuous and sustained success. had the boot in the backside to deliver the What a failure in parenting. Parents must allow their offspring IT they have been promising for 15 years, and pupils have now to be upset at times – it happens in life through no fault of our own. learned many skills through remote learning that are entirely We are their guides, their mentors, aligned with the world of work. preparing them to go into the Teachers have witnessed children Neil Brooks believes failure is a gift big wide world with the resilience develop independent research and to face the lows and to scream collaborative skills, resilience and a ‘Alleluia’ at the heights. sense of intellectual experimentation.

There is an absolute balance At last, the education sector – which to be struck between supportive should be leading the forth industrial encouragement and giving a child revolution – is catching up with perspective. When a parent enters the rest of society. a headteacher’s study on behalf We have had to reassess the of a child who has been berated aims of schooling. The importance by a teacher to defend their of examination results has devalued, darling’s actions, their first question thankfully. Not that they are tends to be, ‘have you heard their unimportant, but they should not side of the story?’ As if heads have be kept aloft on a pedestal, towering never dealt with errant pupils above the development of character before. It’s a mistake. Parents need and personality. to let their children sort out their It is these two goals encompassing own problems and to accept, if resilience, collaboration skills, need be, that life isn’t always fair. tolerance, teamwork, judgement, I tell them so, but what is harder negotiation and other hard-toto point out is that the problem measure traits which are justifiably has probably arisen more because creeping up the ladder, mirroring the child is desparate to appease the needs of the workplace. parents who cannot accept that Schools prepare individuals their child could possibly have to play their part in the bigger ‘Parents must allow their offspring to be ‘failed’. I usually advise the child team of society and to develop their to go and talk through the individuality. It is no paradox. School upset at times – it happens in life through no fault of our own. We are their guides, problem with the teacher they children need to step into the adult world with an emerging robustness their mentors, preparing them to go into have upset, shouldering the problem themselves, with the and resilience that allows them to the big wide world with the resilience loving, sensible parent ready meet the dips of life’s rollercoaster to face the lows and to scream to offer advice and guidance without crumbling and collapsing.

“Alleluia” at the heights’ rather than take over.

They need to understand their own Let the child develop their capabilities, and most important of own character, not what we as all, be comfortable with them. How adults hope they might be, or think they should be. Dispense with can someone work in or lead a team if the individual is unaware the snowplough and accept the advice of experienced professionals. of their own limitations, or the talents of others?

Love and encourage them, but do not scaffold them and stifle their It is therefore crucially important that parents allow their children inquisitiveness, experimentation or exploration. Be the crash mat for to fail. I have never come across a teacher, nor a successful business when they tumble, and then smile and put that fall in perspective. ■ person, nor any entrepreneur, musician, artist (the list goes on), who

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Blundell’s School, Devon

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OPINION

RELOCATION

Bart Wielenga, head of Blundell’s in Devon, weighs up the pros and cons of moving children to school in the country engaged with the school, while retaining a more cosmopolitan OVID-19 has given many people the opportunity to feel through boarders who come from far and wide. Children may take stock of their lives as they resign themselves to a have friends in the local market town, as well as in Mumbai, Dubai, different way of life and living with the unknowns of Nairobi and Hong Kong. ‘when’ or ‘whether’. Over time, rather than fighting But before one gets too carried away, it is important to consider the disruption and inconvenience, we have resigned both sides of the story, including a misconception that coming to the ourselves to a more moderate rhythm and, despite ourselves, many country means schools are easier and less aspirational for their pupils of us have liked it. Maybe not all of it, but enough to make us think and that there is less emphasis on hard work. While it is true that again about what we want for ourselves and for our families. schools may not be as selective as some of the big London day schools, It therefore should come as no surprise that many city families this does not mean that children are not expected to work hard are contemplating whether a life in the country might just suit or that staff lack aspiration them better. We have had for their pupils. more enquiries about places Bart Wielenga It’s important to be honest at school this June than ever and ask yourself why you are before and the recurring leaving? Running away from theme is that of parents a problem in a London school ‘exploring their options’. They and escaping to the country have discovered that working may seem like an easy solution from home is possible and, to a difficult conundrum, but of course, the value for money sometimes the problem does in terms of property prices not go away at a new school. is a no-brainer. The cost of a There are very few schools move is considerable upheaval, I know that would not go especially for children, so it’s to extraordinary lengths worth thinking through the to try to resolve a problem. pros and cons.

My advice in the first instance There are some pretty good is that you resolve the matter reasons for moving schools. It with your current school comes down to lifestyle choices so that you are free to make and values. If you want to move a choice to move for positive because you think the lifestyle reasons rather than driven in the country is better for you, by a need to get away from and matches your values better, a negative one. then that is just as relevant for Make sure that when your children. But it is not right you visit a new school you for everyone. I often say to are very open with it about parents that you cannot force One of the strengths of schools that offer a your reasons for the move. your children to adopt your combination of boarding and day is that there The more your new school values, but if you do not talk is often a strong local community engaged understands about you about them and live by them, and your child, the better then don’t expect your children with the school whilst retaining a more they can help you. I always to adopt them by chance. cosmopolitan feel through boarders try to speak with the head You can talk to them about who come from far and wide of the school the pupil is different opportunities. Most coming from, so it is also public schools in the country worth making sure that you have everything from day speak with them to ensure the transition is smooth and that their pupils, flexible-boarding, through to full boarding, and it can knowledge of your child is passed on to the new school. be tailored to your family circumstances. Having a boarding Finally, get involved in the new school. Many of the boarding school experience with all the associated opportunities can be very schools are situated in market towns and many local families will have attractive, especially if parents still need to do some of their work in a long-standing history with the school. If you want to settle into the city. One of the strengths of schools that offer the combination the community, then school is a great way to do that. of boarding and day is that there is often a strong local community

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COMMENT

AI EDUCATION

Nikolas Kairinos explains how a tutorbot can democratise learning very industry has felt the fallout of the coronavirus pandemic, and the education sector is no different.

As institutions across the country were ordered to close in March 2020, educators, parents and pupils were forced to consider how technology could plug the gap and ensure students’ academic performance did not suffer.

What ensued was the acceleration of a trend that was already well under way; the crisis spurred the adoption of digital solutions, which enabled pupils to continue learning from the remit of their own homes. Many of these tools are powered by one particular technology that promises to enhance, and even revolutionise, education – artificial intelligence (AI).

The pandemic has demonstrated the enormous potential of AI in education.

Nikolas Kairinos How, then, will it change learning in the years to come? feedback to each individual If we consider some of today’s most pupil, this is a mammoth task for pressing problems – poverty, food security, anyone responsible for simultaneously climate change – many of these could be educating a classroom of students. solved through better education. And With sophisticated AI software at yet, many people around the world still people’s fingertips, this will soon change. struggle to access basic education.

AI will give learners the ability to break As the global expansion of internet usage down subjects into bite-size pieces and continues, a stable internet connection will learn at their own pace without disrupting soon be all that is needed for learners of all the flow of the class. Using predictive backgrounds and ages to take advantage analysis, for instance, AI will recognise of AI toolsets. Education has no limits, problem areas for individual learners and AI will be used to eliminate arbitrary and put greater emphasis on these topics. boundaries; soon, every adult and child It will repeat things that a student has will be able to receive the same quality not mastered and find the best way of education as their peers. of communicating the knowledge. For AI software can make global classrooms visual learners, AI software combined available to everyone. This process will with Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual undoubtedly revolutionise the very model With each student having Reality (VR) will offer immersive videos, of learning, in effect breaking down silos access to personalised while hands-on learners will be provided between schools and traditional year teaching that is tailored to with interactive games to solidify their levels. With each student having access their own understanding, knowledge. After all, not every student to personalised teaching that is tailored learning style and interests, has the same needs, and AI will provide to their own understanding, learning style who is to say that we must one-to-one personalised learning that and interests, who is to say that we must will resonate with each individual pupil. continue to follow a rigid curriculum and continue to follow a rigid In the not too distant future, a year-by-year progression? Soon, a child who curriculum and year-by-year fundamental shift in education will is particularly adept at mathematics will be progression? take shape; one that will make education able to learn at the same level as peers two, accessible to everyone and will nurture three, or even four years their senior. students’ abilities and passions to improve Meanwhile, the sheer volume of new learning outcomes for all. AI will be the driver of this change, information that we are exposed to every day in the age of the and I look forward to seeing how the technology will unleash internet means that knowledge becomes outdated far more quickly people’s potential. than before. By assimilating all the data available globally in real-time, AI will allow students to stay up to date with recent developments and Nikolas Kairino is the founder and CEO of Soffos, the world’s first ensure their knowledge never becomes outdated.

AI-powered KnowledgeBot and Fountech.ai, a company which is To expand on this point, let us consider how AI will change the way driving innovation in the AI sector. students learn. Despite teachers’ best efforts to tailor their lessons and

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SCHOOL HOUSE PARTNERSHIP

PREPARED FOR A FAST-CHANGING WORLD Children starting school this year will enter the workforce in the late 2030s.

London’s Lycée Winston Churchill gets them ready for the future

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t’s not just remarkable results that set this school apart, though the numbers are indeed impressive: 100 per cent pass rates on French exams, 100 per cent matriculation of graduates to competitive universities around the world, and an ‘outstanding’ sixth-form rating from Ofsted. What’s really different about the bilingual Lycée International de Londres Winston Churchill stems from its unique blend of academic rigour and innovation, its focus on the needs of individual students, and its vibrant international culture and community.

Located in a magnificent north London Art Deco building, the Lycée Churchill is a co-ed independent school offering a full FrenchEnglish bilingual programme to 900 pupils aged three to 18. In secondary school, families can choose either an English International track, leading to the highly regarded International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) or a French curriculum fully accredited by the Ministère de l’Education Nationale that leads to the Baccalauréat qualification.

The Lycée Churchill develops each child into a forward-thinking, principled, and joyful citizen. The school is characterised by diversity, with students from 45 countries and staff of 29 different nationalities with extensive international experience. It’s built on a modern educational ethos blending traditional disciplines with exploration, critical thinking,

teamwork, and individual development. Students learn to be curious, open minded and to express their ideas with confidence.

In the early years duallanguage immersion programme, now available for three- and four-year-olds, classes are taught jointly by native speakers of French and English, both present at all times. This natural and organic approach to bilingual teaching is carried out by highly trained early learning specialists. Their co-teaching and innovative techniques let young children learn in small groups through play, discovery and experience in a family-like environment.

Starting in year 7, education remains bilingual until the age of 18. The proven yet innovative teaching methods develop well-rounded, open-minded and culturally aware young adults, ready to tackle the challenges of the 21st century.

Wisely deployed, technology encourages interactive ways of learning. This proved particularly vital during the COVID-19 building closure, when students continued to learn and interact from home without disruption.

An active parents’ association welcomes new families and harmonious collaboration between the parents and the school plays a crucial role in fostering a culture that promotes resilience, responsibility, empathy, and dialogue. At Lycée Churchill, success is defined one student at a time.

Register for the next Open days: Saturday 3 October or Saturday 5 December 2020.

Book an online or in-person private visit at admissions@ lyceeinternational. london. Visit our website atlyceeinternational. london

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FEATURES SCHOOLS | EDUCATION | FOCUS

Rugby School, Warwickshire

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Lancing College, Sussex

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HEADS OF SCHOOL

DECLAN BRANSBY, JONNY WILLIAMS, POMME JIVAVICHAKUL AND YANA MURATEVA, LANCING COLLEGE

Declan Bransby, 18, Jonny Williams, 17, Pomme Jivavichakul, 17 and Yana Murateva, 18 are the joint four heads of school of Lancing College, an independent senior school on the south coast of England with 610 pupils of which 60 per cent board. Together, they bridge the gap between the pupils of more than 45 nationalities and the teaching body and head, and act as ambassadors for the school.

Declan joined the sixth form on an all-round foundation bursary to pursue a passion for science and hopes to study biomedical science at Imperial or UCL, with a view to a career working with disease. His other passion is basketball. Drama scholar, Jonny chose Lancing for its excellent drama. Twenty-five plays are performed a year and he has managed to be in 12 of them. He is studying double maths, physics and chemistry and devotes the rest of his time to music, playing the clarinet and saxophone and singing in the choir. He is hoping to read engineering at Imperial and would like to work for the renowned engineering company Riccardo, which is down the road from the school and makes McLaren engines and Bugatti transmissions. He has already worked with them testing the efficacy of fuel additives as part of the Crest Gold Awards, a national awards scheme to encourage sixth formers to work on commercially viable projects.

Pomme hails from Bangkok and is studying Business, English literature and German and would like to study International Management and German at Bath. She loves hip hop dance and wants to go into event management. She plays the piano and ice-skates, competing at a national level in Thailand, represents the school in the first hockey and netball teams and, as a sergeant in the CCF, holds the third highest rank.

Yana came from Bulgaria to get a better education in science; she hopes to study medicine at UCL or Imperial so that she can fulfil her dream of becoming a doctor. It was quite a decision as she comes from a close family but they were supportive of their ambitious daughter. She loves music, debating and was captain of the under-sixteen swimming squad.

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Leave your Dickensian impression of prep schools at the gates, they have come on a long way

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PLEASE SIR, MAY I BOARD? Boarding prep schools are rewriting the rules and the pupils are loving it, says Victoria Lambert

s a new generation of young boarders find their bunks and their feet at prep schools across the country, it is impossible to ignore the quiet revolution that has taken place in this most traditional of settings.

While past boarding prep school pupils left home at seven or eight, resigned to not seeing their parents or pets for several weeks at a time, with limited privacy and some quite bleak settings, modern children know and experience far better.

From flexi-boarding to FaceTime, safe spaces to homework support and twice weekly sporting fixtures where parents are invited for delicious tea afterwards, prep boarders are finding school fun as well as rewarding.

So what’s driving the new-style boarding preps?

The key change across the sector, says Mike Piercy, headmaster of The New Beacon School in Kent, has been in the development of pastoral responsibility. ‘It’s about carpets, curtains and care,’ he says. ‘Some would describe prep school boarding facilities akin to those of a hotel, but the key difference is the care. Boarding and pastoral staff are specialists and highly trained.

They should exude warmth and kindness to children who are still young.’

Alex McCullough, headmaster at Perrott Hill Prep School in Somerset, agrees. ‘A happy boarding environment,’ says McCullough, ‘is one in which the child feels nurtured, supported and “at home” – like they’re a part of the family, or indeed, the furniture.’

Modern boarding houses are consciously cosy, but it is the warm family atmosphere of schools like Ludgrove and Horris Hill in Berkshire, Cothill House, Summer Fields and the Dragon School in Oxfordshire, Sandroyd in Dorset, Dunhurst in Hampshire and The Elms in Worcestershire that draw in many of their pupils. Often fires are lit in warm-panelled halls and dogs bound through libraries littered with comfortable bean bags. Lovely

PHOTO: GETTY IMAGES

A

matrons dish out TLC alongside mobile phones for quick calls home, and then there is the space available, outside in the woods or in large facilities at schools like Port Regis in Dorset or Dulwich Prep in London, who run talent shows and comedy nights.

Boarding seems to be regaining its popularity as traditional prep schools have changed the rules, and while boarding numbers have declined nationally, this tends to only be within the younger boarders with many parents taking advantage of the year seven change over in the state sector and moving their children into boarding school for a couple of years in preparation for senior school.

‘Age 11 is a turning point with the end of primary education,’ says Piercy, ‘and with more schools offering 11+ boarding, whether in a traditional 13+ prep school or an 11 to 18 senior school.

With many children changing schools at this age it is a good transition point.’

There is also a chance to discover if boarding is for your child in the longer term, says David Paterson, headmaster of the family owned and run Woodcote House School in Surrey. ‘I think 95 per cent absolutely love it. But it is not for everyone, and it is good to learn that early.’

Tom Bunbury of Papplewick in Ascot, where boarding is so popular that while not offered until year five, young boys are increasingly keen to try, agrees: ‘It is a great way to “ease” into the boarding ethos.’

But even at the junior end some heads are witnessing an increase in boarding. Tom Dawson, headmaster at Sunningdale School, Berkshire, says he has seen an increase in boarding at the junior end of school, particularly in boys from London families.

‘Parents recognise that children benefit greatly from the space and the time that a boarding school offers,’ says Dawson. ‘Pupils get so much time to spend with their friends doing the things they really enjoy, and this can take a great deal of pressure off parents.’

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EDUCATION You’ll find a warm atmosphere at Horris Hill, Berkshire

Port Regis, Dorset, offers extensive facilities

Duncan Bailey, headmaster of Cothill House, says that last year the school had its largest intake into year four for four years.

‘We remain full with a healthy roll of boys aged eight to 13,’ he says, adding, ‘parents recognise we know and understand boys; they see they are happy and relaxed.’

Paterson says that boarding schools are becoming more attractive again, not least as day schools become oversubscribed.

Another school with a strong family tradition, where a member of the Barber family has been headmaster since the 1930s, is Ludgrove School in Berkshire, which offers fortnightly boarding as standard. Alex McCullough adds there’s no doubt the way in which boarding is used by parents is changing.

‘There is a real appetite for flexi and ad-hoc boarding,’ he says.

Perrott Hill has very few full boarders, about ten, says McCullough, so the school really does become their home during term-time. ‘The one-to-one support the children get from our dedicated staff is outstanding.’ And that figure belies the number of their friends who are sleeping in dorms at least once a week as well. ‘We have 64 beds in total,’ says McCullough, ‘lots of weekly and flexi-boarders and a thriving activities programme so there is always lots going on.’

Even schools who pride themselves on their full-boarding ethos extol the advantages of boys learning together; one it has to be said is well supported by their outstanding common entrance results, have capitulated a little to modern standards.

In another day, boys might not see their parents for a month or more; now its more likely to be three days, with the opportunity to go home almost fortnightly. Parents are warmly encouraged to attend Wednesday and Saturday matches. A spot of tea

off campus is often condoned, even encouraged.

With so much else changing, it might be surprising to some that single sex boarding is still in favour. But Mike Piercy points out, ‘the benefit of boarding at prep extends the benefit of an all-boys’ education.’

‘Not always the most organised, self-disciplined or selfsufficient young boys benefit from a school structure which inculcates these skills,’ he explains. ‘Supervised homework and music practice relieve domestic pressure and develop independence. Then there is the company of friends, developing social skills, working and living as part of a community.’

There are far fewer ‘girls only’ boarding preps: two of the best known are Hanford and Knighton House, ironically only a lacrosse ball’s throw away from each other in Dorset. Why just

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EDUCATION

girls? ‘Without the pressure, social distraction and anxiety that a mixed environment can sometimes bring, girls develop at their own pace,’ says Knighton House’s headmaster, Robin Gainher.

A best of both worlds could be found in Marlston House, Berkshire, a girls only prep school, twinned with Brockhurst House, the boys’ counterpart. The two schools share not only a headmaster, David Fleming and deputy head, Bronwyn Raeburn-Ward, but the same large estate as well.

There are opportunities to share activities, but Raeburn-Ward points out that Marlston is an equal player to Brockhurst, saying: ‘Opportunities for girls in their personal, social and academic lives have never been greater, but they need to develop the right skills at school to take full advantage of them.’

While being family run means the school is smaller than some, Woodcote’s Paterson is proud to point out that no boy can ‘fall through the cracks’. ‘We know them and the parents well.

No one gets ignored or forgotten. This close relationship pays off most crucially when advising parents on which senior school their son should move to because of the level of trust.

‘It’s a very personal service. We can guide parents to the right school for their boy.’

Recognising the close relationship and community that can be established through boarding, there are some schools that even step up the boarding around exam time. Bruern Abbey in Oxfordshire, which specialises in putting boys with dyslexia into mainstream senior schools, typically buses their pupils to and from London on Friday afternoons and Monday mornings, closing the doors completely for the weekend, except for the last few weeks prior to common entrance when year eights

hunker down, forming strong bonds with their fellow applicants, bolstering each other during a challenging time.

There are changes that go beyond style of boarding too.

‘An unusual, though perhaps not unique, element of our boarding is a degree of democracy,’ says Mike Piercy. ‘At the end of the school day, that night’s boarders meet with the housemaster and decide the routine for the evening: Prep or play first? Sports hall, AstroTurf or quiet time in the boarding house?’

Our curriculum has evolved, says Cothill House’s Duncan Bailey. ‘Mindfulness is now a part of the weekly curriculum, for example. Technology provides educational opportunities – the boys love learning through our virtual and augmented reality headsets and it has helped them understand important topics, such as life in the WW1 trenches, in new ways.’

Yet that doesn’t mean junking tradition. Dawson explains: ‘Traditional does not have to mean draconian. At Sunningdale,

Warmth and kindness lie at the heart of The New Beacon School, Kent

Ludgrove School, Berkshire, is family run

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A rare all girls prep boarding schools is Hanford School, Dorset

“traditional” refers to our values and the things we believe are important, such as kindness, hard work, good manners and zest for life. We can still have all of these things and still adapt to a changing market.’

At the Dragon School, children can contact their parents via email and phone, but the school also upholds the important boarding tradition of a weekly letter home.

In North Yorkshire, Aysgarth School fosters values such as independence and community, while also preparing children for life after school ends altogether.

Headmaster, Rob Morse, explains, ‘Independence might be the greatest gift we as parents can give to our children.

Boarders are required to take responsibility for their actions and choices and, because parents are not there to shield them from natural causes and effects, the children will experience both success and failure in a controlled environment.’

Tom Dawson thinks the bonds the pupils make at Sunningdale are one of the key advantages. ‘In a questionnaire about remote learning that we have sent out during the enforced COVID-19 isolation period, the things they miss the most by far are their friends. They love being able to see them on screen, but that cannot replace being able to go outside whenever they want to kick a football, bowl in the nets or just run around.’

Bunbury adds: ‘The key factor is that our boys are happy, which of course reflects in their academic results at the end of the day.’

For parents, that equals job done – however much they might miss their children at night.

Aysgarth School, Yorkshire, values independence and community

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UNIFORM SUCCESS Schools with old military links have found a new USP, and it’s working, says Eleanor Doughty

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nce upon a time, Britain’s public schools were suffused with military links. Soldiers and sailors had to be created – not to mention educated – somewhere.

The 19th century was the making of such schools.

Wellington College opened in 1859 to educate sons of fallen army officers, and for a long time had a reputation for being, as one journalist put it, ‘a holding house for Sandhurst cadets’. As the late military historian Sir Michael Howard writes in the introduction to Anthony Seldon and David Walsh’s 2013 book, Public Schools and the Great War, during his time at Wellington, ‘we could not escape the sad memorials with their message that we in our turn must be prepared to follow the example of our predecessors and make our own sacrifice.’

For, during the First World War, some 35,000 old boys of public schools were killed. Hundreds of gallantry medals were given to these boys – 13 Victoria Crosses from Eton, nine from Harrow, and six from Haileybury alone.

It is little surprise, then, that most household-name boarding schools today can claim some link to the armed forces. Today, the relationships these schools have with the military are respected, but not the focus. After all, a £40,000-a-year school must offer more than proficiency in cleaning boots. And the military itself is much diminished; there are only a third more full-time soldiers in the British Army than died on the first day of the Battle of the Somme in 1916. Public schools are no longer deemed essential for equipping the Ministry of Defence with suitable personnel – though you wouldn’t think so from certain regimental dinners. Haileybury – which merged with the former United Services College in 1942 – is now fully co-ed, and Wellington went the same way in 2006. So what is the purpose of a school today with military links?

Some schools remain closer than others to their military foundations. Pangbourne College in Berkshire is one such. Founded in 1917 as the Nautical College, Pangbourne, to prepare boys for the Merchant Navy, it now bears a resemblance to most other boarding schools. Boys and girls enter at 11 and are taught the full roster of academic subjects. There’s a school farm, where hens lay eggs and pupils can make jam, and students in the upper-sixth can join the Wine Society. Pupils can take both BTECs and A-levels, and the classics department regularly goes on tour. A few traditions remain however; pupils wear naval uniforms, eat in the ‘mess hall’, call their boarding houses ‘divisions’, and each day the school’s blue ensign is flown. The head, Thomas Garnier, served in the Royal Navy, and the bursar, Neil Walne, is a former officer in the Royal Engineers.

Pangbourne is not alone in retaining a few military links. The Royal Hospital School (RHS) was founded in 1712 to provide education Pangbourne College, Berkshire to orphans of seafarers.

O

The Duke of Sussex at the Duke of York Royal Military School, Dover

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Downside School, Somerset

Originally located at Greenwich Hospital, in what is now the National Maritime Museum, in 1933 it moved to its Suffolk campus. Education at RHS focused on maritime matters as late as the 1950s, but today, its headmaster, Simon Lockyer, impresses the importance of the school’s civilian status. ‘We are not a military school in any shape or form. We have no responsibility to the armed forces, and we don’t have a quota on pupils having to go into the Army, Navy, or RAF,’ he says. Still, pupils refer to lunch as ‘mess’, and the school’s defaced blue ensign is raised and lowered daily by a group of pupils, a tradition dating back to the school’s foundation. Girls and boys can board from 11, and the curriculum offers a run of BTECs alongside A-levels. Lowersixth pupils can qualify to become sailing instructors, while vocational awards can be sought in IT. And amongst the usual seasonal sports of hockey, rugby, and cricket, pupils learn to windsurf, keep horses at livery and climb on the school’s own indoor climbing wall.

An objective observer might point out that both Pangbourne and RHS are conventional boarding schools – just with a little military cherry on top. But in a competitive market, they have to have a USP, and drill is theirs. At RHS, while pupils wear school uniform, they don naval uniform for the division ceremonies that happen seven times a year. ‘It’s the same as you would see at the Britannia Royal Naval College in Dartmouth; a naval parade accompanied by the school’s marching band,’ says Lockyer. ‘It takes about 45 minutes and is overseen by an inspecting officer from one of the Armed Forces.’

At Pangbourne, parade practice is on Thursdays, and is a way of ‘building teamwork, like being in a choir or a sports team,’ says Walne. This appeals to both boys and girls, he adds. ‘My daughter hasn’t got a military bone in her body, yet enjoys marching. To stand on parade in front of people challenges them. We use a lot of the

techniques that the military use to turn people out.’

Of course, one could say that of boarding school life in general.

And these are not the only schools that retain links, to one extent or another, with the military. As cosy as it is today, Wellington’s school houses are named after military commanders (Wellesley, Picton, Combermere, and more), and pupils participate in the Field Gun Run, which has its origins in the Royal Navy, asking teams of sailors to transport a field gun through a series of obstacles – even the Navy discontinued it in 1999. Time was when the prospectus for Cheltenham College – founded in 1841 and from which 702 former pupils were killed in the First World War – noted that ‘all boys in the senior school are instructed in military drill and the use of the rifle’. Today, it is a thoroughly modern independent school, fully co-educational with pottery, polo and climbing on its list of activities, as well as a mini-MBA elective.

It is not just in the independent sector that military links remain. The Duke of York’s Royal Military School (DOY RMS) in Kent, a Ministry of Defence-sponsored academy where boarding fees are £14,445 a year (for civilian families), was founded in 1903 as the Royal Military Asylum to educate orphans of British servicemen killed during the Napoleonic Wars. Until 1999 the school’s headmasters were serving military officers, and only in 2011 were children from civilian families able to enrol.

In the busy Kent secondary school market – there are 34 grammar schools, as well as a handful of independent boarding schools – DOYRMS’s USP is definitely its military ethos. ‘Our values are courage, integrity, respect, commitment, loyalty, and self-discipline,’ says a spokesperson. The school, which has 500 on roll, is proudly regimented in its outlook. ‘You have to have good behaviour to get in here. You will

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not see children walking around with phones.’

While this might appeal to screen-time conscious parents, there is more to school life than that – trips to CERN are offered, alongside kickboxing, riding, and competitive trampolining.

A bit of marching does make it onto the timetable.

Each year pupils have their own version of the Trooping of the Colour, called Grand Day, an inter-house drill competition, the winner of which presents the school colours.

It is a unique environment, says LieutenantGeneral Sir Gary Coward, chairman of armed forces charity SSAFA (Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association), who attended DOYRMS and went straight

to Sandhurst upon leaving. ‘There were six in my year that went to Sandhurst and we had a head start,’ he says. ‘It wasn’t as much of a drama for us as it would have been for the majority of cadets.’

For other schools, whose origins are not military, the Combined Cadet Force (CCF) scheme is the ideal extra-curricular. Downside School in Somerset, founded by Benedictine monks in 1606, has a vibrant CCF, run by Lt Col Neill Barrett, and is one of the only schools in the country to have a CCF with its own cap badge, granted by King George VI. The army and navy CCF sections balance military activities with adventure training, Lt Col Barrett explains. ‘Drill is a means to an end – we have an inspection every year.’ CCF is not a recruiting agency for the armed forces, he says, but ‘about developing the individual and their leadership skills.’ For those who choose the military as a career, it can be useful, however. ‘CCF gives you a broad idea of what’s available in the Armed Forces,’ says RHS old boy, Captain Piers Flay of the Household Cavalry.

‘It’s by no means essential for wanting to join the forces – Sandhurst teaches you as if you’ve never seen the army before.’

The public school still plays a role in the modern armed forces. According to the Sutton Trust, 49 per cent of those entering Sandhurst in 2019 came from fee-paying schools. Though former special forces officer Colonel David Smiley – the possible inspiration for John le Carré’s George Smiley – is on the list of Old Pangbournians, scarcely any take this opportunity today – ‘one or two a year, if that,’ says Walne. As for military families?

‘We’d love some more.’

Cheltenham College

Royal Hospital School, Suffolk

SOLDIERS AND THEIR ALMA MATARS SHERBORNE SCHOOL

Lt-Gen David Leakey, former director general of the European Union Military Staff and former Gentleman Usher of the Black Rod Maj-Gen Julian Thompson, Falklands War Royal Marine commander ETON COLLEGE

General Sir Mark Carleton-Smith, Chief of the General Staff WINCHESTER COLLEGE

General Sir Nick Carter, Chief of the Defence Staff HARROW SCHOOL

Field Marshal Charles Guthrie, Baron Guthrie of Craigiebank, former Chief of the Defence Staff Lt-Gen James Brudenell, 7th Earl of Cardigan, Leader of the Charge of the Light Brigade at the Battle of Balaclava, 1854 AMPLEFORTH COLLEGE

Brigadier Andrew Parker-Bowles, former Silver Stick in Waiting to Queen Elizabeth II PANGBOURNE COLLEGE

Colonel David de Crespigny Smiley LVO OBE MC, former special forces officer ST PAUL’S SCHOOL

Field Marshal Bernard Montgomery, 1st Viscount Montgomery of Alamein, former Chief of the Imperial General Staff ST EDWARD’S SCHOOL

Oxford Wing Commander Guy Gibson VC, commanding officer of 617 Squadron, leader of the Dambusters raid, 1943

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BE WOKE Easier said than done, says Annabel Heseltine, who talks to independent schools about how they manage the sensitive issue of racial and cultural diversity

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t is an unfortunate side effect of the movement to bring racial equality to all, and to understand and accept cultural diversity by bringing it up for discussion, that many people would rather not go near the subject for fear of upsetting people and unintentionally provoking antagonistic reactions.

Schools, however, do not, and should not, have the luxury of avoidance. They are, after all, about educating pupils for the world they will be living in. But how to go about understanding, revealing and dealing with the complexity of racial diversity is a matter that is taxing many of them at the moment. A number of whom I approached declined to talk to me as they said they had yet to finalise the details of their response to the escalated demand for racial equality and cultural tolerance, all of which only underlines the sensitivity of the issues they are addressing.

At its simplest, it is easy to understand how if schools focus on the outrage surrounding the death of George Floyd while in police custody, people of other cultural origins who have faced discrimination and persecution like Jewish and Asian people can quite rightly feel aggrieved that they are not being considered.

Lara Pechard, who is head of St Margaret’s School, Bushey, Hertfordshire, a very diverse school with pupils from 27 passport carrying countries, has been leading the way in encouraging open dialogue. ‘It’s about finding the right tone from the first communication,’ she says. ‘It is important not to be defensive, and not to think you have got it right. If you talk about Black Lives Matter, pupils have asked, “but what about Asian lives?” We have pupils from Hong Kong, China, Mexico, Nigeria and a large Jewish contingent.

There is so much potential to get it wrong while trying to get it right.’

Cheadle Hulme in Stockport responded to the reaction of their pupils to the death of George Floyd by recognising openly the challenging nature of the subject for some of their pupils. ‘It is understandable that we might be tempted to shy away from discussing this subject for fear of saying the wrong thing, or unintentionally causing offence and highlighting our own ignorance. It is imperative, however, that we find the words and work through these challenging times together.’

Irfan Latif, Pprincipal of the sixth-form college, DLD in London agrees. ‘The killing of George Floyd was a seminal moment in our history, and has led to a worldwide movement that we cannot ignore. It’s important we listen and understand the issue that is causing much anxiety, and address it in a way that brings people together.

We, as educators, have been given the great responsibility of getting the narrative right; we can mould and influence the next generation of leaders in our society, regardless DLD College, London of colour, religion, sex or

I

United World College Atlantic

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The founders of St Margaret’s School, Bushey’s, Student Diversity Group

faith. Whether it is about being anti-racist, embracing inclusion, appreciating diversity or reflecting upon our own unconscious bias, we have a duty to teach our children what has happened in the past so that we don’t make the same mistakes in the future.’

It is fair to say that many independent schools have gone a long way to address diversity and to promote better understanding among their pupils. From the get-go, prep schools talk about diversity, celebrating and educating their pupils about different festivals be it Passover or Divali, but as pupils rise through the school system, the issues become more complex.

DLD College has around 40 nationalities registered on their books at any one time and is vigilant, rotating special assemblies and offering bespoke menus in their Global Kitchen reflecting the various celebrations, including Ramadan, Chinese New Year, Iranian New Year, Jewish festivals, Easter and Christmas. ‘The students take great pride in the fact that we support them and acknowledge their heritage.

This inevitably allows for open discussion and develops a greater understanding amongst our community of the various cultures and differences that we live in,’ says Latif.

The Royal Hospital School in Suffolk is one of only 11 schools to be nominated as a Stephen Lawrence Ambassador School in the UK because of its commitment to challenging racism and supporting diversity and inclusion. Throughout 2020, RHS has devoted areas of the curriculum to topics that address these issues. In the Lent term, pupils studied a religion and society module, focusing on prejudice and discrimination, examining how the Stephen Lawrence case was a pivotal force for change.

Head of religious studies at RHS, Kellyanne O’Callaghan, acknowledges the importance of their role ‘in ensuring the messages

of diversity and inclusion go beyond a slogan and are intrinsic to not only their own day-to-day ethos but also to schools across the country.’

UWC Atlantic (United World College), a sixth-form college in Glamorgan with a worldwide reputation, was founded in 1962 at the height of the Cold War, with a simple guiding mission – to not allow the horror of the world wars to happen again and to use its core focus of serving others to understand and build a common and shared humanity. Its intention is to bring together young people from different nations to act as champions of peace through an education based on shared learning, collaboration and understanding of their different backgrounds and beliefs. First-year pupils are placed in mixed four bed dorms on arrival and the second-year pupils paint their faces with their national flags.

‘We make it clear to students on arrival that meeting and sharing their lives in close proximity with students from other countries, from conflict and war zones, from those politically opposed to their own and from countries they know nothing about, may be the biggest challenge in their lives so far,’ says head of marketing and communications, Elly Witcher. ‘But, a key component of them wanting to study with us is that they want to stop asking “why” and to start asking what they can do.’

After the horrific death of George Floyd, Witcher said that the school held a space for all their students (representing around 90 different countries) to come together to reflect and commit to positive action against all racial injustice; it was a pain that resonated amongst so many who have lost loved ones to similar brutality and racist attacks around the world.

‘A group of students made a powerful and compelling #BLM video, which has been shared on YouTube, and students ran sessions online

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about understanding racist behaviour in all its guises. These opened dialogue and debate spaces that are set to continue.’

But it’s the subtleties of the subject that are terrifying to deal with. We have come a long way in the past few decades from the days when many English schools were homogeneously white, middle class and English. My parents recognised that I would not sit happily in a conventional English girls’ school back in the 1970s and after rejecting, Holland Park Comprehensive and a Steiner School, they sent me to Cobham Hall in Kent, one of the nine Round Square schools in the UK, which also includes Milton Abbey in Dorset and the Scottish school, Gordonstoun, set up in 1934 by Kurt Hahn a German philosopher who escaped the persecution of Hitler. There are 170 of these schools around the world dedicated to serving the Round Square IDEALS of international understanding, democracy, environmental stewardship, adventure, leadership and service.

The consequence of going to a boarding school with an international mindset was that I was educated in a school that

Stowe School, Buckingham

embraced pupils from all cultures. I remember lying in bed listening to a girl from Rhodesia telling me about the racial inequality in Africa and how a school had been burnt down in protest. I had friends from Iran, Indonesia, Laos, Taiwan, India, Angola, Belgium, Thai, Kenya, and Nigeria, some of whom were white, but many weren’t.

I have always considered that globalism was the most important part of my education, setting me up for a international lifestyle way ahead of many of my contemporaries; or so I thought. But a conversation the other day underpinned the lack of awareness and insensitivity that we have been handing out for years, bringing home to me the complexity of true equality.

The uniform now prescribes blue tights on the uniform list but when I was there in the 70s, Cobham Hall allowed girls to wear a choice of two colours in tights; pearl grey, or skin. The ‘skin’ coloured tights were beige and of course did not in anyway resemble the skin colour of girls from Asia, Africa or anywhere outside Europe. Nobody thought about it and nobody raised it as an issue, but looking back, I wonder how my Perisan friend or my friend from Rhodesia viewed the irony of being asked to wear those ‘skin’ coloured tights. I realised that unintentionally, in my ignorance and lack of awareness, I had been condoning racial prejudice throughout my life. It’s only recently that sticking plasters and ballet shoes have been brought out in varying tones to reflect different skin colours.

‘That’s just the beginning of the problem,’ says Pechard. ‘Children get really upset by the notion of skin-coloured tights, just as they get upset by the notion of gender-typical uniform and it can be massively confusing for them.

‘But we have to keep talking about it, to give them the confidence to speak about it. And we shouldn’t feel guilty because we are white.

This is a difficult topic, for anybody to talk about. I don’t want to upset anybody but we have to forget about ourselves and not to be afraid to get it wrong. There is always that risk but I can apologise for using the wrong word. What I cannot apologise for is ignorance and apathy.’ ■ Cultural spring week at Cobham Hall, Kent

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SCHOOL HOUSE PARTNERSHIP effective as classroom-based teaching. Every environment has its advantages, and virtual schooling should be organised to make the most of its innate strengths.

FLIPPING THE CLASSROOM

ONLINE SCHOOLING: THE NEXT BIG THING? Heather Rhodes, Principal of Harrow School Online, shares why online schools are growing in popularity

Online teaching works particularly effectively with a ‘flipped classroom’ teaching methodology. This involves students working through interactive self-study materials to develop an understanding of subject content, and then having targeted lessons in a virtual classroom where teachers explore their understanding of that material.

Class sizes are small – ten pupils max – so teachers get to know their pupils well. Lessons are interactive and teachers use tools like polling, interactive whiteboards, and break out rooms where pupils work with their peers.

BENEFITS OF ONLINE SCHOOLS

PASTORAL CARE

In today’s uncertain landscape, online schooling offers stability and security for pupils, especially for those preparing to sit crucial exams. Online schooling can reach students wherever they are and give them the flexibility to fit learning around their lives. Personalising learning to individuals is incredibly powerful too – pupils can be stretched where possible and supported when required. Students at a well-designed online school can thrive academically while developing the skills and mindset to become better independent learners. We expect the sector to continue growing as more students discover the benefits and flexibility of online learning.

We ensure all pupils are safe and happy through regular meetings with a Success Coach and a house system that forms the backbone of our school community, providing the chance for peer support.

Our Success Coach, Dale Krause, has 20 years’ experience of supporting high-achieving pupils and co-ordinating support for pupils who require additional assistance. ‘From day one I coach pupils on university selection and provide tailored career planning,’ he says. ‘In one-to-one coaching sessions and small group workshops, I provide students with guidance on how to become effective independent learners.’

INTRODUCING HARROW SCHOOL ONLINE Harrow School Online is the first of its kind – a fully online sixth-form school offering a world-leading, independent British education.

It brings together the heritage of a Harrow School education with leading online learning technology and teaching practices. Careful design went in to how to make the most of the online delivery and we are opening our virtual doors to the first cohort of A-level pupils in September 2020.

Online education done well can be as

Heather Rhodes, Principal of Harrow School Online

Register for our virtual sixth-form open day to learn more. www.harrowschool online.org

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MUSIC TO MY EARS

Former chorister, Eleanor Doughty, extols the goody box of musical options available at independent schools have a few niche skills. I can recite the Lord’s Prayer in Czech, I know all the Christmas carol descants, and I know how to address a bishop. These are some of the things I learned by being a musician at school – and, for five years, being a cathedral chorister. In 2004, Lincoln Cathedral Choir visited Prague, and sang in St Vitus Cathedral, where we performed Janáček’s Lord’s Prayer.

I can still recite this short prayer on demand, my least useful talent.

Being a musician at school meant more to me than missing lunchtime for orchestra. I performed jazz in the Royal Albert Hall and the Natural History Museum, and as a chorister, sang in front of an audience six days a week in the most beautiful cathedral in the land. These experiences were priceless.

Schools spend astronomical amounts competing with one another to give their pupils memories such as these. In January a £2.5m music school with double-height rehearsal space opened at Wrekin College, Shropshire, while at Benenden School in Kent, a music school and recital hall is part of a new £19m project.

Some music departments come with different kinds of bells and whistles.

Richard Murray is headmaster of Christ Church Cathedral School, Oxford, home to 23 cathedral chorister boarders, 125 day boys and is a member of the Choir Schools’ Association. ‘We go to the cathedral every week and that has a profound effect on the boys,’ he says. ‘It’s like planting a time bomb in their brains which goes off when they realise what an effect being in such a place has.’

Most of his charges are musical to some degree – ‘if there’s musicality in anybody it will be found out,’ he says.

But Christ Church is not the kind of ‘music school’ where one might send a protégée, such as Chetham’s School of Music in Manchester. Christ Church is a school that has music in its veins. A small school, with pianos in every room, ‘rehearsals happen in corridors and on staircases. The place reverberates with music, and I think everybody is affected by that,’ says Murray.

I

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St Benedict’s School, Ealing

The city of Oxford, with its college chapels, is a natural place to be musical. ‘It’s a very normal way of behaving here,’ says Murray.

Choristers, he says, are one-of-a-kind. ‘They’re eloquent and they tend to use time efficiently. There is a civilised thoughtfulness about them.’

Being a chorister has a ‘growing up’ effect on a child. ‘They are pocket adults, more confident than their peers, and socially sophisticated.’

All this from a child of eight.

The fact of being a cathedral chorister gives one a unique set of reference points. Few not directly involved with the church have attended a bishop’s installation, as I did in 2002. But what happens after the cassock is hung up?

Technology has enhanced the way that music is taught, says Mark Wilderspin, director of music at St Paul’s School, London.

‘When I started teaching in the 1990s, you’d have to prepare your lessons with a tape or CD of whatever might come up. Now, something can come out of a conversation and you can play it in seconds because my iPad is hooked up to the WiFi.’ It also means, says Wilderspin, that young people are ‘fluent with technology from a production point of view – with programmes such as Garage Band’. This doesn’t mean that every Pauline is destined for the recording studio. ‘A lot of boys who would consider themselves card-carrying musicians, listen to a lot of classical, but that doesn’t mean they won’t plug into Ed Sheeran, or the Hamilton soundtrack.’

St Paul’s has plenty to offer the musician – orchestras, choirs, big band, swing band, as well as a ‘big sax group’. ‘If Paulines think that something is worth doing well, then that’s cool,’ says Wilderspin.

‘Though the average Pauline is inherently uncool – they are all quite geeky.’ This translates well into the music A-level.

‘It’s the only A-level that demands such a diverse skill base,’ says

Dr Charlotte Exon, director of music at Downe House School in Berkshire. ‘There’s essay writing, analysis, the aural side, performance and composition. It is really academic.’ Time was when music might have been seen as a ‘soft’ option, she says, ‘but if you’re looking for prospective university candidates and they’ve got grade eight, you know they’ve put a lot of time in.’

The subject of music also contains a range of coveted ‘soft skills’.

‘Musicians learn to prioritise,’ says James Henderson, director of music at Sherborne School in Dorset. ‘It’s not dissimilar to sport in a sense that you’re part of a team if you play in an ensemble, and you’re letting others down if you don’t practice.’

Wilderspin agrees: ‘You are able to present yourself with a bit of confidence. Musicians tend to be bright people, but it gives them an edge if they are able to demonstrate that they can keep a few plates spinning.’

You are also exposed to a wider range of people, says Matthew Ward, director of music at Mayfield School in Sussex. ‘In the choir we have everyone from year seven to year 13. If they go on tour together, the year sevens learn that the year 13s are not so scary.

It can be stratifying being in a year group, but music levels the playing field.’ It is confidence-building too. ‘Those girls seem to mature more quickly,’ Ward adds. ‘It’s an emotional intelligence thing. Is it the more gregarious girl that does music, or does the music make her more gregarious?’

Music has the admirable benefit of being something children can readily practise at home, given their chosen instrument is portable, or resources can be made available. While the provision of Zoom lessons is variable nationwide, with different schools taking different approaches to learning from home, some

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independent companies have stepped in to offer additional resources for musical children. M:Tech Education, which, in usual times, provides music composition courses for schools, has launched Team Tutti, a series of weekly music lessons that can be accessed from home. These, which include interactive quizzes and animated characters to keep things fun, get progressively more difficult, with the Team Tutti team on hand to answer questions from pupils. Their content has been rolled out in a variety of schools, including Richmond’s Falcons Preparatory School. ‘The breadth and variety of content is very stimulating and engaging for pupils,’ says Damian Peckham, director of music at Falcons. ‘The level of technical support and assistance means that every boy emerges with new skills and is able to develop existing talents.’

Music doesn’t always appeal as an academic subject, of course. For some pupils, it is purely a co-curricular activity. Increasingly, however, this is taken to the next level. In 2016 the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music (ABRSM) introduced a new performance-only Diploma, the ‘ARSM’ (Associate of the Royal Schools of Music), to be taken after grade eight, and before the DipABRSM. Dr Exon has six girls preparing for the ARSM: ‘it’s becoming almost standard that the girls are doing it, which is fantastic because they leave school with letters after their name.’

Some musical pupils will sit the diploma instead of taking music A-level as an option, explains Mark Forkgen, director of music at Tonbridge School in Kent, where around five boys take up music for A-level each year. Chris Eastwood, director of music

at St Benedict’s School, Ealing, sees a similar trend. ‘There are sixthformers who don’t feel strongly enough about it as an academic subject to carry on, but we still see them heavily involved with co-curricular music within school.’

These co-curricular activities – orchestras, bands, and choirs – might remind some of the lunchtime clash between music and sport at school. At Sherborne, Downside School, Somerset music has a ‘protected hour’ three days a week, explains Henderson. ‘The only other thing that can happen in that hour is a one-to-one academic consultation, otherwise school is just chilling, and musicians are doing their music. They are not missing anything to do it, and it enables them not to have to choose.’

Ben Lovett and Tonbridge has a system of ‘priority times’, Marcus Mumford explains Forkgen. ‘Thursday afternoon is sports of Mumford & Sons priority time, before arts priority at four thirty until King’s College School, Wimbledon six pm.’ This is where boarding schools excel.

‘At day schools those choices have to be made.

Jack Steadman, Jamie MacColl and Suren de Saram Here, with the long days and being on-site all of Bombay Bicycle Club the time, you have space for both,’ says Forkgen.

University College School, Henderson agrees, citing the late-night rehearsal London slots available to Shirburnians from eight fortyTom Chaplin, Tim Rice-Oxley, five to nine forty-five pm, popular with ‘our Dominic Scott, and Richard thriving rock society’.

Hughes of Keane Tonbridge School What pupils have the chance to study changes as the curriculum evolves. The AQA music GCSE Chris Martin of Coldplay Sherborne School offers a solo or ensemble DJ performance option as part of its examination, alongside the study Sophie Ellis Bextor of western classical music from 1650-1910, while Godolphin and Latymer the Edexcel equivalent’s set works include tracks James Blunt from Star Wars alongside Bach’s Brandenberg Concerto.

Harrow School At Tonbridge, boys take the IGCSE, which Florence Welch contains world music. ‘Culturally it’s brilliant as we Alleyn’s School have a lot of boys from Hong Kong,’ says Forkgen.

Lily Allen Classical music might not be ‘cool’ to everyone, Bedales adds Eastwood, but that’s the beauty of the Charlie Simpson of Busted subject. ‘The moment you start trying to make Uppingham School it “cool”, you lose sight of what it is you're trying to Will Young do. You can start playing Harry Potter themes in Wellington College orchestra, but the best musicians- want to play the symphonies. That, for them, is cooler.’

FAMOUS MUSICAL PUPILS

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FOCUS ON...

COVID-19: THE FALLOUT

PHOTOS: GETTY IMAGES

As independent schools rose to the challenge of educating their pupils in the midst of a pandemic, educationalists and academics consider the lessons learned during lockdown

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THE JOURNALIST

HELLO, MR CHIPS

The importance of a good teacher is paramount, says Victoria Lambert, who assesses the pros and cons of home-schooling

PHOTOS: GETTY IMAGES

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hat a relief it has been for those parents whose children have been home-schooled in the past few months via Zoom, Microsoft Teams and Google Hangouts for tutorials and extra-curricular lessons. Independent schools have risen to the challenge of distance learning with aplomb, provoking the thought for some parents faced with rising school fees and plummeting incomes that, maybe, there is something in the method that could be continued indefinitely.

Just before lockdown, Oxford Home Schooling released a report saying that home education in the UK was already up by 130 per cent since 2013, with some 57,000 children taught this way. And now there are parents reluctant to send their children back to school for safety reasons (a survey of 20,000 parents by childcare.co.uk found that more than 20 per cent were concerned about sending their children back to school in September).

There is something to be said for it. Some parents, work notwithstanding, have spoken of how much they enjoyed having their family together, valuing the chance to deliver their own ideas of extra-curricular, be that shared viewings of the National Youth Theatre At Home series, Bake-Off cooking challenges or family yoga practice. They have been given an unexpected window into their sons and daughters’ lives, exposing the difficulties that ‘normal’ school presented.

Who could blame anyone for thinking this might be a more amenable, and even cheaper, way of education going forward?

In practical terms, that might mean hiring a home tutor at £50 an hour, for 10 hours a week, 24 weeks of the year, equating to a child’s education costing £12,000 a year, not £30,000 as one might do now.

Yet before we get carried away – and for all the positive lessons this strange year has given us – there are some issues that cannot be dismissed. Are the standards of learning rigorous enough?

Can you prepare for independent exams this way?

There are longer term concerns too; could online lessons create a generation of form-fillers, students dutifully joining the dots but unable to be given the time and opportunity to stretch their minds and go beyond the basics? Where is the time for lessons that are aimed at developing independent thought?

What about those students with learning difficulties? According to the Mental Health Foundation, there are nearly 300,000 children with a condition such as ADHD – for whom distance learning has proved especially hard, requiring extra screen time, which many find difficult enough in short bursts.

There is also the Mr Chips factor – the Lyceum School importance of those teachers who inspire and strengthen children’s education – not just in lessons, but as they pass in the corridors, or chat at lunchtime and cheer on the touchlines.

Osmo – a company that produces learning games, teaching coding and problem solving – says its research shows how shutting schools has also made teachers more valued.

St Dunstan’s College, a co-educational day school in south London, set up a full virtual learning programme when lockdown began, using Firefly to set, receive and mark work, and Microsoft Teams for virtual teaching and to mirror a classroom setting, as much as possible. But, says headmaster, Nicholas Hewlett, it was the teachers who made it a success. ‘We received positive feedback and I am so grateful to our parents for taking the time to write and express their gratitude to the staff.’

Few would argue that education stands and falls on human relationships. Even good teachers can only be half their best when online – learning like this is intense and cannot replace face-to-face contact completely.

Alistair McConville, director of learning and innovation at Bedales School, Hampshire, says it’s almost impossible to over-estimate the influence of non-verbal factors in teaching and learning. ‘The quality of relationships between students and teachers are a central factor in student motivation,’ he explains. ‘These are cemented not just with kind words, but with everything else that goes with this.

‘At Bedales, teachers shake hands with students twice a week, pat them on the back and high-five them as they leave tutor time.

We chat to them apropos of nothing in their dormitories or over the lunch table.

‘Touch, levity, body language: all this contributes hugely to a sense of shared culture and endeavour, which undoubtedly fuels learning.

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St Margaret’s Bushey’s COVID classroom

a room and react accordingly is gone.’

With that in mind, how have our schools managed, and what will they take away from lockdown learning to make them even more worthy of notice? Education expert, Murray Morrison, founder of learning program Tassomai, believes that helping children to find new ways of reinforcing what they are taught is powerful however they are schooled, whether that’s making a video about the topic, some flashcards or an essay.

‘If your child uses software such as Tassomai to do some quizzing,’ says Morrison, ‘you can also see just how much work they’ve done and get a clear, instant picture of where their gaps are, so that you can help where help is needed.’

Using computer quizzes in the online classroom was one tactic employed at one of the oldest schools in the country, St Margaret’s School in Bushey, Hertfordshire, an independent co-ed boarding and day school.

Simon Winchester, academic director at the school, explains that these months of quarantine encouraged them to develop what he calls, ‘a whole new pedagogy, devoid of all the human cues that inform the learning process in the classroom.’

‘It has been the real challenge,’ says Winchester. ‘Our teachers have had to find new ways to assess understanding without looking pupils in the eye. In some cases this has sharpened our practice: asking a class of pupils whether they understand it and accepting a room full of nods does not always ensure effective learning has taken place, so using technologies like instant online quizzes in our virtual classrooms has made the everyday assessment informing learning even more rigorous.’

Looking forward too, Johanna Urquhart, principal at co-ed day and boarding Lomond School in the west of Scotland, says she is encouraged by the experience.

‘We now have a huge range of technology,’ says Urquhart, ‘that we can utilise in order to continue to deliver effective learning moving forward, with a blended approach that incorporates online learning, both synchronous and asynchronous, as well as face-to-face.

‘Our school had identified the importance of moving to an enquiry-based model of learning, and this new blended approach, where connection, collaboration, clarification and conceptual and

critical thinking are fostered, is going to be integral to this.’

Richard Toley, headmaster at co-ed Lathallan School in Aberdeenshire, says his parents think there is potential for more integration. ‘Eighty per cent said they would like some form of online learning to continue,’ says Toley, ‘as the school returns to more normal times.’

But there is also no doubt his children want to enjoy the physical environment of their school. ‘They miss the expansive grounds. The school is set in 60 acres and many of our academic and social activities take place outdoors, so everyone is missing the opportunity to learn and have fun in such a beautiful and inspiring environment.’

The most difficult part of home schooling is undoubtedly how one gets children to spend enough time with others of all ages. Not just in friendships, but in group settings such as expeditions, community work or activities like sport or orchestras. And there is no doubt that lockdown has emphasised the loss to young people of the chance to socialise with each other.

At the co-ed prep Lyceum School in London, headmistress Hilary Wyatt says that her pupils just missed their friendships.

‘They wanted to be with each other so much,’ she says. ‘Socialising is so important; it’s just not healthy to be isolated and a Zoom call is not enough to quash that feeling of lonlieness.’

‘No matter how effective remote learning can be in keeping children up to date with cold hard academic progress,’ says Winchester, ‘the warmth of classroom interaction is something we look forward to.’

Urquhart agrees, explaining that the school found personal connection has been key in ensuring the necessary sense of belonging to the class and the school community.

‘Lockdown has taught society that school is not just about feeding children facts,’ says Wyatt. ‘The nurturing that goes on between children – the way they care for each other and interact in the classroom – matters too.’

McConville adds: ‘Online teaching is to the classroom as e-mails are to handwritten notes: potentially efficient, but inevitably less warm.’

Remote learning at St Dunstan’s College

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THE TEACHER

THE CASE FOR DISTANCE LEARNING Andrew Copeman of Latymer Upper School is prepared for a second wave

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hen lockdown was announced, the idea of distance learning was daunting, not least for those of us barely conversant with technology. It was a steep, but rewarding, learning curve and reflecting on our time away from school I am happy to report many positives.

With Latymer being a G-Suite school, pupils and staff were well prepared for remote learning, given the setting of work on Google Classroom was already built into our routines. The ease of this digital platform to share resources, set and mark work while schools were closed proved remarkably straight-forward and effective.

Far from simply setting a mountainous work load for pupils to navigate alone, Google Meet enabled us to host video calls with our classes. The grid view easily allowed for a class of 24 to engage with one another and the teacher. All of these video lessons were recorded for safeguarding purposes, but this had the dual benefit of enabling pupils who had missed a lesson to watch the recording.

Interestingly, I did not perceive a discernible difference between how my pupils engaged at home through Google Meet with how they engage in lessons in a classroom.

Using Screencastify and the app, Explain Everything, I could pre-record assemblies and lessons, taking the pressure off live meets, and pupils found it especially useful to be able to pause and go through a lesson at their own speed. Exploring the nuances of act three, scene five of Romeo and Juliet, for instance, was significantly more effective this way, where pupils could simultaneously hear their teacher’s comments and see the text being annotated. As with most things, the more technology is used, the more intuitive it becomes.

I fully realise how lucky we were to be in a position where all pupils and staff were issued with school devices. Through a lack of technology, friends in the state sector were not able to interact as effectively with their classes. This is a funding challenge that the government would do well to address, along with better Wi-Fi

connectivity. The technology revolution has some way to go. Foreseeing these obstacles, Latymer took a lead during lockdown by arranging the supply of dongles for our bursary students and any other pupils who might have struggled to access their online learning.

Pastorally we saw a shift too.

Attendance significantly improved; children who were once anxious about school no longer felt that way. Indeed, some pupils said they had never enjoyed school more. Never underestimating teenagers’ desire for sleep, the extra hour in bed each morning, time saved from their usual commute, was warmly embraced. Every morning, forms continued to meet with small groups, while heads of year held office hours Latymer Upper School where pupils could check-in and talk through any problems. Assemblies and parents’ evenings ran as usual, albeit virtually, while external PSHCE talks were recorded and sent out to the relevant year groups and parents. In a pupil survey of more than 800 respondents, the majority rated their experience of remote learning and remote pastoral care to be in the second highest quintile, demonstrating how well supported our pupils felt during this difficult time.

Co-curricular activities continued to function well and, in some cases, even better than before. The Underpass, our student-led magazine, went online and saw a sharp increase in readership.

Lockdown certainly sharpened our pupils’ creativity and we received many varied contributions on keeping fit, staying purposeful and remaining sane with immediate family. Staff too continued to stay in touch with meet coffee mornings, photograph competitions, kitchen-sink dramas, Friday pub quizzes and a fortnightly newspaper detailing eclectic interests and amusing anecdotes.

The announcement that all children would return to school full-time in September was universally welcomed. Like so many, I could not wait to see my pupils and colleagues again. To hear the bustle of youthful energy, to enjoy those snatched conversations and spontaneous interactions in the corridors and across the campus could not come soon enough.

With leading epidemiologists warning us to prepare for further waves of COVID-19, especially as we approach the winter months, it is not inconceivable that schools will be forced to close their doors again this year. Although this would be disastrous economically, the impact on our children’s education can be minimised with the right equipment and technology.

The life-blood of a school is its people and the loss of those enriching daily interactions is always keenly felt. However, although our time in exile has allayed fears that teachers will be replaced by robots, it has also revealed the numerous opportunities technology provides to allow pupils to flourish away from school.

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SAFE-GUARDING LEAD

LIVING IN AN UNCERTAIN WORLD

Deputy head (pastoral) Martin Ashton of Wells Cathedral School argues that some stress is healthy

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tress is an all too familiar word these days – and it is largely regarded as an enemy. Too high a sustained level of stress can cause harm to our mental health, but it is essential that we allow our young people to experience normal levels of stress – to feel it, learn to live with it and view it as normal and controllable.

Education is about giving young people the tools and equipment they need in their ‘bag for life’ so that they’re ready to live a life that is confident, purposeful and contributes to the society and world we live in. By the time they leave our school communities, we need to have helped our pupils to be resilient, to overcome hardship, to cope with a sense of failure and to be self aware. One thing that living through the COVID19 pandemic has taught us is that life is uncertain. We need to help our young people to control the controllables when the world is toying with their best laid plans; easier said than done, but an aspiration worth heading for.

Imagine a world without COVID-19 for a moment, and let’s not kid ourselves that exams and grades are the only source of stress in a teenager’s life. Yes, they are a big deal. But when you’re fighting tooth and nail to find your identity, to fit in and to build meaningful relationships, exams are just one piece of the jigsaw. So what are schools

Wells Cathedral School pupils getting stuck in

doing about it? We live in a publicly competitive world in which we are shoehorned into a self defined rank order of how useful we are on this planet of ours. From the age they turn up to their first class, children learn to compare themselves with others around them – academically and in every other way.

We do our best to tell them ‘not to compare yourself with who someone else is today, but to compare yourself with who you were yesterday’ (thank you, Jordan Peterson, I use this a lot these days). But we live in a relative world and teenagers are hard wired to compare themselves with the market – and mainly with their peers.

As a school, we try hard to value our pupils for who they are and the qualities that they are developing. This indirectly impacts on their confidence and then their ability to apply themselves to their studies. More significantly, it helps them to put their grades into perspective, thereby reducing stress levels. Of course we do everything we can to help them; laying on extra revision sessions and workshops teaching revision techniques, how to plan their time effectively and set work outside the classroom to consolidate their knowledge, because we know that recall is the most effective way to revise (there are no easy shortcuts).

Of course, we extol the virtues of fresh air, exercise and sleep and we have highly trained medical nurses and counsellors, tutors and houseparents, teachers and mentors waiting in the wings to help when the balance has tipped.

But most importantly, COVID-19 has reset our value system; we want our pupils to know that there is a world waiting for them, regardless of their academic results, and a world that will value them for who they are.

THE THRIVE CONSULTANT

TEENAGE ADVICE Thrive advocate, Sarah Fields, advises parents, teens and children how to grow in the face of uncertainty

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hat does the word ‘thrive’ mean to you and your children? As pupils face the concept of returning to school after the long, strange and disrupting time away from their normal routines, seeing their friends, seeing their teachers, trying to plan for university having not taken their GSCEs or A-levels this year. The list goes on. Maybe you are concerned they are not as happy as they could be, their confidence has dropped and, with all the recent challenges of lockdown, they are now coping with fears and insecurities, creating anxiety and suffering low moods. It is very frustrating as a parent to not know how to help and best respond when you know your child is not coping as well as they might with life. But it is important to let them know that we always have a choice over how we react to adversity.

Many of us hold on to distorted beliefs and often feel utterly powerless to challenge and change how we think and behave; but this can be changed if we change our attitude. And it can be life changing to know how to build up resilience and self-esteem to cope when life throws us seemingly insurmountable hurdles.

HOW TO PREPARE CHILDREN FOR THEIR RETURN TO SCHOOL

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Find some time to listen to them and acknowledge any fears they may have. Keep all lines of communication open.

Know that adolescence can be a minefield for both parents and teenager. Pretty much everything they experience is normal as they head towards adulthood.

Maintaining a high level of self-esteem is critical for coping with life’s ups and downs. Self-esteem is like a battery; positive thoughts, experiences and feelings will charge it, and negative thoughts, experiences and feelings will drain it. It is only ever based on what you currently think about you. This can be challenged and changed as it is only ever relevant to how you are feeling today.

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Creating and maintaining a list of daily positives is an excellent way to boost self-esteem. A list might include: I went for a run, helped a friend and completed my project. Keeping a journal is a great way to do this.

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It’s easy for us all to lose perspective on life when feeling very anxious or stressed. Learning to recognise when we are beginning to feel stressed (and do something about it) allows us to keep a sense of control over situations that are uncontrollable, like the pandemic.

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Exercise, even if it’s only 15 minutes a day – it is crucial for mental well being. Keeping up a daily routine will have profound benefits.

Sarah Field is a trained Thrive Consultant and runs a six week, evidence based psychological training programme course, particularly popular with teenagers because it is not counselling or therapy. thriveprogramme.org/sarah-field

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FOCUS

UNIVERSITY SPECIALIST

FRESHERS ONLINE

David Hawkins, founder and director of The University Guys, advises students to read the small print and apply anyway

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a university; the excellent Unibuddy tool, now embedded on UCAS and many university websites, allows you to live chat with current university students and have all your questions answered.

Second, prepare your plan of action. A good university application strategy focuses on your ceiling, but also your floor. Aim high and make your ceiling as high as possible, but don’t forget to make your floor high too: ask yourself what can you do to make the worst-case scenario as good as possible? Might staggering your applications help you to see the lay of the land? How about trying to secure a really good backup option in Europe early, so that you can be more ambitious in UCAS? Could you try to get your application in really early so that you can adjust your strategy accordingly?

Finally, when you have your plan, it’s time to execute it. Clausewitz famously said that, ‘No plan survives first contact with the enemy,’ but the university application process is (usually) less complicated than the Napoleonic war. So, if you’ve prepared well, you should be able to run through your plan A, plan B and plan C strategies.

With an ever-changing situation, we as university application specialists have never been busier, reconciling problems caused by revised admissions procedures for applicants with first-choice colleges overseas, and a backup in Britain. No-one applying in January 2020 for entry in 2021 could have predicted how the situation would change so quickly, and with issues about deferrals, demographic trends and the likelihood (or not) of students from India or China to be able to come to the UK, the 2021 cycle could be as turbulent as 2020 has turned out to be. So keep going with your plans and adapt as the need arises. You might not have the experience you signed up for a year ago, but at least you will still have an experience, and that is an encouraging thought.

PHOTOS: GETTY IMAGES

Fresher’s Week held via video conferencing might not have the same appeal as the real thing. But even though so much is up in the air right now, the wheel of the university admissions cycle has not stopped turning; it has just adapted.

Systems such as UCAT are now online, Oxford interviews are online and university applications are continuing, albeit in a very different format. Although, the situation has changed, our advice for students considering university has not: explore, prepare and then apply.

First, explore your options by doing detailed research. There are so many half-truths and myths about going to university. Wellmeaning guidance given by friends, relatives and newspaper columnists sometimes overlooks the fact that university applications have moved on since the 1980s. In particular, pay attention to the actual data: in spite of media suggestions that many students would defer this year, UCAS data suggests the opposite, with numbers holding firm at the time of writing. Most students have realized that, beyond the headlines, the university experience of seminars, classes and lectures will be manageable, and have thus decided to go.

So, carry on with your research and do remember to throw some international universities into this mix as well. There are fantastic degree courses taught in English in universities across Europe as well as other popular destinations such as the USA, Canada and Australia. Pay attention to the changing nature of fees: if you’re an EU student in the UK, you are now having to pay international fees, so looking beyond the UK may be the most sensible option for you.

Once you end up with a shortlist it is worth taking advantage of the many different virtual options available to find out more about

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SIXTH-FORM COLLEGE PRINCIPAL

STOIC STUFF

Gareth Collier of Cardiff Sixth-Form College is impressed by the enthusiasm of his international pupils

PHOTOS: GETTY IMAGES

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he fallout from the global pandemic of COVID-19 is now approaching its ninth month, along with an acceptance among most students and their families that education cannot be stalled indefinitely. While the public situation has not always been clear, we have been in touch daily with our international pupils instilling most of them with the confidence to return to Cardiff Sixth-Form this term, enthusiastic to continue their studies.

COVID-19 will make education different, but they face the challenges stoically. As GCSE and A-level students, they are more mature than younger aged pupils, so as highly motivated, high achieving students, they will make the most of the situation, accepting the likely need for 14 days’ quarantine in our boarding houses on arrival, but unphased by the spectre of being away from their families for longer periods.

We never have had traditional half-term holidays or exeats, so students are used to staying with us throughout the autumn term, taking advantage of the extra time to do work observation, catch-up support lessons and wider super-curricular learning.

They are familiar with, and accept, the wide scale use of online

media for research into universities and future careers, and alongside the new virtual university visits, we have extended an existing pattern of virtual visits from university, commercial and industrial staff to speak on career advancement and academic research. Indeed, the work has already started.

We delivered our UCAS preparation courses this summer entirely online for the first time.

It is disappointing that our students cannot take up the first year enrichment programmes in various workplaces around the UK, however, our industry partners have been incredibly supportive and have planned a series of online presentations, tours and virtual management challenge exercises to allow students to access the world of work and understand the opportunities and issues that they may face in the future.

It is also sad that we have had to cancel our International Citizenship Experiences (ICE), with work placement opportunities in India, Tanzania, Malaysia and Europe.

But, plans are afoot for virtual experiences that, while being a pale imitation of the real thing, will still allow exposure to the challenges and demands of employment in an international context. We fully expect our students to witness and be a part of surgical operations, economic summits and engineering projects worldwide, but through a different medium this year. While our students’ families are not worried about the education we offer, there is still some nervousness surrounding the bigger picture within the wider population in the UK. We truly hope this will be addressed as quickly as possible. n Autumn/Winter 2020 | SCHOOLHOUSEMAGAZINE.CO.UK | 81

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SCHOOL HOUSE PARTNERSHIP

WHERE PUPILS WRITE THEIR OWN STORIES Wycliffe Preparatory School starts a new chapter in its prestigious history with the appointment of Mrs Helena Grant as Head

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rs Grant’s arrival at Wycliffe Preparatory School coincides with exciting new developments at the Cotswolds school.

Wycliffe officially starts its new three+ nursery class in September, and the summer has seen a range of refurbishment work including the full resurfacing of its AstroTurf pitch for the use of hockey and other sports.

Based in Gloucestershire, in An Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Wycliffe is the perfect setting for children to write their own educational story. Surrounded by stunning countryside, the school provides excellent facilities for girls and boys who attend as boarders and day pupils. Children have freedom to explore and be themselves.

Wycliffe is far more than bricks and mortar; it is about its holistic approach, which nurtures young minds while caring for their wellbeing and providing them with a safe and caring environment. Wycliffe is about support, not only for the child, but the family, providing education, a range of activities and care from eight am to six pm. The school works hard to be there for the family when you need them.

The school promotes a pioneering spirit and encourages individuals to flourish and embrace their futures as global citizens. Wycliffe nurtures each and every child, whether they are gifted and talented or find school life more challenging.

A recent report on Wycliffe from The Independent School Inspectorate stated: ‘All pupils develop mature, thoughtful qualities and they consider the needs of others. They collaborate positively, appreciate their friendships and make the most of opportunities available to them at school. Welfare, health and safety are excellent.’

For Mrs Grant, Wycliffe represents so much that she values and believes education should be.‘I believe in childhood,’ she says, ‘I believe in fun, being outside and active as much as possible, getting messy, exploring and holding on to that wonderful sense of curiosity into the early teenage years.

‘Wycliffe offers a robust academic offering that challenges individuals, encourages curiosity and a desire to learn. At the same time, young people need a strong emotional awareness and resilience, which underpins their knowledge and understanding of themselves.’

With small classes and a high pupil to teacher ratio, Wycliffe gives highly personalised attention to the learning of each child. Learning beyond the classroom is also key to a child’s development. The extra curricular provision at Wycliffe is widereaching and all-encompassing, with something for every child.

Sport and the arts play a major role in life at the school.

‘My vision for the school is clear: strong academics, a range of opportunities to challenge and inspire all children and a personalised pastoral care system to support all in our community,’ says Mrs Grant. ‘I plan to continue the strong sense of the individual and the pioneering spirit which enables us to write our own story, hopefully a varied, adventurous and satisfying one.’

wycliffe.co.uk

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REGULARS TEEN SPIRIT | INSIDER VIEW | A DVICE

Downside School, Somerset

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INSIDE STORY

CONFESSIONS OF A CAREERS ADVISOR Rugby School’s Debbie Horner navigates personal statements, psychometrics and panic while steering her students in the right direction

the beginning of term in September; everyone in the final year own a far-flung corridor was a cupboard containing is my best friend. Pupils cross the road to greet me and ask if leaflets about accountancy; the careers department I can have a look at their personal statement. Sadly, a couple at my old school. Very occasionally, a leaflet was of weeks later pupils cross the road to avoid me, knowing that surreptitiously palmed to a pupil by the unfortunately their form isn’t ready for submission. named Mr Crook, who also taught metalwork.

We send ambitious, informed and equipped pupils out into At Rugby, where ‘the whole person is the whole point’, our pupils the world. They may choose to do a gap year internship working enjoy a bespoke service from an integrated higher education and for the Bank of England, travel to Kenya to work in an elephant careers department, with timetabled lessons, psychometric testing, sanctuary, be one of the students at university doing a degree dedicated staff and regular engagement with professionals. apprenticeship or go to university From the moment they arrive we anywhere in the world. We have pupils prepare our pupils to leave. From day one engaged in art, drama and music when they are engaged on the Rugby Learner they leave school, and it’s a joy to see Profile, building soft skills, learning to them flourish. What better job is there reflect, to work together and creatively, than nurturing the next generation? to work independently and critically The job also comes with and to be versatile and resilient. many surprises and the occasional Moving through the school, pupils annoyance. Pupils who are on the build their professional profile so they verge of submitting their application are well equipped, both academically and for chemistry and change their mind in terms of future employment, when they to apply for medieval history instead leave. The vast majority of our pupils go – who knew? Pupils who have been on to university and we have specialists hectored, cajoled and begged to visit to help to prepare our Oxbridge pupils, universities, but don’t, and then need medics, vets, dentists, engineers and to reapply for the following year. international applicants. Every academic On A-level results day the team department runs societies and extrais in full pastoral care mode. I have curricular study groups. If there isn’t breakfast in the department, ready a society for a pupil’s particular interest, to greet the first weeper. they are encouraged to start one.

Debbie Horner enjoys One was Julia, the loveliest girl We particularly love having Old nurturing the next generation you could ever meet. An aspiring medic, Rugbeians back to speak, especially her art grade was lower than she needed those who maybe, *ahem*, didn’t quite ‘I specifically remind parents to get into medical school. There were reach their full potential at school. that pupils cannot sub-contract tears, including from me. She would A far cry from the one-size-fits-all the writing of the much-dreaded be a huge loss to the profession and was leaflet cupboard, our pupils undertake exactly the sort of person I would want psychometric profiling in year 11, timed personal statement; for some to find at the end of my bed wearing to inform their A-level choices, and are reason it often ends up on Dad’s a white coat. The tears were soon of aware of their own learning preferences, desk, and has to be returned rejoicing when the university confirmed encouraged to consider their values, to sender’ that as her science grades and her and understand their aptitudes.

UCAT were outstanding they would As Head of Careers and Higher take her. Last summer she messaged Education, I brief pupils and parents me on results day: ‘I thought you would like to know that I have just throughout, speaking in the school theatre to an auditorium finished a 12-hour shift in A&E and was just thinking of you.’ of anxious parents about the UCAS process. I specifically remind Thank you, Julia. parents that pupils cannot sub-contract the writing of the muchdreaded personal statement; for some reason it often ends Debbie is Head of Careers and Higher Education Department up on Dad’s desk, and has to be returned to sender. at Rugby School and is also a housemistress.

At Rugby we send in our UCAS applications early, and I love

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Imogen Macdonald, a future Olympian hopeful, attends Benenden School, Kent

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TEEN SPIRIT

OLYMPIAN WILLPOWER

Budding Olympic athlete, Imogen Macdonald, of Benenden School, on how sporting success helped her to overcome severe dyslexia and go to university criteria you’re put on a performance pathway aiming to take f some years ago you had said I would be studying you all the way up to Olympic level, no experience required. sport performance at Bath University, with three Then a rowing coach contacted me. It turns out being a six foot, A-levels, a place on the World Class Start programme 17-year-old-girl with a freakishly large lung capacity is desirable for – a British Rowing initiative aimed at developing rowing. A year later I’d switched sports, gone to university and was Team GB’s Olympic rowers of the future – and competing at the Indoor Rowing World Championships in Paris. a scholarship to be mentored by an Olympian under The True I am not sure that the 25 hours training a week helped my A-levels Athlete Project, I would never have believed you. or my degree, but remembering I was neither an academic, nor the ten-year-old who couldn’t write a sportswoman. From the beginning Imogen Macdonald her name, sport showed me credit I found the classroom challenging. belongs to those who fall short I was diagnosed with dyslexia aged again and again as there is no ten and was constantly at the bottom effort without error. of the class, so I lacked confidence.

Sport forced me to practise When I took my common entrance key skills that I was able to apply to Benenden I had to have a scribe to my academic struggles. Constant and a reader. Elite sport was for the testing and trials, with squad places disciplined, talented and exceptional. on the line meant exam pressure If my reports were anything to go was nothing new. I learned how by, that wasn’t me. Sport was just to keep a clear head in the heat an escape from maths lessons. of an international medal match I was determined to leave schools or an exam. I grew in confidence after GCSEs and applied to the to shout over the pitch at much British Army, but fate had other older, experienced players, or to ask plans. An injury deferred my escape questions in class, and in discipline to AFC Harrogate and I was sent to turn up to train six days a week on a trial weekend with the Welsh at five am and give my best. I gained lacrosse team. It wasn’t successful perspective and empathy to laugh but something clicked. I knew with my teammates as the heavens I wanted to play international sport. opened over the river while we I was captivated by the focused struggles through 30 km sessions, and passionate atmosphere; it was or to help my friends and I deal with something I desperately wanted exam stress. I learned to take the to be a part of.

‘When I took my common entrance for initiative, finding, contacting and Every spare moment in my pitching myself to organisations pre-GCSEs year was spent working Benenden I had to have a scribe and a towards this dream. Training alone reader. Elite sport was for the disciplined, for funding, mentoring and, not least, a place at university. before school, I discovered a will talented and exceptional. If my reports If it weren’t for competing to achieve that I never knew I had. were anything to go by, that wasn’t me’ in international sport I wouldn’t A year later I was competing in the have even been eligible to apply U20 Welsh lacrosse squad at the for the sport performance degree European Championships in Poland. and I definitely don’t think I would have got three Bs in my A-levels.

We won bronze. That feeling of pride in something I had actually People think of athletes and often think of ‘the sacrifice’ – the time done is indescribable. It’s what I train for every day. My school coach you miss with your family and friends. I don’t see it this way. Every told me that however enormous a challenge might seem, sporting sacrifice has been a choice, and every training session has been my or otherwise, with time and hard work nothing is impossible. I didn’t choice. It’s not me who makes the sacrifices. It’s my family, my friends really believe it until then. and everyone who has supported me up to this point; this wasn’t their In sixth-form I was scouted by a talent ID program searching choice, but mine, so it’s to them that I am hugely grateful. n for teenagers who fit specific criteria for certain sports. If you fit the

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B E S T O F. . .

SCHOOL BUILDINGS Alex Bloom-Davis rolls out the blueprints of some staggering new developments

ALL ABOUT THE ARTS Lambrook School, Berkshire

chools are often accused of competing in a ‘facilities arms race’, as cranes hover over the foundations of another stunning building destined to be a stateof-the-art music hall, science block, cooking school, equestrian centre or AstroTurf. But these aren’t just fine opportunities to patronise architects and inspire pupils; schools educating hundreds of children (sometimes thousands) need facilities.

Often, they are shared with the local community out of school time, so why not make them the best they can be, argues Samantha Price, head of Benenden School, Kent: ‘We urge our pupils to learn and continually improve, to be the best version of themselves they can be. I see no reason why a school should not follow its own example.’

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Increasing its reputation as one of the independent prep schools with some of the best facilities in the country, Lambrook School in Berkshire has recently added the Queen’s Building – a £6m development – to the arsenal of tools at its disposal for the enrichment of its pupils’ academic and co-curricular education. Lambrook already proudly offers a 25m indoor pool, a performing arts centre, a dance studio and nine-hole golf course because, with 52 acres, why not? Like a treasure chest, the Queen’s Building comes fit to burst with an art studio (equipped with its own kiln), a state-of-the-art design and technology workshop, three IT studios complete with VR technology, a drama studio, new classrooms and a new reception area – first impressions are everything after all. You really do get a lot of bang for your buck.

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SHOWCASE

THE GREATEST SHOW Sherborne Girls, Dorset The performing arts centre opened at Sherborne Girls in 2019. It was the culmination of a decade’s planning and fundraising, and has been ‘a significant addition to the town,’ says John Baker, artistic director of the Sherborne Abbey Festival. The Merritt Centre, named after a former staff member, Gwendoline Merritt – who left her entire estate to the school in her will – was opened by alumnae and worldclass soprano, Dame Emma Kirby.

The new music school has a 560-seat concert hall, practice rooms, a recording studio, an exhibition space and multi-functional practice rooms.

It is ‘the most ambitious capital project the school has undertaken,’ says headmistress Dr Ruth Sullivan, who is excited to welcome the local community into the school to enjoy events and share the new venue.

HITTING THE RIGHT NOTE King’s Bruton, Somerset When the Queen opened The Queen Elizabeth Music School as part of the school’s 500-year anniversary celebrations last March, a fifth-form pupil was heard saying in awe: ‘We’ve got this amazing new music school that was opened by the Queen; we feel we can do anything.’ The supermodern new facility sympathetically complements the 17th century school and includes a recital hall (named after sponsors Hauser & Wirth, also based in Bruton), as well as two classrooms, practice rooms, an ensemble room, a recording studio with control room and one with a separate vocal booth. ‘It has brought increased enthusiasm and renewed strengthening of standards in music at King’s Bruton’, says director of music, Ashley Marshfield.

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IT’S A WINN WIN Eastbourne College, Sussex Opened by the most decorated British female Olympian – Dame Katherine Grainer – and winner of the Sussex Heritage Trust Award, the £33m Project 150 Campus ‘embodies our commitment to a balanced education and healthy learning for the long term,’ says headmaster of Eastbourne College, Tom Lawson. The Winn Building is fully equipped with a Sport England compliant sports hall, a sixlane swimming pool with Swiss trackpad timing system, squash courts, a dance studio, a fitness suite, a dining hall that can cover 600 pupils at once and a pupil café. ‘A landmark and transformative development providing extensive facilities for Eastbourne College,’ commented the Sussex Heritage Trust judges, ‘the architects and client have worked brilliantly together to produce an enviable new building to fit with older buildings of the site. Brilliantly conceived.’

A REAL PAGE TURNER Wellington College, Berkshire The Mallison Library at Wellington College is designed as a centre of information to support Wellington’s teaching, learning and pupils’ independent research, as well as reading for pleasure. Who better then to open its refurbishment hidden behind a red-brick Victorian façade in 2012 than Sir Tim Berners-Lee, inventor of the World Wide Web. The light, bright and ultra-modern E-Library with remarkable digital technology, study pods and Harkness tables can compete with many university libraries offering the finest scholarly research – and is just as versatile; it hosts book discussion groups and various student clubs. Head librarian, Lucy Atherton, says it’s ‘a tangible symbol of the school: from the outside it looks thoroughly traditional, inside it is innovative and ground-breaking.’

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SHOWCASE

MICHELIN STAR Truro School, Cornwall Rick Stein would be proud of Truro School Cookery, which within 18 months of opening was one of four finalists at this year’s Food Reader Awards for the Best Cookery School, and the only finalist in Cornwall. A professional team guide pupils through all aspects of cooking through clubs, classes in ‘cooking from scratch’, ‘cakes and bakes’ and ‘street food’. Sixthformers can even take the Leith’s Certificate in Food & Wine. Truro School Cookery is also available for the community to hire or to join courses as the cookery school is a ‘unique blend of academic and commercial use,’ says Maria Taylor, head of cookery. ‘The money from the commercial operation helps fund the academic side of the cookery school,’ says Ms Taylor. ‘It’s a match made in the kitchen.’

BUILDING THE FUTURE St Edward’s School, Oxford In the historic varsity town of Oxford, St Edward’s, affectionately known as Teddies, is embarking on the most significant change to its infrastructure in 100 years.

The new quad development will facilitate group learning with a new library, a top-floor reading room resembling some of Oxford University’s libraries, a new oval hall with seating capacity for 1,000, a new higher education and careers department as well as a café area. ‘Teddies is a place of strong and growing academic ambition,’ says Chris Jones, the chair of governors. ‘We are about to cast that ambition in stone, brick and glass.’

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A MAMMOTH MASTERPIECE St Paul’s School, London March 2020 saw the opening of St Paul’s Boys’ School’s General Teaching Building, a massive 9,002 sq/m, £114m development at the prestigious day school in Hammersmith. With a triple-height atrium as the social heart of the school, the impressive new build also offers Paulines a new library, dining hall, chapel and 56 classrooms. The cherry on the cake for the budding historian, in particular, is the Montgomery Room, named after Old Pauline, Field Marshal General Montgomery, which commemorates the 75th year since the allies liberated Europe and houses the map General Montgomery used in his planning of the D-Day landings. It adds a nice twist of old history within a brand new building but, perhaps even more incredible, is the fact that a whopping £27m of the overall cost was funded by donations from the St Paul’s Community; the school contributed £34m and the rest of the funding came from the Mercers’ Company donations and private placement funding. n

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ADVICE

ON THE SOFA

Victoria Lambert talks to therapist Alicia Drummond, founder of the mental health resource Teen Tips, about supporting teenagers through their rollercoaster years Teenage years are full of ups and downs – and everything in-between

TOP TIPS FOR TEENS:

nowing what not to say – as much as knowing what to say – can be critical during a teenage meltdown.

Yet faced with a son or daughter who is in the centre of an epic emotional storm, it’s not easy to step back.

Yet that is exactly what we should do. ‘Stay calm,’ says Alicia Drummond, founder of the mental health resource Teen Tips. ‘It is more helpful to allow teenagers to feel whatever they feel rather than trying to fix what you think is going on.’

That emotional rollercoaster – which sees young people switch from anger to sadness to hysterical happiness in moments – is familiar of course. It’s part of the growing process; according to researchers from the University of Cambridge, new brain networks come ‘online’ during adolescence. This allows teenagers to develop more complex adult social skills, but it can also lead to mental illness.

The researchers revealed in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences that the way different parts of the brain communicate with each other changes in adolescence. The brain regions that are important for vision, movement and other basic faculties are already strongly connected by the time you are 14; during the next decade they become even more interwoven.

However, those areas important for advanced social skills, such as being able to imagine how someone else is thinking or feeling, showed a different pattern of change.

In these regions, connections were redistributed over the course of adolescence: connections that were initially weak became stronger, and connections that were initially strong became weaker.

Drummond says this brain wiring and rewiring explains why your child’s emotions seem to be heightened.

‘After the age of 12, teens generally become more emotionally reactive,’ she says. ‘Where adults use the brain’s frontal lobes to read other people’s social cues, teenagers are using the limbic system, which means they often misread facial expressions and tone of voice, leading them to misjudge situations and people.

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Emotions can feel overwhelming at any time, particularly during adolescence. Don’t focus on something you hate about yourself because it becomes a habit. Instead, think about something you like. You can change what you do and think; you are your own influencer. It’s also important to realise you don’t have to solve everyone else’s problems. Being kind is good but sometimes you need to put up boundaries so you are not trying to rescue all your friends from their emotional dramas.

FOR PARENTS: Listen to understand: don’t talk over them.

Be quiet. Even the act of externalising their worries can ease them.

Use empathy to help your child decide what is best to do in practical terms. Don’t tell them what to do as that removes their efficacy.

You can’t fix all their problems. They need to sort out situations themselves. And keep calm. The more anxious you get, the more it will affect their sense of security.

For more information, an online community and resources for parents, visit teentips.co.uk

‘Making it more complicated, this is also the time when they are wired to be more independent and seek relationships outside of the family.’

Drummond explains this is why young people are so concerned about being ostracised or judged; these new relationships are both fragile and yet easy to misread.

‘The last part of the brain to undergo the transition to adult brain wiring,’ she adds, ‘is the pre-frontal cortex. This is the part adults use for emotional control.

Your 14-year-old does not have the maturity to use it yet so when stressed, becoming overly dramatic is their way of calming themself down.’

When you do speak, consider your own tone of voice. A study by Cardiff University found that teenagers are less likely to cooperate and put effort into their mother’s requests when they are said in a controlling tone of voice. The study showed that teens were much more likely to respond to instructions that have a sense of encouragement and support for self-expression and choice.

‘We love our children and want them to feel OK quickly,’ says Drummond, ‘but too often we try to rescue them from feeling difficult emotions which is not the best way to help. Let them experience their emotions and afterwards you can talk through what they might do next.’

Lastly, she says, ‘Know your teenager.

Have they had a bad day and just need you to listen? Or is something deeper going on that requires outside help, such as a few sessions with a specialist counsellor. No one is happy all the time and change is constant, particularly at this stage in their lives.

Stay calm and more often than not the emotional storm will blow over as swiftly as it came on.’

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Alice Drummond

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SCHOOL HOUSE PARTNERSHIP

UWC ATLANTIC Changemaking students will lead the way in a post-COVID world

W

e are proud to be the founding college of the UWC, a global education movement that unites people, nations and cultures for peace and a sustainable future.

In our magical campus – a 12th-century castle by the sea in South Wales – we celebrate global diversity; with students drawn together from 90 different countries and vastly differing political, religious, ethnic and socio-economic backgrounds, they engage with the possibility of social change through courageous action, personal example and selfless leadership.

Young people enjoy playing their part in an exceptional movement, in our respectful and joyful community, and participating in a unique, transformational education that marks the start of a life of a changemaker.

The right time to join UWC Atlantic The UWC movement has 18 global schools and colleges, guiding the promise, potential, energy and idealism of students towards empathy, responsibility and lifelong action.

At UWC Atlantic, 16- to 19-year-olds study the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (co-created over 50 years ago here at the college) for two years. Whilst the IBDP remains inspirational, we know we need to reimagine it, making it more relevant for the 21st century to provide students with new insights, perspectives and the knowledge needed for success in a volatile and complex world. A UWC education is needed now, more

than ever.

Students need to experience the wicked problems in the world around them. They need to develop the courage and commitment to meet these challenges, in a proactive and impactful way. With the IB organisation, we’re developing nine pioneering global changemaker courses of study, which will use a wider variety of assessment, as opposed to the traditional written examinations, to complement the existing curriculum. The aim is that these modules will be embedded into wider IBDP study in the future.

This, complemented with the exciting development of our signature seafront, will enable students to develop a core commitment to service, alongside academics, activities and adventure.

Students who don’t require any funding can now apply to the college of their choice through a new College Selection Programme. Our UWC Atlantic Selection Programme is going live in September for entry in 2021, so please do get in touch if this is of interest. We’d love to hear from all potential changemakers.

‘An education at UWC Atlantic is transformational. Students come with a vision and graduate empowered to make a positive difference in the world.’

For further details on joining UWC Atlantic please contact admissions@atlanticcollege.org and check our website: Virtual Open Day on 17 October 2020.

UWC Atlantic, St. Donat’s Castle, St. Donat’s Llantwit Major, CF61 1WF Wales, UK. +44 (0)1446 799000 admissions@atlanticcollege.org www.atlanticcollege.org www.uwc.org

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SCHOOL LEAVER NEWS | GA P YEA R | UNIVERSITY Edinburgh University

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ON THE BRINK News and views for those about to make the leap

GENERATING TECH-GURUS

One of the UK’s leading tech-skills and talent services providers, QA, has opened Europe’s largest tech training campus in London. The multimillion-pound campus will have the capability of training 3,500 people a week, offering training from established tech-gurus to self-confessed novices. Attracting more than £864m worth of tech projects from overseas investors last year, London was named one of the world’s top tech hubs in the world. Opening a training campus of this size, QA recognises the need to continue to support the digital and tech sector of the UK.

INVESTING IN LEARNING The University of Bristol is making plans for a landmark new library which will transform the heart of its Clifton campus. The library will offer some 2,000 new study seats, 420,000 books and 70,000 journals and exhibition galleries, which will be open to the public. The new building will meet high sustainability standards with high level of efficiency and green roof terraces.

An additional 1,000 postgraduate loans will be offered by Prodigy Finance, a cross-border lending company for international postgraduate students. Eight hundred of these new loans will be for STEM subjects due to the increased demand in the subjects. Prodigy Finance has already funded over $900m in education loans to some 18,600 high potential students from 132 countries. Seventytwo per cent of these students who benefitted from the loans said their postgraduate degree helped them to pursue their dream job.

FULL FEES

Research conducted by learnbonds.com shows that the UK has the highest university tuition fees among the world’s top ten most influential countries.

Calculated in US dollars per year, the UK has tuition fees that are reckoned to be $13,900 a year. Japan were second at $12,400 and the US third at $10,000.

Germany and France were the only countries in the top ten influential countries with tuition fees below $1,000, at $900 and $620, respectively.

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GIVING MORE AND MORE

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NEWS

THE BEST OF FRANCE

École Polytechnique – a leading French institution where three Nobel Prize winners and three former French presidents attended – is recruiting UK students and researchers. The university aims to produce outstanding scientists, researchers, managers and public officials by offering a large selection of courses, including English taught international programmes, such as Master of Science and Technology (MSc & T). Located in the ParisSaclay area, 68 per cent of graduates last year were working for a European company within four months, while 14 per cent are studying for a PhD, six per cent started their own company and only eight per cent are job hunting.

BLEAK FINDINGS Research conducted by the mental health treatment specialists, Smart TMS, has found that 40 per cent of a nationally representative body of students have experienced long-term depression that has gone undiagnosed. Indeed, 32 per cent of students revealed their depression was the reason they regularly cancelled plans to avoid social interaction. On top of this, 27 per cent of students don’t want to treat their depression with anti-depressants for fear of unwanted side-effects. More evidence, if we needed it, of the mental health pandemic sweeping through young adults today – not to mention the added anxiety and seclusion another global pandemic introduced this year.

IMPERIAL BREAKS BOUNDARIES

Imperial College London’s business school won the coveted Business School Innovation Award at the world-renowned Association of MBAs and Business Graduates Association Excellence Awards and Gala Dinner 2020 for the world’s first live holographic university lecture. Imperial paralleled the real world, creating the dynamics of a physical lecture room where students were able to make eye-to-eye contact with the lecturer and have their questions answered in real time, all through holographs – George Lucas, eat your heart out.

THIS IS AGRICULTURE

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The agricultural industry is launching a campaign to dispel false perceptions that it is a low skilled and poorly paid career path.

Spearheaded by Farmers Guardian and supported by 19 businesses from across the agricultural industry, the campaign #thisisagriculture will target teachers with the message that agriculture remains a global influence and can have a positive impact on clean energy, human and animal welfare, food science, precision data and technology. Ben Briggs, editor of Farmers Guardian says, ‘The industry is proud to be uniting together and reaching out to teachers to start the conversation about why agriculture is the one to watch in the future.’

Speaking of which: there is currently a 12 per cent shortage in veterinary students; something the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons, the British Veterinary Association and the Veterinary Schools Council sought to address by writing a joint letter to the government, requesting that the UK’s veterinary schools be exempt from their proposal to cap student numbers as part of their policy to support Higher Education during the Coronavirus pandemic.

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Coronavirus has scuppered the plans of a generation of school leavers

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ARMCHAIR GAP YEAR When travelling and working abroad is off the options list, Sally Jones finds ways for gappers to enjoy the post-school experience without compromising their CV

anno Jewell, 19, was conducting ecological research measuring sea turtles’ egg laying patterns in Costa Rica when COVID-19 struck, forcing him to get an early flight home and shattering his gap year plans.

‘I’d been looking forward to travelling around Latin America and immersing myself in the Spanish language,’ says the Old Radleian. ‘I’m a keen Real Tennis player too, and so was sad to miss out on working at the new court in Bordeaux.’

Two hundred volunteers with Raleigh International, a sustainable development charity that organises volunteering programmes for young people aged 17 to 24, were also sent home after less than a month of working on community and conservation projects in deprived areas of Tanzania, Costa Rica and Nepal.

For Jewell, those Raleigh volunteers and thousands of others who have just left school and should be well into their gap year, the COVID crisis has stymied what should have been a golden year of leaver’s balls, farewell parties, gap year travels, prestigious internships and the riotous rituals of freshers’ week. This has not only created a great deal of uncertainty, but presents some serious lifestyle choice dilemmas.

With Cambridge among several universities instigating online-only lectures this academic year, the further education landscape has been reshaped radically.

Amber McChesney has just left Magdalen College School and spent the summer selling clothes online she picked up in second hand shops and vintage markets while anxiously awaiting the all-important assessed grades – AAA – she needs to study geography at Bristol or Leeds. ‘There’s been a lot of worry and uncertainty,’ she says.

‘Magdalen College School has an intense academic environment and they’ve been very good, offering pastoral support online to anyone who’s struggling. I’ve applied to university for 2021, so I am definitely doing a gap year and, fingers crossed, going travelling to Australia or South America. I’d hoped to find a job to fund it, but who knows what will be available, or whether I will even get there.’

Oliver James, an old boy of King’s College, Wimbledon who finished

H

at Oxford University but lost out on a possible cricket Blue – an eye-catching addition to any CV – now regrets his decision to postpone job-hunting until after finals. ‘I’m a bit jealous of my friends who put hours into job applications and know what they’ll be doing next,’ he admitted. ‘I’d planned to travel for a while and decide what I wanted to do, but now that’s all up in the air.’

‘Young people’s lives and opportunities have changed so much and many are now deferring university, uncertain of the quality of education they’ll get over the next year or two,’ says Brandon Charleston of Operation Raleigh.

This, plus concerns over finances and long-term job prospects, has triggered a predicted 16 per cent drop in the number of UK students this year. Places on graduate schemes have been slashed as companies retrench to try to weather the economic storm.

‘It’s too early to tell exactly what the impact will be,’ warns recruiter, Alexander Fisken of EC Ellis, ‘but numerous internships that might have led to high-flying jobs in law and banking firms have been cancelled. These opportunities give interns a sense of office work, and companies the chance to sum up their abilities. With so many people being let go, employers may well look for people with two or three years’ experience rather than training people up from scratch.

Graduates will have to fight for any available internships and good CVs will help.’

For Bella Jewell, 21, a former pupil at St Helen’s School in Abingdon and an aspiring journalist studying French and Italian at Manchester University, lockdown disrupted a fruitful year abroad on an Erasmus grant for European study. Having first interned at a French radio station producing daily arts shows, she was flown home on a last-minute rescue flight after only a month’s study at Naples University.

‘I was very upset about it because I couldn’t develop the Italian fluency expected by employers. I hope to go back this autumn and do the courses online, living in Italy, maybe volunteering. I’ve been trying to use lockdown productively though, writing articles for my local newspapers and upskilling in data journalism.’

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The COVID crisis has stymied what should have been a golden year of leavers’ balls, farewell parties, gap year travels, prestigious internships and the riotous rituals of freshers’ week

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Having said that, the opportunities for those thirsty for adventure travel are still there. The Leap Overseas, a company that sends gappies looking to travel and contribute to sustainable projects in places like South America, Africa and Asia, have rethought their model and are now sending them instead to Scotland to the 23,000 acre Alladale Wilderness Reserve, billing it as ‘outer Mongolia without the jet lag’. Leapers’ will plant 600 trees, protect the Scottish wild cat, go adventure trekking and cycling – if it’s not so hot on the CV does it really matter?

That is the million dollar question. With so much gap year potential crashing, the question has to be asked, just how important is travelling abroad for a CV? Do assessment panels actually distinguish one CV or admissions statement from another based on their travel, particularly in a time restricted by COVID regulations?

Gordonstoun School is renowned for its ethos of service. Although, like many schools, it has been supporting its pupils to study online, the principal, Lisa Kerr, believes that those who also get involved in community activities will benefit most in the long run.

‘Studying effectively at home without the motivation of joining friends for lectures or seminars shows you’re hard-working and a self-starter,’ she said. ‘Even better if you can combine this with something to make your CV stand out. Many businesses have been devastated by the lockdown and we’re encouraging our pupils to volunteer locally to help them get back on their feet. This will demonstrate a strong work ethic and community spirit, while also providing a useful taste of working life. It’s also a great way to make business contacts who may open doors in future.’

At the most academic universities, gap years are less important than sheer passion for the subject. Sos Eltis, an English fellow and

faculty coordinator at Brasenose College, Oxford, believes that the restrictions may actually benefit those seeking a coveted place by giving them a chance to deepen their knowledge of the subject.

‘We’re most interested in students’ academic ability,’ she says.

‘Some schools do character-building, extra-curricular activities thinking universities are looking for rounded people. We’re not.

You can be as flat as a pancake so long as you are good at, and demonstrate a passion for, the subject. Lockdown offers sixthformers the time to do further reading to check if the subject they’ve chosen is really what they want to do.’

Indeed, many independent schools have used the summer months to widen their pupils’ academic and personal horizons. Radley, Shrewsbury, Canford School, Malvern College and Bromsgrove School ran imaginative online enrichment programmes to bridge the gap between school and university.

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ABOVE AND BELOW: Gap year specialists the Leap have organised a Scottish adventure at the Alladale Wilderness Reserve

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At Radley, classicist Paul Gamble, the college’s former director of university entrance, tutored his A-level class on the plays of Euripides featuring messenger speeches and Aristotle’s Poetics.

‘Not schoolwork,’ he explained, ‘but broadening their base for university. I gave a GCSE group a course on the cultural and social history of punk rock. They were absolutely alive to it. One said, “My Dad told me to sign up – he wished he could have done it.”’

Shrewsbury has developed an initiative endorsed by four Russell Group Universities to give their leavers the skills needed to thrive at university and also offered a young leaders qualification including a mentoring module, combining leadership theory and real-life experience.

Canford leavers too can take a leadership development award plus academic extension work in two of their A-level subjects and the chance to learn a new skill such as baking sourdough, student finance and car maintenance.

Many schools are offering online enrichment programmes for their students to learn new skills, such as baking

Malvern is offering bridging courses of academic enrichment delivered online, careers advice and mentoring from Old Malvernians, climbing and ropework tutorials and even new university-style subjects such as criminology and anthropology.

As part of Bromsgrove School’s programme, The Bridge, ingenious sixth-formers have risen to the challenge of devising ideas from its innovation in isolation virtual design seminar.

Many youngsters have taken on their own challenges. During lockdown, aspiring medic Jaya Patel, 18, from King Edward VI High School for Girls, Birmingham volunteered as an NHS administrator at University Hospital, Coventry, processing hundreds of medical students and doctors recruited to staff the Birmingham Nightingale Field Hospital and COVID testing sites. Her fellow-Edwardians uppersixth formers, Rhea Takhar and Aroun Kalyana, from King Edward’s Boys’ School, updated a book of worked solutions to past papers from the BioMedical Admissions Test (BMAT).

For Radley’s Paul Gamble, making the most of lockdown demands great resilience. ‘A gap year sets you apart if the time is used well,’ he says, ‘but if it’s just pootling around and nothing substantial, it doesn’t amount to much. Going abroad isn’t crucial: enough things need doing in this country. Lockdown has given many students extra time for reading too, helping them develop a love of their subject and decide whether the course they’ve chosen is really the one they want to do. We encourage our boys to take their opportunities and enjoy rich experiences in a constructive way. I tell them the Chinese have two characters for crisis – one of them is danger; one is opportunity.’

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Students can use their gap year to deepen their knowledge of their university subject, says Oxford University

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CROSSING THE POND Victoria Lambert considers the pros and cons of going to an American university

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hile we’re all familiar with the stereotype of American university campus life from the innumerable films and television shows, it is only recently that British teenagers are considering the idea more seriously.

In part this has been due to cost: when UK universities were free, why would anyone pay the serious sums involved in a US college education? But tradition, access and meeting others who have already followed this route are playing a part with 11,000 British students now studying at undergraduate and postgraduate level at hundreds of universities spread across the US. So why is this generation of teens dreaming of the Ivy League and what’s the best way to achieve a place?

Variety is the attraction, says Rowena Boddington, director of advising and marketing at the US-UK Fulbright Commission, the non-profit organisation that holds information on opportunities and exchanges between the two nations, including the prestigious Fulbright Scholarship graduate scheme.

Boddington says that the US liberal arts system allows students to keep their interests broad for as long as possible, something which is largely impossible at UK establishments where specialism is the norm.

‘Students can apply not knowing what they want to study,’ Boddington explains. ‘The first two years of a four-year course could include social sciences, arts, humanities and maths, for example. Then students can pick a major and minor subject for the final two years.

Even then, these two don’t have to be directly aligned.’

Methods of teaching are also different: ‘There

W

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Many dream of an Ivy League university place

College football is in a league of its own

is more contact time in classes,’ she says. ‘It’s not just lectures; campus life is active too. You are expected not just to learn at university but to do; to make things happen. It is more practical and less theory based than in the United Kingdom.’

And there is a breathtaking choice of locations: the UK has 120 accredited universities, while the US has more than 4,000. Additionally, because there is no centralised board like the British Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS), each establishment has more freedom in what they offer and how.

‘At Columbia, for example, all first years study the same syllabus, which might include Greek philosophy, Jane Eyre and various sciences, so that all the students are discussing, hearing and thinking about the same thing.’

Boddington herself studied American studies and literature at the University of California at Santa Cruz for a year, as part of a four-year degree at the University of East Anglia. She recalls being placed with an American roommate who was studying astrophysics but still had to take arts classes. ‘The students enjoy that freedom,’ she says.

This chance to keep options open is attractive, says Pippa Gibbs, head of careers at Oakham School in the East Midlands.

‘It isn’t something we advise pupils to take on lightly,’ Gibbs says, ‘as they need to be secure in wanting to study there and really commit to going through the process; it is time consuming by itself, let alone when added to the process of applying to UK universities too.’

However, Oakham School offers detailed information and support to all prospective students, including appointing a Yale University graduate every year to guide students through the process, she says. ‘The graduate gives an insight into the reality – both positive and negative – of studying in this region.’

Sixth-formers are also all encouraged to attend an hour-long session on studying in North America and can be taken to the free annual USA College Day event in London, run by Fulbright, usually held in September, which attracts representatives from around 170 US universities.

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S C H O O L H O U S E M AG A Z I N E

The next issue of SCHOOL HOUSE MAGAZINE is out in Spring 2021 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

STUDY EUROPEAN CIVILISATION WITH AHA Helping students interpret the world around them through art and culture We have created a brand new course in the UK and our Autumn Italian Course will run as usual.

Open to all students who wish to be engaged, motivated and inspired during their Gap Year.

An organised course with accommodation, travel with Italy and tuition • Study art and architecture on site • Special access to places not usually open to the public • Brilliant, unstuffy tutors • Art studied in the context of philosophy, music, history and literature • Small tutor groups of 9 or fewer

UK Semester Course 3 October – 2 November 2020

Autumn Italian Gap Course 2 November – 11 December 2020

www.arthistoryabroad.com

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UNIVERSITY

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Harvard University, Massachusetts

Last year, says Gibbs, 13 pupils and two Old Oakhamians applied to North American universities (the school supports students for three years after they have left with their applications to university and apprenticeships), ending up with five teenagers committing to study in the USA and one in Canada. This year, there are six going through the process.

At Cardiff Sixth-Form College, Hayley Bendle, head of higher education, says that up to three UK students each year consider studying in the USA. Like the Oakhamians, they are interested in the big names: the Ivy League schools – eight schools on the north-eastern coast of America, including Harvard and Princeton, which play football (American, of course) against each other – as well as Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and the Californian colleges such as Stanford, Caltech and UC Berkeley.

Most say they are interested in living in New York, Boston or California, but other factors include research and financial aid opportunities. ‘Typically, our students apply to top-tier schools as aspirational choices, given the higher cost of attendance, says Bendle, ‘and use universities in other countries as a backup plan.

Reputation is an important factor for them.’

Part of the attraction for her students is that they are already studying in an international community. ‘Our UK students are mixing and becoming close friends with students of more than 30 countries during their studies here,’ she explains, ‘and they are keen to pursue their own cultural exploration.’

Another factor is the connections you make, says Chloe Godsell, head of UK partnerships at Crimson Education, global higher education advisors.

‘With the strong links to top global firms for future recruitment

The USA College Day in London with representatives from 170 US universities will be held online this year

opportunities,’ says Godsell, ‘the States is a valid option for parents hoping to advise their children to make the right choice about their future.’

Studying in the US can reap financial rewards too, she adds.

‘Stanford University, located in Silicon Valley near San Francisco, records a median salary for alumni with up to only five years’ experience of $76,500, followed by $72,700 for Princeton alumni, and $61,600 for former students of the University of Chicago.

By the tenth year of employment, students from these universities are earning on average upwards of $100,000 per year.’

So how do you apply?

‘The US university year starts in late August or early September,’ says Godsell. ‘The application deadlines are the previous November or January for the current intake year. However, students embarking on a US application need to start planning much earlier than this.’

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An Oxbridge application, she explains, focuses on academic ability that students demonstrate in tests, interviews and the personal statement. However, in a US application, 40 per cent is based on academic achievement, 30 per cent on extra-curricular activities and 30 per cent on their personal essay and interview where there are non-academic as well as subject-based questions.

‘Every international applicant must sit the SAT or ACT exam too,’ says Godsell. ‘These standardised exams test knowledge in maths and English – and in the case of ACT, science too – and are held regularly in exam centres in the UK.’ Pupils wishing to stand out, she suggests, need to show the positive impact of extracurricular activities, whether that’s charity work, leading a school society, reaching a major academic goal beyond the classroom or volunteering in the community.

That’s confirmed by Dr Marcus Allen, head of higher education, careers and professional guidance at Benenden in Kent. Dr Allen says, ‘applicants need to be memorable and have a “stand out” quality that sets them apart from other equally well-qualified students.’

Benenden is so proactive about promoting international study options, it first raises the idea of studying at a US university in year ten.

This is supported later in career consultations and the school produces its own guide to applying to the US. It runs a biennial careers convention where US universities and US consultant companies attend.

About ten to 15 girls are interested in studying in the US each year, says Dr Allen. Of these, about eight to 12 will apply to US institutions (often applying to UK universities as well) and between four and six girls usually take up places.

Dr Allen suggests they consider the subject mix taken at A-level: ‘Candidates without maths beyond GCSE may find the admissions tests more difficult.’

But the most likely deterrent is cost. According to the US Department of Education, National Center for Education Statistics, a college education costs between $17,000 and $45,000 a year. And while bursaries and scholarships can be plentiful, the bar for access is means tested and set high. Moreover, some universities won’t offer any support to international students.

‘Due to visa restrictions, students often can’t work or are limited to getting a student job,’ says Gibbs,who advises students wishing to study in America to think long term. ‘Although boarders have a head start,’ she points out that ‘it can still be lonely moving abroad on your own and students can’t necessarily stay and work post study.’

If your teen really wants to study in America but isn’t sure about making the big leap, Boddington has one last tip: you don’t have to apply for a four-year course. ‘Lots of UK courses offer opportunities to study in the US as part of your degree,’ she says. ‘That may be a semester or a whole year.’ Graduates can apply for Fulbright scholarships when looking at PhD courses or master’s degrees.

In the US, she says, ‘education is a privilege, not a right. You have to be prepared to work hard to get a place and to pay for that.’

‘Students can apply not knowing what they want to study. The first two years of a fouryear course could include social sciences, arts, humanities and maths for example.’

Yale University, Connecticut

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ROWENA BODDINGTON, DIRECTOR OF ADVISING AND MARKETING AT THE US-UK FULBRIGHT COMMISSION

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SCHOOL HOUSE PARTNERSHIP

STEP OUT FOR PLACE2BE THIS WORLD MENTAL HEALTH DAY Could you Step Out for Children’s Mental Health and take on 31 miles this October?

Whether you walk it, run it or skip it, all that matters is that you reach the (virtual) finish line

The difference you will make On Saturday 10 October it’s World Mental Health Day, and we’d love for you, your family and friends to join Team Place2Be. Get involved and know that every step you take will help to ensure that children do not have to face mental health problems alone.

How could you take on 31 miles this October?

Here are a few examples of how you and your family could get involved:

P

lace2Be is a children’s mental health charity providing mental health counselling, support and training to schools to improve the emotional wellbeing of pupils, families, teachers and staff. We work with over 600 schools across the UK and reached over 365,000 children last year.

Following coronavirus sweeping through the nation and causing uncertainty, fear and loss in our communities, our work has never been more important. Tragically, 83 per cent of young people with mental health conditions have found these have worsened during the pandemic.

Our dedicated and familiar front line teams have been there to guide school communities and families throughout this difficult time.

By Stepping Out for Place2Be, you’ll help more children and families get the support they desperately need during this difficult time and beyond.

Please do contact us if you have any questions on 07900 749 012 or email us at events@place2be.org.uk

1

Walk or run a mile a day. Throw on your trainers and walk or run solo or with your friends.

2

Jump on your scooter. Could your child scooter to school each day or around the park?

3

Start a relay team. You and your family could each tackle a number of miles a week on a bike or by foot!

Sign up today!

– For more information, and to sign up, visit: place2be.org.uk/ StepOutForMentalHealth – Registration fee: £8 – Suggested fundraising target: £100

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OPPORTUNITY KNOCKS Annabel Heseltine meets the students who used lockdown as an opportunity to hone their skills and make money for charity

AUGUSTA WILLIAMS DRAWING FOR THE NHS

Augusta, or Gusty, 21, was in her third year at Oxford Brookes studying criminology when COVID-19 sent her packing. Not one to be trounced however, and with a strong entrepreneurial streak already honed from a former business when she upcycled vintage clothing, Gusty exercised another of her talents. When her mother, gallerist Alexandra Williams, saw her daughter’s drawings she suggested she sell her work. But Gusty, an Old Oundelian, went a step further and was inspired by her mother’s own fundraising efforts to give NHS workers a hot meal after their incredibly long shifts.

‘I knew my mother was struggling to reach the £4,000 a week target, so I decided to help by donating 25 per cent of what I made to Food for Heroes.’ Gusty, who has been invited to exhibit at Gallery Eight in Duke Street, London, has raised £325 so far and is continuing to donate money from her drawing, most recently to Refuge, which supports victims of domestic violence, and the Beirut Appeal, run by Red Cross Lebanon. ‘All charities are important, but I am choosing ones that really need help at that moment.’ @gustdraws; gustdraws.bigcartel.com 112 | SCHOOLHOUSEMAGAZINE.CO.UK | Autumn/Winter 2020

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LOCKDOWN LEGACIES

JUDY FRY & HENRY HENEAGE PASS IT ON

ALFRED & AMBER FLETCHER PANDEMIC PIZZAS

Pandemic Pizza hit the news big time when the two Fletchers – Old Etonian Alfie, 20, who is studying English literature at Trinity College, Dublin and his sister Amber, 19 – took their old school Land Rover to Trafalgar Square and sold pizzas to raise money for the NHS. Like all good ideas, it started over a kitchen supper when the two students and Alfie’s girlfriend, Allegra della Ragione, 19, were complaining about the dearth of pizzas around and wondering, at the same time, how they could bring joy to people. An idea took hold, and dusting down a rusty old BBQ they started practising. ‘We spent a lot of time watching YouTube videos; Alfie got obsessed with making the perfect Neopolitan pizza,’ says Amber, who was at Dauntsey’s and has just secured a place at Bristol to study human geography. Finally, when even Alfie conceded the pizzas were ready for public consumption, they popped the dough and the oven into the back of their car and set up shop outside hospitals and homeless shelters in Wiltshire giving away free pizzas. Supported by an initial cash injection from GoFundMe and local wholesalers, the students soon found themselves giving back in spades.

‘For every three pounds donated we sold one pizza for six pounds and gave away another one for free,’ explains Amber, who calculated that their usual capacity was about 40 pizzas a day, although they sold 200 on their visit to Trafalgar Square. Having raised £5,000, they have given away over 2,000 pizzas and counting.

To donate to the pizza project please visit gofundme.com/f/5sazz-pandemic-pizza

Want to buy a secondhand Harrovian’s tailcoat or a Marlborough tweed jacket? Then look no further than Pass it On. Old Marlburians, Jude Fry and Henry Heneage, both 19, always knew they would go into business together, having started thinking about it while they were still in school, planning websites and writing Ts&Cs between A-levels. ‘We would sneak off between lessons to chat through our ideas. I think some people thought we were having a secret affair,’ said Jude, who is off to study politics at Newcastle. But it wasn’t until the pandemic cut short an exciting gap year – a 170 metre bungee-jump in Nepal, travelling around Asia and being forced to return home from Thailand via Abu Dhabi, Athens and Paris on a 46-hour journey that involved wrapping themselves in bubble wrap and sleeping on a VIP red carpet behind a kiosk in Paris Charles de Gaulle airport – that the boys were ready to put their idea into action.

‘Parents are paying too much for uniform and books, and very few schools provide a secondhand selling forum,’ says Henry, who is reading international relations at Exeter. Pass it On provides a peer-to-peer market whose members can upload and sell the kit they no longer need when they leave school, explains Jude. The plan is to keep working through university, uploading everything from desk lamps to sports kit for sale, donating a part of their uploading service charges to charities in need at the time. passiton.me.uk

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LOCKDOWN LEGACIES

GEMMA HARRISON UPCYCLING FOR CHARITY

In a way, lockdown was a blessing in disguise for Gemma Harrison, who is a second year student at Leeds University studying textile design, which she says, ‘gave me so much time to get started with my company’. Now her company Dappled Shade upcycles vintage fabrics and old clothes as make-up bags, head bands and masks. ‘I have always made things for my friends and family, and I’ve always been very focused on sustainability and recycling, so my family encouraged me to turn it into a business’, says the Old Oundelian. ‘My granny was amazing; she’s into everything arty you can imagine, but now focuses on painting, making rag rugs and tapestry. She does less sewing these days, so she gave me all her old fabrics.’

It was only natural that Gemma would extend her entrepreneurial instincts to donating to charity after she was nominated to take part in the Run Five, Donate Five, Nominate Five challenge on Instagram, for the charity Run for Heroes. Gemma donates 15 per cent of her earnings to charity including the Lebanese Red Cross, but plans to focus on environmental charities in the future. @dappledshadeuk; dappleshade.co.uk

COCO SLEMEK & LOLA COOKING FOR CARERS

Coco Slemek is passionate about cooking and doesn’t stop; she even had to be hauled out of a pub kitchen for this interview. But, if she hadn’t been banished from the Irish cooking school, Ballymaloe, because of a certain pandemic, she might not have gone commercial so quickly. Coco and Lola – who went to Dean Close in Cheltenham and is studying history of art at Trinity College, Dublin – live in neighbouring villages in the Cotswolds and both went to Ballymaloe, albeit at different times, so their shared passion for cooking might never have been discovered were it not for a chance meeting. ‘Lola was in New Zealand when the pandemic hit and I missed the last two weeks of my course,’ says Coco, who left Cheltenham Ladies College a year ago and is heading off to Newcastle to read Spanish and Portugese this term. Together they came up with the idea of practising some of their newly acquired skills and started selling croissants, sausage rolls, pastries, sourdough bread and apple-turnovers from the gates of their home, using Coco’s mother’s gallery kitchen as their headquarters, with strictly enforced social-distancing and sanitisers everywhere. It started with a pop-up on Saturdays advertised on Instagram and posters they put up locally – they sold out within an hour. ‘We never expected so many people,’ says Lola, who told me they made around £3,000 a month to go towards helping the NHS from the pop-up and from running a delivery service every Wednesday to people’s homes. @Cocoandlolabakery ■ 114 | SCHOOLHOUSEMAGAZINE.CO.UK | Autumn/Winter 2020

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SCHOOL’S OUT

PHOTO: © BRUNO AVEILLAN

HOLIDAYS | A PPS | BOOKS | PROPERTY

Soneva Fushi, Maldives

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SCHOOL’S OUT

WHAT’S ON Laughter, adventure and the great outdoors

WORKING FROM HOME

FAMILY FUN IN THE KITCHEN

JAMIE OLIVER Watch 1,500 recipe tutorials on his YouTube channel. Or make your way through Jamie Oliver: 7 Ways, based on how to cook our favourite ingredients.

Penguin, £26

© JAMIE OLIVER ENTERPRISES LTD (2020 7 WAYS). PHOTO © LEVON BISS

BOSH! To get into veg, buy BOSH!: Simple recipes, amazing food, all plants.

A plant-based diet with a helping hand from the experts. Harper Collins, £20

MOB VEGGIE MOB Veggie: Feed 4 or more for under £10. Designed for students and others on a budget.

Pavilion, £14.99

MADE ESME WALL DESK A wall mounted, fold-out desk with plenty of space for stationery and books, which is both compact and aesthetically pleasing. £149. made.com

AUTUMNAL WALKS TO BLOW AWAY THE COBWEBS

DARTMOOR There is no better place in the southwest of England to (metaphorically!) lose yourself than Dartmoor. Ramble along old drovers roads or climb a tor; but watch out for haunted hounds.

Stay at Gidleigh Park, from £283.50 per night. gidleigh.co.uk THE LAKE DISTRICT England’s northern garden is the UK’s largest national park and a world heritage site.

Scale Scafell Pike or sail Lake Windermere. Stay at Askham Hall, from £150 per night. askhamhall.co.uk BRECON BEACONS Hop over the River Severn into South Wales and keep going until things get hilly – you’ll know when you have reached the Brecon Beacons.

Hardy soldiers train here, but don’t let that deter you from scaling one of its six peaks. Or, take a leisurely long boat out on The Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal.

Stay at The Felin Fach Griffin, from £142.50 per night. felinfachgriffin.co.uk

GAMES FOR ALL THE FAMILY 1 Monopoly: Speed. No time for family fall outs, speed is the name of the game, £21.99. hasbro. com. 2 Pandemic. A board game made for team work where everyone either wins or loses; sound familiar? £29.99. zmangames.com 3 Check Mate.

Laser chess strategy game, £29.99. thinkfun.com

GYMAX CHILDRENS’ STUDY DESK CHAIR SET Height adjustable with room for storage and a huge space saver, this is the perfect set for all children revising or doing home work. £157.95. amazon.co.uk

WOODEN KNEELER CHAIRS An office chair to encourage good posture and comfort, endorsed and approved by chiropractors. £81. officefurnitureonline.co.uk

STOKKE TRIPP TRAPP CHAIR Called ‘the chair that grows with the child’ due to height adjustable seat and footplate, this chair is designed for good back posture. £178. stokke.com

GET MONEY-SAVVY WITH GOHENRY Let children teach themselves the value of money with gohenry, a pre-paid card designed for children. The brand new eco card is a low energy consumption product, composed of 82 per cent bio-sourced renewable material made from corn, rather than fuel. gohenry.com

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LIBRARY

READ & LEARN

APP-Y MINDS, APP-Y KIDS

Books and apps to feed curious minds

Show-stopping stories

Fabulously factual

Longstanding legends

Test your imagination

Day One

AGES 12+ The Ballard of Songbirds and Snakes: A Hunger Games Novel by Suzanne Collins is an exciting and spell-binding prequel to The Hunger Games.

Scholastic, £19.99 AGES 14+ Utopia Avenue by David Mitchell. The 1960s sees the rise and fall of rock band Utopia Avenue as Mitchell documents their career from Soho to Rome.

Hodder & Stoughton, £20 AGES 14+ Come Again is Robert Webb’s debut novel that sees Kate wake up in her 18-year-old body, meeting her husband all over again. Canongate Books, £16.99

ALL AGES Lancaster: The forging of a very British legend Gulf war veteran, John Nichol, recounts the story of one of WWII’s most iconic bombers, the Lancaster, and the pilots who flew them. Simon & Schuster, £20 ALL AGES 50 Fantastic Ideas for Forest School Jamie Victoria Barnes inspires children to embrace forest schools.

Bloomsbury,£10.99 ALL AGES Wow Moments: A compilation of tantalising tales and compelling anecdotes from a far-flung traveller

By Lynda Gordon.

Grosvenor House Publishing, £10

AGES 4-7 David Attenborough: Little people, BIG DREAMS Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegra, and illustrator Mikyo Noh document the life of a national treasure.

Lincoln, £9.99

AGES 9-11 Slime is another corker from prolific children’s author, David Walliams and illustrated by Tony Ross. Ted, a boy with slime power takes on awful adults. Hachette Children’s, £9.99

AGES 7-11 The Mermaid Atlas: Merfolk of the World

by Anna Claybourne and illustrator Miren Asiain Lora. The facts and fiction of mer-folk and their lore. Laurence King, £14.99

AGES 3-5 The Lost Spells by Robert Macfarlane. A set of spell-binding lyrical poems about animals with stunning illustrations

by Jackie Morris.

Penguin, £14.99

With its sleek design, userfriendly experience and high privacy, Day One allows you to keep a journal at any time.

Get prompts to write your journal and notifications to relive your best experiences.

Babbel Learn languages on the go with courses from Babbel.

92 per cent of users improve their language proficiency.

There is no reason why you shouldn’t either.

ALL AGES The Racehorse Who Learned to Dance Clare Balding tells the story of Polly – who was nearly paralysed after an accident – but who has a strong affinity with horses. Penguin, £6.99

AGES 9-12 Alex Rider: Nightshade

by Anthony Horowitz.

Britain’s favourite teen spy is back, up against the sinister organisation, Nightshade.

Walker Books, £12.99

DailyArt

SCHOOL HOUSE REVIEWS AGES 14+

AGES 10-17

ALL AGES

Trio

Love Frankie

Serpentine

Set in 1968, an actor, a writer and a producer all lead deeply secret lives. Almost impossible to put down, Boyd brings comedy, tragedy and redemption as naturally as other writers uncap a pen; this will leave you wanting more from him. Penguin, £18.99

From the women who held the attention of a generation of children with Tracy Beaker, Wilson addresses the issue of young love.

Frankie, 14, realises she is in love with Sally. But does Sally feel the same?

Penguin, £20

A novella that takes place after His Dark Materials, Lyra and Pan are back in the North. Bound to satiate your Pullman-itch, while waiting for the much anticipated conclusion to his The Book of Dust trilogy.

Penguin, £7.99

PHOTOS: GETTY IMAGES

by William Boyd

by Jaqueline Wilson, illustrated by Nick Sharratt

by Philip Pullman, illustrated by Tom Duxbury

This app show you a classical masterpiece every day, along with a short passage about it and the artist. You will never get caught out as a cultural philistine again.

Photomath A ‘camera calculator’ on your phone.

Scan any mathematical problem and get a step by step guide on how to solve it.

It isn’t cheating; it is learning.

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Taking the train from London to the country on a Friday evening is the norm for many

THE LONDON EXODUS he Bell family live a double life. During the week they are Londoners, commuting to school and work from a four-bedroom house in Clapham, South West London; at weekends they decamp to a small farm in Somerset. ‘We make it there in time for the Graham Norton Show and a glass of red on Friday evenings,’ explains Alexandra Bell, a City solicitor, who grew up in the West Country. ‘It’s a wrench leaving for town on Sunday evening, but we’ve found this lifestyle allows us to spend the most amount of time together.’

Not once have the Bell’s three children, age five, nine and ten, complained about missing parties and sporting fixtures in London, but neither do they ask to live in the countryside full time. ‘They regard both houses as home,’ Alex says. ‘We have clothes and toys in both places to limit the amount of packing up and unpacking.’

The dual country-town existence has been growing in popularity over the past few years, but, according to Jake Vicardi of property finders, The Buying Solution, the coronavirus pandemic has only made the prospect of a second home in the provinces more appealing. ‘We’ve noted a marked increase in second-home buyers coming to the market,’ he says. ‘Country houses are the instant solution to lockdown woes and with the prospect of changing work patterns and working from home, buyers can see how they would fit with their lifestyles.’ Mid-market country houses are already selling for ten to 15 per cent above where they were pre-lockdown, he adds.

While the Bell’s house is surrounded by its own land, and has a number of barns that Alexandra’s husband, Joshua, hopes to restore

T

in the future, it’s not the kind of property they’d have bought if they were moving to the country full time. ‘We didn’t have to think about schools or the local social scheme; we fell in love with the position, and the fact that it is only a few miles from a station,’ she says.

According to Tom Hudson of property finders, Middleton Advisors, the search criteria for a second home is different to that of a primary residence. ‘Unless there’s a chance you will move to your second home full-time, it should be the antithesis of what you have in town,’ he says. ‘Buyers will compromise on architecture and formality of space to have somewhere pin-drop quiet with gorgeous views.

They’ll also be more daring – a whacky barn conversion in the Cotswolds, for example, or a modernist cliff house on the South Coast.’

‘If budget allows, a home should have some land to install a tennis court and swimming pool for summer holidays,’ says Vicardi. ‘There’s been a huge trend towards homes with a swimming pool or space to install an above ground pool,’ he confirms. ‘With hotter summers and less opportunity for travel, a pool keeps children entertained for hours.’

In the past, second homers have stayed within a 75 to 90 mile arc of London but, according to Vicardi, there is increasing demand for cottages and houses in Wiltshire and Dorset.

‘Don’t go too remote,’ warns Rupert Sweeting, head of national country sales at Knight Frank, who advises looking for a property in attractive countryside close to a good village. ‘The type that has a decent pub, a well-stocked shop and, ideally, a cricket team – playing for the local side is a great way to get to know the villagers,’ he says.

The Cotswolds village of Bledington fits this description, as does

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Anna Tyzack has some suggestions on where to escape to the country

PROPERTY

Whitchurch in Hampshire and Stockland in east Devon. ‘So often it’s the poor wife who has to do the Friday afternoon haul with the children, while the husband jumps on the train with a gin and tonic,’ Sweeting explains. ‘But if you can all jump on the train together it’s more fun and you can go much further – within around two hours you can be at Tiverton Parkway, a 20-minute drive from Exmoor.’

The Bells leave a motor at Crewkerne station and take the train from London after work on Fridays. ‘We’re usually knackered; this way we can watch a film or chat without having to worry about A303 traffic,’ says Alex.

There are, of course, downsides to owning a second home – an extra three per cent in stamp duty; two sets of running costs; and the pressure to go to your bolthole every weekend, which can be frustrating when there are social engagements in London.

Plus, cottages in scenic countryside within easy reach of London aren’t cheap; in popular areas such as the Hambleden Valley in Buckinghamshire or the Woodhays in Berkshire you can pay more than £800,000 for a three to four-bedroom cottage with a small garden – and you’ll be competing with buyers looking for a primary residence.

The locals, meanwhile, don’t always take kindly to London second homers. Sweeting suggests leaving the flashy cars in London and easing into rural life gently. ‘If you’re from the area originally, you tend to be accepted more quickly,’ he explains. ‘Don’t go in all guns blazing; take part in the community in a quiet way; go to the fete and the carol service.’

Playing for the village cricket team is a surefire way of getting to know the neighbours

Yet, according to Hudson, owning a country bolthole allows families to keep their options open in terms of jobs and education, while enjoying space, fresh air and quality time together at weekends. ‘When you move to the country full time you’re forced to make quite rigid choices about schools for your children and how your daily commute will work,’ he says. ‘By only living there at weekends, you’re still benefiting from the choice London offers.’

The Bells say they have spent much less money on holidays, often jettisoning planned summer holidays in Europe or America to spend their holiday in Somerset. ‘We get FOMO if we don’t get to enjoy the changing seasons,’ Alex says.

‘It’s pathetic, really, but here every weekend feels like a holiday.’

FOR SALE

DORSET

PHOTOS: GETTY IMAGES

Myrtle and Pear Tree Cottage offer an ideal opportunity to continue a successful holiday let business in the picturesque village of Nethebury, while enjoying a second home at the same time. Myrtle Cottage has three bedrooms and Pear Tree Cottage has two. They are surrounded by gardens, rolling hills and stunning countryside. £1m, Jackson-stops.co.uk

OXFORDSHIRE

Avoid being labeled a ‘Londoner’ by taking part in community activities, such as the village fete

Field House is a newly renovated threebedroom house in Kingham, with open plan living space and a south west facing garden with terrace. Kingham has a village green, outstanding primary school and two renowned pubs, the Kingham Plough and the Wild Rabbit. £695,000, knightfrank.com

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SCHOOL HOUSE PARTNERSHIP

‘IN A CLASS OF ITS OWN’

(Sunday Business Post 2017)

St Columba’s College, Ireland’s leading co-educational boarding school

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t Columba’s College, in the foothills of the Dublin Mountains and overlooking the city, is a distinctive seven-day boarding community with a number of day pupils. It has an outstanding reputation for academic performance and a commitment to all-round education.

A Church of Ireland foundation, the college opened in 1843 and is a co-educational school of 350 pupils, aged 12 to 18. With 140 acres, including a nine-hole golf course, it is the envy of other Dublin schools.

While full boarding at St Columba’s may be half the price of what it is in the UK (fees start at 20,000 euros a year), it would be a mistake to think it is inferior. Here, the State pays the salaries of many of the teachers, which enables

it to keep costs down. The school has a country feel, but is only 30 minutes from Dublin Airport.

With excellent academic standards, senior pupils take the much respected Leaving Certificate of seven subjects and go on to top universities in Ireland and the UK, but also to Ivy League Colleges in the US and universities throughout Europe.

While the school prides itself on its enviable academic reputation, at its heart is a village community, where every child is cared for, nurtured and equipped to find their own place in the world. Many of the staff live onsite, contributing to the atmosphere of a home away from home. Its dedication to the best in pastoral care was highly praised by the Boarding Schools’ Association after a visit in 2017.

Opportunities abound, with six afternoons of sport a week, drama, music, debating, public speaking and performing in front of peers and visitors. From the warden (headmaster) downwards, there is an emphasis on the spirit of servant leadership, both within and beyond the college.

St Columba’s is proud of its heritage as one of the oldest schools in Ireland, while constantly matching itself to the needs of the 21st century. It boasts newly refurbished, state-of-the-art science labs and a brand new social centre in the heart of the school, which was opened in 2019 and is a wonderful and vibrant space in the centre of the college. stcolumbas.ie

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TRAVEL

BEST OF BOTH WORLDS Why battle the books at home when you can revise on a pontoon in the tropics? asks Henry Faber

Oppidan Education takes mentoring and camp programmes to many exotic locations

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Oppidan Education hosts a mentoring programme at Soneva Fushi in the Maldives

inding the right time to take your family on holiday these days can be as challenging as paying for it. For some parents, a steady stream of teenagers progressing in rank and file through Common Entrance, GCSEs and A-levels brings about pre-holiday headaches. With pressure placed upon those teens to get their heads down, finding a time for a holiday that won’t clash can be a nightmare; unless, at great expense, the tutor comes too.

I set up Oppidan Education in 2016 as a mentoring business, to focus on engagement and personality in academic support for young people. The idea behind overseas mentoring began at The Peligoni Club on Zakynthos, Greece, where the May halfterm left weary parents doubting holiday success. The set-up works as a residency: two Oppidan mentors are based at the club, with small group study for teens in the mornings, camp activities for younger children and the option to pay for one-on-one support later in the day. Parents declare their interest without commitment, at no charge and our mentors cater as best they can to varying subjects and levels.

The approach is flexible, social and popular.

Of course, organising someone to look after your children when on holiday is hardly a new idea. Summer camps like those of Forte Village in Sardinia, with its multitude of sports academies, have become more commonplace, almost in tandem with the rise in technological goodies, tempting children to skulk in the shade.

Our initial brief was simple and remains the same: to enable children to study, to socialise and to experience their holiday the way it should be. Four years later, half-read revision pamphlets with crumpled corners have been banished, making way for a study club that children and teens alike look forward to being a part of. The positives for students are apparent from the off: revision time has structure, children make new friends, confidence grows. Young and inspiring mentors act as friend, guide and motivator.

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For parents, it’s a win-win situation offering a well-deserved rest; the pressure release from the complex role of enforcer makes the rosé taste that much sweeter. If the mentors and the location are the right fit, there’s something for everyone. The trick is to create a dynamic that brings young people closer together, without the pressure of forced fun. Whatever their level, students realise they need to learn and, in that context, why not join the gathering and be part of the action? We all remember the feeling of making friends too late on that final day of the holiday; mentoring groups and camp activities invert that tendency, keeping kids busy from the outset.

And there are few who don’t remember returning to school with dread in the autumn term because school feels so unfamiliar.

For those with dyslexia and learning differences who can literally ‘forget’ how to read, the pressures are intensified. ‘It’s a headache for them and for us,’ says John Floyd, headmaster of boys’ weekly boarding school, Bruern Abbey in Oxfordshire, which specialises in preparing boys with dyslexia for entry into mainstream senior schools. ‘We spend the first two or three weeks of the autumn term bringing them back to where they were when they went home the previous summer. For pupils with dyslexia it’s vital they keep reading.’ Of course, children deserve their holidays as time away from school to relax, but not at the expense of good learning habits and an engagement with what’s around them. Mentoring has a vital role to play in learning invisibly, and with joy too.

In the world of 2020, where our jobs, our schools and our homes have merged into one, we must realise that the ‘extra’ is only perceived negatively when it is portrayed as such. I don’t believe it is anything other than short-sighted to treat an educational and social experience as ‘too much’; children need to be encouraged to be curious, to explore, to learn with ambition from those around them, and where better than in a new environment with so much to be explored educationally? Take Soneva Fushi in the Maldives as an example:

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TRAVEL

The pressure release from the complex role of enforcer makes the rosé taste that much sweeter their world-class ‘Den’ for children becomes a safe space to meet and have fun, before exploring the ecology of the reef or the science behind star gazing. At Cape Weligama in Sri Lanka, here the resort’s environment has become a pivotal learning offering for its guests.

While I am the first to advocate not pushing a child too far, it’s important not to throw out the baby with the bathwater.

There is sometimes a missing middle ground between helicopter parenting and the ‘laissez-faire’ approach, but how to find balance as a parent? In my experience, it’s about approaching your child’s learning journey with positivity and calm. It doesn’t matter where you are as a family, parents have the chance to encourage their children; to engage with and learn from the people and places on offer. The exam result is just one stop-off in a much longer learning experience. If life is one long education, then why not experience learning in a beautiful place amongst new and exciting people?

Dissociate education from school and education for itself shines through. It’s rewarding to see how parents are taking this onboard; I like to think it’s not just about grabbing an opportunity for a second glass of vino. May half-term at The Peligoni Club sells out pre-Christmas, while we’ve adapted and rolled out the model in seven resorts across three continents throughout the year.

If education overseas takes away the stress of school and brings people together, then we’ve achieved our goal. Pre- or post-good grades, a holiday experienced is one that will be remembered and that’s a huge success all the way back to school.

Learning out of a classroom proves to be particularly stimulating

EDUCATION HOME AND OVERSEAS: Oppidan: Mentors pupils abroad in Europe, Africa, the Caribbean and Sri Lanka on half terms and holidays. oppidaneducation.com Lionheart Education: Partners with ALS Ski and ALS Sun to provide exam tutoring for a weekend or a year. lionhearteducation.com Keystone Tutors: Tutoring available at Beaverbrook, an English country house hotel in Surrey keystonetutors.com

Soneva Fushi, Maldives

Simply Learning Tuition: Private tuition working with holiday companies and education camps, like Discovery Summer. simplylearning tuition.co.uk

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ALUMNUS

HIGH-FLYING MEDIC

The first female director of Primary Care, NHS, Dr Nikita Kanani remembers Sutton High School GDST with friends to play Bright Eyes on the piano, singing with great was born in South London to parents who arrived theatrics. I took the lead in Iphigenia and She Stoops to Conquer; in the UK in the 1970s from Uganda and Kenya – I remember being so proud and overwhelmed at the same time. they met at Sunderland Polytechnic where they were Acting in the outdoor theatre was an incredible treat and studying pharmacy. Initially, they sent my sister and surprisingly the weather held both days. But, Mrs Dent didn’t just me to a state school, but recognising the advantages give me the space to act and perform – she also gave me a shoulder of an independent school education, my parents worked incredibly to cry on in lunchtime lessons when social issues occurred. hard to give us the chance to carve out a new destiny as second Together Mrs Ward, generation immigrants.

Mrs Taylor and Mrs Lamb, I remember my first day teaching chemistry, biology at Sutton High when I was and physics, set me on the 11-years-old so vividly – my path of curiosity. I never mum joined me on the train looked back. School – with and walked with me from the the strong backing of my station. She left me at the parents – instilled in me bottom of the steps near the a belief that I could do, dining hall. I held back a sob, or be, anything I wanted took a deep breath and walked up. to. I went to medical school, I moved to Sutton High became a GP and now I am because I’d been bullied quite Medical Director of Primary a bit at my middle school.

Care for NHS England and My parents wanted to find me NHS Improvement. My sister somewhere where I would fit and I were so lucky to be given in and be valued for who I was. opportunities to grow and My mum still recalls discussing experience life, so we wanted my joining with Mrs Cavendish, to pass these opportunities who was certain I’d be happy forward. STEMMsisters is our there; she was right. way of doing this – offering My sister went to Wimbledon access to a space and network High School GDST from the to experience STEMM subjects. age of seven. We’d shared a Sisterhood is vital. In the primary school, but our parents laboratory, on the stage or thought we needed different in the school room, my friends spaces – we’ve always been Dr Nikita Kanani were always there, giving me really close but, apparently, our my warmest memories. chosen schools suited us well.

I had a wonderful friendship I remember Sutton High ‘School – with strong backing from my circle at school. There were being a safe and warm place. parents – instilled in me a belief that I could eight of us, and we were each The teachers were kind and do, or be, anything I wanted to. I went to other’s worlds. We didn’t need nurturing. Mrs Hughes let me sing in the choir despite medical school, became a GP and now I am anyone else and we shared everything, even food at snack my voice being not choir-worthy.

Medical Director of Primary Care for NHS time – there were these really, Then there was Madame England and NHS Improvement’ quite incredible soft, warm Tait and Madame Dreux, who and sweet chocolate chip instilled in me a life-long love shortbreads that we bought and ate together; Amanda, Claire of French. Latin lessons with Miss Hodgson lead to me being and I savouring every mouthful. part of Latin speaking competitions; I can still say ‘togam From my first trip away from home to Boulogne in lower-four, splendidam geris’ with great panache. to exploring Sutton High Street, to the Duke of Edinburgh award I loved the library and the Challenge of Management events scheme treks and our leavers’ ball, Sutton High gave me happy where we set up a business with the local boys school, Sutton memories and opportunities beyond belief and I will always be Grammar. I was never very sporty, but art and drama took up grateful for this. much of my spare time, as did stealing into a spare music room

I

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THE BRITISH PREP SCHOOL WHERE HALF THE LESSONS ARE TAUGHT IN CHINESE Kensington Wade is a first for UK education Kensington Wade combines the best aspects of Chinese and British education

T

o an outsider, Kensington Wade School is not unlike other London preps. Early years pupils play gleefully with wooden blocks in the sun on the rooftop playground, scaling bridges and designing state-of-the-art buildings similar to that of their school. The girls wear Liberty print-style dresses and the boys, a traditional shirt and sweater. Ofsted has rated the school outstanding in all areas.

Yet open the doors and you begin to understand why Sir Anthony Seldon, former headmaster of Wellington College, has called it ‘the most exciting school in the country’. Though the concept is becoming common in America, very few schools in Europe offer a comparable education, which combines a traditional English prep school curriculum with immersion in Mandarin Chinese. Look closely and you’ll find half the classrooms plastered in Chinese art and literature. Pupils spend half of the school day here, learning in Chinese, and half their day learning in English. In practice this means that they know the map of the UK as well as one of China and

produce plays from both cultures, all while learning to speak, read and write fluently in both languages.

Most pupils join the school in nursery or reception with no Chinese knowledge. By year one, they are able to happily chat in Chinese. This is solely down to the school’s dedication to its immersive language programme; parents are not required to continue the practice at home.

Taking the best aspects of a Chinese education, such as the Asian-style mastery approach to mathematics based on the premise that all can succeed, Kensington Wade supercharges a traditional British schooling.

Moving to a new site in Notting Hill in 2021, Kensington Wade pupils will be a force to be reckoned with when competing for senior school places. As Patrick Derham, headmaster of Westminster School, has commented, ‘top schools will do anything to get their hands on pupils who have had an education like this.’ Not only will pupils take the next step in their stride, their bilingual minds and global education will give them a leg up in their careers too.

QUICK FACTS Kensington Wade Bilingual Prep School with English & Chinese Location: Kensington, West London School Type: Independent Co-ed Prep School Age: 3 to 13 years For more information visit kensingtonwade.com or email admissions@ kensingtonwade.com www.kensingtonwade.com

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IT’S SWISS

TIME PHOTO: GETTY IMAGES

The British have always been enthralled by Switzerland and its epic outdoors, skiing its pristine mountains for decades.

Long may this most special of relationships continue

Located at the Glacier 3000, the Peak Walk by Tissot is the world’s only suspension bridge connecting two summits

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Aerial view of the majestic Matterhorn mountain

A THRILLSEEKER’S PARADISE

There is no better time than to make your way to the mountains safely this winter – you’ll find lungfuls of pure fresh air, outdoor pursuits aplenty and enjoy precious time together Alongside the record-breaking attempts came the healing powers of the Alps thanks to its pure and dry air. Patients with lung problems headed to the mountains. Leysin – now, a charming ski resort scattered with chalets – was home to many sanitoriums, thanks to its sunny climate and close proximity to Geneva. When the patients came, they embraced the joys of the snow. Toboggan runs, ice rinks and palatial hotels popped up.

People tried a new pastime – skiing.

In 1893, author Arthur Conan-Doyle took his family to Davos to find a high-altitude cure for his wife Louisa’s tuberculosis.

While there, he wrote about his experience of skiing which catapulted the sport into the public eye. He even killed off his beloved Sherlock Holmes at Reichenbach Waterfalls in the Bernese Oberland. Under pressure from fans, Conan-Doyle miraculously resurrected his detective but thousands of Brits still wanted to see the Falls. They remain a dazzling sight today – with the powerful water plummeting 250m to the ground with a deafening roar.

Switzerland’s snowy playground continued to develop. By now, the tourists were coming in droves – helped by the newly-

PHOTOS: GETTY IMAGES; C.RACAT

W

ith majestic mountains, glistening glaciers and powder-dusted Alpine forests, Switzerland is like a fairytale come true. Then there’s the resorts – some of Europe’s biggest and best – with spanking new panoramic cable cars, fast chair lifts and picturesque train routes. The apres-ski scene is picture perfect, too – sporting a whole array of treats, from buzzing cocktail bars to mountain view spas. The food is as sublime as its surroundings, with Michelin-starred fare in glitzy hotels to gooey raclette in tiny slopeside mountain huts. But, perhaps the biggest accolade of all is that it was here, in this land, that winter tourism was born.

In the mid-1800s, the snow-covered Alps were mainly unexplored. However, in 1854 Alfred Wills scaled the Wetterhorn and 1865 saw Edward Whymper’s ascent of Matterhorn. Both climbers were English – and soon more adventurers followed. The Alpine Club, the world's first mountaineering club, was also founded in 1857 in London – and still runs today, organising expeditions across the Alps.

Queen Victoria was so inspired that she spent her holiday in 1868 in Switzerland.

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built mountain train lines. In 1936, the first ski lift was built in Villars. This was a first in Switzerland, and skiers had to fasten themselves on with a large leather belt in order to go back up the mountain. In 1938, Villars was classified as one of Europe’s top skiing resorts – and Villars has never looked back.

Set in the canton of Vaud, known as the Lake Geneva Region, Villars is interlinked with Gryon and Les Diablerets resorts, creating an exceptional trio – and an abundance of winter fun. The region’s highest point, Glacier 3000, completes this paradise, packed with activities: cross-country skiing, winter hiking, tobogganing and dog-sledding. Families are brilliantly catered for, right down to the snowshoeing trails complete with buggy tracks. Elsewhere in the canton of Vaud, the cities – particularly Lausanne and Montreux – are super stylish filled with Christmas markets, famous faces and world-class restaurants.

The Portes du Soleil is another unmissable spot. The largest linked international ski area in the world, there are more than 286 ski slopes covering 600 km of terrain. But this is just the beginning. There are 150 km of snowshoe trails to explore still frozen landscapes, far from the madding crowds, alongside crosscountry skiing, revitalising winter hikes, ice climbing and more.

The slopeside action continues in neighbouring canton of Bern but nature is also the big thing here. Sparkling between mountains, Interlaken’s emerald-coloured Lake Thun and Lake Brienz are mind-blowing – and an adventure on the water is a must. Meanwhile the Jungfrau Region, with the backdrop of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau, offers skiers and snowboarders everything their hearts desire. Then there’s Gstaad whose glamour proceeds it. However, there is outstanding hiking, mountain biking and skiing on silk-smooth slopes, cementing the resort as one of Switzerland’s top winter destinations.

Arosa Lenzerheide is not far behind and fast rivalling the big names. With the area in Arosa and another two sides of the valley in Lenzerheide, guests today have more than 225 km of groomed pistes up to 2,865m above sea level and 42 transport facilities at their disposal. Arosa and Lenzerheide also hit the headlines after the opening of a spectacular aerial cableway connected these two Swiss mountain villages.

While these resorts soar as skiing hotspots, Switzerland’s heritage remains equally important. In 2014, the country toasted 150 years of winter tourism – and, as the next season approaches, there continues to be plenty to celebrate.

PHOTOS: GETTY IMAGES; C.RACAT

Les Diablerets at night

Snowshoeing fun

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NOW AND THEN

Taking a look at the slopes of Switzerland past and present

The canton of Valais has many strings to its bow – including the invention of raclette (thought to be more than 400 years old). It is also where the second Alpine railway line was opened under the Simplon Pass in 1906, connecting Brig in the canton of Valais with Domodossola in Piedmont (Italy). One of the most stunning parts is the Dents du Midi mountain chain, which has inspired many painters and writers, such as Victor Hugo, who liked to stay in Champéry. In 1963, the Région Dents du Midi hosted the first-ever mountain foot race – today regarded as one of the finest walking trails in the Alps.

Arosa Lenzerheide Arosa Lenzerheide was created in 2014 when little-known Lenzerheide was connected to nearby Arosa by a new gondola. However, its history of winter sports goes right back to the 19th century. It was the opening of the road from Langwies to Arosa in 1890 which catapulted Arosa – almost overnight – into a tourist destination. Entire families started to arrive to try this new pastime – skiing. The resort had its first three ski lifts in place before the Second World War. The health spas were swiftly transformed into hotels.

Since then, the area hasn’t looked back – and the 2013 development cemented Arosa Lenzerheide as a top familyfriendly ski resort.

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PHOTOS: VISIT SWITZERLAND; VALAIS/WALLIS PROMOTION-DAVID CARLIER; GETTY IMAGES

Valais

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Grindelwald, Jungfrau Region Nestled in the mountains of the Bernese Oberland, Grindelwald, with its wonderful panorama and glaciers leading up into the valley basin, has always drawn a crowd.

Alongside conquering the slopes, people loved skijoring in which a person on skis is pulled by a horse. It was the Jungfraubahn cog railway which powered the Jungfrau Region into a winter sports fantasy. The building of the railway tunnel took 16 years and the summit station was not opened before 1912 – but it was worth it. The Jungfrau Region was soon stamped as one of the best areas to ski in the Alps and remains so today.

Aletsch Arena

PHOTOS: VISIT SWITZERLAND; VALAIS/WALLIS PROMOTION-DAVID CARLIER; GETTY IMAGES

Climbers first came to the Canton of Valais’ Aletsch Arena in the mid 19th century. Brits in particular loved this scenic area. Banker Sir Ernest Cassel even built the mountaintop Villa Cassel (closed in winter) here in 1902 where he hosted Winston Churchill. In the meantime, tourism continued to grow and the Aletsch Arena soon became a popular winter destination.

Fast forward to 2001, and the whole region – including the Great Aletsch Glacier – was named as the first UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Alps. Today, Aletsch Arena remains as glorious as ever, a paradise for skiers and snowboarders.

SWITZERLAND TRAVEL CENTRE The largest tour operator for holidays in Switzerland, hot foot it here to plan your perfect escape DESTINATIONS All of the country’s best spots (and more) can be found here, with highlights such as the Lake Geneva Region including the activity-packed Glacier 3000.

WHERE TO STAY You want it, they’ve got it – be it a fabulous grande dame, a blissful spa escape or a super apartment to make your own.

HOLIDAY TYPES Perfect for skiers and nonskiers alike, there’s an unrivalled range to choose from – picture adventures on the slopes, culinary escapes, fabulous city breaks and much, much more.

Mürren, Jungfrau Region Mürren in the Bernese Oberland started off life as a farming village. The first British winter tourists arrived in 1911. During the First World War, wounded prisoners of war stayed here pending repatriation and helped develop winter sports. In 1924, Sir Arnold Lunn and eight fellow Englishmen founded the Kandahar Ski Club, today Britain’s oldest and most prestigious ski club. A few years later, the Inferno Race was launched and continues to this day. It is the longest and largest amateur ski race in the world – and confirmed Mürren’s position as a ski destination to be reckoned with.

TOURS Pick from a never-ending list which includes scenic rail journeys, self-drive adventures, themed holidays and escorted tours. The Magical Moments rail journey is spectacular, taking in the stunning resorts of Interlaken and Lucerne.

SWISS TRAVEL PASS A brilliant way to explore the country, this travel pass sorts out your transport in one fell swoop, giving unlimited travel in Switzerland by train, bus and public transport. From £205. +44 (0)20 7420 4934; switzerlandtravelcentre.com

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WHEN IN THE MOUNTAINS...

Ski, eat, drink, sleep, repeat in the majestic Swiss Alps

Chalet RoyAlp Hôtel & Spa

LAKE GENEVA REGION A S K Y - H I G H S E N S AT I O N

EAT

Start the day with a fabulous peak brunch at Botta Restaurant, on the edge of the Glacier des Diablerets, the highest point in the region. Roll on lunch – Restaurant du Lac, on the Bretaye runs, which has been feeding skiers since 1870, serves the best burger. Back in the resort, Villars-surOllon’s L'Alchimiste’s beef tartare is the stuff of legend.

The ski-in, ski-out Chalet RoyAlp Hôtel & Spa in Villars-sur-Ollon is the big hitter, contemporary, massive and great for families. The hotel’s Michelin-starred Le Jardin des Alpes is excellent, too. For something smaller, feel at home at the charmingly refurnished Les Mazots du Clos, bang in the centre of Villars, with a tranquil spa.

Whizz up to Glacier 3000 which has everything from cross-counting skiing to dog-sledding to hiking. Then there’s Villars (with its own cog railway), Gryon and Les Diablerets resorts – a snowy playground with a variety of phenomenal slopes and the snowshoeing is awesome, too.

Advanced skiers will love the buckets of untouched powder.

Off the beaten track, Plans-sur-Bex is fantastic for cross-country skiing.

SLEEP

Botta 3000 Restaurant du Lac

DO

LIVE LIKE A LOCAL

THE SLOPES BY RAIL PHOTO: © LITESCAPE MEDIA

A great feat of engineering, a train journey through the mountains is as breathtaking as the pistes themselves – take in plunging canyons, frozen waterfalls, powderdusted forests and charming mountain villages. The top route is Villars-Bretaye, which goes through spectacular Alpine valleys – and takes you straight to the ski area.

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BERNESE OBERLAND A N AT U R A L N I R V A N A

EAT

Swing by the Hotel Alpenhof in Grindelwald for the best fondue you’ve ever had. Or, refuel at Le Refuge l’espace, one of the finest lunch spots on the mountain. For all-out Michelin dining, Gstaad’s Le Grand Bellevue has too many stars to count or tuck into hearty fare in their charming log cabin Le Petit Chalet.

There are some smashing grande dames: VictoriaJungfrau Grand Hotel and Spa, a 19th-century Belle Époque beauty in Interlaken or treat yourself to the achingly glamorous Gstaad Palace. The glittering Alpina Gstaad is top dollar, too, with a Six Senses spa (book the tension soother massage).

For unbelievable scenery, head to Interlaken. The skiing is wonderful – but so is turquoise Lake Brienz, clear-asglass and flanked by majestic peaks.

Neighbouring Jungfrau Region is peak perfect, too, and the backdrop of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau is a skier’s haven – or lap up the landscape on a magical winter hike. Then there’s Gstaad, the darling of the Alps, whose grandeur and well-groomed slopes are a Mecca for the great and the good.

Try the two-hour full moon hike to the Chasseral.

SLEEP

Hotel Alpenhof Victoria-Jungfrau Grand Hotel and Spa

DO

Jungfrau

LIVE LIKE A LOCAL

VALAIS

Région Dents du Midi

A FEAST OF FUN

EAT

With a food scene as brilliant as its slopes, you won’t go hungry in Valais. Raclette is said to be invented here – try it at former cowshed Chüestall near Riederalp’s Blue Lake. For further traditional bites, keep a look out for Saveurs du Valais restaurants which focus on the region’s specialities including excellent wines – Nendaz’s Restaurant du Sapin Blanc is a great spot, known for its Valaisanne plate (a delicious selection of local meat and cheeses).

Vintage wins through with Hotel National Resort & Spa, Champéry, a charming boutique hotel, established in 1896, with its own spa. For proper ski-in, ski-out, plump for spacious Hotel L’Etable, with 17 elegant Alpine-style rooms.

Région Dents du Midi and Portes du Soleil are the big draw here for ski enthusiasts. One of the world’s largest ski resorts, gear up for 194 ski lifts, 90 mountain restaurants and more than 600 km ski slopes between Switzerland and France. Families should make their way to Aletsch Arena or delightful Nendaz – both outstanding spots for little ones.

Put your skates on and enjoy the natural ice rink in Bettmeralp.

SLEEP

DO

PHOTO: © LITESCAPE MEDIA

Hotel L'Etable

LIVE LIKE A LOCAL

SWISS, the ‘Skiers’ Airline’, offers multiple daily flights from the UK and Ireland to Zurich and Geneva. Ski equipment is transported free of charge in addition to your standard baggage allowance. They will also transport your baggage directly to the railway station. +44 345 601 09 56; swiss.com Autumn/Winter 2020 | SCHOOLHOUSEMAGAZINE.CO.UK | 137

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Marvel at the magic of Christmas at Montreux Market

SWISS STYLE

Influencer and photographer Nicole Hunziker shares her favourite places in the canton of Bern

The cities of Montreux and Lausanne on the shores of Lake Geneva are worth a visit in their own right

1

The Montreux Riviera Swiss Snow School

Open since 1979, this ski school has a terrific load of opportunities. The philosophy is Safety-Fun-Performance – and the instructors here achieve just that. Pick from group lessons for kids, private classes for all ages or the super-personalised Carte Blanche service, where everything is arranged, from transport to equipment to restaurant bookings. ecoleskimontreux.ch

2

The lantern trail of Les Pléiades

A short train ride from Montreux, explore the snowy magic of Les Pléiades resort at night. Warm yourself with a glass of mulled wine before taking in the silence, the cold and the calm as you snowshoe your way around the lantern-lit path. It's an easy trail – and great fun for all the family.

Finish with fondue at restaurant des Pléiades. lake-geneva-region.ch/en/P55801/chemin-deslanternes-aux-pleiades

3

4

Montreux Christmas Market

Having recently celebrated 25 years last winter, Montreux has one of the largest Christmas markets in Switzerland with a whopping 170 stalls. Visit Santa’s workshop perched atop the Rochers-de-Naye mountain before watching the elves at work in the Village des Lutins. 25 November to 24 December 2020. montreuxnoel.com

5

Lausanne Festival of Lights

Soak up the magic of Lausanne at Christmas and follow the path of luminious sculptures lighting up the city. Created by 15 contemporary artists, it’s an inventive take on Christmas lights – and also the perfect chance to do some latenight Christmas shopping. 19 November to 31 December 2020. lake-geneva-region.ch

For a drink, I go to the Start Bar on top of Lauberhorn with the view over the Bernese Alps.

I love the walking trails around Grindelwald-First-Bussalp because you can hike up, then sledge down.

I have just discovered Hotel Aspen in the Bernese Alps.

I love ski-in and ski-out hotels.

It is just above Grindelwald right next to the slope from Kleine Scheidegg. I love the location, the great hospitality and the good food. There’s also a lovely little après-ski terrace and I love to relax in the jacuzzi at the foot of the famous Eiger mountain.

Bô Noël, Lausanne

Lausanne’s Christmas market has something for everyone. Place Pépinet is a must-visit for local produce while oenophiles will love Bô Caveau, which brings together the region’s winegrowers. Little ones can be kept busy with the children’s village.

25 November to 31 December 2020. bo-noel.ch

My favourite restaurants are Restaurant Waldspitz and Rasthysi in Grindelwald – two hidden gems in the mountains.

In winter, you can reach them either by foot or with your sledge. I also love Restaurant Eigernordwand on Kleine Scheidegg, above Grindelwald and Wengen. It's brilliant for lunch and has recently been renovated – the view on the terrace is incredible. I like traditional dishes such as Swiss Cheese Fondue or Rösti.

Lausanne Festival of Lights

@nicolehunziker

PHOTOS: GETTY IMAGES

BRIGHT LIGHTS

My number one ski resort is Grindelwald: Männlichen/ Kleine Scheidegg Area then Saanenmöser or Adelboden.

As a child, I learnt to ski in Saanenmöser and I’m still in love with the slopes there.

I have a lot of good memories.

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Warm up in the largest thermal bath spa in the Alps

DO SOMETHING NEW THIS WINTER From skijoring to sleeping under ice, the Swiss Alps offers it all

Ski for the first time When it comes to first-timer skiing, you’re spoilt for choice in the Alps. Look for a resort which has a good amount of green and easy blue runs – Villars is a great bet with excellent ski schools, lots of easy runs and a relaxed atmosphere. Then book a lesson or two at one of the many ski schools – Swiss Ski School Villars is excellent. Just make sure you’re fully kitted-out beforehand – layers is the big thing and jeans are a definite no. Bring goggles, too – sunglasses break easily. But, most importantly, take your time to find the perfect ski boot – just don’t be tempted to go up a size as they need to be tight to support your ankles.

PHOTOS: GETTY IMAGES

Jump in a thermal spring Perhaps one of the last things you’d expect – but swimming in a frozen landscape should not to be missed. Follow in the footsteps of the old mule track from Sunnbüehl above Kandersteg to the Gemmi Pass which, in the Middle Ages, was one of the most important links for trade and travellers between the Bernese Oberland and Valais. With a bit of luck, you might even spot a bearded vulture flying overhead as you cross the pass. Finish by resting your weary bones in the thermal baths at Leukerbad, the largest thermal spa resort in the Alps.

Go ski-touring Nestled on the French-Swiss border, Morgins’ unspoilt surroundings, marked by lakes and forest, is the ideal place to get to grips with ski-touring. The Rando-Parc powered by Movement

Skis in the Portes du Soleil area offers touring tracks aimed at skiers of all abilities with one black, two blue and three red trails. With an average of 600m height difference, the tours take between an hour and a half and three hours and offer the perfect opportunity to admire the snowy scenery including magnificent views of the Dents du Midi mountains.

Get behind a horse On the plateau of Frience in Gryon, add an extra shot of adrenaline into your skiing with this thrilling-yet-safe sport. Originated in the Arctic, skijoring is a type of winter sport where a skier is pulled by a horse on a rope. It is derived from the Norwegian word skikjøring, meaning ‘ski driving’ – and is perfect for all skiing abilities, right down to a total beginner. And, while extreme skijoring does exist, the speed here is suitably leisurely so you can lap up the spectacular views as you cruise along.

Overnight in an igloo For a serious bucket list experience, book a night or two in an igloo at Hotel Kemmeriboden-Bad in the canton of Bern. A romantic weekend for two, an escape from the daily grind, or simply the chance to bag some bragging rights, it’s the stuff of fantasy. Tuck into a traditional cheese fondue in the restaurant while your beds are warmed with hot water bottles. Before you crawl under your delicious sheepskins, finish the night by going for a moonlit snowshoe walk before relaxing in the sauna. Wake up the next morning to a massive breakfast buffet, stacked high with everything you could possibly want. kemmeriboden.ch

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BRING THE WHOLE FAMILY Everyone is welcome at these Swiss hotel stars

Gstaad Palace Gstaad, with its safe ski slopes, learning parks and free cable cars for under nines, has always been a child’s dream. This fairytale palace, towering above the resort, takes it one step further. An heirloom of hospitality since 1913, the grande dame has hosted the same families for generations alongside the likes of Louis Armstrong, Grace Kelly and Elizabeth Taylor.

The alpine glamour continues today with lavish interiors, immaculate service and serious cooking.

The 90 rooms are suitably grand with exquisite fabrics, embroidered cushions and Victorian prints.

In summer, families should experience a stay at the Walig Hut – an 18th-century mountain hut with breathtaking views (ask hut manager Maurizio to take the kids foraging). During the day, nearby lifts offer easy access to over 125 miles of mixed ability slopes. Back at base, the kids programme is packed full of treats. Children sorted, soothe post-piste aches in the spectacular spa. Having tucked the munchkins up in bed (the Palace can magic up a babysitter), head to one of the four restaurants – La Fromagerie, (for a sublime truffle fondue), Le Grill, Gildo’s Restaurante or Le Grand Restaurante & La Grande Terrace. Finish the evening in the hotel’s glittery nightclub GreenGo, cracking out moves to the beats of world-famous DJs. palace.ch

▼ BEST OF THE REST

1

HOTEL LE GRAND CHALET, Leysin

Set in a quiet forest in the hills of Leysin, this family-run hotel is a hop, skip and a jump from the slopes. The family suites are super cosy with spectacular views. Staff are naturals with kids. After a day cruising the runs, leave your brood in the playroom as you wind down in the hot tub overlooking the mountains. Or book an Ayurvedic massage in the serene spa (there are kids treatments, too). The restaurant dishes up regional specialities. Stop by the Karibou bar beforehand – there's a special area for little ones while grown-ups can kick back beside the fire. grand-chalet.ch

2

HOTEL NENDAZ 4 VALLÉES & SPA, Nendaz

One of Valais’ eight family destination resorts, Nendaz is just the ticket for sorting out the energy levels of children. Couple that with the region’s massive bonuses of fun-filled snow playgrounds and kids’ freestyle courses. Chic 62-room Hotel Nendaz 4 Vallées & Spa, dead centre of the resort, slips right in. Mezzanine suites are available for families – and there’s a fantastic spa (complete with child pool) where kids are welcome. The relaxed Carnotzet l’Aigle is ideal for a family dinner (order the Raclette du Valais AOP). hotelnendaz4vallees.ch

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12 HOURS ON THE SLOPES WITH ROMAIN DÉTRAZ One of the world’s top 20 ski cross athletes, Romain Détraz gives the inside track on his day as he prepares for the Winter Olympics in 2022

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I live in Gryon which is beautiful and surrounded by mountains.

It’s great for families here with loads of things to do. After a bowl of cereal, I wake up my body with some mobility exercises such as arm rotations, leg lifts and lunges.

After lunch, I go to Les Diablerets. There is a wonderful track named La Jorasse which was totally rebuilt for the 2020 Youth Olympic Games.

Lined with trees, it is now perfect with wide, pretty steep tracks and beautiful curves.

I ski to the Barboleuse-Les Chaux gondola which takes you right into the slopes. I get there early so I can enjoy doing some tracks in solitude.

You also get the fresh snow all to yourself.

I stop for a hot chocolate at Jimmy’s Bar, on top of the snow park in Villars. They have a good terrace where you can soak up the sun. Lunch is fun here, too – you can buy your meat at the bar and grill it yourself on the barbecue.

I do two or three long runs on Barboleuse. I like long descents – they allow you more time on the slopes and less queuing for lifts plus they start high so you have awesome views. Then I cross to Villars which has really wide slopes. There is a really fun ski cross track with banked turns, bumps and jumps. You have to try it.

The ski slopes close at 4.45pm but I go down earlier. It’s a long day when you begin at 9am. I ski back to my chalet for a well-deserved cup of tea.

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I like to go out for supper at Pizzeria L’Escale at the bottom of the slopes. There’s a big menu – Mexican, Asian and Italian, but I’m into the pizza.

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I like to go to L’Etable for lunch, which is in converted stables. It’s French-Swiss food. I love the homemade pies but they serve great cheese plates and the mushroom casserole is meant to be amazing.

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VALBELLA RESORT, Valbella

With LEGO as the hotel’s main investor, it’s unsurprising that kids have the time of their lives here. Sitting on the peaceful slopes of the Lenzerheide valley, it’s an elegant mix of Alpine meets Scandinavian design. But the real wow is the two giant LEGO indoor children’s areas.

Then there’s the family suites in the recently-opened Tgiasa Fastatsch with separate children's bedrooms and gorgeous sheepskin-covered rocking chairs. The in-room melamine kids' crockery is spot-on, too, although don’t miss the 12-hour ribs in Fastatsch restaurant. valbellaresort.ch

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Afterwards, we head to Villars which is a fun place to party. I like El Gringo which is always buzzing and great for dancing until the early hours.

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BOUTIQUE HOTEL GLACIER, Grindelwald

With mesmerising views of the Bernese Alps, the setting of this design-led hotel will stop even the youngest of your troops in their tracks. Then there’s the massive outdoor playground which is always a big hit, too. Inside, young owners Justine and Jan have done an excellent job. The colourful interiors have been cleverly designed alongside fun touches such as lights akin to icicles. The suites are big enough to house a family – and complimentary cots are available. A blissful spa and excellent seasonal-led restaurant tops it all off. hotel-glacier.ch

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Winter kayaking on Lake Brienz

Escape the pistes and discover the glories of Lake Brienz.

Surrounded by snowcovered mountains, the winter months offer some of the most breathtaking views of these Alpine waters – and, even better, you have this turquoise lake all to yourself. Out on the water, total tranquillity reigns as you gaze at the dramatic peaks all around, reflected in the mirror-like water, passing towering cliffs, hidden beaches and ancient castles.

TOP TEN UNMISSABLE ADVENTURES Snow doesn't just mean skiing, test your mettle with other exhilarating activities too

Be it a simple half-day hike or a day-long adventure, get off the beaten track and be at one with nature.

Some of the most beautiful snowshoeing trails can be found here – choose the Champéry to Sous-Scex trail, which takes you through peaceful alpine woodland and along the banks of the rushing Vièze River.

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Fat-biking in Aletsch Arena

A relatively new sport – but a seriously fun one – you’ll soon find yourself addicted to the adrenalin of fat-biking. There’s no better place to give it a shot than the Aletsch Arena with its pitch perfect snow. Plump for the 13km sledge run from Fiescheralp down to Lax with views of the magnificent mountain panorama before a romantic finish through snow-covered woods that end just above Lax.

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Dog-sledding in Glacier 3000

It’s hard to get more magical than dog-sledding – particularly in the exceptional setting of Glacier 3000. Begin by watching the pack of Huskies play in the snow – a joyous sight – before settling down cosily in your sled. Then let yourself be whisked through the beautiful glacier landscape – just like your own Narnia – as the dogs dash enthusiastically along the icy trails, piercing the vast expanse of eternal snow. One for the bucket list.

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Tiger Run in Gstaad

The steepest slope in Gstaad, this 2.5km long black section on the Wasserngrat will get your heart racing with an average gradient of 45 degrees. If that’s not enough, set out at the region’s longest slope which starts on La Videmanette and sees a super fun descent of 1,160m down to the valley.

Along the way, recharge your batteries at the Buvette de Rubloz restaurant.

PHOTOS: VISIT SWITZERLAND; GETTY IMAGES

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Snowshoeing in Région Dents du Midi

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C&TH PARTNERSHIP

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Cheese-shopping in a weekly market

Take a morning off from the slopes and indulge in a spot of shopping at one of the magical weekly markets.

While every corner will be overflowing with treats, don’t miss the cheese makers with their stalls stacked high with wheels of cheese. Switzerland has 700 varieties of cheese – and each one is unique. Highlights include the world-famous Emmentaler, smooth, soft Vacherin Mont d’Or (pictured) and spicy Appenzeller. Or there’s the tangy Sbrinz, aromatic Le Gruyère and Tête de Moine, which can be shaved into ornate rosettes. A mind-boggling choice but well worth the investment.

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Winter hiking in Mürren

Immerse yourself in the snowy Jungfrau Region and experience winter up close and personal.

There’s nothing quite like hearing the scrunch of fresh snow under-foot while being surrounded by dazzling scenery. Hiking trails abound – start in the idyllic village of Mürren before ascending through the snow-covered forest to Gimmeln, then revel in the mesmerising panorama of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau, as you make your way to the finish at Schilgrat.

Sledging in Les Diablerets

Whizz down one of Switzerland’s longest sledge run with an exhilarating 30-minute ride between Les Mazots and Les Diablerets. Little ones can get in on the action, too, learning to sledge in the Fun Park, at the bottom of the Le Meilleret ski area. Once the kids are tucked up in bed, grab your headtorch and try your hand at night sledging when, three nights a week, the run is open after dark.

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Free-riding the Parpan Rothorn

One of the best-known freeride mountains of the region, the Parpan Rothorn is as thrilling as you can get. The couloirs are hardcore (narrow, steep and rocky, covered in deep snow) – but the mountain views are unbeatable. Take a break in the Rothorngipfel panoramic restaurant which serves fine Grison specialties. Push yourself further by going off-piste with a Skisafari between Arosa, Lenzerheide and Tschiertschen.

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The Peak Walk by Tissot

PHOTOS: VISIT SWITZERLAND; GETTY IMAGES

Packed with thrills, the awe-inspiring Glacier 3000 leaves you spoilt for choice. The Peak Walk by Tissot – the only walkway in the world linking two peaks – is a great (nail-biting) way to start. Overlooking the glacier of Les Diablerets, hold your breath for over 107 metres, before you reach the summit of Scex Rouge. Savour your victory over the void while taking in phenomenal views of the Matterhorn, Mont Blanc and Jungfrau.

To book any of these activities, contact the Switzerland Travel Centre, the largest tour operator for holidays to Switzerland. +44 (0)20 7420 4934; switzerlandtravelcentre.com

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LONDON SCHOOLS NURSERY | PREPA R ATORY | SENIOR

Queen’s Gate School, London

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LONDON PREPARATORY SCHOOLS

Broomwood Hall, Lower School

Broomwood Hall, Upper School

ADDRESS: The Vicarage (Reception & Year 1) 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: 4-8 HEAD TEACHER: Mrs Carole Jenkinson FEES: £5,610. Fees are inclusive of all tuition, lunch, compulsory school trips and most school books and equipment RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Christian but all faiths are welcome ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: School visit and random ballot at age four.

Additional entry point & scholarships at age 7 from Sept 2020 CONTACT: Susannah Lloyd, Registrar, 020 8682 8830 EMAIL: admissions@northwoodschools.com SCHOOL VISITS: Northwood Schools All Sites Open Morning – Friday 9 October 2020

ADDRESS: 68-74 Nightingale Lane, London SW12 8NR. WEBSITE: www.northwoodschools.com FOUNDED: 1984 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 240 AGES: 8-13 HEAD TEACHER: Mrs Carole Jenkinson FEES: £6,880. Fees are inclusive of all tuition, lunch, compulsory school trips and most school books and equipment RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Christian but all faiths are welcome ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Automatic entry for girls from BH Lower School; External by assessment in January of year of entry. Academic & music scholarships for 7+ entry via BH Lower School CONTACT: Susannah Lloyd, Registrar, 020 8682 8830 EMAIL: admissions@northwoodschools.com SCHOOL VISITS: Northwood Schools All Sites Open Morning – Friday 9 October 2020

THE CURRICULUM: A broad curriculum, designed to provide mastery of the building blocks of education, delivered in an inclusive, enjoyable manner, harnessing curiosity and desire to learn. Specialist teaching in arts, sport, music and french from the start.

THE CURRICULUM: A broad and stimulating mastery approach, with technology used at every level, fosters a love of learning, bolsters selfconfidence, creativity and critical thinking, helping girls to maximise their potential.

GAMES & THE ARTS: All children take part in PE and Games for at least five periods per week and progress from learning basic skills to playing in competitive matches. Great emphasis is placed upon building confidence through art, drama and musical performance. A multitude of clubs from Year 1 onwards include karate, coding, art and cookery. Winners of prestigious Gold Artsmark Award.

GAMES & THE ARTS: Sport and the arts are an important part of our curriculum and we offer a surprisingly wide variety. We place great value on creativity with exceptionally strong music, art and drama departments.

Winners of prestigious Artsmark Gold Award.

PASTORAL CARE: The school is split between two sites with each one being small enough, and intimate enough, for all children to be well known to all staff. We have a strong pastoral team which includes learning support, a fulltime school nurse and a qualified school counsellor.

EXIT SCHOOLS: Children from Broomwood Hall Lower School have automatic entry to either Northcote Lodge (boys) or Broomwood Hall Upper School (girls) providing these are the right schools for them.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: We embrace the best of tradition with the best of modern innovation and teaching to deliver an education that’s not only stimlulating but rounded and happy. Our five learning powers: curiosity, communication, creativity, independence and resilience, are the bedrock for all we do and designed to equip children with the problem solving and analytical skills they need to succeed in the workplaces of the future.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: – Broomwood Hall Lower School is part of the Northwood Schools family, comprising Broomwood Hall Upper School, Northcote Lodge and Northwood Senior, providing an outstanding education from 4 – 16 – Firm believers in encouraging children to recognise that achievement and success comes in many forms – Winning combination of traditional values and innovative teaching – Fostering a love of learning and happy, confident children – Friendly, family-feel school

PASTORAL CARE: We know that happy children thrive academically.

With small class sizes, an excellent tutor system and mindfulness and wellbeing programmes in 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 confident, happy, well-rounded individuals with a strong sense of purpose.

SENIOR EXIT SCHOOLS: 11 & 13+ to London day and boarding including Benenden, Emanuel, Marlborough, Bradfield, JAGS, Streatham & Clapham High, Woldingham, Wellington, Cranleigh and King’s, Canterbury.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: 25 per cent of leavers win awards across all areas.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: We prepare for life, not just the next school. Our focus is on the essential building blocks of creativity, critical thinking, resilience and confidence – all the benefits of a holistic education where everything is important, and each girl is supported and enabled to be and do her best.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: – The only girls’ prep school preparing for 11+ & 13+ in SW London – Winning combination of traditional values and innovative teaching – Innovative enrichment programme to challenge and stimulate depth of learning – Happy, confident girls – Friendly, family-feel school

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LONDON PREPARATORY SCHOOLS

Northcote Lodge

Northwood Senior

ADDRESS: 26 Bolingbroke Grove, London SW11 6EL WEBSITE: www.northwoodschools.com FOUNDED: 1993 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 260 AGES: 8-13 FEES: £6,880. Fees are inclusive of all tuition, lunch, compulsory school trips and most school books and equipment HEAD TEACHER: Clive Smith-Langridge RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Christian but all faiths are welcome ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Automatic entry for boys from Broomwood Hall Lower School if it’s the right school for them. External candidates – assessment in Year 3 (prior to entry in Year 4). Academic & music scholarships for 7+ entry via Broomwood Hall Lower School CONTACT: Susannah Lloyd, Registrar, 020 8682 8830 EMAIL: admissions@northwoodschools.com SCHOOL VISITS: Northwood Schools All Sites Open Morning – Friday 9 October 2020

ADDRESS: 3 Garrad’s Road, SW16 1JZ WEBSITE: www.northwoodschools.com Opening September 2020 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 140 AGES: 11 – 16 FEES: Fees in line with those of Northcote Lodge and Broomwood Hall Upper School (currently £6,880). Scholarships at 11+ & 13+ worth 20% HEAD TEACHER: Mrs Susan Brooks RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Christian but all faiths are welcome ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Main entrance in Year 7. Additional places in Year 9 with preferential entry for pupils from Northcote Lodge and Broomwood Hall. Assessment morning in January of the year of entry.

CONTACT: Northwood Senior Enquiries: 020 8682 8821 EMAIL: NWSSenior@northwoodschools.com SCHOOL VISITS: Northwood Schools All Sites Open Morning – Friday 9 October 2020. Other appointments welcome. Please contact Admissions

THE CURRICULUM: Boys thrive in our ‘country prep school’ environment which provides outstanding teaching that stimulates, stretches, nurtures and develops individual strengths to prepare boys for entry to top secondary schools at 11 and 13 – both day and boarding.

THE CURRICULUM: We want to foster a love of learning and provide an excellent, well rounded education that stimulates and stretches in a smaller, more personal community. We offer a wide range of GCSEs and the possibility of studying subjects not available elsewhere.

GAMES & THE ARTS: All boys play matches in the major sports and our teams are very competitive even against much bigger schools. A wide-ranging clubs programme includes karate, coding and spy-club.

Thriving and vibrant music, drama and art departments with ambitious projects, multiple choirs and exciting performances.

GAMES & THE ARTS: The arts will play an important part in the life of the school and we will offer both team and individual sporting options.

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 size and relaxed, country-feel of the school enables staff and boys to get to know each other well. Parent partnership is actively encouraged, and the Headmaster’s door is always open.

SENIOR EXIT SCHOOLS: Mix of London day and out of town boarding at 11 & 13 including Bradfield, Dulwich, Harrow, Tonbridge, Marlborough, Wellington, Whitgift, Charterhouse, Sherborne, Cranleigh and Eton.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: Strong showing in all areas including academic, music, DT, drama and sport.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: I believe in educating the whole child: academic rigour, a focus on traditional manners, outstanding extra-curricular opportunities, holistic pastoral care and most importantly, running a school that allows the boys to be happy so that they fulfil their academic potential.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: Northcote Lodge is a country prep school right in the heart of South West London – giving boys the advantages of a stimulating, but nurturing, learning environment without having to leave town.

PASTORAL CARE: The strong focus on pastoral care that the school group is known for at the preparatory level will continue, alongside a thorough development of the skills required for the challenges of modern life. Our tutor system will ensure that all children are known by staff on a personal level, with staff truly invested in their individual success.

AFTER NORTHWOOD SENIOR: We don’t believe that there should be a typical exit – just the one that’s right for each individual pupil.

This could include A-levels, BTecs or something else at various settings including sixth form at day and boarding schools or specialist sixth-form colleges.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: Northwood Senior will offer a more bespoke approach for an education that is not only academically excellent, but which equips pupils with skills and experiences to face their future with confidence.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: – A small, family feel where community really matters – A rounded, stimulating and healthy education, both physically and mentally – A focus on developing the self; building reflective, community-minded young adults – Creating a continuing passion for learning – Giving pupils the confidence, qualifications and skill-set they deserve to tackle the exciting futures that await them

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LONDON PREPARATORY SCHOOLS

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LONDON PREPARATORY SCHOOLS

Cumnor House School for Boys

ADDRESS: 168 Pampisford Road, South Croydon CR2 6DA WEBSITE: www.cumnorhouse.com FOUNDED: 1934 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 450 AGES: 2 - 13 HEAD TEACHER: Mr Mike Seaton FEES: £3,715 - £4,460 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Multi-faith ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Register from birth for nursery and reception intake. Informal assessment for all applications CONTACT: Admissions Team EMAIL: admissions@cumnorhouse.com SCHOOL VISITS: Pre-arranged private tours available daily at nursery and main school. Open Mornings are advertised on the website.

THE CURRICULUM: An exciting and creative curriculum that prepares pupils for the 13+ assessment. Our curriculum is aimed at promoting independence and recognising the all-round ability of our pupils. Our curriculum begins in our nurseries and continues throughout the children’s time at the school. With a personalised learning approach, each child is given the challenges and opportunities they need to reach their potential.

GAMES & THE ARTS: We are proud of our dedicated sports staff and wonderful sporting facilities. Pupils can tour overseas to play sport in diverse locations, such as Dubai, South Africa and the West Indies, giving our boys the opportunities to explore new cultures and life outside the classroom. All boys in Year 3 receive a one on one music lesson on a variety of instruments. Our choirs and ensembles have all experienced formal and informal concerts including a yearly choir tour.

PASTORAL CARE: We encourage a genuine love for learning and development of a sense of curiosity, open-mindedness, perseverance, objectivity, reflection and critical thinking. This thirst for growth and knowledge stays with them; our boys enter each stage of their lives best prepared for the challenges and opportunities ahead. Timeless values and good manners remain at the forefront: ‘The Cumnor Way’ is a list of guidelines that each of our children is expected to adopt and follow.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: 69 offers, 42 scholarships and seven grammar places. Schools include: Charterhouse, Whitgift, Trinity, Caterham and Cedars.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: We also subscribe to important timeless values such as good manners, courtesy, self-respect, respect for others, and a sense of duty and responsibility within the community. I want the boys to move away from their comfort zone and take risks, for when they do the results can be spectacular. I also want them to really enjoy their time at prep school, before the extreme pressures they may encounter in their senior schools and beyond.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: – ‘The Cumnor Way’ philosophy – Senior school scholarship records – Pupils achieving well above all levels of attainment in English and mathematics – Specialist sports and music departments

Cumnor House School for Girls

ADDRESS: 1 Woodcote Lane, Purley CR8 3HB WEBSITE: www.cumnorhouse.com FOUNDED: 2010 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 150 AGES: 2 -11 HEAD TEACHER: Mrs Amanda McShane FEES: £3,715 - £4,460 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Multi-faith ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Register from birth for nursery and reception intake. Informal assessment for all applications CONTACT: Admissions Team EMAIL: admissions@cumnorhouse.com SCHOOL VISITS: Pre-arranged private tours available daily.

Open Mornings are advertised on the website.

THE CURRICULUM: An exciting and creative curriculum aimed at promoting independence, recognising the all-round ability of our pupils. A personalised learning approach, gives children challenges and opportunities needed to reach their potential.

GAMES & THE ARTS: Facilities include large playing field, sports hall and MUGA with opportunity to participate in many sports.

Our music, drama and arts departments, give pupils opportunities to develop confidence, teamwork and performance skills with annual drama productions, concerts and art exhibitions.

PASTORAL CARE: We are a small school with a caring and family ethos.

We pride ourselves on encouraging a genuine love for learning. We support children in their development of a sense of curiosity, perseverance, reflection and critical thinking. These qualities enable girls to enter each stage of their lives best prepared for the challenges and opportunities ahead. Timeless values and good manners pervade the atmosphere at Cumnor.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: 60 offers, 19 scholarships and eight grammar school offers in 2019. Schools include: Wycombe Abbey, Downe House, Croydon High, Epsom College, Roedean and Christ’s Hospital.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: We provide an enriching and fulfilling education, talent and potential are nurtured and successes celebrated.

We have high expectations of our girls and set high standards to enable the girls to achieve success both in and out of the classroom. Girls develop skills to achieve and a love of learning.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: – ‘The Cumnor Way’ philosophy – Happy, confident and independent learners – Pupils achieve well above all levels of attainment in English and Mathematics – Outstanding opportunities in sports, music and drama – The uniform

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LONDON PREPARATORY SCHOOLS

Bassett House School

ADDRESS: 60 Bassett Road, London W10 6JP WEBSITE: www.bassetths.org.uk FOUNDED: 1947 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 180+ AGES: 3–11 FEES: £3,070 - £6,400 per term HEADMISTRESS: Philippa Cawthorne MA (Soton) PGCE RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Non-denominational ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Non-selective in the early years and places offered from Form 1 upwards after a taster morning and academic assessment.

CONTACT: Thalia Demetriades, Registrar, 020 8969 0313 EMAIL: info@bassetths.org.uk SCHOOL VISITS: Check the website for open morning dates, or contact the Registrar to arrange a tour

THE CURRICULUM: Rich and diverse curriculum led by subject specialists with academic rigour so that children are able to reach their full potential and develop skills for life.

GAMES & THE ARTS: Specialist teachers for PE, music and art teach to a very high standard using excellent facilities in or close to school including the school’s own gym, Kensington Memorial Park and from September 2019, a new performance studio.

PASTORAL CARE: Excellence in pastoral care at Bassett House recognised by TES in the 2019 shortlist for their healthy schools award.

Robust system for checking on pupils’ happiness in place and high staff to child ratio ensures that all children are known inside out. Support given, if necessary, through intervention sessions or advice from the school’s own life coach. Close links with parents ensures that everything is done to ensure that the children are happy at school.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: UCS, Latymer Upper, Godolphin and Latymer, Notting Hill and Ealing, Francis Holland Regent’s Park, Emanuel and Queen’s College.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: Each child’s formative years are crucial for academic success; children should enjoy school and be able to develop skills in many different areas. Bassett House is characterised by its warm and nurturing atmosphere, in which every child feels secure and is challenged to build a firm educational foundation.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: – Success without stress (each child reaches his or her academic potential in a supportive yet challenging environment) and outstanding pastoral care.

– Children develop an inner core of confidence wherever their strengths lie.

– Maximising opportunities to develop in all curriculum areas with academic rigour.

– Developing skills for life, including; a growth mindset, grit and determination and an ability to problem solve and work well in a team.

– Close knit community of parents, staff and children.

Chepstow House School

ADDRESS: 108A Lancaster Road, Notting Hill, London W11 1QS WEBSITE: www.chepstowhouseschool.co.u FOUNDED: 2010 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 384 AGES: 2–13 years FEES: £3,395 (Nursery); £7160 (School) per term HEAD TEACHER: Mrs Angela Barr RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Non-denominational ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Register from birth for nursery and reception intake. Informal assessment for 7, 8, 11+ and 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.

SENIOR EXIT SCHOOLS: 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)

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LONDON PREPARATORY SCHOOLS

Dolphin School (Inc. Noah’s Ark Nursery Schools)

Devonshire House Prep School

ADDRESS: 106 Northcote Road, London SW11 6QW WEBSITE: www.dolphinschool.org.uk FOUNDED: 1986 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 304 boys and girls AGES: 2½–11 FEES: Nursery £2,095 per term; Reception, Years 1 and 2 £4,295 per term; Years 3–6 £4,695 per term HEAD TEACHER: Mrs Nicola Baldwin RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Christian ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Reception class, early registration recommended; Year 1–6, assessment day and past school reports.

CONTACT: Mrs Vivienne Benson, 020 7924 3472 EMAIL: admissions@dolphinschool.org.uk SCHOOL VISITS: Please contact the Admissions Registrar.

ADDRESS: 2 Arkwright Road, Hampstead, London NW3 6AE WEBSITE: www.devonshirehouseschool.co.uk FOUNDED: 1989 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 650 AGES: 2½–13 years FEES: £3,515 to £6,490 per term HEAD TEACHER: Mrs Stephanie Piper RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Non-denominational ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Early Years entry by informal, group, play-based assessment. Years 1 to 7 assessment/taster morning.

CONTACT: Mrs Helen Ridard, Head of Admissions – 020 7435 1916 EMAIL: admissions@dhprep.co.uk SCHOOL VISITS: Contact Admissions to arrange a tour or attend one of our termly open mornings; dates advertised on the website.

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, also focusing on interactive science classes, colourful geography lessons, whole-school Spanish and history often leads to outings to the real thing.

THE CURRICULUM: There is specialist teaching from reception in many subjects and the older children receive a broad and challenging curriculum leading to CE and scholarship. ‘Pupils are highly motivated in their learning.’ (ISI report)

GAMES & THE ARTS: We train pupils in the arts with fantastic specialist teaching and a plethora of performing and exhibiting opportunities. We also coach children in a wide range of sports through dynamic teaching and a superb fixture list.

PASTORAL CARE: We are committed to giving both time and care to grow your child’s character on his or her journey from reception to year six. Our Christian ethos leads us to believe that personal growth ultimately matters more than lists of achievements. So while we are thrilled by children’s awards and accolades, we are even more excited about who they are.

SENIOR EXIT SCHOOLS: Alleyn’s, City of London Boys, City of London Girls, Downe House, Dulwich College, Emanuel, Francis Holland, Hall School Wimbledon, Ibstock Place School, JAGS, Lady Margaret School, Putney High School, Royal Russell School, Streatham & Clapham High, Thames Christian College, Sydenham High School & Croydon High 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.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: – The combination of nurture and dynamism.

– The passionate commitment of the staff.

– A fantastic all-round education.

– One of the Sunday Times’ top 50 prep schools.

GAMES & THE ARTS: PE and games play an integral part in our overall timetable, as do music and art. Providing solid foundations in a variety of sports: football, netball, rugby, cricket, athletics, and dance. Dynamic, busy music and drama departments, with performances at all ages. Art and DT buzzing with creativity.

PASTORAL CARE: Small class sizes, friendly, inviting, safe and happy place to learn. We listen to the ‘child’s voice’ with observation and tracking. Children know they can come to teachers who will listen to pupils’ issues and give the necessary tools for children to feel more equipped to deal with future situations. Strong relationships with children and parents alongside an ethos of family values.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: DHS pupils win scholarships to a wide range of day and boarding schools every year.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: We seek to offer a high quality education whilst ensuring that the emotional needs of our children are also met. We aim for their development into confident, caring individuals with a passion for learning, initiative and a sense of responsibility for others and for the world around them.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: Outstanding pastoral care enables pupils to feel part of the Devonshire House family. With plenty of opportunity to develop interpersonal skills and for children to discover their own strengths and talents. ‘Pupils leave the school as confident, resilient young people who have strong selfesteem and a well-developed understanding of how to improve their own learning.’ (ISI Report)

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Kensinton Prep School GDST

ADDRESS: 596 Fulham Road, London SW6 5PA WEBSITE: www.kensingtonprep.gdst.net FOUNDED: 1873 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 295 girls AGES: 4 – 11 FEES: £5,995 HEAD TEACHER: Mrs Caroline Hulme-McKibbin RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Non-denominational ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Registration followed by assessment CONTACT: Ms Jeni Care, registrar@kenprep.gdst.net SCHOOL VISITS: Please check school website for Open Day details for registered girls THE CURRICULUM: Genuinely broad, well-balanced education.

Reflective and independent thinking encouraged in all subjects.

Residential trips in Years 4, 5 and 6 (to Spain in 2019) and overseas choir tour.

GAMES & THE ARTS: Netball, rounders, football, dance, swimming and gym. Fantastic pitches, large gym. Generously timetabled, quality music, art, drama, design technology. Orchestras, choirs, recorder and string groups. All girls perform in music concerts and plays to parents.

PASTORAL CARE: Happiness is our first priority. Staff know the girls well, support and encourage them, and build strong relationships with home. We treat the girls as individuals, nurturing their development.

SENIOR EXIT SCHOOLS FOR THE LAST ACADEMIC YEAR: St Paul’s,City of London Girls’ School, Godolphin & Latymer, Latymer Upper, Benenden, Putney High GDST, Wimbledon High GDST and Wycombe Abbey.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: City of London Girls, Ibstock Place, James Allen’s Girls’ School, Wycombe Abbey, Francis Holland Graham Terrace, Latymer Upper, Putney High School GDST, St Paul’s and Wimbledon High School GDST. HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: Excellent staff make an excellent school where children can learn whilst secure, happy and having fun. Each pupil is unique and we believe that asking good questions is as important as answering. High importance placed on mutual respect.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: – School now has some of the best prep school facilities in the UK following an innovative £2.7m building project – ’Warm, buzzy atmosphere’ – School achieved highest possible grades in May 2015 Inspection: ‘Quality of the pupils’ achievements and learning is exceptional’ – Questioning, brave thinking encouraged with innovative teaching and latest ICT – Girls treated as individuals. We focus on growing great minds. Close relationships with supportive parent body – High academic standards – Winner: Independent Prep School of the Year 2018 – New school library transformed to put reading at the heart of the school

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Eaton House The Manor & Eaton House Belgravia Nursery Schools

ADDRESS: 58 Clapham Common Northside, London SW4 9RU & 3-5 Eaton Gate, Belgravia, London SW1W 9BA WEBSITE: www.eatonhouseschools.com FOUNDED: 1993 & 2017 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 64 in total AGES: 3 – 4 ½ FEES: From £580 for one afternoon to £3,310 for 5 mornings (per term).

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.com SCHOOL VISITS: Book Open House tours (live tours or virtual information sessions) online at eatonhouseschools.com, or via Admissions 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 us 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.

GAMES & THE ARTS: At the Manor, large wooden blocks and sand and water develop fine and gross motor skills, with free flow out 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 and throughout the year we also have smaller performances.

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.

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.

– At Belgravia, boys are well prepared for Eaton House Belgravia Pre-Prep and girls can choose Eaton House The Manor Girls’ School – We empower children to be happy, independent and curious learners – We aim to have your child completely ‘school ready’ – Children are unique and so is their learning journey

Eaton House The Manor Pre-Preparatory School

ADDRESS: 58 Clapham Common Northside, London SW4 9RU WEBSITE: www.eatonhouseschools.com FOUNDED: 1993 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 510 (Pre-Prep & Prep) AGES: 4-8 FEES: £5,693 per term.

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.com SCHOOL VISITS: Book Open House tours (live tours or virtual information sessions) online at eatonhouseschools.com, or via Admissions 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: 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: 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. Team work is encouraged along with a healthy competitive spirit.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: Mr David Wingfield says: ‘Developing a life-long love of learning is our ultimate goal. We believe that it is no coincidence that children learn best when they feel happy and secure.

We recognise each boy as an individual, understanding what makes him tick and nurturing his talent, ensuring that he feels known and valued. It is crucial that we do our best to prepare our boys to flourish in this very competitive, fast paced, fast changing world.’

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: – Boys transition easily to Eaton House The Manor Prep School where a number of boys win scholarships every year, including a recent St Paul’s John Colet scholarship for academic excellence and an academic scholarship to Dulwich College – 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 education – All our learning is active

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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: £5,693 per term (Junior) 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.com SCHOOL VISITS: Book Open House tours (live tours or virtual information sessions) online at eatonhouseschools.com, or via Admissions THE CURRICULUM: ‘Teaching is highly effective in promoting pupils’ excellent progress and attainment.’ (ISI Report). Our relaxed but highly stimulating classroom environment promotes intellectual curiosity.

Academic exploration and risk-taking are two essential ingredients in our 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 (2020) 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. For us, pastoral care is about understanding and supporting each individual child. Our 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 the years 2017-2019, the girls received over 44 scholarships to top London day and country boarding schools.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: The Good Schools Guide (2020) 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: – 44 scholarships from 2017-20. Girls are prepared for schools such as St Paul’s Girls’ School, James Allen’s Girls’ School (JAGS), Wimbledon High, Wycombe Abbey, St Mary’s Ascot and Downe House – We have a ‘sky is the limit’ approach to learning - anything is possible – We treat each girl as a confident individual so that she can blossom academically, socially and behaviourally, ready to take on the world – We aim to develop the girls spiritually, morally and intellectually, producing intelligent, kind and socially aware girls

Eaton House The Manor Prep

ADDRESS: 58 Clapham Common Northside, London SW4 9RU WEBSITE: www.eatonhouseschools.com FOUNDED: 1993 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 510 (Pre-Prep & Prep) FEES: £6,838 per term AGES: 8-13 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.com SCHOOL VISITS: Book Open House tours (live tours or virtual information sessions) online at eatonhouseschools.com, or via Admissions THE CURRICULUM: The Good Schools Guide (2020) says that ‘This is a school with excellent academic outcomes, good value added- and consequently a school of really high expectations.’ We believe passionately in the benefits of single-sex education. We do everything that we can to nurture and empower every single boy to achieve his senior school of choice. By offering a curriculum adjusted to fit with the developmental stages, interests and strengths of boys, we are able to create the very 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 within the school has weekly drama lessons. There are many plays and musical events in the school – all to a very 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 well-established House system provide the overarching structure for our pastoral care, but it is the attention to detail from the staff that ensures that their care is outstanding.

Every boy is noticed and supported at Eaton House The Manor.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: An impressive number of scholarships, including a recent John Colet St Paul’s School scholarship for academic excellence and an academic scholarship to Dulwich College.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: The Good Schools Guide (2020) 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, with a number of scholarships each year. Many generations of boys to Eton, Westminster, St Paul’s, Dulwich, Tonbridge, Harrow, King’s College Wimbledon, Winchester, and all pupils receive offers to a range of excellent schools – Eaton House The Manor features as one of the top four feeder schools for Westminster and the only school that is completely non-selective at 4+ entry from among these four – ‘The pupils demonstrate an outstanding natural courtesy’ (ISI Report) – ‘Everyone is so happy and so encouraging’ (Zach, Year 8)

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Eaton House Belgravia Pre-Prep

ADDRESS: 3-5 Eaton Gate, Belgravia, London SW1W 9BA WEBSITE: www.eatonhouseschools.com FOUNDED: 1897 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 240 AGES: 3-8 FEES: £6,530 per term HEAD TEACHER: Huw May RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Non-denominational Christian ethos ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Non-selective at age four, older children may be subject to assessment.

CONTACT: Sam Feilding, Head of Admissions, 020 3917 5050 EMAIL: sfeilding@eatonhouseschools.com SCHOOL VISITS: Book Open House tours (live tours or virtual information sessions) online at eatonhouseschools.com, or via Admissions

Eaton House Belgravia Prep

ADDRESS: 3-5 Eaton Gate, Belgravia, London SW1W 9BA WEBSITE: www.eatonhouseschools.com FOUNDED: 2017 AGES: 8-11 FEES: £7,240 per term 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.com SCHOOL VISITS: Book Open House tours (live tours or virtual information sessions) online at eatonhouseschools.com, or via Admissions

THE CURRICULUM: Our curriculum is designed to offer our boys a breadth of experience and prepare them to the highest academic standards through their individual learning plan. Many Eaton House Belgravia boys gain places at Westminster Under School, St Paul’s Juniors, Westminster Cathedral Choir School, King’s College Junior School, Sussex House, Dulwich College Junior School, Ludgrove, Haberdasher’s Aske’s School, Dragon School and Summer Fields.

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. As an ambitious and aspirational school we want to empower all our boys to reach their next destination successfully. Boys will make remarkable progress in their three years here, achieving entry to a range of top senior schools, both London day and country boarding.

GAMES & THE ARTS: Sport and the Arts are central to our philosophy.

A combination of onsite PE lessons and offsite games and swimming sessions enable our boys to develop key sports skills. Our wide range of performance opportunities enable boys to share their talents with the community. Drama and music are very popular here.

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 lessons in our new Art Room.

PASTORAL CARE: 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. Team work is encouraged, along with a healthy competitive spirit. The form teacher is the key person who ensures the boys are supported in their emotional development. Parents are encouraged to drop off and pick up their son from the classroom where they can talk to the teacher.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: The Good Schools Guide (2020) says that 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, selfaware, kind and considerate and that they look after each other.’

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: – We achieve some of the most outstanding 7+ and 8+ pre-prep results in London and received 19 offers to Westminster and St Paul’s schools in 2020 – Winner of a Highly Commended in the Boys’ School of the Year category in the Independent School of the Year Awards – We offer the perfect blend of traditional values with a forward thinking education using personalised learning plans agreed with the boys – Our ‘Open Door’ policy means that parents can feel fully involved – Boys sit exams at 7+ and 8+ in the Pre-Prep, or 11+ in the Prep

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 appetitite 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

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Falcons Pre-Preparatory School for Boys

Falcons Prep

ADDRESS: 2 Burnaby Gardens, Chiswick London W4 3DT WEBSITE: www.falconsboys.co.uk FOUNDED: 1956 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 110 AGES: 3-7 (Pre-Reception to Year 2) FEES: £2,600 (Pre-Reception); £4,750 – £5,235 (Reception to Year 2). Fees inclusive of pre- and after-school care, lunch and after school snacks HEAD: Ms Liz McLaughlin RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Non-denominational ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Register from birth. Candidates are invited for an informal classroom assessment session. Sibling priority.

CONTACT: Mrs Barbara Ivie, 020 8747 8393 EMAIL: admissions@falconsboys.co.uk; admin@falconsboys.co.uk OPEN MORNING: Private tours available upon request with the head

ADDRESS: 41 Kew Foot Road, Richmond TW9 2SS WEBSITE: www.falconsprep.co.uk FOUNDED: 2008 NUMBER OF PUPILS: Maximum 200 AGES: 4-13 years FEES: Competitive (inclusive of trips, resources, food and many afterschool clubs) HEAD TEACHER: Miss Olivia Buchanan, BSc, PGCE, MEd RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: None ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: 4+ entry by informal, group, play-based sessions. Years 3 – 8 invited to attend taster morning and complete activities with peers. Recent school report and reference also considered CONTACT: 020 8948 9490 EMAIL: Registrar@falconsprep.co.uk OPEN MORNINGS: Parents are welcome to contact the school and arrange a tour and conversation with the Head at any time. We also have termly open mornings as advertised on the school website.

THE CURRICULUM: As a boys only school, we are proud of our curriculum that is designed specifically for how boys learn which allows us to inspire them with topics of high interest. Play-based learning is at the heart of our Early Years provision, with our maths and literacy teaching tailored in a way that enables our boys to achieve outstanding results.

THE CURRICULUM: Falcons is an ambitious school with a strong set of values focused on providing every boy with the opportunity to reach their full potential. Nurturing a love of learning, we ensure that every boy acquires and secures the skills to become effective lifelong learners, fit not only for the world we live in today, but for a future yet to be determined.

GAMES & THE ARTS: We have specialist teachers in PE, art, music, and French. We believe that young boys need opportunities to learn beyond the standard curriculum to inspire possible future artists, musicians, linguists or professional athletes. Physical education and sport is a dedicated part of our timetable to allow boys the opportunity to move and to be active.

GAMES & THE ARTS: Outstanding facilities including music school, art studio and links with the local theatre. Asides from our obvious link with Richmond Rugby Club and Old Deer Park, we are incredibly lucky to benefit from some fantastic outside space, using grounds and developing links with a variety of external providers, to give our boys the opportunity to experience an education with adventure.

PASTORAL CARE: Care is one of our core values and it is a vital part of our ethos. Falcons boys’ emotional and social wellbeing are essential in all that we do. As a small school, we are able to give individual care to each and every boy to ensure his happiness while learning. Our experienced team of teachers provide support and teaching opportunities for our boys to learn social skills, perseverance, and self-care.

HEAD’S PHILOSOPHY: Courage, curiosity and care are our core values.

Every child who leaves our school at the end of year 2 will be equipped with skills and knowledge pertaining to each value. We provide an outstanding academic curriculum in a way that promotes a love of learning and, as a result, boys come to school happy every morning and ready to learn.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: We work closely with our parents throughout their son’s journey with us and we pride ourselves on the close relationship that we have with our families. We are proud of our ‘open door’ policy for parents to discuss their son’s progress at any time.

A recent parent quote summarizes everything that we strive to achieve: ‘They clearly take great responsibility in their role as a teacher, role model and mentor to our children. The curriculum is clearly geared to giving the boys the best chance of success when they move on from the school, whether it is through 7+ to a competitive school, or the move through the system in another prep or elsewhere.’

PASTORAL CARE: We have a pastoral care system which allows us to collaborate, share and support the boys as a community. Boys feel safe at Falcons and as a result they are happy. We also never lose sight of the fact that our boys belong first and foremost to you, our parents, and so we do all we can to foster a relationship with you that not only allows, but promotes, the opportunity to come together and work alongside one another.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: Falcons boys enjoy a vibrant learning environment where staff nurture a love of learning. We are an ambitious 4-13 school with a strong set of values focused on providing every boy with the opportunity to reach their full potential. Yet, just as importantly, we realise what an exciting, and challenging, time it is to be growing up and the significant role we play in preparing the boys for their future beyond this. We appreciate that academics alone will not provide the boys with the skills they need to succeed and are therefore proud to offer a range of opportunities in leadership, sports, the arts, within the community, through charity work, drama whilst also promoting a range of cultures, ideas and an understanding of the world around us. We want all our boys to acquire and secure the proficiency to become effective life-long learners.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: – Excellent, modern facilities both in and out – 11+ and 13+ exit routes to competitive day and boarding schools – Specialised teaching – Enrichment activities and trips abroad – Strong sense of community

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Falcons School for Girls

ADDRESS: 11 Woodborough Road, Putney, London SW15 6PY WEBSITE: www.falconsgirls.co.uk FOUNDED: 2000 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 93 AGES: 2 – 11 years FEES: Nursery £2,600 – £6,150; reception £4,510; years 1 – 6 £5,235 (Spring and Summer Term fees TBC). Fees are inclusive of learning resources, after school care, day trips, meals on site, including lunch and after school snacks HEAD TEACHER: Mrs Sara Williams-Ryan RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: All faiths welcome ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Non-selective CONTACT: Chetna Kava, Admissions Officer EMAIL: admissions@falconsgirls.co.uk SCHOOL VISITS: Open Days: Friday 25th September 2020 and Saturday 3rd October 2020. Personal tours available on request THE CURRICULUM: Our forward-thinking, knowledge-rich curriculum gives the girls the knowledge and skills required to thrive in modern Britain. It is designed to ensure our girls are prepared to succeed in the 11+ examinations for London day and country boarding schools.

GAMES & THE ARTS: Games, music, art and drama are taught by our own specialist teachers, twice a week, giving all of our girls the best opportunity to flourish athletically and creatively.

PASTORAL CARE: We are a family school, now incorporating Peregrines Nursery School, where every child and parent is known to all staff. We encourage parents to be active partners, operating an ‘open door’ policy so any problems are dealt with efficiently. We promote an anti-bullying ethos and the Falcons Rules are upheld with clearly defined rewards and sanctions.

SENIOR EXIT SCHOOLS: Godolphin and Latymer, Ibstock Place School, Putney High, Wimbledon High, Surbiton High, Kew House, Francis Holland and Queen’s Gate.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: Happy children are successful learners, which is why emotional literacy and academic buoyancy are essential skills.

Teaching your daughter, from the start and in an age-related way, how to overcome challenges and develop positive, flourishing relationships will ensure she deals successfully with life’s ebbs and flows, in and out of school and develop in her a lifelong love of learning.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: – Exceptional pastoral care and extensive extra-curricular offering.

– Excellent 11+ preparation with the majority of girls awarded their first choice of senior school.

– Outstanding facilities: an acre of beautiful landscaped gardens, science laboratory, drama and ballet studio, art rooms, outdoor classroom, astroturf and forest school area.

– A friendly and active Parents’ and Friends’ Association.

– We take part in the Universal 15 Hours Free childcare for Early Years scheme provided by Wandsworth Council.

Hawkesdown House

ADDRESS: 27 Edge Street, Kensington, London W8 7PN WEBSITE: www.hawkesdown.co.uk FOUNDED: 2001 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 70/130 AGES: 2-11 FEES: £5,696 – £6,700 per term HEAD TEACHER: Mrs Jenny Mackay RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Non-denominational, Christian ethos ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Register from birth for nursery and reception intake. Informal assessment for entry into years 1 and above CONTACT: Mrs Mrs Sophie Zazzarino, School Secretary and Admissions on 020 7727 9090 EMAIL: admin@hawkesdown.co.uk SCHOOL VISITS: Please contact the School Office if you would like to visit and meet the Headmistress THE CURRICULUM: A broad, balanced curriculum, with excellent teaching, to encourage a love of knowledge and independent thinking: ‘Top-notch across the whole breadth of the curriculum.’

GAMES & THE ARTS: Sport, music and drama are all carefully integrated into the school week, to develop a wide mix of talents and interests, and for a happy and varied day.

PASTORAL CARE: Pastoral care at the school is outstanding. The whole ethos of the school is of kindness, individual attention and very close links with parents: ‘Hawkesdown is the warmest, friendliest, most loving school we have come across in London.’

SENIOR EXIT SCHOOLS: Pupils go on to King’s College School, St Paul’s Junior, Sussex House, Summer Fields, Westminster Cathedral Choir, Westminster Under and a range of other schools, in London and elsewhere.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: The school is: A safe place where people are kind, considerate and capable, where a child can start school life happily and make early friends with confidence. A place of fun, purpose and success providing an excellent education; inspiring and challenging the mind and the imagination. In a world that is changing at an accelerating rate, we concentrate on knowing each child and understanding what is important to every family. Parents are fiercely loyal to this philosophy; it is borne out in excellent results and in the open, thoughtful and happy children.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: Hawkesdown provides outstanding education with individual attention for every pupil and excellent outcomes, including for the pupils’ next school entry. Parents and staff are devoted to the school, and prospective parents are always most welcome to visit.

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LONDON PREPARATORY SCHOOLS

Hurlingham Nursery

ADDRESS: The Old Methodist Hall, Gwendolen Avenue, London SW15 6EH WEBSITE: www.hurlinghamschool.co.uk NUMBER OF PUPILS: 100 AGES: 2–4 (Nursery) FEES: £2,950 (Nursery 5 sessions) £4,915 (Nursery 5 full days).

We offer the 15 or 30 hours Universal Funding to those who are eligible.

HEAD TEACHER: Simon Gould RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Non-denominational ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Register from birth CONTACT: nursery.office@hurlinghamschool.co.uk; 020 8874 7186 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 cuttingedge 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.

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.

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. Children quickly become confident, outgoing and inquisitive about the world around them.

Hurlingham School

ADDRESS: 122 Putney Bridge Road, London SW15 2NQ WEBSITE: www.hurlinghamschool.co.uk NUMBER OF PUPILS: 320 AGES: 4–11 FEES: Lower School (Reception to Form II) £5750 Middle/Upper School (Form III to Form VI) £5950 HEAD TEACHER: Simon Gould RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Non-denominational ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Non-selective CONTACT: Mrs Fiona Driver, admissions secretary, 020 8874 7186 EMAIL: admissions@hurlinghamschool.co.uk SCHOOL VISITS: Please contact the school to arrange an appointment

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.

SENIOR EXIT SCHOOLS FOR THE LAST ACADEMIC YEAR: Tiffin Boys, Tiffin Girls, Queen’s Gate, Whitgift, Downe House, Kings College School, Epsom College, Putney High School, Godolphin and Latymer, Francis Holland, Harrodian and Wimbledon High, Lady Eleanor Holles, Hampton, Ibstock Place School, St Paul’s, St Paul’s Girls School RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: Surbiton High, Lady Eleanor Holles, Kingston Grammar School, Notre Dame, Woldhingham, Ewell Castle, St Paul’s Girls’, Whitgift 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.

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.

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LONDON PREPARATORY SCHOOLS

Garden House School

ADDRESS: Turks Row, Chelsea, London SW3 4TW WEBSITE: www.gardenhouseschool.co.uk NUMBER OF PUPILS: 206 boys, 275 girls AGES: 3–11 FEES: £5,900 (kindergarten); £7,850 (upper school) HEAD TEACHER: Emma Studd (girls); Dan Jameson (boys); Julia Adlard (early years) RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Non-denominational ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: At 3/4+, entrance interview but nonselective on an academic basis. Entrance exam & assessment day for 8+ boys.

CONTACT: Ms Alice Hobden, registrar on 020 7730 1652 EMAIL: ahobden@gardenhouseschool.co.uk SCHOOL VISITS: By appointment. Visits welcomed all year round.

THE CURRICULUM: Garden House girls and boys explore a broad and stimulating curriculum. They enjoy a thorough, balanced education in a lively dynamic, purposeful environment, complemented by a wide variety of after school clubs, see website (including coding and debating). Excursions to museums and exhibitions enrich the curriculum and broaden horizons. Weekly assemblies provide an excellent format for pupils to project their ideas.

GAMES & THE ARTS: Drama is part of the weekly curriculum, helping to develop presentation skills and confidence in public speaking. Sport plays an important role, helping boys and girls develop team spirit, learn new skills and disciplines. We believe all children are musical and capable of a musical competence; it enriches their education and trains them in the art of rehearsal.

PASTORAL CARE: Garden House is praised for its outstanding pastoral care. It ensures every child feels secure and happy so they may achieve their potential both personally and academically. The Kindness Code is strictly adhered to.

SENIOR EXIT SCHOOLS FOR THE LAST ACADEMIC YEAR: Boys: King’s College Wimbledon, St Paul’s Junior, Sussex House, WCCS Westminster Under, Ludgrove and Summer Fields. Girls: Francis Holland SW1, Godolphin & Latymer, Latymer Upper, St Paul’s, Cheltenham Ladies, Downe House and St Swithun’s.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: Francis Holland SW1.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: We nurture each child to achieve their true potential. Through dedicated teaching and unrivalled pastoral care, academic success and fulfilment in sport and the arts are attainable for all. Emphasis is placed equally on manners and consideration to others.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: A caring, family-run school where traditional values permeate, combined with a modern approach. Our boys and girls are educated separately but meet for clubs and excursions. The school has its own garden in the grounds of Royal Hospital Chelsea.

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: Mrs Anna Sylvester-Johnson RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Church of England ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Registration in the academic year preceding entry, followed by assessment.

CONTACT: The Registrar, 020 8392 5803 EMAIL: registrar@ibstockplaceschool.co.uk SCHOOL VISITS: Please contact the Registrar for guidance.

THE CURRICULUM: Kindergarten children follow the Early Years Foundation Stage Curriculum in a rich and stimulating environment.

Prep years 1-6 follow a broad curriculum that goes beyond the national curriculum and balances building strong academic foundations with a commitment to the arts and sport.

GAMES & THE ARTS: Sport is taught by specialists throughout the school and, from Prep 3, pupils take advantage of the senior school sports facilities which are all within walking distance. Pupils follow a curriculum rich in the arts, with many performance opportunities throughout the year PASTORAL CARE: A warm and welcoming atmosphere is palpable.

Caring teachers and classroom assistants develop a successful home/ school partnership, encouraging trust and keeping parents informed.

There is a strong sense of community and of pupils and staff working together. Class teachers are a constant source of encouragement, praise and advice, supported by the wider staff. All children are provided with a delicious and nutritionally balanced lunch in order to develop good habits for life.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: Scholarships in 2019: IPS, Hampton School, King’s College School, Magdalen College School, Westminster Under School.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: We find and develop the talents of our pupils in a supportive and purposeful environment. The curriculum is broad and challenging, augmented by around 70 co-curricular clubs, ensuring every child reaches her or his potential. Children are fully prepared for the 11+, but never at the expense of the wider curriculum.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: IPS offers pupils a nurturing start to their school career within purpose built spaces, surrounded by greenery and play spaces. From the prep school, they access the specialist facilities on their doorstep: Refectory, swimming pool, science laboratory, IT suites, performance spaces, sports fields and Richmond Park.

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LONDON PREPARATORY SCHOOLS

Knightsbridge School

ADDRESS: 67 Pont Street, London SW1X 0BD WEBSITE: www.knightsbridgeschool.com FOUNDED: 2006 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 424 AGES: 4–16 years FEES: £6,730 – £7,145 HEAD TEACHER: Head: Shona Colaço | Principal: 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 SCHOOL VISITS: Tours on Tuesday and Wednesday at 9am during term time. Please call to book.

THE CURRICULUM: Knightsbridge School delivers an all-round and allthrough education up to GCSE, ensuring students are equipped to pursue any path they choose in the future.

GAMES & THE ARTS: We attend over 300 matches per year as well as parent vs staff role modelling matches. We excel in gymnastics, dance, fencing, ballet and performing arts. For example, we have students performing on the West End in Les Miserables and School of Rock and another in a Netflix production. We have over 60 extra-curricular clubs’ weekly, allowing our students to expand their curiosity beyond just the academics and experience robotics, horse-riding, lacrosse and many other choices.

PASTORAL CARE: KS is a high energy and positive family, the school runs timetabled wellbeing and personal reflection sessions each week through PSHE lessons and form time to try and maintain this and deal with issues as soon as they arise. We had a Mental Health Week, where the children practiced doing secret acts of kindness and participated in a whole school yoga session. KS is the first independent day school to introduce children’s mental health counselling service ‘Place2Be’ onto its premises, a cause we will be marching alongside in this year’s Lord Mayor’s Show.

PRINCIPAL’S PHILOSOPHY: ’Work hard, play hard’ is the motto. Mr Magoo expects everyone to do their best, embrace a healthy body and mind, give and share, and to realise how lucky they are at all times.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: At KS there is an ecosystem of happiness between the children, staff and parents cultivated through open communication. We are immensely proud of our diverse extracurricular programmes, events, trips and visiting speakers that are integral to the all-round success of the individual as lifelong learners outside of the classroom. KS is a school that prides itself on giving back to the local community, whether this be through our Global Goals Projects, which saw students sending letters about positive eco change to the local Kensington and Chelsea council or our KS Education Foundation bursaries, allowing children access to outstanding education throughout their entire school career.

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: Nursery: £2,450 per term; kindergarten – year 6: £4,250 per term. Bursaries are available for those entering in years 3 and 4.

HEAD TEACHER: Mrs Marianne Austin BSc (Hons) MA (Hons) ACA PGCE RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Non-denominational ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Register at birth.

CONTACT: Mrs 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, Latin, 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.

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.’

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: Year 6 pupils this year were awarded 29 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.

– Traditional teaching with a creative flair.

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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) GES: 4–11 FEES: £6,120 per term, all ages HEAD TEACHER: Mr Jem Peck RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Non-denominational ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Non-selective at four years old.

CONTACT: Ms Michelle Wadsley, 020 8948 5999 EMAIL: admissions@kgps.co.uk SCHOOL VISITS: Open events: 7 October, 18 November, and 20 January 2021

THE CURRICULUM: Our curriculum far exceeds the national curriculum in both breadth and depth. Highly differentiated lessons are delivered creatively and pupils enjoy the learning process. We embrace technology in our educational approach to all subjects. This invariably produces excellent academic results and children develop self-confidence. In its 2015 ISI Inspection report, KGPS was judged ‘Excellent’ in all categories.

GAMES & THE ARTS: We have strong art, music and sports departments as any visitor would realise immediately. All our children compete, perform and enjoy the exceptional standards we achieve in art, music, games and PE. 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.

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: £6,120 per term, all ages HEAD TEACHER: Mr Carl Howes RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Non-denominational ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Non-selective at four years old.

CONTACT: Mrs Charlie Hayden, 020 8846 9153 EMAIL: admissions@rpps.co.uk SCHOOL VISITS: Open events: 8 October, 10 November and 14 January 2021

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 curriculum and co-curricular is enriched with opportunities for our pupils to participate in competitive sporting fixtures, perform in regular concerts and events, or learn an instrument. Pupils also 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 as soon as you visit.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: Colet Court, Hampton, King’s College School, Lady Eleanor Holles, Westminster, Latymer and Kingston Grammar.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: Latymer, Hampton, Queen Anne’s Caversham, St Benedict’s and King’s College Wimbledon.

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.

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 choice of senior school and in later life.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: The school is situated in an exceptionally beautiful position on the River Thames beside Kew Green.

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.

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.

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LONDON PREPARATORY SCHOOLS

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LONDON PREPARATORY SCHOOLS

Notting Hill Preparatory School

ADDRESS: 95 Lancaster Road, London, W11 1QQ WEBSITE: www.nottinghillprep.com FOUNDED: 2003 AGES: Reception to year 8 FEES: £21,120 per annum (2020/21) NUMBER OF PUPILS: 384 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: None HEAD TEACHER: Mrs Sarah Knollys ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Non-selective entry to Reception. Pupils entering year 1 and above are assessed to ensure that the school can meet their needs CONTACT: Registrar EMAIL: admissions@nottinghillprep SCHOOL VISITS: Book with the Registrar to meet the headmistress and see our school. A virtual tour is also available through the website

THE CURRICULUM: The curriculum builds on the statutory framework of the national curriculum, extended and enriched to reflect our ethos and our children’s needs.

GAMES & THE ARTS: Sports include swimming, gym, rugby, football, netball, hockey, athletics, cricket and tennis. Music, art and drama flourish: the majority of pupils learn an instrument and all children are involved in drama productions.

PASTORAL CARE: Kindness, courtesy and consideration for others are highly valued and positively reinforced. We help the children to develop strategies and skills to navigate the social complexities of life, both inside and outside the classroom. NHP provides a happy, supportive environment in which children feel confident to ask questions and explore issues. It is our cornerstone philosophy that all pupils have the right to start and end their school day in a happy frame of mind. The headmistress and deputy head (pastoral) work closely with all staff, the school counsellor, the school nurse, and the SENCOs to provide full pastoral care.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: Several won this year, including art and academic, to senior schools.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: Our teachers light fires, which we hope will burn for life. When children do not fear being wrong, they are ready to express their own views, test out new ideas and take risks. We nurture the hardy attitudes and habits that will serve our children well, now and in later life.

We place emphasis on developing our children into confident and caring young people, able to cooperate, to think and to act collaboratively. We want our children to be aware of who they are and how they can make a positive impact on the world.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: NHP is an inclusive, creative and vibrant school where every child is nurtured to reach their full potential.

We offer academic rigour without losing the joy of childhood. NHP gained accreditation as a Thinking School from the Cognitive Education Development Unit of the University of Exeter in June 2014.

North Bridge House Nursery, Pre-Prep & Prep Schools

ADDRESS: Nursery, 33 Fitzjohn’s Ave, NW3 5JY; Pre-Prep, 8 Netherhall Gardens, NW3 5RR; Nursery & Pre-Prep, 85-87 Fordwych Road, NW2 3TL Prep, 1 Gloucester Ave, NW1 7AB WEBSITE: www.northbridgehouse.com FOUNDED: 1939 NUMBER OF PUPILS: Nursery & Pre-Prep 380, Prep 465 AGES: 2–13 FEES: £7,635 - £19,275 per annum HEAD TEACHER: Nursery & Pre-Prep Schools - Christine McLelland, Prep School - James Stenning.

RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Non-denominational ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Children meet with the head teacher.

For the Prep school there is also a maths and English assessment.

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: www.northbridgehouse.com/open GAMES & THE ARTS: Sports range from the traditional track and field to more creative and contemporary disciplines - including yoga, street dance and boxercise - enhancing pupils’ physical and emotional wellbeing and developing teamwork skills. The Arts are key to both the curricular and extra-curricular offering, with exhibitions, plays and concerts regularly staged. The school boasts five choirs, an orchestra, and several brass bands, and pupils achieve highly in LAMDA. PASTORAL CARE: From Philosophy for Children to school pets, children’s personal and emotional development is prioritised alongside academic achievement. 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. Pupil wellbeing is further enhanced by confidence workshops and Forest School.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: Pupils are placed at leading senior schools with academic, art, music and sports scholarships.

HEAD TEACHERS’ PHILOSOPHY: North Bridge House provides an individually tailored co-education, celebrating high-achieving pupils in a mixed ability environment. From our focus on knowing the individual and developing strength of character, we achieve academic excellence in confident pupils who are proud of their successes. With specialist teaching and outstanding extra-curricular opportunities, we challenge and inspire each child to fulfil their true potential, providing a solid foundation for their future studies, careers and adult lives.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: All NBH pupils can transition from Nursery to Sixth Form without the pressure of entrance exams.

From actively avoiding external assessment to encouraging personal development in a stress-free environment - complete with pet chickens NBH sees KS1 pupils perform in the top 5% of the country for English and maths. Prep pupils do exceptionally well in 11+ and 13+ CE assessments – with bespoke preparation for the various academic pathways.

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LONDON PREPARATORY SCHOOLS

Orchard House

ADDRESS: 16 Newton Grove, London W4 1LB WEBSITE: www.orchardhs.org.uk FOUNDED: 1993 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 290+ AGES: 3–11 FEES: £3,070 - £6,400 per term HEADMISTRESS: M V Edwards BEd (Bedford) CertEd (Man) RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Non-denominational ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Non-selective in the early years and places offered from Form 1 upwards after a taster morning and academic assessment.

CONTACT: Mrs Tiffany Hyatt, registrar, 020 8742 8544, registrar@orchardhs.org.uk SCHOOL VISITS: Check the website for open morning dates, or contact the Registrar to arrange a tour

Prospect House School

ADDRESS: 75 Putney Hill, London SW15 3NT WEBSITE: www.prospecths.org.uk FOUNDED: 1964 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 328 AGES: 3–11 FEES: £3,070 - £6,400 (including lunch) HEAD TEACHER: Michael Hodge BPrimEd (Rhodes) QTS RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Non-denominational ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Non-selective, date of registration but with sibling priority. Nursery is the main point of entry.

CONTACT: Emily Porter, Registrar, 020 8246 4897, registrar@prospecths.org.uk SCHOOL VISITS: Check the website for open morning dates, or contact the Registrar to arrange a tour

THE CURRICULUM: Children are taught by experienced, dedicated and enthusiastic teachers. From the academics to art, music, sport, ICT drama and languages, we ensure that all children can experience a stimulating curriculum that stretches and enthuses each and every child.

THE CURRICULUM: Children enjoy a lively, challenging, broad and balanced curriculum designed to stretch them so they can perform to their best ability. We deliver a curriculum which meets the needs of all our children.

GAMES & THE ARTS: As well as its own artificial grass and tarmac play areas, Orchard House has the use of the nearby Chiswick Back Common and Rocks Lane astro turf. Children are also taken weekly to Acton New Pools and to Brentford Leisure Centre. The school is well equipped with laptops and the latest technology. It also has its own dedicated art teacher and is able to fire ceramics. The music department is led by the director of music; concerts are held regularly in St Michael and All Angels Church. Drama productions are staged at venues such as Chiswick Town Hall.

GAMES & THE ARTS: A range of extra-curricular clubs are on offer after school each day and sport, art, music and drama form an important part of school life. Highlights of the year include Sports Day, subject themed weeks, drama productions and music concerts.

PASTORAL CARE: Form teachers are the basis of our excellent pastoral care.

This care together with our carefully designed interactive pastoral plan ensures that all children can feel safe, nurtured and happy at school.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: Francis Holland, Hampton, More House, KCS Wimbledon, Notting Hill & Ealing, St Benedict’s, St Mary’s Calne, Wycombe Abbey, City of London Boys, Hampton, KCS, Latymer Upper, Notting Hill and Ealing, Putney High, Francis Holland, Bedales, Heathfield, Haberdashers Monmouth, Downe House, Lady Eleanor Holles and Emanuel.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: The children are cared for first and taught second. We believe learning should be exciting and fun, and that children should positively want to come to Orchard House each day. The professional and committed staff respond to each child’s needs rather than being a hostage to league tables: nevertheless our approach leads to very strong academic results.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: – Bright, naturally lit and well equipped classrooms. State-of-the-art ICT resources and specialist ICT staff.

– Friendly, homely atmosphere; attention to/respect for each child.

– Very committed teachers – low turnover of staff; many specialist teachers and high academic standards.

– Special needs identified early and appropriate remedial programmes arranged quickly.

– Home-cooked lunches of top quality.

PASTORAL CARE: We create a stimulating, happy school environment where children feel valued, safe and are eager to learn. We promote high expectations and standards so that children take pride in their work and achievements. Taking the time to get to know each and every child is part of our core to help them grow and celebrate their achievements.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: City of London Freemen’s, Claremont Fan Court, Dulwich College, Emanuel School, Epsom College, Francis Holland Sloane Square, Hampton, Ibstock, Hampton School, King’s College, Kingston Grammar, Lady Eleanor Holles, Latymer Upper School, Notre Dame, Reed’s, Putney High School, Reigate Grammar, Surbiton High, Sutton High, St John’s, Wimbledon High and Whitgift.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: The positive relationships and strong communication links between the staff, pupils and parents create a safe and nurturing environment. Our caring school community then provides the strong foundations the children need to become well-rounded, happy and confident, believing they can achieve anything. We want our students to look back at their time at Prospect with pride in what they learned and achieved, and most importantly, with fondness. We ensure this happens by providing rich experiences, inside and outside of the classroom.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: – High staff-to-pupil ratio which allows for a personalised approach and high academic standards. All teachers are passionate about and committed to ensuring that each pupil achieves their full potential.

– Well resourced with excellent computing facilities to enrich learning and a wide range of specialist teachers – Our staff know our children well and will go the ‘extra mile’.

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LONDON PREPARATORY SCHOOLS

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LONDON PREPARATORY SCHOOLS

Queen’s College Preparatory School

ADDRESS: 61 Portland Place, London W1B 1QP WEBSITE: www.qcps.org.uk AGES: 4-11 FOUNDED: 2002 (Queen’s College, London 1848) NUMBER OF PUPILS: 225 girls FEES: £5,739 - £6,189 per term HEAD TEACHER: Mrs Laura Hall BA (Bristol), MA, PGCE RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Church of England ethos, welcoming pupils of all faiths and none.

ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Informal play-based assessment for Reception, more formal selection process for entry higher up the school.

CONTACT: Mrs Rani Winthrop, registrar, 020 7291 0670 EMAIL: info@qcps.org.uk SCHOOL VISITS: Parents are invited to open mornings and meet with the headmistress by private appointment.

THE CURRICULUM: QCPS offers a first-class cutting edge curriculum which uses all that London has to offer extensively. Inspirational and challenging, our curriculum prepares pupils for successful entry into a range of leading day and boarding schools.

GAMES & THE ARTS: Sport and the performing arts are taught by inspirational specialists from reception and play a key role in the life of the school. Most girls take individual music lessons and all take part in concerts, proms, plays and sports fixtures.

PASTORAL CARE: QCPS girls are known as individuals in a warm and nurturing environment where they can excel, be challenged and be happy. A long term view is taken of each girl’s development, and pupils develop confidence and a sense of self through the extensive range of opportunities and experiences made available to them. Great emphasis is placed on the development of character, resilience, ambition, good manners, empathy, compassion and social responsibility.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: QCPS pupils have been awarded a total of 58 scholarships over the past three years.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: Prep school days should be an idyllic time when children are part of a warm and happy community; where their intellectual curiosity is harnessed by exceptional teachers who care for them and inspire them to become ambitious, confident, compassionate, accomplished and well-rounded young people exceptionally well prepared for senior school.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: – Outstanding academic results at 11+ – First-class cutting edge curriculum – Exceptional pastoral care with a warm and inclusive community – Beautiful well-appointed facilities in a unique home-from-home environment in Central London – Exciting co-curricular programme – Lots of trips, lots of adventure, lots of friends and lots of fun

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LONDON PREPARATORY SCHOOLS

Sydenham High Prep School GDST

ADDRESS: 15 Westwood Hill, London SE26 6BL WEBSITE: sydenhamhighschool.gdst.net FOUNDED: 1887 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 238 AGES: 4 – 11 FEES: £4541 HEAD TEACHER: Ms Victoria Goodson RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Non-denominational ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Group assessment for reception (4+) and written exam for 7+. Please enquire about occasional places.

CONTACT: Admissions Office 020 8557 7004 EMAIL: admissions@syd.gdst.net SCHOOL VISITS: Virtual open events and taster sessions are all bookable online.

THE CURRICULUM: Broad academic curriculum encourages independent thinking, enquiring minds and prepares girls for senior school. There are specialist teachers for languages (French from reception and Latin from year 5), sport, music, art and DT as well as computing and science for pupils in year 5 and 6.

GAMES & THE ARTS: Impressive co-curricular programme includes over 50 clubs and a variety of day and residential trips, including skiing.

Creativity is abound in the Art & DT Studio, the Westwood Theatre and Recital Hall. Sports facilities include an Astroturf and the eight-acre sports ground in Lower Sydenham. Swimming takes place at Crystal Palace National Sports Centre, a short walk away.

PASTORAL CARE: A strong PSHE programme is backed up by a positive social environment, supportive teaching staff and close relationships between home and school. The bespoke Sense of Self programme and ‘Kid Coaching’ initiative empower pupils to take responsibility for challenging situations, equipped with the tools they need to manage their own feelings as well as conduct simple coaching conversations with peers.

These opportunities strengthen our girls’ mental fitness so that they continue to shine beyond Prep School.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: Thorough 11+ preparation process starts in year 5 for entry to the senior school and a variety of London schools.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: We are ambitious for every girl, preparing pupils for what the future holds by setting high expectations, providing a strong academic education and supporting each child’s emotional development to ensure she becomes the best she can be.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: Pupils dazzle in sporting events, theatrical productions, assemblies and campaigning for what they believe in. Commitment to pedagogical best practice and responding to the ever-changing demands in society, centres upon creativity, critical thinking and happiness. ISI stated: “Pupils of all ages show high levels of self-confidence and self-esteem”.

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LONDON PREPARATORY SCHOOLS

St Philip’s School

ADDRESS: 6 Wetherby Place, London SW7 4NE WEBSITE: www.stpschool.co.uk AGES: 7 – 13 FOUNDED: 1934 NUMBER OF PUPILS: Approx. 100 boys FEES: £5,600 per term HEAD TEACHER: Mr Alexander Wulffen-Thomas RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Roman Catholic, welcomes all faiths ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Register from birth, entry by assessment CONTACT: Mrs Julia Ironside, Registrar, 020 7373 3944 EMAIL: J.Ironside@stpschool.co.uk SCHOOL VISITS: Please contact the Registrar to arrange a tour or to attend one of our open days

THE CURRICULUM: Excellent academic results where boys are challenged in a warm and nurturing environment. Focus is given on the individual to bring out the very best in every child, with inspirational teaching in small classes.

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, where there is a strong choral tradition. Plenty of extra-curricular activities are available, with a wide variety of clubs on offer.

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: Eton, Harrow, Westminster, City of London, Charterhouse, Worth and Ampleforth.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: The Head Master believes in the core values of honesty, courage and determination: being honest to yourself and to others, having the courage to acknowledge your actions and the determination to do better. Our boys aren’t squeezed into a box – they are given space to breathe and think, to embrace their mistakes and learn from them. We want our boys to be secure in who they are, but have a world view.

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.

St James Preparatory School

ADDRESS: Earsby Street, Kensington Olympia, London W14 8SH WEBSITE: www.stjamesprep.org.uk FOUNDED: 1974 AGES: 3-11 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 250 FEES: £5,970 per term HEAD TEACHER: Mr Kris Spencer RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Multireligious ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Children can join the new nursery (opened September 2019) the term they turn three. Nursery children and sibling priority for Reception places. All children are invited to a taster morning and are assessed from year three upwards in English and maths.

CONTACT: Miss Vicky Mitchell, Registrar, 0207 348 1793 EMAIL: admissions@stjamesprep.org.uk SCHOOL VISITS: Weekly virtual tours and Q&A with the head

THE CURRICULUM: Children thrive in a vibrant, inspiring academic environment that develops positive attitudes to learning, and encourages children to be their best and stretch themselves academically without undue pressure. The curriculum, which is broad, stimulating and highly creative, is strengthened by philosophy classes taught from reception.

GAMES & THE ARTS: Music, drama and art are particularly strong at the school with specialist teachers in each subject. Most children learn a musical instrument and all children are given the opportunity to perform at one of the many concerts that run throughout the year. Flourishing drama department which makes use of the senior girls’ drama studio runs a packed schedule of performances including a week of Shakespeare in the spring term. Outstanding art and design department with on-site kiln and regular exhibitions of the children’s work. St James Prep makes weekly use of the extensive sporting facilities at Barn Elms and Fulham Pools and competes with success at both regional and national levels.

PASTORAL CARE: The happiness of the children underpins the school’s values and ethos. St James’ school rules of truthfulness, magnanimity, harmlessness and never careless means that everyone is feels supported.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: To provide an outstanding education that fosters academic excellence, creative energy and thoughtful discussion, in a warm and happy environment. To support a growth mindset, nurture the talents that are already apparent and encourage the potential of every child.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: The underlying practice of pausing or having moments of stillness throughout the day provides a solid and calm base from which the children can draw resilience and selfreliance. The school is proud of its delicious, award-winning, vegetarian meals cooked by a talented catering team. It teaches pupils to love good food in all its variety, with weekly cooking classes that focus on the appreciation of nutrition. Its bright, buzzing classrooms in a beautiful setting, in addition to committed teachers and low turnover of staff, provides a positive, happy atmosphere for the children.

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LONDON PREPARATORY SCHOOLS

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LONDON PREPARATORY SCHOOLS

St Anthony’s School for Girls

ADDRESS: Ivy House, 94-96 North End Road London NW11 7SX WEBSITE: www.stanthonysgirls.co.uk FOUNDED: 2015 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 70+ AGES: 4-11 FEES: £6,135 per term RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Catholic/ All faiths welcome HEADMASTER: Mr Donal Brenan ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Selective. The school has an inclusive policy and all girls’ needs are assessed on entry.

EMAIL: admissions@stanthonysgirls.co.uk SCHOOL VISITS: Wednesdays by appointment. Private school tours can be arranged upon request.

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 sporting activities available include athletics, swimming, gymnastics, dance and team games. Individual musical tuition is offered in violin, cello, piano, guitar and singing.

LAMDA lessons are available to 7+pupils.

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 well-being 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.

SCHOLARSHIPS: Academic scholarships and means tested bursaries are available.

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; to inspire children to seek the opportunities in life that will lead them to become valued members of their society.

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 extra curricular activities are held before, during and after school.

The Study Preparatory School, Wimbledon

ADDRESS: Wilberforce House, Camp Road, Wimbledon Common, London SW19 4UN WEBSITE: thestudyprep.co.uk FOUNDED: 1893 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 320 girls AGES: 4 – 11 FEES: £4,725 per term HEAD TEACHER: Miss Vicky Ellis, Bsc (Hons), QTS, MA RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Non-denominational ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Entry at 4+ by ballot; priority given to siblings. Thereafter by informal assessment and interview.

CONTACT: Katie Salt, Head of Admissions, 020 8947 6969 EMAIL: admissions@thestudyprep.co.uk SCHOOL VISITS: : Regular tours and one major open event per year

THE CURRICULUM: The Study offers a broad, creative and enhanced curriculum where every girl is encouraged to achieve her best, and the focus on the needs and strengths of every individual is key to the success of the school.

GAMES & THE ARTS: Although academic rigour is at the heart of the school, The Study is highly creative, with a reputation for excellence in music and the performing and visual arts, and has had Artsmark Gold status since 2009. The dynamic PE department ensures success at both regional and national level across athletics, hockey, cross country and netball and has a spacious off-site sports ground with multi-use pitches for training and matches.

SENIOR EXIT SCHOOLS FOR THE LAST ACADEMIC YEAR: Day schools include Wimbledon, Putney and Surbiton High Schools, St Paul’s Girls’ School, The Lady Eleanor Holles, Epsom College, Marymount, Notre Dame and St John’s Leatherhead. Boarding schools include Benenden, Downe House, St Mary’s Ascot and Wycombe Abbey.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: 2020 was another strong year for scholarships, with a record breaking 40 scholarships offered to the Year 6 girls, including academic, sport, art and music. This brings The Study’s total of scholarships achieved over the last three years to an impressive 104.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: Miss Vicky Ellis’s mission is to enable each individual to fulfil her potential in a supportive and happy environment. The girls enjoy a rich diversity of experiences, in and out of the classroom, and an understanding of important issues beyond the school gates.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: The Study is a creative school, but not at the expense of academic rigour, as illustrated by its excellent results at 11+. The Study combines the warmth and sense of community of a traditional village school with the facilities and achievements of a leading preparatory. It has two beautiful sites adjacent to Wimbledon Common. The Wilberforce House site is being redeveloped to create 6 new classrooms, a performing arts space, and a new library, and will be completed within the 2020/2021 academic year.

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LONDON PREPARATORY AND SENIOR SCHOOLS

The White House Prep School

Lycée International de Londres Winston Churchill

ADDRESS: 24 Thornton Road, London SW12 0LF WEBSITE: www.whitehouseschool.com FOUNDED: 1985 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 168 AGES: 3 –11 years FEES: Reception – Year 2 £4,880 per term, Year 3 – 6 £5,330 per term HEAD TEACHER: Mr Tony Lewis RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Non-denominational ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Early registration essential, places allocated in order of registration. Interview for Year 1-6.

CONTACT: 020 8674 9514 EMAIL: admissions@whitehouseschool.com SCHOOL VISITS: Weekly showrounds available by appointment only. Please contact admissions@whitehouseschool.com to arrange.

ADDRESS: 54 Forty Lane, London HA9 9LY WEBSITE: www.lyceeinternational.london FOUNDED: 2015 AGES: 3 – 18 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 862 FEES: 2020-2021: £12,481 to £13,363 for French program, plus registration and exam fees; £19,609 for EIP and IBDP. Tuition is inclusive of lunch and most supplies.

HEAD TEACHER: Mireille Rabaté RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: None ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Non-selective. French/English language proficiency requirements (at all levels) and prerequisites for upper levels.

CONTACT: Admissions Office, +44 (0) 203 824 4906 EMAIL: admissions@lyceeinternational.london SCHOOL VISITS: Scheduled open days; private and small group tours by appointment; online visits also available.

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.

THE CURRICULUM: Rigorous, innovative, child-centered, global.

French/English bilingual programme following French curriculum from age three to Terminale/Bac; English-speaking programme starting in year 7; IBDP in years 12 and 13.

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 excel most especially 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.

GAMES & THE ARTS: Rich after-school programme featuring dozens of options from arts, music, and drama to team and individual sports (football, basketball, rugby, running, fencing, judo) and hobbies (computer coding, robotics). Global and community service activities, travel and overseas language learning opportunities.

PASTORAL CARE: We believe that intellectual growth and emotional development go hand-in-hand for our students. The school offers a challenging yet encouraging environment, combining discipline with initiative, exploration, critical thinking, teamwork, and individual advancement. Students learn to be curious, open, and confident in their opinions. Our pedagogy is underpinned by extensive wellbeing and learning support services for both students and parents, as well as university and careers counselling for older students.

UNIVERSITY PLACES: 100 per cent matriculation to universities in the UK, Europe, and America.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: We embrace a modern educational ethos that blends tradition with innovation, placing the wellbeing and intellectual development of each student at the heart of every lesson, strategy, and decision we make. Our goal is to develop responsible, open-minded young people capable of tackling the challenges of an unpredictable world.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: – High academic standards and achievement in a supportive environment; highly qualified international teachers – Diverse and multilingual faculty and student body – Global and multicultural perspectives in learning and play – Appropriate, progressive, and secure use of technology tools – A nurturing school community with active parental involvement – Beautiful leafy campus and historic building

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LONDON SENIOR SCHOOLS

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LONDON SENIOR SCHOOLS

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LONDON SENIOR SCHOOLS

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LONDON SENIOR SCHOOLS

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: £7,245 per term HEAD TEACHER: Mrs Anna Sylvester-Johnson RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Church of England ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Admission at 11 and 16 via entrance examination and interview; occasional places at 12, 13, 14.

CONTACT: The Registrar, 020 8392 5803 EMAIL: registrar@ibstockplaceschool.co.uk SCHOOL VISITS: 19 September 9.15am Virtual Open Morning; 5 May 2021 5-7pm

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: 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: We maintain an outstanding pastoral programme which monitors each pupil’s development with care, sensitivity and guidance. From Senior 7–10, pupils join a vertically tutored house group for four years, thus building strong relationships between pupils, their housemaster, two house tutors and pupils’ families. In PVI (Year 11), pupils are supported by a tutor and Head of PVI. A head of sixth-form and her tutor team provide VI pastoral care.

UNIVERSITY PLACES: 2018-19: Oxford, Cambridge, Durham, Exeter, Imperial, UCL, Warwick, Exeter, Bath, Leeds, Birmingham, Bristol, York, Leiden.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: We attach great importance to developing pupils’ individuality and their regard for tolerance, courtesy and respect. Pupils are able to find their strengths here, whether as the promising musician, the meticulous scholar, the outstanding sportsman or the talented artist. We strive to ensure pupils’ accomplishments reflect their talents and interests.

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.

John Lyon School

ADDRESS: Middle Road, Harrow on the Hill, HA2 0HN WEBSITE: www.johnlyon.org FOUNDED: 1876 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 600 AGES: 11-18 FEES: £6,175 - £6,411 per term HEAD TEACHER: Miss Katherine Haynes, BA, MEd, NPQH RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: None ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Admission at 11+, 13+ and 16+ via entrance examination and interview.

CONTACT: Ms Rebecca Davies, Registrar, 020 8515 9443 EMAIL: admissions@johnlyon.org SCHOOL VISITS: Regular open days, open evenings and ‘school in action’ days take place throughout the school year.

Visit www.johnlyon.org/opendays for details.

THE CURRICULUM: Academic excellence is at the heart of what the 600 pupils who study here seek to achieve. Pupils’ academic standards and personal development were both rated the highest possible ‘excellent’ in our recent school inspection. Pupils gain a good grounding in the major academic subjects. Dedicated teachers help develop learning skills, creativity and the ability to apply learning in all areas of life. Building on this, pupils perform well from the start and achieve excellent results at GCSE and A-Level. An exciting co-curricular timetable focuses on community, achievement and wellbeing, and there is a range of more than 70 extra-curricular activities.

COEDUCATION: From September 2021 the School will become coeducational, welcoming girls into Year 7 for the first time. All open events are now open for both boys and girls.

GAMES & THE ARTS: The 25-acre sports site has multiple football pitches, cricket squares, an all-weather hockey pitch and tennis courts.

A 25-metre swimming pool and sports hall are on the main school site.

Two fully equipped drama studio spaces, a music hall and sizeable art department allow pupils to explore and enhance their creativity.

PASTORAL CARE: Well-structured form, year group and house systems allow for strong pastoral care and a sense of real support within the school community. Pupils benefit from access to both a school counsellor and nurse.

UNIVERSITY PLACES: Most students gain places at leading universities, notably Oxbridge and Russell Group, with the arts, sciences and humanities all well-represented.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: John Lyon School life is a programme of personal growth and enrichment – the sort of education that is highly sought and prized by parents interested in a high quality independent education.

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LONDON SENIOR SCHOOLS

North Bridge House Senior Hampstead & Senior Canonbury

ADDRESS: Senior Hampstead, 65 Rosslyn Hill, NW3 5UD; Senior Canonbury, 6-9 Canonbury Place, N1 2NQ WEBSITE: www.northbridgehouse.com FOUNDED: 1939 AGES: 11–18 FEES: £19,230 - £20,400 per annum NUMBER OF PUPILS: Hampstead - 380; Canonbury - 180 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: www.northbridgehouse.com/open

THE CURRICULUM: Highly qualified teachers deliver a broad academic and creative curriculum, tailored to challenge and stimulate every pupil according to their individual needs, abilities and interests. The curriculum is designed to educate the whole child in today’s ever-changing world, promoting resilience and adaptability while ensuring real-life issues, such as the BLM, are brought to the forefront. Students are prepared for post16 and university studies with courses delivered by institutions such as Yale University and Wharton Business School.

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.

HEAD TEACHERS’ PHILOSOPHY: NBH provides an individually tailored co-education, celebrating high-achieving pupils in a mixed ability environment.

From our focus on knowing the individual and developing strength of character, we achieve academic excellence in confident pupils who are proud of their successes. With specialist teaching and outstanding extra-curricular opportunities, we challenge and inspire each child to fulfil their potential.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: Students benefit from a later start on a Wednesday in line with leading research into the teenage brain - specifically sleeping patterns. Oxbridge preparation, higher education fairs and ‘World of Work’ guest speaker events best inform students for successful futures.

Portland Place School

ADDRESS: 56-58 Portland Place, London W1B 1NJ WEBSITE: www.portland-place.co.uk FOUNDED: 1996 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 200 AGES: 10 – 16 years FEES: £7,185 per term HEAD TEACHER: David Bradbury RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: All faiths welcome ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Selection is based on assessment and interview.

CONTACT: Ashleigh Wild EMAIL: Admissions@portland-place.co.uk SCHOOL VISITS: We hold open mornings and Saturday school tours with the Headmaster throughout the year.

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: Competitive and recreational sport has always had a special place in Portland Place and whilst 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. Recent heavy investment will create an unrivalled centre of creative, academic, sporting and technological excellence at Portland Place School. The investment includes the creation of a new studio to benefit their graphics, photography, film and media department, and a new workshop space for superior creative arts provision and a more integrated offer.

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, too.

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.100 per cent of pupils achieved grades nine to four, with 44 per cent of pupils achieving grades nine to seven.

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Kew House School

ADDRESS: Kew House, 6 Capital Interchange Way, London, TW8 0EX WEBSITE: www.kewhouseschool.com FOUNDED: 2013 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 550 AGES: 11–18 FEES: £7,450 per term HEAD TEACHER: Mr W Williams RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: All faiths welcome ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Entrance exam and relaxed interview CONTACT: Mrs D Hassett EMAIL: admissions@kewhouseschool.com SCHOOL VISITS: Open events: 5 October, 4 November, 1 December

THE CURRICULUM: Our aim is to provide a rich and broad education to all students whatever their specialism, pursuing excellence in all areas whether examinable or not. The basis of the timetable is six taught hours per day plus the extra-curricular programme which includes academic, non-academic and sports-based clubs.

GAMES & THE ARTS: Our students 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. We value the importance of inclusivity, opportunity and choice to ensure participation is maximised across all ability levels.

PASTORAL CARE: We aim to develop the feeling of a family and social hub giving emotional support and security to all students and employees.

Each student receives individual attention both educationally and pastorally. Our approach is holistic, as we believe that there can be no artificial barriers between a student’s intellectual, emotional, social and spiritual growth. A number of staff are involved in the life of each student, but in particular, the personal tutor who meets their tutee on a daily basis, stays the same staff member throughout the student’s seven years with us.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: We recognise and enhance the individual abilities of each child, welcoming students with varying academic profiles and placing emphasis on confidence, self-esteem and creativity. By operating a true ‘open door’ policy that welcomes parents and members of the wider community to become a part of school life, Kew House has developed the feeling of a family and social hub that provides emotional support and security for all students and employees.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: In 2017, Kew House opened a brand new sixth-form centre which benefits from a beautifully designed independent learning centre on the ground floor. This building reflects the fact that sixth-form students are approaching adulthood and encourages independent study in an attractive environment. Facilities include a sixth-form café, library, roof terrace, audio-visual suite, and sixth-form seminar rooms. Following an inspection of the school in February 2018 by the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) Kew House was particularly delighted to learn from the lead inspector that the results of the student 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 AGES: 11-18 FEES: £7,450 HEAD TEACHER: Mr S Winter RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: All faiths welcome ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Entrance exam and relaxed interview EMAIL: admissions@maidavaleschool.com THE CURRICULUM: Our aim is to provide a rich and broad education to all students whatever their specialism, pursuing excellence in all areas whether examinable or not. The basis of the timetable is six taught hours per day, plus the extra-curricular programme which includes academic, non-academic and sports-based clubs.

GAMES & THE ARTS: Although academic rigour is at the centre of our school, our students are highly creative, with a reputation for excellence in music and the performing and visual arts. Our dynamic PE department ensures regional and national level success in rowing, athletics, tennis, table tennis, cross country and netball. We value the importance of inclusivity, opportunity and choice to ensure participation is maximised across all ability levels.

PASTORAL CARE: We aim to develop the feeling of a family and social hub giving emotional support and security to all students and employees.

Each student receives individual attention both educationally and pastorally. Children and young adults thrive when their self-esteem is bolstered and confidence enables them to flourish. Our approach is holistic as we believe that there can be no artificial barriers between a student’s intellectual, emotional, social and spiritual growth. A number of staff are involved in the life of each student, but in particular, the personal tutor – who meets their tutee on a daily basis – remains the same member of staff throughout the student’s seven years with us.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: We recognise and enhance the individual abilities of each child, welcoming students with varying academic profiles and placing emphasis on confidence, self-esteem and creativity. By operating a true ‘open door’ policy that welcomes parents and members of the wider community to become a part of school life, Maida Vale School has developed the feeling of a family and social hub that provides emotional support and security for all students and employees.

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 larger windows, something from which Maida Vale School certainly benefits from. 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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Sydenham High School GDST

ADDRESS: 19 Westwood Hill, London SE26 6BL WEBSITE: sydenhamhighschool.gdst.net FOUNDED: 1887 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 428 AGES: 11 – 18 FEES: £5775 HEAD TEACHER: Mrs Katharine Woodcock RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Non-denominational ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Entrance exam and interview for year 7 entry. Scholarship exams for year 7 and 12. Bursaries available.

CONTACT: Admissions Office 020 8557 7004 EMAIL: admissions@syd.gdst.net SCHOOL VISITS: Virtual open events and taster sessions are all bookable online.

THE CURRICULUM: Pupils study a broad range of academic subjects which develop analytical, creative and lateral thinking skills to build a strong foundation for A-levels and university. At sixth-form, the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) prepares students for the independent learning required at university.

GAMES & THE ARTS: The school’s bespoke Mind, Body & Soul offering and sports for all approach, alongside an elite sportswomen programme, expands the mind, takes care of the body and feeds the soul. Sports include cricket, rowing, fencing, trampolining rugby, hockey and netball.

Creativity is embraced, through regular concerts, pop up exhibitions and productions such as a highly impressive Billy Elliot.

PASTORAL CARE: Our inclusive environment allows all of our students to be independent, take risks and learn resilience through trying new things without the fear of failure. Our Sense of Self Programme, combined with the Positive Project, equips our pupils with an essential toolkit to draw upon when facing challenges and setbacks.

UNIVERSITY PLACES: Students leave with excellent results and go on to study at a range of higher education destinations including Oxbridge, Russell Group universities, medical schools and art colleges.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: We balance academic rigour with well-being. A social conscience is integral to school life; we encourage pupils to find their voice and get involved. One current parent commented, our pupils “are interested, enjoy the lessons and are self-motivated, rather than spoon-fed” whilst prospective parents remark that we are “a breath of fresh air”.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: A smaller but high achieving school where pupils develop the necessary skills for university and employment in an inspirational environment where students can be themselves, learn to take risks, develop independence and resilience, leaving happy and confident about their future. ISI found that ‘Pupils develop high levels of self-confidence and the inner strength needed to succeed.’

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Wetherby Senior School

TAKE A LOOK AT

OUR WEBSITE

ADDRESS: 100 Marylebone Lane, London W1U 2QU WEBSITE: www.wetherbysenior.co.uk FOUNDED: 2015 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 380 AGES: 11-18 FEES: £8,310 per term HEAD TEACHER: Seth Bolderow 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: Open Day will be held on Saturday 3rd October from 10.00am to 2.00pm. 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, and is a compulsory activity for all boys at Wetherby Senior School. The main sports are rugby, football, cricket and tennis with other activities available. Music, Drama and Art are strong with many concerts, exhibitions and dramatic productions held throughout the year.

PASTORAL CARE: All boys are supported by a tutor throughout their time at the School. We understand that success in all areas of school life and in the future is based on developing the boys’ resilience to cope with challenges, the ability to reflect and the willingness to contribute positively to their community.

www.schoolhousemagazine.co.uk

RECENT UNIVERSITY PLACES: This year our pioneer Wetherby Senior students were offered places at Bath, Bristol, Cambridge, Durham, Exeter, Imperial, LSE, Manchester and UCL amongst other universities in the UK and abroad.

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 twenty-first century and ready to contribute to the communities in which they live.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: – Academic rigour and outstanding teaching – Excellent pastoral care – A strong community of pupils, staff and parents – A challenging and varied sports programme with outstanding facilities at Ealing Trailfinders – Philosophy is embedded in the curriculum from Year 7 to develop independent thinking.

For the best in education

EV ERY DAY

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COUNTRY SCHOOLS PREPA R ATORY | SENIOR All Hallows School, Somerset

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Bedales

ADDRESS: Bedales School, Church Road, Steep, Petersfield GU32 2DG WEBSITE: www.bedales.org.uk FOUNDED: 1893 NUMBER OF PUPILS: Bedales Pre-prep, Dunannie: 74; Bedales Prep, Dunhurst: 200; Bedales Senior School: 473 AGES: 3-8 (Dunannie); 8-13 (Dunhurst); 13-18 (Bedales) FEES: (Per term) Nursery: £447-£620; Dunannie: £3,330-£4,350; Dunhurst: Day £5,785-£6,415; Boarding £7,590-£8,520; Bedales: Day £9,745; Boarding £12,400 HEAD TEACHER: Magnus Bashaarat RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Non-denominational ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Main entry points at 2 yrs 9 months, 7+, 8+, 11+, 13+, 16+. Selection by assessment/residential assessment and interview.

CONTACT: 01730 711544 / admissions@bedales.org.uk OPEN DAYS: Bedales: 19 September 2020; 3 October 2020; 28 November 2020. Dunhurst: 12 September 2020. Dunannie: 12 September 2020.

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 its 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: Bedales competes in many sports including football, hockey, tennis, cricket and netball. Excellent facilities include floodlit Astroturf hockey pitches, tennis and netball courts as well as an indoor swimming pool. The school is acclaimed for its drama, theatre, art and music with many opportunities for participation in performances and concerts, including overseas tours.

PASTORAL CARE: Every student is assigned to a house parent with whom they build a close and strong relationship. Students also benefit from having a tutor who monitors and guides their academic progress, tailoring the level of support to the individual. Tutor groups and dormitories are mixed age, encouraging communication and the sharing of experience across the years.

There is 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 to be different from the schools of its time. Where others imposed conformity, Bedales nurtured individuality, initiative and an enquiring mind. We led the country in replacing many GCSEs with our own more, interesting and more demanding, Bedales Assessed Courses. This breadth of vision and willingness to buck convention continues undiminished, as we shape our work to meet the challenges of the day and prepare our students for a complex and turbulent world. Our students are naturally inquisitive, eager to explore and challenge ideas. They trust and build strong relationships with each other and their teachers based on mutual respect.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: – Shared progressive ethos and vision across the three Bedales schools – Impressive university destinations including Oxbridge, music conservatoires, art college and overseas institutions such as Yale – Innovation in the curriculum with high expectations – 20 acre estate in the South Downs National Park, complete with working farm which has plenty of opportunities for pupil involvement

Banstead Prep School

ADDRESS: Sutton Lane, Banstead, Surrey SM7 3RA WEBSITE: www.bansteadprep.com FOUNDED: 2017 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 205 AGES: 2 - 11 FEES: £3,500 to £4,500 per term HEAD TEACHER: Mr Mike Gibb BA (Hons) PGCE NPQH. From January 2021, Mr Jonathan Chesworth 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: Mrs Adrienne Forster, Head of Admissions & Marketing, 01737 363600 EMAIL: admissions@bansteadprep.com SCHOOL VISITS: For event dates and Virtual Open Day visit bansteadprep.com/admissions 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.

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 HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: Education with character is the ethos that sits at the very heart of our school and forms the core of what we believe. There’s more to a good education – we work to develop our children’s characters, build their tenacity, foster courage and above all, OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: – Wraparound care 07:30 – 18:00 and in-house holiday club – Specialist subject teaching right from the early years – On-site swimming pool, all-weather pitch, netball court and full-size sports hall – Specialist 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 .

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Brighton College

ADDRESS: Eastern Road, Brighton, BN2 0AL WEBSITE: www.brightoncollege.org.uk FOUNDED: 1845 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 1,109. Day: 414 boys, 295 girls. Boarding: 225 boys, 175 girls AGES: 11-18 FEES: Day: £8,110. Weekly boarding: £11,800. Full boarding: £13,240 HEAD TEACHER: Richard Cairns RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Church of England, welcomes all/no faiths ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Assessment and interview at 11, 13 and 16 CONTACT: Mr Anthony Merrett, Registrar SCHOOL VISITS: Open Morning or individual visit. Please contact Admissions to arrange a visit on 01273 704200 THE CURRICULUM: The college regularly achieves the best A-level and GCSE results of any co-educational school in the UK, whilst ensuring children enjoy a wealth of extracurricular opportunities. Renowned for its focus on kindness, the college also excels in art, music, dance, drama and sporting achievements.

GAMES & THE ARTS: As one of the leading sports schools in England, we believe every child deserves to enjoy sport whatever their level. Our arts calendar is full of activities for girls and boys to get involved in.

PASTORAL CARE: Our last ISI inspection rated our provision of pastoral care as ‘excellent’ – the top grade possible – and the last Ofsted inspection awarded our welfare for boarders as ‘outstanding’. We take considerable care in maintaining a supportive and accepting community that celebrates differences between people, affirming a sense of belonging for all.

UNIVERSITY PLACES: Oxbridge: 20 per cent of pupils each year. Russell Group: 660+ offers each year PERCENTAGE OF OXBRIDGE CANDIDATES: Around 40 per cent of the upper-sixth apply each year. A strong record of success with 227 offers in the past decade.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: ‘I believe passionately in the importance of the individual. Every child at Brighton College is valued for their own sake, encouraged to develop his or her talents to the full in a community where there are no stereotypes and where every achievement, however small, is noticed.’

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: – GCSE and A-level results amongst the best in the country – Top Coeducational School 2020, The Sunday Times – England’s Independent School of the Year 2019, The Sunday Times – State-of-the-art new School of Science and Sport – ‘One word: exceptional’, Tatler – ‘Britain’s most forward-thinking school’,The Week

Cottesmore School

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 days: September 26th and November 21st (10:00 – 12:00); private tours organised through the registrar.

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 (well-being), a matron (domestic) and a house master/ mistress. Every adult at Cottesmore contributes to the well-being of every child.

SENIOR EXIT SCHOOLS: Eton, Downe House, Harrow, Cheltenham Ladies’, Radley, Benenden, Winchester, Wellington, Marlborough, Charterhouse, St Edwards 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 academic boarding prep school for boys and girls in West Sussex, less than an hour from London. Cottesmore provides a train service to London Victoria Station, which is popular with London ‘S.W.’ 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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Dunottar School

ADDRESS: High Trees Road, Reigate, Surrey RH2 7EL WEBSITE: www.dunottarschool.com FOUNDED: 1926 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 424 AGES: 11–18 FEES: £5,610 for Direct Debit payments and £5,685 for other methods.

HEAD TEACHER: Mr Mark Tottman RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Church of England (welcomes all faiths or none).

ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Assessment, interview and group activities.

CONTACT: Mrs Sue Edwards, Head of Admissions EMAIL: admissions@dunottarschool.com SCHOOL VISITS: Open mornings are held throughout the year. Please visit the school website for details.

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 stateof-the-art sixth-form centre with study space, cafeteria and recreation room and a £4.5m Assembly Hall with drama and music facilities (to be completed in Autumn 2020).

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Cranleigh Preparatory School

Cranleigh School

ADDRESS: Cranleigh Preparatory School, Horseshoe Lane, Cranleigh, Surrey GU6 8QH WEBSITE: www.cranprep.org FOUNDED: 1913 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 340 AGES: Girls and boys 7-13 FEES: Boarding: £25,164 annually; day: (Years 5 to 8) £20,838 annually; day: (Years 3&4) £16,062 annually HEAD TEACHER: Mr Neil Brooks RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Church of England ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Age appropriate assessments and report from the head of the pupil’s current school.

CONTACT: Head of Admissions EMAIL: admissions@cranprep.org SCHOOL VISITS: Please visit our website to take part in our virtual open day: www.cranprep.org/admissions/virtual-open-day/

ADDRESS: Horseshoe Lane, Cranleigh, Surrey GU6 8QQ WEBSITE: www.cranleigh.org FOUNDED: 1865 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 400 boys, 229 girls AGES: 13–18 FEES: Boarding: £39,330 annually; day: £32,370 annually.

HEAD TEACHER: Mr Martin Reader MA (Oxon), MPhil, MBA RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Church of England; welcomes pupils of all faiths and none.

ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: To learn about the admissions process for both 13+ and 16+ entry, please contact our admissions team directly.

CONTACT: 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 take part in our virtual open day.

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.

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: 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.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: 33 scholarships in 2019, 202 scholarships over the last five years to some of the country’s best schools, including Brighton College, Cranleigh, Charterhouse, Eton, KCS Wimbledon, Marlborough, RGS Guildford, Tonbridge, Wellington and Winchester.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: We focus on enabling each child to fulfil their intellectual potential, whilst encouraging them to find real enjoyment, and to seek success from their participation, at whatever level, in the many artistic, cultural and sporting opportunities which the school promotes. We believe that children should grow up with an understanding of the importance of personal responsibility, respect for other people and how to work as part of a team.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: – Set in 40 acres of stunning Surrey countryside, less than 50 minutes from London.

– Outstanding academic results.

– First class sports and music facilities.

– An exceptional art department.

– Unique pastoral care in a wonderfully relaxed, happy and inspirational environment.

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 six large studios providing specialist provision for painting, printmaking, photography, sculpture and ceramics. The Design Engineering department has three design studios and workshops, including 3D printing facilities.

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.

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.

PERCENTAGE OF OXBRIDGE CANDIDATES: Oxbridge is a focus for many of Cranleigh’s pupils, with impressive results year on year.

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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King Edward’s Witley Bursaries and choral scholarships available from Year 3

An Independent Day School for Boys aged 3 to 13 To arrange a visit or a one-to-one appointment, please contact Admissions on 01483 880489 or email: admissions@lanesborough.surrey.sch.uk www.lanesborough.surrey.sch.uk Maori Road, Guildford, Surrey GU1 2EL

S C H O O L H O U S E M AG A Z I N E

ADDRESS: Witley, Godalming, Surrey GU8 5SG WEBSITE: www.kesw.org FOUNDED: 1553 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 400 AGES: 11–18 FEES: Lower school boarding: £10,925; day £5,325. Forms 3–5 boarding £10,925; day £6,655. (Pre-) sixth-form boarding £11,350; day £7,095 HEAD TEACHER: Joanna Wright RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Church of England ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Admission at 11, 13 and 16 via entrance examination and interview.

CONTACT: Justin Benson, Director of Admissions, 01428 686735 EMAIL: admissions@kesw.org SCHOOL VISITS: Prospective pupils are welcome at Open Mornings or individual visits. Please arrange visits through the Admissions Office.

THE CURRICULUM: We offer (I)GCSE qualifications and a one-year pre-sixth-form course. In the sixth-form we offer the IB, alongside a new A-level programme. In 2020, an impressive 74 per cent of subjects taken in the exam were graded at the equivalent to A-level A*-B. GAMES & THE ARTS: With first class sports facilities, our approach is very much sport for all. First class sport, music and the arts are key to our co-curricular programme. We excel in football for both boys and girls.

PASTORAL CARE: High quality pastoral care is central to everything we do. All pupils are attached to boarding houses under the care of a trained housemaster or housemistress and at least three resident staff, including a matron. Additionally, every pupil has a tutor who looks after their academic welfare and co-curricular programme and deals quickly with any concerns. Food is excellent and prepared on-site. There is a well-equipped medical centre which is staffed 24 hours a day.

UNIVERSITY PLACES: The vast majority of pupils proceed to universities including Oxbridge.

The next issue of SCHOOL HOUSE MAGAZINE is out in Spring 2021 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

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: A good education is a foundation for life. At King Edward’s this means an exciting and challenging curriculum, a broad range of sporting, artistic, social and cultural opportunities and an environment specifically created to instigate the values of independent learning, responsibility for others and the enjoyment of challenge.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: – Achieved ‘excellent’ in all nine categories (ISI Inspection, December 2015).

– In 2020, 74 per cent of IB students gained A*–B A-level equivalent.

– IB or A-level courses in sixth form – 87 per cent of GCSE grades at A*–C across all subjects – Weekly and occasional boarding and a flexible day – Easy rail links – 51 minutes from London Waterloo

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Farleigh School

ADDRESS: Red Rice, Andover, Hampshire SP11 7PW WEBSITE: www.farleighschool.com FOUNDED: 1982 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 460 AGES: 3–13 FEES: £1,860 (KG), £3,720 (Pre-Prep), £6,400-£8,810 (Year 3 day to Year 8 boarding) per term.

HEAD TEACHER: Fr Simon Everson RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Roman Catholic, all faiths welcome ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Non-selective CONTACT: Mrs Sarah O’Rorke, Registrar (01264 712838) EMAIL: admissions@farleighschool.com SCHOOL VISITS: Individual visits, as well as two-three open mornings per year. Next open morning: Saturday 19th September

THE CURRICULUM: The stimulating curriculum is broad and tailored to individual needs. Our multi-sensory approach encompasses every type of learner, and imaginative teaching methods ensure all children thrive.

GAMES & THE ARTS: Sport, art, DT, music and drama are pupil-centred and all-inclusive with countless opportunities to develop interests and discover talents. Every child benefits from specialist teachers supported by state-of-the-art equipment and facilities.

PASTORAL CARE: Our Catholic ethos values every individual and we go to great lengths to ensure the fulfilment and happiness of every child.

Pastoral care is inextricably linked to the structural organisation of the school, through the quality of teaching and learning, the exceptional relationships between staff and pupils, and between the pupils themselves.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: Academic (Cheltenham, Downe House, St Mary’s Ascot, Stonyhurst, Winchester), sport, art, music, drama, DT and all-rounder to Ampleforth, Bradfield, Canford, Downside, Godolphin, Marlborough, Millfield, Radley, Sherborne and Sherborne Girls.

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, flood-lit all weather pitch and tennis courts, theatre, indoor swimming pool, Forest School, after school activities and wrap around care.

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Rowan Prep School

ADDRESS: Rowan Brae (2-7yrs), Gordon Rd, Claygate KT10 0PJ. Rowan Hill (7-11yrs) Fitzalan Rd, Claygate KT10 0LX WEBSITE: www.rowanprepschool.co.uk FOUNDED: 1936 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 327 AGES: 2-11 FEES: Per term: £3,842 - £5,098 HEAD TEACHER: Mrs Susan Clarke, BEd, NPQH RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Church of England ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Entry at Nursery, Reception and Year 3.

Occasional places in other year groups.

CONTACT: Mrs Philippa Edwards, Head of Admissions EMAIL: admissions@rowanprepschool.co.uk SCHOOL VISITS: Open Mornings are held each term with individual tours of the school also available. Contact us on admissions@ rowanprepschool.co.uk to find out more and to register.

THE CURRICULUM: Learning at Rowan gives all girls the chance to investigate, be challenged, take risks and be curious about the world around them. Academics are developed through experiences, adventurous learning and a specialist teaching model.

GAMES & THE ARTS: ‘Sport for All’ is our mantra. All girls enjoy regular games, swimming and PE lessons and our excellent facilities support those competing at regional and national levels. Drama and music form a key part of the curriculum with over 95 per cent of girls learning an instrument, performing in musical theatre and choirs.

PASTORAL CARE: Over their time at Rowan, the girls develop a toolkit of strategies to manage the small bumps in the road which they will inevitably face in life. Social and emotional skills are cultivated in many ways, from dedicated SEW (Social and Emotional Wellbeing) lessons on their timetables to a highly personalised pastoral programme which keep the individual needs of every girl at the heart of what we do.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: Epsom College, Guildford High, KGS, LEH, SHS, St Catherine’s, Bramley, St John’s Leatherhead, SWPS and Wycombe Abbey.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: It is my belief that when a school balances academics, with nurture, support and opportunity to learn about yourself and from others, that you are creating an environment which will inspire and nourish every girl. We do this every day at Rowan, ensuring girls are happy, confident and enabled individuals.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: – 100 per cent success rate at 11+ with 40 scholarships awarded.

– Access to over 20 acres of woodland for adventurous, outdoor learning – Exceptional specialist training in Science & Engineering with a focus on robotics.

– Strings initiative for all Year Ones to learn the cello or violin.

– Sport for all approach with a mix of traditional games and extensive co-curricular offerings.

– Outstanding facilities including specialist spaces for engineering & technology, music, science, library, art and computing.

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Reed’s School

ADDRESS: Sandy Lane, Cobham, Surrey KT11 2ES WEBSITE: www.reeds.surrey.sch.uk FOUNDED: 1813 as The London Orphan Asylum by Rev Andrew Reed NUMBER OF PUPILS: 738 (653 boys, 85 girls) AGES: Boys 11 – 18. Girls 16 – 18 FEES: Day: £6,810 (years 7 – 8), £8,510 (years 9 – 13); boarding: £9,075 (years 7 – 8), £10,970 (years 9 – 13) HEAD TEACHER: Mark Hoskins BA MA MSc RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Church of England, but open to and respectful of all religious faiths ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Admission at 11+, 13+ and 16+ via entrance examination and interview CONTACT: Admissions Registrar 01932 869001 EMAIL: admissions@reeds.surrey.sch.uk SCHOOL VISITS: Four open mornings take place each year.

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 which 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 – Wrap-around care benefits all pupils – Rated ‘excellent’ in all categories in latest ISI Inspection

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Sevenoaks Prep School

ADDRESS: Godden Green, Sevenoaks, Kent TN15 0JU WEBSITE: www.theprep.org.uk FOUNDED: 1919 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 385 AGES: 2–13 FEES: Nursery and Kindergarten from £370 per session per term; Annual fees: Reception £10,755, Years 1 and 2 £12,270, Years 3 to 8 £14,865.

HEAD TEACHER: Mr Luke Harrison RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Church of England but accept all faiths ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Non-selective CONTACT: Mrs Clare Harrison EMAIL: admissions@theprep.org.uk SCHOOL VISITS: The school is open to visits and tours any day during term time.

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: 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 2020, 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.

St Catherine’s, Bramley

ADDRESS: Station Road, Bramley, Guildford, Surrey GU5 0DF WEBSITE: www.stcatherines.info FOUNDED: 1885 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 900 girls (of which 260 in the prep school) FEES: Day £6,125 per term; boarding £10,375 per term AGES: 4–18 HEAD TEACHER: Mrs Alice Phillips M.A. Cantab RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Church of England ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: By St Catherine’s own entrance examination at 11+ CONTACT: Registrar, 01483 899609, admissions@stcatherines.info SCHOOL VISITS: Tuesday 22 September; Thursday 15 October; Thursday 19 November.

THE CURRICULUM: In the first three years of the senior school, girls follow a broad academic programme which allows them to experience a variety of subjects from which they then select options to study at IGCSE/ GCSE. St Catherine’s offers 27 A-level subjects, providing girls with a perfect platform for higher education. Thinking Skills, a PPPE programme, a vibrant and relevant careers programme plus regular lecture slots complement the curriculum. All pupils have iPads.

GAMES & THE ARTS: Exceptional facilities include a sports hall, fully equipped fitness suite, dance studio and indoor pool. In addition there is a large assembly/performance hall with superb acoustics for music and drama productions. We promote an ethos of ‘sport for all’, encouraging every girl, whether she is an elite player or playing for the sheer fun of it.

St Catherine’s has its own popular dance school and studio.

PASTORAL CARE: Girls are welcome to join our dynamic and successful school as day pupils, or as full or weekly boarders. Six school houses underpin the pastoral provision where girls feel valued and supported.

‘House spirit’ is strong as is a huge sense of fun and loyalty to the school and each other.

BOARDING: Weekly and full boarding. A brand new sixth-form boarding house is opening in Autumn 2021.

PERCENTAGE OF OXBRIDGE CANDIDATES: 10 -15 per cent on average.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: Mrs Phillips believes that girls thrive best, both academically and pastorally, in a single-sex environment where happiness is the key to successful learning. St Catherine’s girls go out into the world confident that there is nothing that a woman cannot do.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: St Catherine’s pupils’ attitudes to learning are exemplary and they enjoy a strong rapport with their teachers and peers. Staff create an ambience of encouragement where learning thrives. By the time girls leave St Catherine’s, they are able to think critically, have high aspirations and the self-belief that there are few things they cannot achieve.

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BUSINESS AS UNUSUAL Discover why Parkside School has been widely praised for the way it orchestrated its remote learning programme

W

eeks before the government ordered the closure of schools and the nation locked down, Parkside School in Cobham was formulating its own ‘battle plan’. Determined to maintain Ms Janssen, the head’s mantra ‘make it happen’, Parkside was adamant that the virus was not going to compromise the outstanding standards of education and support already delivered to the pupils and parents of the school.

From the last week of the spring term, this planning and preparation flourished and has resulted in a slick, virtual delivery system for Parkside’s innovative and engaging curriculum. The school tackled remote learning head on with the extensive use of Zoom: boys enjoyed the same number of virtual classes each day as they would at school. Individual learning packs were printed, collated (by class) and collected weekly by parents at the ‘drive thru’ collection point in front of the Manor, which offered an opportunity for families to plan and prepare for the week ahead.

Parkside’s younger pupils also enthusiastically participated in their reading sessions, music, dance sessions and teacher time via Zoom. Progress and praise for work was established through Individual Learning Diaries, which were filled with videos and photos of children who continued to enjoy their education at home.

Academic excellence was not the only priority for Parkside during these uncertain times; its ongoing dedication

to the wellbeing of its pupils was more apparent than ever. They successfully combated the threat of social isolation through virtual contact between teachers and peers. Regular communication with families, newsletters and videos flooded the inboxes of Parkside parents.

Forest school, food technology, D&T and art all ensured reduced screen time.

Additional extracurricular tasks, such as the Parkside photography challenges and physical exercise challenges, kept minds and bodies busy and healthy. Who needs Joe Wicks with such a dedicated team of sports teachers?

Humour was a key theme throughout the remote learning schedule at Parkside, and a key source of this was via the new YouTube channel, Parkside TV, where outtakes and sports teachers dressed as hot dogs were shared alongside informative ‘how to’ guides on a weekly basis.

Parkside’s doors remained firmly open wide for the children of key workers and vulnerable children during lockdown. It provided continuity, humour, reassurance and calm for children during these uncertain times.

Parkside is looking forward to welcoming back all pupils in September.

In the meantime, it is extremely proud of its staff, pupils, families and whole community for the efforts that have ensured this huge success during such difficult times.

‘Please pass on my enormous thanks to Ms Janssen for keeping parents calm and well informed during this difficult time. How lucky we are to have such a brilliant and dedicated team working at Parkside.’ Mrs M ‘I’m so impressed with the remote learning Parkside is providing during lockdown. My child is loving seeing his teachers and friends on all his Zoom lessons and the work being set in between by all his teachers is perfectly balanced.

I can’t fault your approach. Thank you so much” Mrs S To book a bespoke interactive tour, please visit www.parkside-school.co.uk/admissions/open-mornings

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St Hilary’s School

ADDRESS: Holloway Hill, Godalming, Surrey GU7 1RZ WEBSITE: www.sthilarysschool.com FOUNDED: 1927 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 280 AGES: 2 – 11 FEES: £3,621 - £5,328 HEAD TEACHER: Mrs Jane Whittingham (B.Ed Cert., Prof. Prac.

SpLD) RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: We welcome pupils of all faiths and none ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Non-Selective CONTACT: Mrs Joyce Dickenson, Registrar EMAIL: registrar@sthilarysschool.com SCHOOL VISITS: Termly Open Days, or personal visits booked by arrangement. Online meetings organised for families relocating.

THE CURRICULUM: We offer a broad, balanced curriculum supported by a wide extra-curricular programme, giving individuals the chance to develop their talents and receive a well-rounded education for future life.

GAMES & THE ARTS: Our sports’ ethos is participation for all and we hope to foster a positive attitude towards physical activity. Music and drama play an important role in everyday life at the school and the standard is high. Our art, design and technology facilities are excellent.

PASTORAL CARE: We aim to provide a warm, safe, caring environment that enables all children to thrive. Pastoral care is initially the responsibility of the class teacher who provides a link between the school and home.

We greatly value the individual and believe pupils benefit hugely from our smaller class sizes.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: 23 scholarships and exhibitions in 2020, including Prior’s Field, St Edmund’s, Seaford, Edgeborough and Tormead.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: At St Hilary’s, each pupil’s individual talents and strengths are recognised and utilised ensuring all reach their full potential in a vibrant, busy yet nurturing environment. Our aim is to educate the whole child by providing unequalled opportunities, support and encouragement for their ongoing development.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: – ‘Happy, charming and academically successful.’ The Good Schools Guide, 2018 – ‘The quality of the pupils’ academic achievements and personal development is excellent.’ Independent Schools Inspectorate 2016 – Shortlisted in the Independent Schools of the Year 2020 in the Prep School category – Awarded the British Council’s prestigious International School Award in recognition of its work to bring the world into the classroom – Home to one of the few LEGO Innovation studios found in Primary Education, providing the space and equipment to deliver STEAM education using the LEGO education approach – Godalming’s only independent prep school and nursery.

St Edmund’s School Canterbury

ADDRESS: St Thomas Hill, Canterbury, Kent CT2 8HU WEBSITE: www.stedmunds.org.uk FOUNDED: 1749 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 259 girls, 293 boys AGES: 3–18 FEES: Nursery and pre-prep from £2,632, prep day from £5,196, prep boarding from £8,485, senior day £7,044, senior boarding from £11,397 HEAD TEACHER: Mr Edward O’Connor, MA (Cantab), MPhil (Oxon), MEd (Cantab) 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:Open Days: 3 October 2020, 12 March 2021 & 12 June 2021 (individual visits by appointment).

THE CURRICULUM: A challenging and exciting curriculum throughout the school. Offers GCSE, IGCSE and A-level.

GAMES & THE ARTS: The school enjoys a fine reputation for its sport, art, music and drama, an integral part of the learning experience. An exciting range of extracurricular activities keep boarders and day pupils engaged.

PASTORAL CARE: The well-being 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.

UNIVERSITY PLACES: Pupils are given close guidance in making their choices and are successful in achieving places at their first choice university including Oxford, Cambridge, UCL and Durham. Pupils also go on leading institutions including London drama schools and the Royal Academy of Music.

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 s within easy reach of the South East and London; under an hour from London on the high speed train.

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Tonbridge School

ADDRESS: High Street, Tonbridge, Kent TN9 1JP WEBSITE: www.tonbridge-school.co.uk FOUNDED: 1553 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 790 boys AGES: 13–18 FEES: Boarding per term from £14,035; day per term from £10,529 HEAD TEACHER: James Priory RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Church of England ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Entrance examination and interview.

Most join at age 13.

CONTACT: Admissions, 01732 304297 EMAIL: admissions@tonbridge-school.org SCHOOL VISITS: See website for details, including how to book virtual ‘Meet The Headmaster’ sessions. Open Morning: 21 November

THE CURRICULUM: The pursuit of academic excellence is central.

The curriculum is designed to encourage flexibility of choice at GSCE, while new sixth-form curriculum offers multiple A-level pathways.

GAMES & THE ARTS: Wide participation encouraged in range of sports: many boys go on to play at county, regional or national level. School productions, rehearsals and drama workshops take place at the school’s own EM Forster Theatre. Strong tradition of musical excellence, with regular performances and concerts.

PASTORAL CARE: Pastoral care at Tonbridge is based around a strong House system, with positive relationships between boys, staff and parents being central to its success. Twelve Housemasters are responsible for boys’ academic progress and well-being, and they are supported by a pastoral team attached to each House. There is also an on-site Medical Centre, Chaplaincy, dedicated school counsellor and welfare group.

UNIVERSITY PLACES: Each year boys progress to leading universities in the UK and worldwide.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: James Priory joined Tonbridge as Headmaster in September 2018. Fully focused on young people’s allround development, achieving high academic standards supported by strong pastoral care and an enriching co-curriculum. Also known for his passion for the creative arts and for a commitment to the transformative opportunities provided by means-tested bursaries.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: – Named Independent Boys’ School of the Year 2019 (Independent Schools of the Year Awards) – High quality and innovative teaching and learning.

– Academic achievement, with superb GCSE, A-level results and progression to leading universities worldwide.

– Opportunities for all boys in sports, music, art and drama, and significant commitment to social responsibility.

– A distinctive mixture of boarders and day boys.

– Superb facilities on a 150 acre site, only 40 minutes by train from central London.

Westbourne House

ADDRESS: Coach Road, Chichester, West Sussex,PO20 2BH WEBSITE: www.westbournehouse.org/shm FOUNDED: 1907 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 350 AGES: 2 ½ - 13 FEES: £3,660 (Reception), £6,300 (Day pupil Year 5), £7735 (Weekly Boarder), £8445 (Full Boarder) HEAD TEACHER: Mr Martin Barker BA (Ed) RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Church of England ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Non-selective CONTACT: Ms Aline Pilcher, Admissions, 01243 782739 EMAIL: admissions@westbournehouse.org SCHOOL VISITS: Open morning 26 September or contact Admissions for a private tour and chat with our headmaster.

THE CURRICULUM: Designed to be holistic and stimulating, it’s an unforgettable journey of discovery: science experiments, IT, field trips, drama, poetry, art, music, kayaking. We attract talented teachers who bring the joy of learning to the classroom. We systematically teach pupils to be intellectually curious and confident learners across all fields with our cutting-edge High Performance Learning framework.

GAMES & THE ARTS: We are passionate about sport, make time for ambitious drama productions, and believe in art and musical opportunities for all. Enjoyment and discovering individual strengths are key. Children are encouraged to be the best they can be.

PASTORAL CARE: There is a strong sense of family and community here. Children have a comprehensive network of support, including the headteachers, teachers, form tutors, pastoral staff and houseparents.

Our sector-leading wellbeing programme includes lessons and practical experience in leadership, learning for life (wellbeing strategies), peer mentoring and mindfulness. Charity work, cultural opportunities and trips are also part of the curriculum.

SENIOR EXIT SCHOOLS: Pupils go on to top senior schools including Bedales, Bede’s, Brighton College, Canford, Charterhouse, Cranleigh, Eton, Harrow, Lancing, Marlborough, Millfield, Portsmouth Grammar, Roedean, Wellington and Whitgift.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: 33 scholarships awarded in 2020 across the curriculum: academic (Churcher’s, Portsmouth Grammar School), music (Beadales, Lancing), drama (Hurstpierpoint, Roedean), sport (Canford, Bede’s), all-round ability (Brighton College).

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: A happy, healthy education is one that lights up young minds, explores the world around them, develops new interests and presents wonderful opportunities. All these elements are at the heart of a Westbourne House education. Our exceptional staff enable every child to become confident, resilient and achieve their best.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: We give children the best of both worlds: an idyllic childhood, with opportunities for independence, selfdiscovery and adventure in 100 acres of beautiful parkland, uniquely coupled with an outstanding holistic education. Our pupils are known for becoming great all-rounders with well-developed characters.

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Walthamstow Hall Junior School

Walthamstow Hall, Sevenoaks

ADDRESS: Bradbourne Park Road, Sevenoaks TN13 3LD WEBSITE: www.walthamstow-hall.co.uk FOUNDED: 1838 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 160 AGES: 3-11 FEES: Nursery £325 per session per term; reception to year 2 £4,045 per term; year 3 – 6 £5,100 per term HEAD TEACHER: Miss Stephanie Ferro, MA (Oxon), MA (Lond), PGCE (Surrey) RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Christian non-denominational ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: All girls attend a taster day where they are assessed, this includes test papers from year 3 – year 6.

CONTACT: Mrs Alex Knight, Registrar 01732 451 334 EMAIL: registrar@whall.school SCHOOL VISITS: Please contact Mrs Knight to arrange a visit.

ADDRESS: Holly Bush Lane, Sevenoaks, Kent, TN13 3UL WEBSITE: www.walthamstow-hall.co.uk FOUNDED: 1838 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 420 AGES: 11–18 FEES: Senior school & sixth-form £6,895 per term HEAD TEACHER: Miss Stephanie Ferro, MA (Oxon), MA (Lond), PGCE (Surrey) RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Christian non-denominational ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Selective entrance examinations and interview at 11+, 13+ and 16+.

CONTACT: Mrs Alex Knight, Registrar; registrar@whall.school SCHOOL VISITS: Virtual open day: Saturday 26 September.

Book at www.walthamstow-hall.co.uk

THE CURRICULUM: A broad and well-balanced curriculum is taught by committed teachers. Learning outside the classroom and half termly whole school theme days, e.g. Courage Day, Environment Day, Community Day are cornerstones to a creative curriculum.

GAMES & THE ARTS: An extensive extra-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 girls 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 puts 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 182 years we have been true to our founding aim to provide an education for girls which is full of opportunity, challenge and possibility. At Walthamstow Hall your daughter will discover that learning is an active process which enables her to get personally involved, not one which just passively happens to her. She will recognise that learning is a consequence of thinking. She will not merely pass through a door, but be set on a voyage of discovery. We are not promising a polished product, but a profound process. We are not about growing grass which 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 School Theatre for plays and concerts.

– A ‘Creative Curriculum’, that is enquiry led and topic based, runs across the Early Years stage.

THE CURRICULUM: Offers unusual breadth, choice and flexibility. Lively teaching from highly qualified, enthusiastic specialists to optimum sized groups of around 20. Girls 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 athletics, 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; in 2020 over 90 per cent to their first choice and over 75 per cent to Russell Group. Higher level apprenticeships recently taken up at Deloitte and IBM. HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: For 182 years we have been true to our founding aim to provide an education for girls which is full of opportunity, challenge and possibility. At Walthamstow Hall your daughter will discover that learning is an active process which enables her to get personally involved, not one which just passively happens to her. She will recognise that learning is a consequence of thinking. She will not merely pass through a door, but be set on a voyage of discovery. We are not promising a polished product, but a profound process. We are not about growing grass which will wither once it faces the real world, but cultivating patterns and disciplines of learning that will last a lifetime.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTIC: Inspiring teaching, wonderful facilities, the close partnerships that exist between parents, staff and girls and a shared sense of pride in our history and achievements lie at the heart of our success.

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In uncertain times, quality counts.

Online and face-to-face: individualised education for A level & university entrance at Oxford’s oldest tutorial college.

Consult us: (+44) 01865 664400 Design your education.

Transform your future. www.greenes.org.uk

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Cothill House

Dragon School

ADDRESS: Cothill, Near Abingdon, Oxon OX13 6JL WEBSITE: www.cothill.net FOUNDED: 1870 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 200 AGES: 8–13 FEES: £9,990 HEAD TEACHER: Duncan Bailey RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Church of England, all faiths welcome ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: School tour and informal interview with the Headmaster. Assessment in January for September admission, but can be arranged throughout the year.

CONTACT: Jane Woodcock, registrar EMAIL: jane@cothill.net SCHOOL VISITS: Visits can be arranged by contacting the Registrar.

ADDRESS: Bardwell Road, Oxford OX2 6SS WEBSITE: www.dragonschool.org FOUNDED: 1877 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 800 AGES: 4 - 13 FEES: Prep Boarding £10,562; Prep Day £7,256; Pre-Prep (Yr 3) £5,411; Pre-Prep (Yrs 1-2) £4,710; Pre-Prep (Reception) £4,116 HEAD TEACHER: Dr Crispin Hyde-Dunn RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Non-denominational ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Interview and age appropriate assessment Main entry points are Reception, Year 3, and Year 4 - places in other years may be available.

CONTACT: Dr Kate Heath EMAIL: admissions@dragonschool.org SCHOOL VISITS: Saturday 19th September (Prep School), Friday 2nd October (Pre-Prep) and Saturday 10th October (Virtual Open Morning).

Individual tours and a meeting or videocall with the Headmaster are available by appointment.

THE CURRICULUM: Pupils are prepared for Common Entrance or scholarships at 13+. Cothill has a tradition of innovation in academic study: the boys spend a term at the school’s very own château in France. Annual Theme Weeks provide the boys with popular deeper learning opportunities – last year’s STEM week was inspirational.

THE CURRICULUM: Teachers aim to inspire, motivate, challenge and help children take ownership of their own learning. Class size is 16 in reception rising to a maximum of 21 in year 8 for certain subjects. There are six separate science labs, three large art and DT studios where children experiment with a range of materials and electronics.

GAMES & THE ARTS: A progressive approach to games; traditional sports are played daily with external professionals teaching polo, golf and tennis. Art, design, ceramics and CDT are much loved (a full sized shepherd’s hut was a recent woodwork triumph). The school’s celebrated choir regularly performs at concerts, and the summer rock music festival, Rock Hill, is an annual highlight.

GAMES & THE ARTS: The Dragon offers over 20 sporting activities for its boys and girls to enjoy including sculling, fencing, football, golf, cricket, equestrianism and judo. There is a busy calendar of fixtures against other schools and senior squads have the opportunity to go on overseas tours.

Music and drama are real strengths, with alumni such as Emma Watson and Tom Hiddleston. There are annual plays and musical productions and over 800 individual music lessons per week and 60 music ensembles.

PASTORAL CARE: Happiness and fun are at the heart of our ethos.

Boarding is at the core of life at Cothill and we ensure each boy thrives in our secure and safe environment, whilst learning to respect and live with others. Each boy has a form tutor who encourages them in all aspects of their school life, helping them to get the most out of it.

PASTORAL CARE: The Dragon strives to create a happy, secure and stimulating learning environment in which all members of the school community can grow and develop as individuals. The Dragon follows a nurturing programme which enhances self-awareness, personal empowerment, self-esteem and empathy for all pupils.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: Winchester College (Election), Charterhouse (All-rounder), Harrow (Academic), Marlborough (Academic), Malvern (Sports), Oundle (Academic), Radley (Academic), Sherborne (Academic) and Stowe (Art).

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: 2020 leavers: 55 pupils have been awarded academic or specialist scholarships to a wide range of leading schools including Eton, Winchester, Wycombe Abbey, Radley, Cheltenham Ladies College, St Edward’s Oxford, Harrow and Marlborough College.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: Cothill is a school where boys can be boys. We provide an education rich with opportunities, encouraging the boys to experience everything. Boys are recognised for exceptional teamwork, good manners and generosity of spirit.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: Cothill is a happy, caring community of boys and staff. Uniquely situated in a picturesque Oxfordshire village in the Vale of the White Horse, boys are outside as much as possible. Oxford is minutes away, providing a rich array of museums and galleries for regular school trips. Weekends are spent building dens in the woods, fishing and playing sport with local club teams. The stunning new boarding house, Bowlers, with views across the cricket pitches is a big hit.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: At the Dragon, new talents are uncovered and ambitions nurtured; friendships are forged and challenges embraced. Every child is valued and every achievement celebrated. A strong scaffold for academic excellence is provided by our wide-ranging curriculum and outstanding teaching, which together with our expansive provision of extra-curricular opportunities, equips our pupils for smooth transition to their senior schools and beyond. We promote our Dragon values of kindness, courage and respect; we encourage a sense of service to others and a willingness to take responsibility.

NEW INITIATIVES: The Dragon is launching ‘Dragon QUEST’ – an exciting programme of curriculum enrichment – to replace academic lessons on Saturday mornings.

Activities will provide Dragons with a wide range of options. QUEST is optional for day pupils and weekly boarders and compulsory for full boarders.

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d’Overbroeck’s, Oxford

ADDRESS: 333 Banbury Road, Oxford OX2 7PL WEBSITE: www.doverbroecks.com FOUNDED: 1977 NUMBER OF PUPILS: Years 7-11: 195, sixth-form: 370 FEES: Years 7-11 tuition £6,050 per term; sixth-form tuition £8,100 per term; boarding £3,900 to £5,750 per term (weekly or full-time).

Principal: Mr Jonathan Cuff RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Non-denominational ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Years 7-9: Assessment, reference, interview. Sixth-form: predicted GCSE grades, reference, interview.

CONTACT: Sixth-form Admissions, 01865 688600 EMAIL: mail@doverbroecks.com SCHOOL VISITS: Individual visits by appointment. There are a series of virtual and in-person open events throughout the year: register on the school website.

THE CURRICULUM: A broad curriculum in years 7-11 and an outstanding range of A-level subjects in the sixth-form. A-level subject choices are possible in any combination, plus enrichment. d’Overbroeck’s Plus offers ‘super curricular’ involvement and brings students together to work on cross-disciplinary projects.

GAMES & THE ARTS: Busy sports and activities programme across the school and a new Tennis Academy for exceptional tennis players.

Strong arts, drama and music departments. New facilities in the sixthform including drama and music studios. New sixth-form building (and boarding) including art, photography, drama and music studios.

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 high level of mutual respect. Years 7-11 is for day pupils only and they are taught in very small tutor groups. In sixth-form each student has a Director of Studies who meets with them individually to discuss progress. Parents kept very well informed. Parent/student satisfaction is exceptional.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: d’Overbroeck’s is built on personal relationships, a lack of stuffiness and a strong conviction that every individual lies at the heart of the school. Students are creative, think for themselves and relish stretching the boundaries of their knowledge and do very well academically. A forward-thinking school full of energy, laughter and achievement.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: Inclusive, collaborative approach with strong focus on learning being enjoyable as well as successful.

Students’ views are valued and listened to; teaching is interactive and motivating in small classes. Students gain confidence in expressing themselves more effectively, in questioning, being independent thinkers, debating and feeling happy in themselves. Large direct entry at sixth-form (day, weekly and full-time boarding). Outstanding value added: 20 per cent A* at A-level in 2019 and 37 per cent 8/9 grades at GCSE. Superb sixth-form and boarding facilities.

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: From £1,441 a term for nursery; from £3,830 for pre-prep; £5,710 a term for prep; £3,600 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: Clare James, Registrar EMAIL: registrar@cccs.org.uk SCHOOL VISITS: Forthcoming open mornings: 10 March and 10 October 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’ strong personal development is successfully supported by the school’s values and practices. Its caring ethos is promoted consistently throughout all aspects of school life and it stems from the calm and considered leadership provided.’ (ISI Report 2017). Every pupil and member of staff plays a vital part in the creation of a culture of kindness.

RECENT SCHOALRSHIPS: Eton College, Harrow, Winchester College, Radley College, Magdalen College School, Abingdon School, 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.

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Papplewick

ADDRESS: Windsor Road, Ascot, Berkshire SL5 7LH WEBSITE: www.papplewick.org.uk OUNDED: 1947 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 216 boys AGES: 6–13 FEES: Boarding £10,310 (TIER 4) £11560. Day: Year 2 £7,470. Years 3 and 4 £7,470. Years 5 and 6 £7,920 (Non EU (Tier 4) £11560).

Forces bursary available.

HEAD TEACHER: Tom Bunbury BA, P.G.C.E. RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Church of England ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Visit and meeting with headmaster – all boys assessed but no entrance exam.

CONTACT: Rebecca Lindley, 01344 621488 EMAIL: registrar@papplewick.org.uk SCHOOL VISITS: Next open morning 17 October 09:00 – 11:00 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. Broad but challenging curriculum with small class sizes.

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. Cathedral standard choir.

Three quarters learn musical instruments.

Horris Hill

ADDRESS: Horris Hill, Newtown, Newbury RG20 9DJ WEBSITE: www.horrishill.com FOUNDED: 1888 AGES: 4–13 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 135 boys: day/full/weekly/part boarders FEES: Day from £3,800 to £6,800. Boarding from £6,950 to £9,550 HEAD TEACHER: Mr Giles F Tollit RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Church of England ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Familiarisation visit CONTACT: Lisa Lee-Smith EMAIL: registrar@horrishill.com SCHOOL VISITS: Family open mornings once a term and private visits.

THE CURRICULUM: Outstanding academic reputation. All the main academic subjects are taught to a very high standard. The boys are taught to think, have opinions and interact in lessons.

GAMES & THE ARTS: We offer a wide variety of sports and extra-curricular activities, so that every boy has the opportunity to develop interests away from the classroom. The main sports are rugby, football, cricket, hockey and tennis.

We also have an outstanding music school, our own golf course, train and modelling room, swimming pool, squash court and cross country course. For boys with green fingers, we have our very own kitchen garden. We also offer LAMDA for budding performers in our fabulous new purpose built theatre, judo, Mandarin and a hugely successful chess club.

PASTORAL CARE: A school which celebrates individuality and where boys can still be boys. The tutor/houseparent system ensures outstanding pastoral care.

PASTORAL CARE: A huge strength at Horris Hill. Dedicated staff, most of whom are resident, care about the boys and have high expectations of them.

The tutor system is the cornerstone and ensures that boys are used to talking one-to-one with adults.

SENIOR EXIT SCHOOLS FOR THE LAST ACADEMIC YEAR: Eton, Harrow, Winchester, Wellington, Charterhouse, St Edward’s Oxford, Bradfield, Marlborough, Uppingham and Pangbourne.

SENIOR EXIT SCHOOLS FOR THE LAST ACADEMIC YEAR: Winchester, Eton, Sherborne, Marlborough, Harrow, Bryanston, Charterhouse and Radley.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: Papplewick maintains its high academic record gaining no less than 30 scholarships to top independent schools over last two years.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: The gold standard in all boys’ preparatory education. We believe that the period from four to 13 years of age are the most critical in any boys’ life. These are the years where the foundations of the men they can become are laid. At a crucial stage in their cultural development, we believe that an all-boys’ school provides the optimal setting where boys will exercise their intellectual inquisitiveness, free to explore all avenues, building self-confidence and awareness in a safe and encouraging environment. High expectations of each boy both inside and outside of the classroom. New for 2019, Horris Hill will be offering its unique nurturing and academic experience from age four upwards.

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.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: No humbug was one of the beliefs of the founder. Horris Hill is intentionally small and unique.

Every boy is treated and developed as an individual.

Excellent staff give their expertise, experience and time to ensure that the boys develop into confident young men (not arrogant) who are appreciated by the senior schools they move on to. Excellent top senior school entry and scholarship track record.

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Ludgrove School

Lambrook School

ADDRESS: Ludgrove, Wokingham, Berkshire RG40 3AB WEBSITE: www.ludgrove.net FOUNDED: 1892 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 186 all boys AGES: 8-13 FEES: £9,420 per term HEAD TEACHER: Mr Simon Barber RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Church of England predominantly ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Non-selective in Year 4, assessment thereafter CONTACT: Registrar, Rebecca Philpott, 0118 978 9881 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.

ADDRESS: Lambrook School, Winkfield Row, Nr Ascot, Berks RG42 6LU WEBSITE: www.lambrookschool.co.uk FOUNDED: 1860 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 560 AGES: 3–13 FEES: (Michaelmas Term 2020) Nursery £2,113–£4,223; Preprep £4,223; Prep (day)£6,232–£6,770; Prep (weekly boarding) £7,580–£8,118 HEAD TEACHER: Mr Jonathan Perry BA Hons PGCE (Cantab) RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Christian ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Informal assessment for pre-prep entry and formal assessment for prep entry. All parents are invited for a meeting with the Headmaster and a tour of the school.

CONTACT: Penny Cardwell, Registrar EMAIL: registrar@lambrookschool.co.uk SCHOOL VISITS: Personal tours by appointment. Biannual open days in May and September.

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.

THE CURRICULUM: At Lambrook, we inspire our pupils from nursery through to year 8, ensuring an outstanding level of education from our exceptional and inspiring staff. We seek to equip and prepare our pupils for the next stage of their educational journey - our children consistently achieve a 100 per cent Common Entrance pass rate as well as numerous scholarships to top senior schools.

GAMES & THE ARTS: We offer a vibrant extracurricular programme with exposure to music, drama, the creative arts and many sports, making the most of exceptional facilities including extensive playing fields, a 350 seat theatre, an astroturf, 20m indoor swimming pool, and well equipped art block.

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: Harrow School, academic and sport; Marlborough, design & technology; Charterhouse, art.

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 Eton Harrow, Radley and Winchester – 100 per cent full boarding with fortnightly exeats – Set in 130 acres of spectacular grounds, just 45 minutes from London – Delicious food cooked on-site using fresh local ingredients – An exciting addition for the 2020 academic year will be the opening of a £2.5m Exploration Centre, which will provide one of the finest prep school scientific and creative learning environments in the country.

– Exceptional pastoral care

GAMES & THE ARTS: We provide all of our pupils with an abundance of opportunities to discover, develop and showcase new talents. On-site facilities include 52 acres of grounds, a golf course, swimming pool and AstroTurf pitches. Our performing arts are first rate, producing West End stars, renowned choristers and musicians.

PASTORAL CARE: We consider the nurturing of our pupils at Lambrook to be of paramount importance. Through an outstanding level of pastoral care, we enable pupils to flourish in a happy environment. We have a popular weekly and flexi boarding model, a strong focus on kindness towards others as well as many fundraising opportunities for both local and national charities.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: Many scholarships are consistently offered in academia, art, music and sport. Our leavers go on to top senior schools including Eton, Wellington, Bradfield, Bryanston, Charterhouse, Cranleigh, Downe House, Harrow, Marlborough, St George’s Ascot, Radley, St Edwards Oxford and Tonbridge.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: ‘Whilst opportunities abound at Lambrook, we recognise the vital role we also play in raising happy children. They have one opportunity for the education that will form the basis of their lives, and at the same time, one childhood. Our aim is to keep a happy balance between the two and to develop their ‘feathers to fly’ ready for their senior school and life beyond.’

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: – Extensive grounds of over 52 acres – Day school with both weekly and flexi boarding available – Sports facilities inspire players from county to international level – Performing Arts Centre and brand new art, design, and IT facilities – Opportunities to make a difference through charity work and conservation

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Winchester House

ADDRESS: Brackley, Northamptonshire NN13 7AZ FOUNDED: 1876 WEBSITE: www.winchester-house.org NUMBER OF PUPILS: 307 AGES: 3 – 13 HEAD TEACHER: Emma Goldsmith FEES: Day: £6,410. Boarding: £8,110 (both per term) RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Christian ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Non-selective CONTACT: Jessica Baker, Registrar, 01280 702483 EMAIL: jessica.baker@winchester-house.org SCHOOL VISITS: Virtual tours and private tours with the Head available. See school website for open day dates.

THE CURRICULUM: We strive to give each child a thirst for life-long learning through a stimulating and innovative curriculum which pursues excellence. We lay the foundation stones from which the children can grow.

GAMES & THE ARTS: Extensive sports pitches, full size Astro and outdoor pool. sports for all policy – regularly put out over ten boys’ and ten girls’ teams every week. Two thirds of children learn a musical instrument. Termly drama productions.

PASTORAL CARE: Pastoral care of the individual child lies at the centre of all we do with the safety, happiness and well-being of every child at the heart of the school’s community. Tutors are responsible for the well-being of their tutees and meet with them several times a day. Our well-being mentor is someone that children can visit to talk about feelings and share any worries and our ‘circle of support’ provides a network that supports the children.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: Range of scholarships across all disciplines to top Senior Schools including Oundle, Radley, Marlborough, Millfield, Cheltenham, Rugby, Uppingham and Stowe.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: The aim of Winchester House is to develop life-long learners with a spirit of resourcefulness and self-reliance within a warm and purposeful community. We create opportunities for them to develop their self-esteem to ensure that they are resilient, enabling them to tackle and overcome any obstacle they face.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: – A non-selective school developing confident, inquisitive children – New ‘mastery mornings’ offering enriching and inspiring masterclasses and workshops – New ‘sporting Saturdays’ - competitive sporting matches and tournaments on selected Saturdays – Academically ambitious with scholarships to top public schools in all the disciplines – Strong pastoral care with our ‘circle of support’ and dedicated well-being mentor – Flexible and weekly boarding – A network of minibus routes

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Bryanston School

ADDRESS: Blandford, Dorset DT11 0PX WEBSITE: www.bryanston.co.uk FOUNDED: 1928 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 680; 375 boys and 305 girls AGES: 13–18 FEES: Boarding £13,231 per term; day £10,849 per term HEAD TEACHER: Mr Mark Mortimer (MBA, BA) RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Church of England, all faiths welcome.

ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: At 13, assessments and interviews (full details at www.bryanston.co.uk/admissions). At 16, entrance tests and interview.

CONTACT: Anne Megdiche, Admissions Registrar, 01258 484500 EMAIL: admissions@bryanston.co.uk SCHOOL VISITS: Small group visits most weeks during term time.

To arrange a visit please contact the admissions office.

THE CURRICULUM: Bryanston prides itself on the breadth and flexibility of its curriculum. Unrivalled one-to-one tutoring and state-of-the-art online assessment encourages pupils to develop independent learning while supporting progress at every stage. In the sixth-form we offer A-levels and both the IB Diploma and IB Career-related Programmes. All pupils benefit from one-to-one work feedback periods with their teachers. Creativity is encouraged in all pupils and in all subjects.

CO-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES: Bryanston is renowned for the variety and quality of everything that happens outside the classroom, be it music, drama, sport, outdoor pursuits, leadership, academic enrichment or the many clubs and societies. These are all supported by outstanding facilities.

Our approach is inclusive: participation is encouraged and valued, while ensuring that elite potential is identified and fully realised.

PASTORAL CARE: Bryanston’s tutor system is unique, bespoke and at the heart of the school. We match pupils carefully to their tutor and they meet regularly, individually, to discuss all areas of school life (and beyond), throughout their five years here. This system underpins all that we do at Bryanston and is complemented by an extensive network of support and a house system which avoids tribalism and encourages lifelong friendships.

UNIVERSITY PLACES: Pupils apply to courses best suited to their individual strengths and aspirations, at a range of universities including Oxbridge and the Russell Group, prestigious music conservatoires and art foundation courses, as well as universities overseas.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: Get stuck in, seize your opportunities, give 100 per cent to everything, support one another and be kind. Set high standards and clear expectations, take calculated risks and bounce back from failure to go again. Be curious and ambitious; be creative and intelligently challenge convention. Leave with a sense of the duty of service.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: Every school will tell you it cares about the individual. Where Bryanston differs in practice is the time it allocates for pupils’ one-to-one contact with both tutors and teachers. This support makes a significant impact academically, socially and pastorally. We send pupils onto the next stage of their education who are comfortable and confident in adult company, and who know how to work successfully and independently.

Downside School

ADDRESS: Stratton-on-the-Fosse, Somerset BA3 4RJ WEBSITE: www.downside.co.uk FOUNDED: 1606 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 340 AGES: 11–18 FEES: Boarding £8,707 – £11,682 termly; day £5,063 – £6,642 termly HEAD TEACHER: Mr Andrew Hobbs RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Roman Catholic ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Testing, previous schools reports and references. We offer a range of scholarships to talented pupils at 11+, 13+ and 16+. Bursaries are also available CONTACT: Mrs Issy Hartnell EMAIL: ihartnell@downside.co.uk SCHOOL VISITS: Please book a virtual tour online to explore the school and talk to our headmaster, director of admissions and pupils THE CURRICULUM: We have a broad and balanced curriculum with particularly impressive maths, science, sports and creative arts departments. These are supported by extensive co-curricular options including digital leaders, environmental group and outreach to primary schools.

GAMES & THE ARTS: At Downside our sporting and arts cultures exists in harmony with our academic values. Major sports are rugby, hockey, netball, cricket, athletics and tennis. We have a performing arts centre and offer specialist tuition across a wide range of arts subjects. Our CCF band leads the Bath Remembrance Parade each year.

PASTORAL CARE: We are known for our high levels of pastoral care.

We remain a 76 per cent boarding school which means that we are a seven-day-a-week community, with all that brings in terms of friendships, esprit de corps and the sense of belonging which is at the very heart of our pastoral care. ‘The quality of the pupils’ personal development is excellent,’ ISI Report 2018.

UNIVERSITY PLACES: The majority of pupils achieve their first-choice university. Popular subjects this year were engineering, sciences and languages.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: At Downside, we are committed to working in partnership with families and to providing an environment which nurtures young people of integrity who can think for themselves, stand up for their beliefs and act to make a positive difference in the world. Downside is miles from the ordinary and beyond expectation.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: Our school ‘chapel’ is Downside Abbey Church – one of only four minor basilicas in England. The school is set in 500 acres of blissful Somerset scenery and boast extensive facilities including several sports pitches, an indoor swimming pool, a music-dedicated Mac-suite, a health centre and a performing arts centre containing a recording studio and 400-seat theatre.

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SOUTH WEST SCHOOLS

Hazlegrove

ADDRESS: Hazlegrove, Sparkford, Yeovil, Somerset BA22 7JA WEBSITE: www.hazlegrove.co.uk OPENED: 1947 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 192 boys, 179 girls AGES: 2½–13 FEES: Pre-prep £3,016; Prep Day £4,794–£6,115; Prep Boarding £7,093–£9,051 HEAD TEACHER: Mr Mark White MA (Hons) RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Church of England ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Informal interview and assessment.

CONTACT: Miss Ali Rogers, Admissions, 01963 442606 EMAIL: admissions@hazlegrove.co.uk SCHOOL VISITS: Open Days 3 & 9 October 2020.

Visitors always welcome by appointment.

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.

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.

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. SENIOR EXIT SCHOOLS: Numerous, including out own senior school, King’s Bruton, also, Eaton, Marlborough, Millfield, Sherborne, Sherborne Girls’, Winchester, King’s College Taunton, Tudor Hall.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: Over the last three years an impressive 100 scholarships and awards have been gained to 28 different schools, these included 22 academic, 34 sports, 16 music, 10 all-rounder, six art / DT and 12 drama.

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 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 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.

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SOUTH WEST SCHOOLS

Pinewood School

ADDRESS: Bourton, Shrivenham, Wiltshire, SN6 8HZ WEBSITE: www.pinewood.co.uk FOUNDED: 1875 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 415 (225 boys, 190 girls) AGES: 3-13 FEES: Pre-prep and nursery (full days): £3,035 – £3,210; prep school: £5,415 – £6,175; boarding supplement: £1,505 HEAD TEACHER: Neal Bailey BA Hons (Newcastle), PGCE RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Non-denominational ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Early registration is recommended CONTACT: Emily Miller, Registrar: 01793 782554 EMAIL: emilymiller@pinewoodschool.co.uk SCHOOL VISITS: Please telephone the school office and speak to the registrar, Emily Miller

THE CURRICULUM: Pinewood aims to equip children with the skills and knowledge to make the transition to Senior School as seamless as possible. While still offering CE papers in the major subjects, our History, Geography and TPE (Theology, Philosophy and Ethics) encompass overarching themes which promote a more skills-based approach to teaching.

Inculcating a love of learning and curiosity, combined with a sense that the whole experience of childhood is an adventure, remains at the heart of the Pinewood approach.

GAMES & THE ARTS: Facilities include a dedicated Music School, Theatre and Art Studios, as well as an Astro pitch and a purpose-built Sports Hall. 75 per cent of children take up a musical instrument or participate in our many choirs and bands. The games programme is full, competitive and varied; sport is coached most afternoons. Pinewood strive to make sure all children play in a team regularly.

PASTORAL CARE: Form tutors provide a vital link between child and parent and are responsible for the academic, spiritual, moral and social welfare of the children. When necessary, the Head of WellBeing & Emotional Support is on-hand to offer additional support.

The Houseparents, alongside the Headmaster, his wife and a boarding team look after the boarding children in the evenings.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: To release the children’s potential by developing character, curiosity, learning and skills through a variety of opportunities within the academic, sporting, musical, dramatic and artistic arenas, as well as through our wide-ranging activity and adventure programmes.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: The Pinewood co-educational philosophy, country location, flexible approach to boarding, size and high levels of pastoral care all combine to create an environment that allows children to enjoy a happy, secure and fulfilled childhood.

Port Regis

ADDRESS: Motcombe Park, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 9QA WEBSITE: www.portregis.com FOUNDED: 1881 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 320 (co-ed) AGES: 2–13 FEES: Pre-Prep £3,215; Prep £5,600–£6,995 (Day), £9,520 (Boarding) HEAD TEACHER: Mr Stephen Ilett MA RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Church of England ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Informal interview and assessment.

CONTACT: Mrs Lally Holme, Registrar, 01747 857914 EMAIL: admissions@portregis.com SCHOOL VISITS: Open mornings are held every term or personal tours are available upon request.

THE CURRICULUM: Our broad academic curriculum is second to none, enabling pupils to meet the challenges of pre-testing, Common Entrance and scholarship examinations. It is also designed to instill a love of learning and inquisitive, independent thinking.

GAMES & THE ARTS: The school has an excellent reputation for sport at both team and individual levels. Music, art, design, drama and technology are also very strong and we benefit from outstanding facilities. Dozens more hobbies, clubs and after school activities are also offered.

PASTORAL CARE: Every child matters at Port Regis and we take the responsibility of caring for all our pupils extremely seriously. We work tirelessly to ensure a nurturing atmosphere in which each child feels secure and happy. Boarding, in all forms, thrives at Port Regis and is rated Outstanding by Ofsted.

SENIOR EXIT SCHOOLS: Leavers move on to a wide selection of schools including Eton, Harrow, Radley, Winchester, Marlborough, Oundle, Sherborne Boys & Girls, Canford, Bryanston and Stowe.

RECENT SCHOLARSHIPS: 22 scholarships this year to schools including Marlborough, Bryanston, Sherborne, Sherborne Girls, Downside, Harrow and Radley.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: Our aim is to provide an outstanding education which will set your child up for life. We also strive to equip pupils with the qualities of character and the confidence which will see them through the next stage of their education and beyond.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: – Superb education and teaching by experienced and highly qualified, specialist staff, as well as excellent pastoral care.

– Proven track record of Common Entrance and Scholarship success.

– Exceptional academic, sporting and musical facilities.

– Pupils go on to a wide range of local and national schools.

– Located within two hours commute of central London and Heathrow.

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A very different kind of single-sex education Separate yet together

BOYS AGED 13-18

FULL BOARDING AND DAY SHERBORNE, DORSET

01935 810403 admissions@sherborne.org sherborne.org

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GIRLS AGED 11-18

FULL BOARDING AND DAY

SHERBORNE, DORSET

01935 818224 admissions@sherborne.com sherborne.com

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SOUTH WEST SCHOOLS

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: Boarding £13,425 per term; Day £10,015 per term HEAD TEACHER: Dr 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: 01249 857200, admissions@stmaryscalne.org SCHOOL VISITS: Individual visits throughout the term. Open days: 14 November 2020, 6 February 2021 and 8 May 2021.

Pre-booking essential.

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 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 RADA in the sixth-form.

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.

UNIVERSITY PLACES: The majority of the girls gain places at their first choice university (91 per cent in 2020). Expert advice is given on UCAS, careers and university choices.

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 excellent facilities as well as trips, outings and over 40 extra-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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SOUTH WEST & CENTRAL SCHOOLS

Wells Cathedral School

ADDRESS: The Liberty, Wells, Somerset BA5 2ST WEBSITE: www.wells.cathedral.school FOUNDED: 909 AD NUMBER OF PUPILS: Nursery 58, junior school 152, senior school 556 AGES: 2 – 18 FEES (termly): From £2,636 day, £8,093 boarding (junior school); from £6,126 day, £10,220 boarding (senior school) HEAD TEACHER: Alastair Tighe RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Christian. All faiths welcome.

ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Non selective. Informal interview, Cognitive Ability Test, previous term’s reports and a report from Head of current school.

Scholarship Day each January. Music auditions for specialist music scheme.

CONTACT: Jo Prestidge, Registrar. 01749 834441 EMAIL: admissions@wells.cathedral.school SCHOOL VISITS: : Families are welcome all year, contact the admissions office for appointments. Open days are held in March, May and October.

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: We believe sport is an integral part of school life and encourage pupils of all abilities to take part. 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. We all live by our core values of creativity, aspiration, responsibility and endeavour.

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 stateof-the-art 21st century concert hall. Wells is one of just four specialist music schools in England, and is utterly unique in being the only specialist music school in the world to be situated within the context of an all-round school.

Bromsgrove School

ADDRESS: Worcester Road, Bromsgrove, Worcestershire B61 7DU WEBSITE: www.bromsgrove-school.co.uk FOUNDED: 1553 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 500 (7 – 13), 950 (13 – 18), 507 boarders FEES: Prep day: £3,980 - £5,160. Weekly board: £6000 - £7,310. Full board: £8,280 - £10,215. Senior day: £5,695. Weekly board: £8,445.

Full board: £12,740 (all per term) HEAD TEACHER: Peter Clague, BA, MBA RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Anglican ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Entrance examination and interview.

CONTACT: admissions@bromsgrove-school.co.uk SCHOOL VISITS: Individual visits welcomed – contact Mrs Amanda James, ajames@bromsgrove-school.co.uk

THE CURRICULUM: Outstanding results at all levels including the IB Diploma, the majority of pupils go on to top UK and world universities.

GAMES & THE ARTS: There is genuinely a big variety of sport on offer and Bromsgrove is consistently ranked in the top five independent schools for sport in School Sports Magazine. The school has recently had teams in national finals for hockey, netball, cricket and rugby. The extracurricular life of the school is hugely important with activities sessions every afternoon and on Saturday mornings. Pupils are encouraged to reach their highest possible level at sport, music, drama, debating, CCF and in numerous other areas. Major productions take place every year.

A new performing arts centre was opened in November 2017.

PASTORAL CARE: Each house has resident house parents and a dedicated tutor team. There are no exeats: Bromsgrove is always open at weekends. The school has a team of nurses who, under the control of the school doctor, provide on-site medical care in the school’s modern health centre. Pupils enjoy high-quality varied food. Prep school boarders are housed in a superb state-of-the-art facility, and weekly as well as full boarding is offered.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: Bromsgrove’s scope is staggering: from A-level to the International Baccalaureate, day to boarding, the arts to sport, pupils can soar. Utterly dedicated to the individual pupil, Bromsgrove looks to produce creative citizens with a strong moral compass.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: The passion, vision and flair that have transformed Bromsgrove intellectually, culturally and on the games fields is also manifest in its latest facilities: a new home for performing arts; new residential buildings for senior and prep pupils and an immense sports arena development all show the School’s commitment to providing pupils with the very best environment in which to live and learn.

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CENTRAL & WALES SCHOOLS

Cheltenham Ladies College

Tettenhall College

ADDRESS: Bayshill Road, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire GL50 3EP WEBSITE: www.cheltladiescollege.org FOUNDED: 1853 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 840 girls AGES: 11–18 FEES 2020/21: Boarding £12,780; Day £8,580; New sixth-form entrants boarding £14,390; New sixth-form entrants day £9,760 (all per term).

HEAD TEACHER: Ms Eve Jardine-Young MA RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Christian – all welcome.

ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: 11+, 12+ and 13+: CLC’s own exams.

Sixth-form: exams in chosen subjects for A-level or IB. CONTACT: Admissions Department: 01242 707070 or admissions@cheltladiescollege.org SCHOOL VISITS: See the website for details.

ADDRESS: Wood Road, Tettenhall, Wolverhampton, WV6 8QX WEBSITE: tettenhallcollege.co.uk FOUNDED: 1863 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 400 AGES: 2 – 18 FEES: Junior boarding: £6,103 – £7,709; senior boarding: £8,791 – £11,060; sixth-form boarding: £8,791 – £11,060; flexi-boarding: from £210 extra a week; reception to sixth-form day: £2,552 –£4,858.

Current fees, as of September 2020, subject to change Spring 2020 HEAD TEACHER: Mr. Christopher McAllister RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Non-denominational, Christian ethos ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: Non-selective for pre-school to year 11.

Selective for sixth-form. Scholarship and Bursary Assessment Process required.

CONTACT: Mrs Emma Ray-Davies, Registrar, 01902 751 119 EMAIL: admissions@tettcoll.co.uk SCHOOL VISITS: Please contact the school’s Registrar to discuss private tours, taster days or register for one of the scheduled open mornings.

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 which develops intellectually curious, self-motivated, enthusiastic young women with an enduring love of learning.

THE CURRICULUM: Pupils are taught in small classes for each individual to reach their true potential across the curriculum. Pupils achieve strong GCSE and A Level results and go onto some of the top universities in England and abroad. BTEC in Performing Arts will be offered from September 2020.

GAMES & THE ARTS: We understand that every student is an individual, and appreciate the talent and potential of all our pupils. College offers a programme of over 160 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 girl, 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, expertise and opportunities to help encourage, guide, support and embolden students as they strive to find the right path. The Centre runs comprehensive programmes to support students applying for 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, prepare and equip 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 forms 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: College was founded in 1853 with the purpose of providing girls with a thorough academic education.

We remain committed to that pioneering goal, and pupils from all corners of the globe benefit from the knowledge and expertise gained from over 160 years of putting girls first and pursuing educational opportunities for young women. Girls are at the heart of all we do and we are ambitious for their futures.

GAMES & THE ARTS: An extensive sports programme for all ages through the school. From swimming to squash, seasonal sports to fencing.

Regular sporting fixtures to inter-school matches. The Performing Arts (Music and Drama) and Art departments attract and nurture incredible talent – winning numerous accolades and entrances into future specialist academies and universities.

PASTORAL CARE: Tettenhall College is known to all of the school community as the ‘TC Family’. Staff provide support and guidance to every pupil, creating a warm, friendly and caring environment. The school believes in a single, inclusive community in which everyone is valued equally. Teachers know their pupils extremely well and are able to respond to their individual needs, whether academic, practical or emotional.

UNIVERSITY PLACES: The dedicated head of sixth-form and head of careers, work closely with every sixth-form pupil, understanding and supporting the pupil to make the right choices for their next important stage in their education.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: The school is built on a core vision and values through the school’s overarching mission for every pupil to release their potential. A vision to provide an outstanding personalised education. A mission to nurture pupils to achieve their potential and discover their unique talents, to thrive for excellence, to foster self – belief. Creativity to have the freedom to adapt and evolve for the pupil’s future. The school community – to foster a safe and secure family environment. To cultivate emotional intelligence.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: The 30 acre campus boasts an original heritage Victorian theatre and indoor swimming pool, squash courts, playing fields, MUGA court, an extensive music department, art studios and science labs.

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CENTRAL & NORTHERN SCHOOLS

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NORTHERN SCHOOLS

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EASTERN SCHOOLS

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EASTERN & SCOTTISH SCHOOLS

Royal Hospital School

ADDRESS: Holbrook, Ipswich Suffolk IP9 2RX WEBSITE: www.royalhospitalschool.org FOUNDED: 1712 in Greenwich London, moved to current site 1933 NUMBER OF PUPILS: 689 AGES: 11-18 FEES: Day £16,440 - £18,330; Weekly Boarding £25,230 - £31,335; Full Boarding £26,490 - £34,140; For the Michaelmas Term only three-night boarding is £22,215 - £26,385 pa HEAD TEACHER: Mr Simon Lockyer, BSc MEd RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Christian ENTRANCE PROCEDURE: The school will consider entry in Years 8 and 10 in addition to 11+ and 13+ and 16+ CONTACT: Mrs Kate Evers, Senior Registrar EMAIL: admissions@royalhospitalschool.org SCHOOL VISITS: Open mornings 3 Oct 2020, Sat 14 Nov 2020 and May 2021 Private visits by arrangement during term time.

THE CURRICULUM: Balanced and enriched with the aim of stretching and challenging pupils of all abilities through active differentiation in teaching and learning. Three BTECS and 24 subjects offered at A-level.

GAMES & THE ARTS: Achievements outside of the classroom are as important as those within, and all pupils are encouraged to become fully involved in school life. This involvement helps produce confident, healthy and well-round individuals who will contribute to society beyond school.

PASTORAL CARE: Pastoral Care is at the heart of the school community and the ‘house’ evokes a sense of pride and belonging. Blake House for juniors in their first year offers a nurturing environment and a valuable stepping-stone to the senior houses (four boys’, three girls’ and two coeducational houses). Pupils in their final year are encouraged to live more independently in Nelson House, preparing them for life beyond school.

UNIVERSITY PLACES: 97 per cent gain places to their first choice university.

HEAD TEACHER’S PHILOSOPHY: We encourage pupils to show commitment, integrity and belief in themselves, whatever path they choose. Everyone has the potential to achieve exceptional things but we are all different. We focus on the individual looking for their strengths and nurturing their motivations. Education should be the foundation for lifelong happiness and success.

OUTSTANDING CHARACTERISTICS: Sailing Academy on site: RYA accredited training centre with 60 racing dinghies from beginner to Olympic Pathway craft and a fleet of Cornish Shrimpers.

Musical excellence: Chapel Choir perform at the Royal Albert Hall and St Paul’s Cathedral annually and Marching Band regularly play at Royal occasions and sporting events.

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Wells Cathedral School, Somerset

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London NURSERIES Cumnor House School Nursery 91 Pampisford Road, CR2 6DH & 13 Woodcote Lane, CR8 3HB T: 020 8660 3445 www.cumnorhouse.com Open Days: Personal Tours every day throughout the year.

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44 174

182

182

Eaton House Belgravia Nursery 3-5 Eaton Gate, London SW1W 9BA T: 020 3917 5050 www.eatonhouseschools.com Open Days: Open House or individual tours. Book at www. eatonhouseschools.com ■■L Eaton House The Manor Nursery 58 Clapham Common Northside, London SW4 9RU T: 020 3917 5050 www.eatonhouseschools.com Open Days: Open House or individual tours. Book at www. eatonhouseschools.com ■■L Eaton Square Nursery, Belgravia 28 & 30 Eccleston Street, London SW1W 9PY T: 020 7823 6217 www.eatonsquareschool.com Open Days: Contact the school.

■■L Eaton Square Nursery, Knightsbridge Rutland Gardens, London SW7 1BX T: 020 7052 9019 www.eatonsquareschool.com Open Days: Contact the school.

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19 150

148

146

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150

Eaton Square Nursery, Pimlico 32a Lupus Street, London SW1V 3DZ T: 020 7976 6511 www.eatonsquareschool.com Open Days: Contact the school.

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Lycée International de Londres Winston Churchill 1 Kings Drive, Wembley HA9 9HP T: 020 3824 4900 www.lyceeinternational.london Open Days: Contact the school ■■■■■L

149

North Bridge House Nursery 33 Fitzjohn’s Ave, London NW3 5JY T: 020 7428 1520 www.northbridgehouse.com Open Days: Visit: www. northbridgehouse.com/open ■■L

149

St Benedict’s Nursery 5 Montpelier Avenue, London W5 2XP T: 020 8862 2253 www.stbenedicts.org.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

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University College School Pre-Prep 36 College Crescent, London NW3 5LF T: 020 7722 4433 www.ucs.org.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

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153

152

Durston House 12-14 Castlebar Road, London W5 2DR T: 020 8991 6532 www.durstonhouse.org Open Days: Contact the school.

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156

Eaton House Belgravia Pre-Prep 3–5 Eaton Gate, London SW1W 9BA T: 020 3917 5050 www.eatonhouseschools.com Open Days: Open House or individual tours. Book at www. eatonhouseschools.com ■■9

156

Eaton House Belgravia Prep 3–5 Eaton Gate, London SW1W 9BA T: 020 3917 5050 www.eatonhouseschools.com Open Days: Open House or individual tours. Book at www.eatonhouseschools.com ■■9

Blackheath Preparatory School 4 St Germans Place, London SE3 ONJ T: 020 8858 0692 www.blackheathprepschool.com Open Days: Contact the school.

■■■■L Broomwood Hall Lower School 192 Ramsden Road SW12, 50 Nightingale Lane SW12 & 3 Garrad’s Road, London SW16.

T: 020 8682 8830 www.northwoodschools.com Open Days: Contact the school.

■■L Broomwood Hall Upper School 68–74 Nightingale Lane, London SW12 8NR T: 020 8682 8810 www.northwoodschools.com Open Days: Contact the school.

■■8 Chepstow House 108a Lancaster Road, London W11 1QS T: 020 7243 0243 www.chepstowhouseschool.co.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

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City of London School for Girls St Giles Terrace, London EC2Y 8BB T: 020 7847 5500 www.clsg.org.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

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Hurlingham Nursery The Old Methodist Hall, Gwendolen Avenue, London SW15 6EH T: 020 8874 7186 www.hurlinghamschool.co.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

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188

Bassett House School 60 Bassett Road, London W10 6JP T: 020 8206 7431 www.bassetths.org.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

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Chiswick & Bedford Park Preparatory School Priory House, Priory Avenue, London W4 1TX T: 020 8994 1804 www.cbppschool.co.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

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Falcons Pre-Preparatory School for Boys 2 Burnaby Gardens, London W4 3DT T: 020 8747 8393 www.falconsboys.co.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

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North Bridge House Nursery & Pre-Prep West Hampsted 85-87 Fordwych Road, London, NW2 3TL T: 020 7428 1520 www.northbridgehouse.com Open Days: Visit: www. northbridgehouse.com/open ■■L

Alleyn’s Junior School Townley Road London SE22 8SU T: 020 8557 1519 www.alleyns.org.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

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Croydon High School GDST Old Farleigh Road, Selsdon, South Croydon CR2 8YB T: 020 8260 7543 www.croydonhigh.gdst.net Open Days: Contact the school.

■■■■8 Cumnor House School, Boys 168 Pampisford Road, South Croydon, Surrey CR2 6DA T: 020 8660 3445 www.cumnorhouse.com Open Days: Contact the school.

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154

Eaton House The Manor Prep School 58 Clapham Common Northside, London SW4 9RU T: 020 3917 5050 www.eatonhouseschools.com Open Days: Open House or individual tours. Book at www.eatonhouseschools.com ■■9

155

Eaton House The Manor Girls’ School 58 Clapham Common Northside, London SW4 9RU T: 020 3917 5050 www.eatonhouseschools.com Open Days: Open House or individual tours. Book at www.eatonhouseschools.com ■■■8

61

144

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Eaton Square School 79 Eccleston Square, London SW1V 1PP T: 020 7931 9469 www.eatonsquareschool.com Open Days: Contact the school.

■■■■L Ecole Jeannine Manuel 43-45 Bedford Square London WC1B 3DN T: 0203 829 5970 www.ecolejeanninemanuel.org.uk Open Days: Visit the website.

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159

L’Ecole des Petits 2 Hazlebury Road, London SW6 2NB T: 020 7371 8350 www.lecoledespetits.co.uk Open Days: Weekly Thursday morning visits by arrangement.

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Fairley House School 30 Causton St, London, SW1P 4AU T: 020 7976 5456 www.fairleyhouse.org.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

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The Falcons School for Boys 41 Kew Foot Road, TW9 2SS T: 020 8948 9490 www.falconsprep.co.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

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The Falcons School for Girls 11 Woodborough Road, London SW15 6PY T: 020 8992 5189 www.falconsgirls.co.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

■■■■8 Falkner House 19 Brechin Place, London SW7 4QB T: 020 7373 4501 www.falknerhouse.co.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

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179

Francis Holland School (Sloane Square) 39 Graham Terrace, London SW1W 8JF T: 020 7730 2971 www.fhs-sw1.org.uk Open Days: 22 Sept & 5 Nov. ■■■8

148

Fulham Pre-Prep School 47A Fulham High Street, London SW6 3JJ T: 020 7371 9911 www.fulhamprep.co.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

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Fulham Prep School 200 Greyhound Road, London W14 9SD T: 020 7386 2444 www.fulhamprep.co.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

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161

Garden House School Turks Row, London SW3 4TW T: 020 7330 1652 www.gardenhouseschool.co.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

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152 159

Hawkesdown House School 27 Edge Street, London W8 7PN T: 020 7727 9090 www.hawkesdown.co.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

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153

Hornsby House Hearnville Road, Balham, London SW12 8RS T: 020 8673 7573 www.hornsbyhouse.org.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

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Hurlingham School 122 Putney Bridge Road, London SW15 2NQ T: 020 8874 7186 www.hurlinghamschool.co.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

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161

Ibstock Place Prep Clarence Lane, London SW15 5PY T: 020 8392 5803 www.ibstockplaceschool.co.uk Open Days: Friday mornings by appointment.

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L’Ecole de Battersea Trott Street, London SW11 3DS T: 020 7371 8350 www.lecoledespetits.co.uk Open Days: Weekly Friday morning visits by arrangement.

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Eltham College Junior School Mottingham Ln, Mottingham London SE9 4RW www.elthamcollege.london Open Days: Contact the school.

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Devonshire House Prep School 2 Arkwright Rd, London NW3 6AE T: 020 7435 1916 www.devonshirehouseschool.co.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

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Dulwich College Junior School Dulwich Common, London SE21 7LD T: 020 8299 8432 www.dulwich.org.uk/junior-school Open Days: Contact the school.

■■9

Eaton House The Manor Pre-Prep School 58 Clapham Common Northside, London SW4 9RU T: 020 3917 5050 www.eatonhouseschools.com Open Days: Open House or individual tours. Book at www.eatonhouseschools.com ■■9

155

Cumnor House School, Girls 11 Woodcote Lane, Purley, Surrey CR8 3HB T: 020 8660 3445 www.cumnorhouse.com Open Days: Contact the school.

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Dolphin School (inc Noah’s Ark Nursery Schools) 106 Northcote Road, London SW11 6QW T: 020 7924 3472 www.dolphinschool.org.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

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■ BOARDING ■ WEEKLY BOARDING ■ FLEXIBOARDING ■ BOARDING & DAY ■ DAY

James Allen’s Preparatory School 144 East Dulwich Grove, London SE22 8TE T: 020 8693 0374 www.jags.org.uk Open Days: Contact the school.■■■8 152

Kensington Prep School GDST 596 Fulham Road, London SW6 5PA T: 020 7731 9300 www.kensingtonprep.gdst.net Open Days: Visit the website.

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130

Kensington Wade 205 Warwick Road, London W14 8PU T: 020 3096 2888 www.kensingtonwade.com Open Days: Contact the school.

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162

Kew College 24–26 Cumberland Road, Kew, Surrey TW9 3HQ T: 020 8940 2039 www.kewcollege.com Open Days: 23 September 2020.

Please book by emailing registrar@kewcollege.com ■■■■L

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■ NURSERY ■ PRE PREP ■ PREP ■ SENIOR ■ SIXTH FORM

London 8-9 163

Kew Green Preparatory School Layton House, Ferry Lane, Kew Green, Richmond TW9 3AF T: 020 8948 5999 www.kgps.co.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

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Knightsbridge School 67 Pont Street, London SW1X 0BD T: 020 7590 9000 www.knightsbridgeschool.com Open Days: Contact the school.

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44 174

Lycée International de Londres Winston Churchill 1 Kings Drive, Wembley HA9 9HP T: 020 3824 4900 www.lyceeinternational.london Open Days: Contact the school ■■■■■L

165

172

105

157

170

166

166

Lyndhurst House Prep School 24 Lyndhurst Gardens, London NW3 5NW T: 020 74354936 www.lyndhursthouse.co.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

■■■9 The Mall School 185 Hampton Road, Twickenham, TW2 5NQ T: 020 8977 2523 www.themallschool.org.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

■■■9 The Moat School Bishop’s Avenue, Fulham, London SW6 6EG T: 020 7610 9018 www.moatschool.org.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

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Parsons Green Prep School 1 Fulham Park Road, London SW6 4LJ T: 020 7371 9009 www.parsonsgreenprep.co.uk Open Days: 10 Oct. ■■L

168

Pembridge Hall School 18 Pembridge Square, London W2 4EH T: 020 7229 0121 www.pembridgehall.co.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

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170

Prospect House School 75 Putney Hill, London SW15 3NT T: 020 8246 4897 www.prospecths.org.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

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169

169

186

Newton Prep 149 Battersea Park Road, London, SW8 4BX T: 020 7720 4091 www.newtonprepschool.co.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

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North Bridge House Pre-Prep 8 Netherhall Gardens, Hampstead, London NW3 5RR T: 020 7428 1520 www.northbridgehouse.com Open Days: Visit: www. northbridgehouse.com/open ■■L North Bridge House Prep 1 Gloucester Ave, London NW1 7AB T: 020 7428 1520 www.northbridgehouse.com Open Days: Visit: www. northbridgehouse.com/open ■■L Northcote Lodge 26 Bolingbroke Grove, London SW11 6EL T: 020 8682 8830 www.northwoodschools.com Open Days: Contact the school.

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166

Notting Hill Preparatory School 29 Lancaster Road, London W11 1QQ T: 020 7221 0727 www.nottinghillprep.com Open Days: Contact the school.

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167

168

Milbourne Lodge School 43 Arbrook Lane, Esher, Surrey KT10 9EG T: 01372 462737 www.milbournelodge.co.uk Open Days: 18 Sept & 21 Nov. ■■■L

147

170

Orley Farm School South Hill Avenue, Harrow on the Hill HA1 3NU T: 020 8869 7634 www.orleyfarm.harrow.sch.uk Open Days: 10 Oct 2020; please register online.

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Old Vicarage School 48, Richmond Hill, Richmond TW10 6QX T: 020 8940 0922 www.oldvicarageschool.com Open Days: 13 Nov. ■■■8 Orchard House School 16 Newton Grove, London W4 1LB T: 020 8987 9886 www.orchardhs.org.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

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165

188

172

171

173

Prince’s Gardens Preparatory School 10-13 Prince’s Gardens T: 020 7591 4620 www.princesgardensprep.co.uk Open Events: Contact the school.

■■■■L Queen’s College Preparatory School 61 Portland Place, London W1B 1QP T: 020 7291 0660 www.qcps.org.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

■■■8 Queen’s Gate Junior School 131–133 Queen’s Gate, London SW7 5LE T: 020 7589 3587 www.queensgate.org.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

■■■8 Ravenscourt Park Preparatory School 16 Ravenscourt Ave, London W6 0SL T: 020 8846 9153 www.rpps.co.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

■■■L Sinclair House School 59 Fulham High Street, London SW6 3JJ. T: 020 7736 9182 www.sinclairhouseschool.co.uk Open Days: 14 Oct & 4 Nov. ■■■■L St Anthony’s School for Boys 90 Fitzjohn’s Avenue, London NW3 6NP T: 020 7435 3597 www.stanthonysprep.org.uk Open Days: Visit the website.

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173

171

St Anthony’s School for Girls Ivy House, North End Road, London NW11 7SX T: 020 3869 3070 www.stanthonysgirls.co.uk Open Days: Visit the website.

■■8 St Benedict’s Junior School 5 Montpelier Avenue, London W5 2XP T: 020 8862 2253 www.stbenedicts.org.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

■■■■L St Dunstan’s College Junior School Stanstead Road, London SE6 4TY T: 020 8516 7200 www.stdunstans.org.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

■■■■L St James Prep School Earsby Street, London W14 8SH T: 020 7348 1793 www.stjamesprep.org.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

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u MIXED SIXTH FORM SpLD

Babington House School Chislehurst, London Borough of Bromley, Kent BR7 5ES T: 020 8467 5537 www.babingtonhouse.com Open Days: Early March and Oct. ■■■■L

215

Bancroft’s School High Road, Woodford Green, Essex IG8 0RF T: 020 8505 4821 www.www.bancrofts.org Open Days: Contact the school.

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175

Blackheath High School Vanbrugh Park, London SE3 7AG T: 020 8852 1537 www.blackheathhighschool. gdst.net Open Days: 26 Sept.

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176

The Study Preparatory School Wilberforce House, Camp Road, London SW19 4UN T: 020 8947 6969 www.thestudyprep.co.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

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City of London School Queen Victoria Street, London EC4V 3AL T: 020 3680 6300 www.cityoflondonschool.org.uk Open Days: Contact the school ■■9

176

University College Junior School 11 Holly Hill, London NW3 6QN T: 020 7435 3068 www.ucs.org.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

■■9

Croydon High School GDST Old Farleigh Road, Selsdon, South Croydon CR2 8YB T: 020 8260 7543 www.croydonhigh.gdst.net Open Days: Contact the school.

■■■■8

176

DLD College 199 Westminster Bridge Road, London SE1 7FX T: 020 7935 8411 www.dldcollege.co.uk Open Days: Please contact the college.

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177

Dulwich College Dulwich Common, London SE21 7LD T: 020 8299 9263 www.dulwich.org.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

■■■■■■■8

144

École Jeannine Manuel 52 -53 Russel Square London WC1B 4HP T: 020 3687 2330 www.ecolejeanninemanuel.org.uk Open Days: Visit the website.

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61

Eaton Square Mayfair 106 Piccadilly London W1J 7NL T: 020 7491 7393 www.eatonsquareschool.com Open Days: Contact the school.

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178

Eltham College Grove Park Rd, Mottingham, London SE9 4QF T: 020 8857 1455 www.elthamcollege.london Open Days: Contact the school.

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157

Fairley House School 30 Causton Street, London SW1P 4AU T: 020 79765456 www.fairleyhouse.org.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

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180

Forest School College Place, London E17 3PY T: 020 8520 1744 www.forest.org.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

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179

Francis Holland School (Regent’s Park, NW1) Ivor Place, London NW1 6XR T: 020 7723 0176 www.fhs-nw1.org.uk Open Days: 17, 24 Sept & 7, 15 Oct. ■■■8

179

Francis Holland School (Sloane Square, SW1) 39 Graham Terrace, London SW1W 8JF T: 020 7730 2971 www.fhs-sw1.org.uk Open Days: 18, 23 Sept & 2, 8 Oct. ■■■8

St Phillip’s School 6 Wetherby Place, London SW7 6NE T: 020 7373 3944 www.stpschool.co.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

■■9 Sydenham High Prep School GDST 15 Westwood Hill, London SE26 6BL T: 020 8557 7004 www.sydenhamhighschool. gdst.net Open Days: Contact the school.

■■■8

Wetherby Kensington 4 Wetherby Gardens SW5 0JN T: 0203 910 9760 www.wetherby-kensington.co.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

■9 Wetherby School 11 Pembridge Square, London W2 4ED T: 020 7727 9581 www.wetherbyschool.co.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

■■9 Wetherby Preparatory School Bryanston Square, London W1H 2EA T: 020 7535 3520 www.wetherbyprep.co.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

■■9 The White House Preparatory School & Woodentops Kindergarten 24 Thornton Road, London SW12 0LF T: 020 8674 9514 www.whitehouseschool.com Open Days: Contact the school.

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SENIOR IFC-1 ACS International Cobham Portsmouth Road, Cobham, Surrey KT11 1BL T: 01932 869744 www.acs-schools.com/acs-cobham Open Days: Contact the school.

■■■■■■■■L IFC-1 ACS International Egham London Road, Egham, Surrey TW20 0HS T: 01784 430611 www.acs-schools.com/acs-egham Open Days: Contact the school.

■■■■■■L IFC-1 ACS International Hillingdon 108 Vine Lane, Hillingdon, Middlesex UB10 0BE T: 01895 818402 www.acs-schools.com/acshillingdon Open Days: Contact the school.

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196

St Paul’s Juniors St Paul’s School, Lonsdale Road, London SW13 9JT T: 020 8748 3461 www.stpaulsschool.org.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

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165

167

■ BOARDING ■ WEEKLY BOARDING ■ FLEXIBOARDING ■ BOARDING & DAY ■ DAY

Alleyn’s School Townley Road London SE22 8SU T: 020 8557 1500 www.alleyns.org.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

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Home Counties South 177

Fulham Senior School 200 Greyhound Rd, London W14 9SD T: 020 7386 2444 www.fulhamprep.co.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

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8-9 183

Maida Vale School 18 Saltram Crescent, London W9 3HR T: 020 3196 1860 www.maidavaleschool.com Open Days: Contact the school.

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179

Godolphin and Latymer School Iffley Road, London W6 0PG T: 020 8741 1936 www.godolphinandlatymercom Open Days: Contact the school.

■■8

55

Merchant Taylors’ School Sandy Lodge, Northwood HA6 2HT T: 01923 845514 www.mtsn.org.uk Open Day: 26 Sept.

■■■9

Haberdashers’ Aske’s Boys’ School Butterfly Lane, Elstree, WD6 3AF T: 020 8266 1700 www.habsboys.org.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

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105

16

Haberdashers’ Aske’s School for Girls Aldenham Road, Elstree WD6 3BT T: 020 8266 2300 www.habsgirls.org.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

■■■■8 180

Hampton Court House Hampton Court Road, East Molesey, KT8 9BS T: 020 8614 0857 www.hamptoncourthouse.co.uk Open Days: Every Wednesday.

Please contact the school.

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6-7

182

182

Harrow School 5 High Street, Harrow on the Hill HA1 3HP T: 020 8872 8007 www.harrowschool.org.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

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Harrow School Online T: 020 3024 4861 www.harrowschoolonline.org Open Days: Contact the school.

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181

Ibstock Place School Clarence Lane, London SW15 5PY T: 020 8392 5803 www.ibstockplaceschool.co.uk Open Days: 19 Sept.

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178

James Allen’s Girls’ School 144 East Dulwich Grove, London SE22 8TE T: 020 8693 1181 www.jags.org.uk Open Days: 23 Sept, 3 Oct & 15 Oct. ■■8

181

8-9 183

John Lyon School Middle Road, Harrow on the Hill HA2 0HN T: 020 8515 9400 www.johnlyon.org Open Days: Contact the school.

■■■9

MPW London 90–92 Queen’s Gate, London SW7 5AB T: 020 7835 1355 www.mpw.ac.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

■■■L North Bridge House Senior Canonbury 6-9 Canonbury Place, London N1 2NQ T: 020 7428 1520 www.northbridgehouse.com Open Days: Visit: www. northbridgehouse.com/open ■■L

202

Royal Masonic School for Girls, Rickmansworth, Hertfordshire, WD3 4HF T: 01923 773168 rmsforgirls.org.uk Open Days: 21 - 26 Sept ■■■■■■■8

188

IFC-1

ACS International Cobham Portsmouth Road, Cobham, Surrey KT11 1BL T: 01932 869744 www.acs-schools.com/acs-cobham Open Days: Contact the school.

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IFC-1

ACS International Egham London Road, Egham, Surrey TW20 0HS T: 01784 430611 www.acs-schools.com/acs-egham Open Days: Contact the school.

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St Benedict’s School – Senior & Sixth-Form 54, Eaton Rise, London W5 2ES T: 020 8862 2254 www.stbenedicts.org.uk Open Days: 3 Oct. ■■■■■■L

194

Aldro Lombard St, Shackleford, Godalming, Surrey GU8 6AS T: 01483 813535 www.aldro.org Open Days: Contact the school.

■■■■9

187

St Dunstan’s College Stanstead Road, London SE6 4TY T: 020 8516 7200 www.stdunstans.org.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

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196

Babington House School Chislehurst, London Borough of Bromley, Kent BR7 5ES T: 020 8467 5537 www.babingtonhouse.com Open Days: Early March and Oct. ■■■■L

184

St Helen’s School Eastbury Road, Northwood HA6 3AS T: 01923 843210 www.sthelens.london Open Days: 22 Sept (prep), 23 Sept (senior), 15 Oct (sixth-form), 21 Oct (prep) and 22 Oct (senior).

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192

Banstead Prep School Sutton Lane, Banstead SM7 3RA T: 01737 363600 www.bansteadprep.com Open Days: Contact the school.

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St Paul’s School Lonsdale Rd, London SW13 9JT T: 020 8748 9162 www.stpaulsschool.org.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

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192

Bedales Steep, Petersfield, Hampshire GU32 2DG T: 01730 711733 www.bedales.org.uk Open Days: 19 Sept, 3 Oct & 28 Nov. ■■■■■■■■L

St Paul’s Girls’ School Brook Green, London W6 7BS T: 020 7605 4882 www.spgs.org Open Days: Contact the school.

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53

Bede’s Prep School Duke’s Drive, Eastbourne East Sussex BN20 7XL T: 01323 734222 www.bedes.org Open Days: 26 September.

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53

Bede’s Senior School Upper Dicker, East Sussex BN27 3QH T: 01323 843252 www.bedes.org Open Days: 12 September.

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195

Benenden Cranbrook, Kent TN17 4AA T: 01580 240592 www.benenden.school Open Days: Contact the school.

■■■8

North London Collegiate School Canons, Canons Drive, Edgware HA8 7RJ T: 020 8952 0912 www.nlcs.org.uk Open Days: Visit the website.

■■■■■8 184

Northwood College for Girls GDST Maxwell Road, Northwood, HA6 2YE T: 01923 825446 www.northwoodcollege.gdst.net Open Day: Contact the school.

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147 187

Northwood Senior School 3 Garrad’s Road, London SW16 1JZ www.northwoodschools.com Opening: September 2020.

All site event 9 Oct ■■■L Old Palace of John Whitgift School Old Palace Road, Croydon CR0 1AX T: 020 8688 2027 www.oldpalace.croydon.sch.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

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182

Portland Place School 56-58 Portland Place, London W1B 1NJ T: 020 7307 8700 www.portland-place.co.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

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14

Putney High School GDST 35 Putney Hill, London SW15 6BH T: 020 8788 4886 www.putneyhigh.gdst.net Open Days: Contact the school.

■■■■■8

Latymer Upper School King Street, London W6 9LR T: 020 7993 0063 www.latymer–upper.org Open Days: Contact the school.

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186

Lycée International de Londres Winston Churchill 1 Kings Drive, Wembley HA9 9HP T: 020 3824 4900 www.lyceeinternational.london Open Days: Contact the school ■■■■■L

185

Kew House School 6 Capital Interchange Way, London TW8 0EX T: 020 8742 2038 www.kewhouseschool.com Open Days: Contact the school.

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Redcliffe School 47 Redcliffe Gardens, London SW10 9JH T: 020 7352 9247 www.redcliffeschool.com Open Days: Tours every Tues and Thurs. Please call to book.

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North Bridge House Senior Hampstead 65 Rosslyn Hill, London NW3 5UD T: 020 7428 1520 www.northbridgehouse.com Open Days: Visit: www. northbridgehouse.com/open ■■L

185

King’s College School Southside, Wimbledon Common, London SW19 4TT T: 020 8255 5300 www.kcs.org.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

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44 174

The Moat School Bishop’s Avenue, Fulham, London SW6 6EG T: 020 7610 9018 www.moatschool.org.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

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179

186

188

189

Sydenham High Senior School GDST 19 Westwood Hill, London SE26 6BL T: 020 8557 7004 www.sydenhamhighschool. gdst.net Open Days: Contact the school.

■■■8 Trinity School Shirley Park, Croydon CR9 7AT T: 020 8656 9541 www.trinity-school.org Open Days: Contact the school.

■■■9u University College School Frognal, London NW3 6XH T: 020 7433 2117 www.ucs.org.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

■■■9u Westminster School Little Dean’s Yard, London SW1P 3PF T: 020 7963 1003 www.westminster.org.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

190

Wetherby Senior School 100 Marylebone Lane, London W1U 2QU T: 020 7535 3530 www.wetherbysenior.co.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

■■9

Queen’s Gate 131-133 Queen’s Gate, London SW7 5LE. T: 020 7589 3587 www.queensgate.org.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

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189

Whitgift School Haling Park, South Croydon CR2 6YT T: 020 8688 9222 www.whitgift.co.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

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Queenswood Shepherd’s Way, Brookmans Park, Hatfield AL9 6NS T: 01707 602500 www.queenswood.org Open Days: Contact the school.

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186

Wimbledon High School GDST Mansel Road, London SW19 4AB T: 020 8971 0900 www.wimbledonhigh.gdst.net Open Days: Contact the school.

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Brambletye East Grinstead, Sussex RH19 3PD T: 01342 321004 www.brambletye.co.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

■■■L 17 193

Brighton College Eastern Road, Brighton BN2 0AL T: 01273 704200 www.brightoncollege.org.uk Open Days: College: 26 Sept; prep: 3 October; sixth-form: 10 October ■■■■■■■L

199

Caterham School Harestone Valley Rd, Caterham, Surrey CR3 6YA T: 01883 343028 www.caterhamschool.co.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

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22

Charterhouse Godalming, Surrey GU7 2DX T: 01483 291501 www.charterhouse.org.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

■■■9u Christ’s Hospital School Horsham,West Sussex RH13 0YP. T: 01403 211293 www.christs-hospital.org.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

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COUNTRY SCHOOLS

Home Counties South

■ NURSERY ■ PRE PREP ■ PREP ■ SENIOR ■ SIXTH FORM

■ BOARDING ■ WEEKLY BOARDING ■ FLEXIBOARDING ■ BOARDING & DAY ■ DAY

24 197

Cranleigh Preparatory School Horseshoe Lane, Cranleigh, Surrey GU6 8QH T: 01483 542051 www.cranprep.org Open Days: Contact the school.

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BC

Hurtwood House Holmbury St Mary, Dorking, Surrey RH5 6NU T: 01483 279000 www.hurtwoodhouse.com Open Days: Headmaster’s interviews by appointment only.

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24 197

Cranleigh School Horseshoe Lane, Cranleigh, Surrey GU6 8QQ T: 01483 273666 www.cranwleigh.org Open Days: Please book a visit ■■■■L

202

Kent College, Canterbury Whitstable Rd, Canterbury, Kent CT2 9DT T: 01227 763231 www.kentcollege.co.uk Open Days: 3 Oct & 17 Nov. ■■■■L

194

Claremont Fan Court School Claremont Drive, Esher, Surrey KT10 9LY T: 01372 467841 www.claremontfancourt.co.uk Open Days: 19 September (years seven to 11and sixth-form) & 10 October (years seven to 11 and sixth-form) .

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200

King Edward’s Witley Godalming, Surrey GU8 5SG T: 01428 686700 www.kesw.org Open Days: Contact the school.

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210

Lancing College Lancing, West Sussex BN15 0RW T: 01273 465805 www.lancingcollege.co.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

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212

193

195

85

Cottesmore School Buchan Hill, Pease Pottage, West Sussex RH11 9AU T: 01293 520648 www.cottesmoreschool.com Open Days: 26 Sept & 21 Nov. ■■■L Cumnor House Sussex London Rd, Danehill, Haywards Heath, Sussex RH17 7HT T: 01825 792006 www.cumnor.co.uk Open Days: 25 Sept.

■■■■L Duke of York’s Royal Military School Dover, Kent, CT15 5EQ T: 01304 245023 www.doyrms.com Open Days: Contact the school.

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196

Dunottar School High Trees Rd, Reigate, Surrey RH2 7EL T: 01737 761945 www.dunottarschool.com Open Days: Contact the school.

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203

Eastbourne College Old Wish Rd, Eastbourne BN21 4JX T: 01323 452323 www.eastbourne-college.co.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

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198

198

Edgeborough School Frensham, Surrey, GU10 3AH T: 01252 792495 www.edgeborough.co.uk Open Days: 2 Oct. ■■■■L Embley Embley Park, Romsey, Hampshire S051 6ZE T: 01794 512206 www.embley.org.uk Open Days: 26 Sept, 15 Oct, 4 Nov & 17 Nov. ■■■■■L

12

200

207

211

206 209

205

208

203

Farleigh School Red Rice, Andover, Hampshire SP11 7PW T: 01264 712838 www.farleighschool.com Open Days: Contact the school.

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196

Farringtons School Perry St, Chislehurst, Kent BR7 6LR T: 020 8467 0256 www.farringtons.org.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

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209

Highfield and Brookham School Highfield Lane, Liphook, Hampshire GU30 7LQ T: 01428 728000 www.highfieldschool.org.uk Open Days: 26 Sept, 9 Jan .

Personalised visits are available throughout the year.

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202

201

59

Hurst College College Ln, Hurstpierpoint, West Sussex BN6 9JS. T: 01273 833636 www.hppc.co.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

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210

8 GIRLS 9 BOYS L MIXED

u MIXED SIXTH FORM SpLD

Sevenoaks Prep School Godden Green, Sevenoaks, Kent TN15 0JU T: 01732 762336 www.theprep.org.uk Open Days: Open to visits any day during term time.

■■■L Sevenoaks School Sevenoaks, Kent TN13 1HU T: 01732 455133 www.sevenoaksschool.org Open Days: Contact the school.

■■■L St Catherine’s, Bramley Station Rd, Bramley, Guildford GU5 0DF T: 01483 899609 www.stcatherines.info Open Days: 22 Sept, 15 Oct & 19 Nov. ■■■■■■■8

Bancroft’s School High Road, Woodford Green, Essex IG8 0RF T: 020 8505 4821 www.www.bancrofts.org Open Days: Contact the school.

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215

St Edmund’s School Canterbury St Thomas’ Hill, Canterbury, Kent CT2 8HU T: 01227 475601 www.stedmunds.org.uk Open Days: 3 Oct 2020, 12 March 2021& 12 June 2021 (open house: meet the heads).

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Beachborough School Westbury, Nr. Brackley, Nort Hants NN13 5LB T: 01280 700071 www.beachborough.com Open Days: 2 Oct. ■■■■L

228

Beechwood Park Markyate, Herts AL3 8AW T: 01582 840333 www.beechwoodpark.com Open Days: Contact the school.

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215

Berkhamsted School Overton House, 131 High Street Berkhamsted, Herts HP4 2DJ T: 01442 358001 www.berkhamsted.com Open Days: 21 Sept.

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18

Cheam School Headley, Newbury, Berkshire RG19 8LD T: 01635 267822 www.cheamschool.com Open Days: Visits by appointment.

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218

Christ Church Cathedral School 3 Brewer Street, Oxford OX1 1QW T: 01865 242 561 www.cccs.org.uk Open Days: 10 Oct. ■■■■9

217

Cothill House Cothill, Oxfordshire, OX13 6JL T: 01865 390800 www.cothill.net Open Days: Contact the school.

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218

d’Overbroeck’s 333 Banbury Road, OX2 7PL T: 01865 310000 www.doverbroecks.com Open Days: Contact the school.

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212

Mayfield School The Old Palace, Mayfield, East Sussex TN20 6PH T: 01435 874642 www.mayfieldgirls.org Open Days: 26 Sept.

■■■■■8

St Hilary’s Preparatory School Holloway Hill, Godalming, Surrey GU7 1RZ T: 01483 416551 www.sthilarysschool.com Open Days: Contact the school.

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206

Parkside School The Manor, Stoke D’Abernon, Cobham,Surrey KT11 3PX T: 01932 862749 www.parkside-school.co.uk Open Days: Friday 2 Oct 2020.

■■■ ■9

The American School in England Coldharbour Lane, Thorpe, Surrey TW20 8TE T: 01932 565252 www.tasisengland.org Open Days: Contact the school.

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204

The New Beacon School Brittains Lane, Sevenoaks, Kent TN13 2PB T: 01732 452131 www.newbeacon.org.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

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213

Tonbridge School High St, Tonbridge, Kent, TN9 1JP T: 01732 304297 www.tonbridge-school.co.uk Open Days: 21 Nov. ■■■■9

Reigate Grammar School Reigate Road, Reigate, Surrey RH2 0QS T: 01737 222231 www.reigategrammar.org Open Days: Contact the school.

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204

Roedean Roedean Way, Brighton BN2 5RQ T: 01273 667500 www.roedean.co.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

■■■■■■8 Rowan Prep School 6 Fitzalan Road, Claygate, Esher, Surrey, KT10 0LX T: 01372 462627 www.rowanprepschool.co.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

■■■8 The Royal Alexandra and Albert School Gatton Park, Reigate, Surrey RH2 0TD T: 01737 649000 www.raa-school.co.uk Open Days:Contact the school.

■■■■■L Royal Masonic School for Girls, Rickmansworth, Hertfordshire, WD3 4HF T: 01923 773168 rmsforgirls.org.uk Open Days: 21 - 26 Sept ■■■■■■■8 The Royal Grammar School, Guildford High St, Guildford, Surrey GU1 3BB T: 01483 880600 www.rgs-guildford.co.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

■■■9

Tormead School Cranley Rd, Guildford, Surrey GU1 2JD T: 01483 796040 www.tormeadschool.org.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

■■■■■8

214

Walthamstow Hall Holly Bush Ln, Sevenoaks, Kent TN13 3UL T: 01732 451334 www.walthamstow–hall.co.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

■■■■■■8

214

Walthamstow Hall Junior School Bradbourne Park Road, Sevenoaks Kent TN13 3LD T: 01732 451334 www.walthamstow–hall.co.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

■■■■8

21

Wellington College Crowthorne, Berkshire RG45 7PU T: 01344 444013 www.wellingtoncollege.org.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

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213

Westbourne House School Coach Rd, Chichester, West Sussex PO20 2BH T: 01243 782739 www.westbournehouse.org Open Days: 26 Sept.

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IFC-1 ACS International Hillingdon 108 Vine Lane, Hillingdon, Middlesex UB10 0BE T: 01895 818402 www.acs-schools.com/acshillingdon Open Days: Contact the school.

■■■■■■L 215

Lanesborough Prep School Maori Rd, Guildford, Surrey GU1 2EL T: 01483 880650 www.lanesborough.surrey.sch.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

■■■■9

Reed’s School Sandy Lane, Cobham, Surrey KT11 2ES T: 01932 869001 www.reeds.surrey.sch.uk Open Days: 19 Sept (virtual open day).

■■■■9u

Home Counties North

Winchester College College St, Winchester, SO23 9NA T: 01962 621100 www.winchestercollege.org Open Days: Contact the school.

■■■■9

217

Dragon School Bardwell Rd, Oxford OX2 6SS T: 01865 315413 www.dragonschool.org Open Days: Contact the school.

■■■L Eton College Windsor, Berkshire, SL4 6DW T: 01753 370611 www.etoncollege.com Open Days: Contact the school.

■■9

220

Elstree School Woolhampton, Reading, Berkshire RG7 5TD T: 0118971 3302 www.elstreeschool.org.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

■■■■■9

223

Felsted Preparatory School Felsted, Essex CM6 3JL T: 01371 822611 www.felsted.org/prephome Open Days: Contact the school.

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223

Felsted School Felsted, Essex CM6 3LL T: 01371 822600 www.felsted.org Open Days: Contact the school.

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COUNTRY SCHOOLS

South West 216

Greenes Tutorial College 45, Pembroke Street, Oxford, OX1 1BP T: 01865 248308 www.greenes.org.uk Open Days: Please contact the college.

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216

Haileybury Haileybury, Hertford SG13 7NU T: 01992 706353 www.haileybury.com Open Days: Contact the school.

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2-3

Heathfield School London Road, Ascot SL5 8BQ T: 01344 898 342 www.heathfieldschool.net Open Days: Contact the school.

■■■■8

219

221

221

224

St Christopher School Barrington Rd, Letchworth Garden City, Herts SG6 3JZ T: 01462 650947 www.stchris.co.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

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15

St Edward’s Oxford Woodstock Rd, Oxford, OX2 7NN T: 01865 319200 www.stedwardsoxford.org Open Days: Contact the school.

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226

St Francis’ College Broadway, Letchworth Garden City, Hertfordshire SG6 3PJ T: 01462 670511 www.st-francis.herts.sch.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

■■■■■■■8

Horris Hill Newtown, Newbury, Berkshire RG20 9DJ T: 01635 40594 www.horrishill.com Open Days: Contact the school.

■■9

226

St George’s Ascot Wells Lane, Ascot, Berkshire SL5 7DZ T: 01344 629920 www.stgeorges-ascot.org.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

■■■8

Lambrook School Winkfield Road, Nr Ascot Berkshire RG42 6LU T: 01344 882717 www.lambrookschool.co.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

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225

Ludgrove School Ludgrove, Wokingham, Berkshire RG40 3AB T: 01189 789881 www.ludgrove.net Open Days: Contact the school.

■■9

224

228

Moulsford Preparatory School Moulsford-on-Thames, Oxfordshire OX10 9HR T: 01491 651438 www.moulsford.com Open Days: 26 Sept.

■■■■9

222

Pangbourne College Pangbourne, Reading, Berkshire RG8 8LA T: 01189 767415 www.pangbourne.com Open Days: 19 & 26 Sept.

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219

Papplewick Windsor Road, Ascot, Berkshire SL5 7LH T: 01344 621488 www.papplewick.org.uk Open Days: 17 Oct. ■■■9

222

Princess Helena College Preston, Hertfordshire SG4 7RT T: 01462 432100 www.princesshelenacollege.co.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

■■■■■8

227

Queen Anne’s School Henley Rd, Caversham, Berkshire RG4 6DX T: 01189 187333 www.qas.org.uk Open Days: 12 & 17 Sept.

■■■8

185

Queenswood Shepherd’s Way, Brookmans Park, Hatfield, Herts AL9 6NS T: 01707 602500 www.queens,wood.org Open Days: 26 Spet & 12 Nov (virtual).

■■■8

202

208

Royal Masonic School for Girls, Rickmansworth, Hertfordshire, WD3 4HF T: 01923 773168 rmsforgirls.org.uk Open Days: 21 - 26 Sept ■■■■■■■8 Sherfield School Sherfield-on-Loddon, Hook, Hampshire RG27 0HU T: 01256 884800 sherfieldschool.co.uk Open Days: Contact the school ■■■■■L

St George’s School Windsor Castle, Datchet Road, Windsor SL4 1QF T: 01753 865553 www.stgwindsor.org Open Days: Contact the school.

■■■■■■L St Margaret’s Bushey, Merry Hill Roadm Bushey, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD23 1DT T: 020 8416 4400 www.stmargaretsbushey.co.uk Open Days: 10 Oct. ■■■■■8 Stowe School Stowe, Buckingham MK18 5EH T: 01280 818205 www.stowe.co.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

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225

228

227

Tudor Hall Wykham Park, Banbury, Oxfordshire OX16 9UR T: 01295 756263 www.tudorhallschool.com Open Days: 19 Sept (sixth-form) & 10 Oct. Visit virtually at tudorhallopenday.com ■■■8

229

Badminton School Westbury Rd, Westbury-on-Trym, Bristol BS9 3BA. T: 0117 905 5271 www.badmintonschool.co.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

■■■■■■■■8

236

Millfield School Street, Somerset BA16 0YD T: 01458 444296 www.millfieldschool.com Open Days: Contact the school.

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229

Blundell’s School Tiverton, Devon EX16 4DN T: 01884 252543 www.blundells.org Open Days: Contact the school.

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236

Millfield Prep Glastonbury, Somerset BA6 8LD T: 01458 832446 www.millfieldprep.com Open Days: Contact the school.

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230

Bryanston School Blandford, Dorset DT11 0PX T: 01258 452411 www.bryanston.co.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

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34

Milton Abbey School Blandford Forum, Dorset DT11 0BZ T: 01258 880484 www.miltonabbey.co.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

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231

Canford School Wimborne, Dorset BH21 3AD T: 01202 847207 www.canford.com Open Days: 10 Oct 2020 & 24 April 2021. ■■■L

234

Monkton School Monkton Combe,Bath BA2 7HG T: 01225 721133 www.monktoncombeschool.com Open Days: 3 & 8 Oct.

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79

Clayesmore School Iwerne Minster, Blandford, Dorset DT11 8LL T: 01747 812122 www.clayesmore.com Open Days: Contact the school.

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238

Perrott Hill School North Perrott, Crewkerne, Somerset TA18 7SL T: 01460 72051 www.perrotthill.com Open Days: Contact the school.

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232

Dauntsey’s School West Lavington, Devizes,Wiltshire SN10 4HE. T: 01380 814500 www.dauntseys.org Open Days: 10 Oct. ■■■L

235

Pinewood School Bourton, Shrivenham, Wilts SN6 8HZ T: 01793 782554 www.pinewoodschool.co.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

■■■■■■L

230 231

Downside School Stratton-on-the-Fosse, Bath, Somerset BA3 4RJ. T: +44 (0)1761 235103 admissions@downside.co.uk www.downside.co.uk Open Days: 7 March & 16 May. ■■■L

235

Port Regis Motcombe Park, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 9QA T: 01747 857800 www.portregis.com Open Days: Contact the school.

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233

Hanford School Child Okeford, Blandford, Dorset DT11 8HN T: 01258 860219 www.hanford.dorset.sch.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

■■■■8

232

Sexey’s School Cole Road, Bruton, Somerset BA10 0DF T: 01749 813393 www.sexeys.somerset.sch.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

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233

Hazlegrove Preparatory School Hazlegrove, Sparkford, Somerset BA22 7JA T: 01963 442606 www.hazlegrove.co.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

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237

Sherborne School Abbey Rd, Sherborne, Dorset DT9 3AP T: 01935 810403 www.sherborne.org Open Days: Group open mornings available, please call to find out more and book a place. ■■■■9

237

Sherborne Girls Bradford Rd, Sherborne, Dorset DT9 3QN T: 01935 818224 www.sherborne.com Open Days: Group open mornings available, please call to find out more and book a place. ■■■8

Winchester House School 44 High St, Brackley, Northants NN13 7AZ T: 01280 846497 www.winchester-house.org Open Days: Contact the school.

■■■■■■L York House Sarratt Road, Rickmansworth, Herts WD3 4LW T: 01923 772 395 www.york-house.com Open Days: Contact the school.

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King Edward’s School Bath North Road, Bath BA2 6HU T: 01225 820399 www.kesbath.com Open Days: Contact the school.

■■■■■■L 234

234

232

236

Kingswood Prep College Road, Bath BA1 5SD T: 01225 734460 www.kingswood.bath.sch.uk/prep Open Days: 11 Oct. ■■■■■■L

Sherborne Preparatory School Acreman St, Sherborne, Dorset DT9 3NY T: 01935 810911 www.sherborneprep.org Open Days: Contact the school.

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Kingswood Senior Lansdown Road, Bath BA1 5RG T: 01225 734200 www.kingswood.bath.sch.uk Open Days: 29 Sept & 3 Oct. ■■■■■■L

238

Knighton House School Durweston, Blandford, Dorset DT11 0PY. T: 01258 452065 www.knightonhouse.co.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

■■■■8

St Mary’s Calne Calne, Wilts SN11 0DF T: 01249 857200 www.stmaryscalne.org Open Days: 14 Nov. ■■■8

238

Leweston School Sherborne, Dorset DT9 6EN T: 01963 210691 www.leweston.co.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

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Talbot Heath Rothesay Rd, Bournemouth BH4 9NJ T: 01202 761881 www.talbotheath.org Open Days: Contact the school.

■■■■■■■■8

239

Marlborough College Bath Rd, Marlborough, Wilts SN81PA. T: 01672 892300 www.marlboroughcollege.org Open Days: Contact the school.

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Warminster School Church St, Warminster, Wiltshire BA12 8PJ T: 01985 210160 www.warminsterschool.org.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

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239 240

Wells Cathedral School The Liberty, Wells, Somerset BA5 2ST T: 01749 834200 wells.cathedral.school Open Days: Contact the school.

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COUNTRY SCHOOLS

Eastern and Northern

Scotland, Wales, Ireland and Rest of World

Rugby School Rugby, Warwickshire CV22 5EH T: 01788 556274 www.rugbyschool.co.uk Open Days: 19 Sept, 3 Oct, Nov & 28 Nov. ■■■L

EASTERN

SCOTLAND

Shrewsbury School The Schools, Shrewsbury SY3 7BA T: 01743 280552 www.shrewsbury.org.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

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247

Tettenhall College Wood Rd, Tettenhall, Wolverhampton WV6 8QX T: 01902 751119 www.tettenhallcollege.co.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

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Uppingham School Uppingham, Rutland LE15 9QE T: 01572 820611 www.uppingham.co.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

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Central 244

240

Bilton Grange School Dunchurch, Rugby, Warwickshire CV22 6QU T: 01788 810217 www.biltongrange.co.uk Open Days: Throughout the year.

■■■■■■L Bromsgrove School Worcester Road, Bromsgrove, Worcestershire B61 7DU T: 01527 579679 www.bromsgrove-school.co.uk Open Day: Contact the school ■■■■■■L Cheltenham College Bath Rd, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire GL53 7LD T: 01242 265600 www.cheltenhamcollege.org Open Day: Contact the school.

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241

242

242

115

243

Cheltenham Ladies’ College Bayshill Rd, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire GL50 3EP T: 01242 520691 www.cheltladiescollege.org Open Days: Contact the school.

■■■■8 Malvern College College Road, Malvern, Worcestershire WR14 3DF T: 01684 581500 www.malverncollege.org.uk Open Days: 3 Oct. ■■■Lu Moreton Hall Weston Rhyn, Oswestry, Shropshire SY11 3EW T: 01691 773671 www.moretonhall.org Open Days: 3 Oct. ■■■■■■■8

245

244

241

82

Wycliffe School Bristol Road, Stonehouse, Gloucestershire GL10 2AF T: 01453 822432 www.wycliffe.co.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

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Oakham School Chapel Close, Oakham, Rutland LE15 6DT T: 01572 758758 www.oakham.rutland.sch.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

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247

95

248

King’s School Ely Ely, Cambridgeshire, CB7 4EW T: 01353 660700 www.kingsely.org Open Days: Contact the school.

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43 248

249

Royal Hospital School Holbrook, Ipswich, Suffolk IP9 2RX T: 01473 326136 www.royalhospitalschool.org Open Days: Contact the school.

■■■■■■■L The Leys School Cambridge CB2 7AD T: 01223 508904 www.theleys.net Open Days: October, February & April.

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Kilgraston School Bridge of Earn, Perthshire PH2 9BQ T: 01738 812257 www.kilgraston.com Open Days: Contact the school.

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244

Radley College Abingdon, Oxfordshire OX14 2HR T: 01235 543174 www.radley.org.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

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246

245

WALES Haberdashers’ Monmouth Schools Hereford Road, Monmouth NP25 5XT T: 01600 711100 www.habs-monmouth.org Open Days: Contact the school.

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246

249

Campbell College Belmont Road, Belfast BT4 2ND T: 028 90763076 www.campbellcollege.co.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

■■■■L Clongowes Wood College Clane, Co Kildare W91 DN40 T: +353(0)45 838258 www.clongowes.net Open Days: Contact the school.

■■■9

Queen Ethelburga’s Thorpe Underwood Estate, York YO26 9SS T: 01423 333300 www.qe.org Open Days: Contact the school.

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Stonyhurst College Clitheroe, Lancashire BB7 9PZ T: 01254 827073 www.stonyhurst.ac.uk Open Days: 17 Sept (sixth-form); 10 Oct (St Mary’s Hall); 17 Nov (whole college).

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UWC Atlantic St Donat’s Castle, Llantwit Major, CF61 1WF T: 01446 799000 www.atlanticcollege.org Open Days: www.uwc. org/howtoapply ■■L

IRELAND

Aysgarth School Newton-le-Willows, Bedale, N.Yorks DL8 1TF T: 01677 450240 www.aysgarthschool.com Open Days: Contact the school.

■■■■9

St Peter’s School, York Clifton, York, YO30 6AB T: 01904 527300 www.stpetersyork.org.uk Open Days: 30 Sept (sixth-form), 3 Oct (11 to 16 entry) & 10 Oct (two to 11 entry).

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Loretto School Linkfield Rd, Musselburgh, East Lothian EH21 7RE T: 0131 653 4455; www.loretto.com Open Days: Contact the school.

■■■■■■L Merchiston Castle School Colinton Road, Edinburgh EH13 0PU T: 0131 312 2201 www.merchiston.co.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

■■■■■9

NORTHERN Ampleforth College York YO62 4ER T: 01439 766863 www.ampleforth.org.uk/college Open Days: Contact the school.

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Fettes College Carrington Road, Edinburgh EH4 1QX T: 0131 311 6744; www.fettes.com Open Days: 19 Sept.

■■■L Gordonstoun Elgin, Moray IV30 5RF T: 01343 837829 www.gordonstoun.org.uk Open Days: Visits available all year round.

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Gresham’s Cromer Rd, Holt, Norfolk NR25 6EA T: 01263 714500 www.greshams.com Open Days: 2 Oct (pre-prep), 3 Oct (senior) & 10 Oct (prep).

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Orwell Park School Nacton, Ipswich, Suffolk IP10 0ER T: 01473 653224 www.orwellpark.co.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

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Oundle School Oundle, Peterborough PE8 4GH T: 01832 277125 www.oundleschool.org.uk Open Day: Contact the school.

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Repton School Repton, Derbyshire DE65 6FH T: 01283 559222 www.repton.org.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

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Beeston Hall School West Runton, Cromer, Norfolk NR27 9NQ T: 01263 837324 www.beestonhall.co.uk Open Days: Contact the school.

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Glenstal Abbey School Murroe, Co. Limerick T: (+353) 6162 1010 www.glenstal.com Open Days: Contact the school.

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St. Columba’s College Whitechurch, Dublin 16, Ireland T: +353 1 490 6791 www.stcolumbas.ie Open Days: Viewings made by appointment.

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George School, USA 1690 Newton, Langhorne Road, Newton PA 18940-2414 USA T: 215.579.6500 www.georgeschool.org Open Days: Contact the school.

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67

Harrow School Online T: 020 3024 4861 www.harrowschoolonline.org Open Days: Contact the school.

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256 | SCHOOLHOUSEMAGAZINE.CO.UK | Autumn/ Winter 2020

Listings AW20 V2 PB[1].indd 256

27/08/2020 15:34

Santa Marina AW20.indd 1

08/09/2020 19:18

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 AW20.indd 1

08/09/2020 19:19