Meet the... Head
Introducing Philippa Archer from Ashford Prep School. She shares how it feels to return to her old school as Head
As an alumna of the school, how does it feel to be returning as the new Head? It has been wonderful to return to Ashford School. It is very different for a number of reasons, particularly that it is co-ed now, though the culture and ethos of the school remains intact. It still has the same high aspirations for pupils, whilst providing the most nurturing environment that I fondly remember from my own school days.
What does being part of an all through school mean for Ashford School pupils?
The pupils benefit from a wide array of staff specialism and expertise, taking part in extra-curricular clubs and activities across both sites. It allows for an abundance of leadership opportunities and gives pupils fantastic mentoring experience. The transition between the Prep and Senior School is seamless due to the wealth of knowledge held by staff, yet as pupils grow, the change to their physical environment allows them to mature and become more independent.
What changes have you planned for 2025? I would like to embrace the outdoors and ensure that the children at Ashford Prep benefit from our fantastic 35 acre setting everyday. I think outdoor time is essential when trying to accomplish excellence in the classroom; the two provisions should be part and parcel of everyday school life.
What’s next for the Pre-Senior Baccalaureate and learning skills in prep schools?
Our thinking and learning skills are well-embedded across the Prep School and transfer perfectly across to the Senior School. This year, we are giving
our pupils a greater involvement in their learning. They are taking real ownership of the process and are expected to evidence their strengths and set targets for each term.
Can you tell us about wellbeing provision at Ashford Prep School? We were shortlisted for Independent School of the Year for this category.
I think outdoor time is essential when trying to accomplish excellence in the classroom; the two provisions should be part and parcel of everyday school life.
My favourite...
Book: The Island by Victoria Hislop
Song: Mr Brightside by The Killers Place: Sydney, Australia
regular opportunities for pupils to perform. From Prep Nursery onwards, the children at Ashford Prep are on stage so regularly that it really does boost the children’s confidence enormously. From local events, to singing at the O2, each moment in the spotlight acts as valuable experience.
What should parents choosing a nursery look for?
Our dedicated Wellbeing Team, plus counselling support is available to pupils. We have worked hard to develop strategies that enable our children to voice their thoughts and feelings, actively encouraging them to take part in our provisions that support their overall wellbeing.
We loved seeing Ashford Prep School pupils perform at WT’s Fairs, can you tell us about music and performing arts at the prep school?
The standard of our Music and the Performing Arts is still something I am acclimatising to. It really is such a strength of the school. 96% of pupils play an instrument, a significant proportion take part in LAMDA lessons and there are
Parents should consider what is important to them as a family and look for a Nursery that replicates that. For some it will be an active connection with the outdoors, whilst others will be more interested in a provision that fosters independence and exploration. We are very fortunate to have two Nurseries, for children between 3 months and 3 years, and two Pre-School Nurseries for our 3-4 year olds. All provide excellent care but with their own unique setting and feel. You can tell a lot about a Nursery by the atmosphere that you will feel on your tour. The positivity radiated by happy staff will manifest in happy children thriving in a nurturing, fun environment.
Find out more about Ashford School at ashfordschool.co.uk/prep-school