Education combined

Education LIFE T h e

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Welcome...

The independent school system in the UK is one of the finest in the world, and you are fortunate to have some of the best schools in the country right on your doorstep. In today’s economic climate, making the right choice for your child’s education is of paramount importance.

Sometimes every parent needs a helping hand in deciding what is best for their children.

Our Education Life series is an invaluable resource for any parent considering private education.

Many schools will be holding open days during the course of 2014.

Encourage your children to come with you and get their feedback after each visit. Take a notebook with you and write down the positive or

negative things your child discovers from each school. This will be a useful tool when you are comparing notes! It also provides an insight into the way a child sees a prospective future school.

This month sees the second of our three main Education Life Guides, with the next appearing in the September 2014 issue.

We publish a dedicated Education Section in between to inform you each month of the latest open days taking place at the most prestigious schools available to your children.

If you would like your school to appear in our stunning guides, please call Vanessa on 020 8240 0036 or email Vanessa@fishmediagroup.co.uk

The finest schools in london & the home counties

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Learning your A,B,C’s

Our definitive guide to help you make all the right choices for your children

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here are 2,500+ independent schools in the UK which are independent of local or central government control.

Independent schools offer a wealth of facilities and high teaching standards that enable students to achieve great results year after year. Independent schools are in the unique position to provide a truly bespoke education for your child.

Choosing the right school for your child is an important decision that takes plenty of time and research.

There are a wide range of independent schools specialising in different age groups and needs.

Pre-Preparatory Schools

(Ages 2 years - 7 years)

Pre-preparatory schools - also called nursery schools or kindergartens correspond to nursery and infants stages in local authority schools. In pre-preparatory schools children are taught to read, write, develop numeracy and learn to play. Preprep schools are often attached to specific junior schools.Pre-prep school is the first time most children will experience education, as opposed to the daycare provided by kindergartons. Children will have to learn the basics of mathematics, science and English, and a host of other subjects.

Outside the classroom, many of the children will be having their first proper experience with team sports, music and/or choral tuition, and the arts.

Preparatory Schools

(Ages 7 years -11+ or 13 years)

Preparatory or prep schools, have a full range of subjects leading to admission to senior schools at 11+ or through the 13+ Common Entrance Examination.As their name implies, the preparatory schools are focused primarily on preparing boys and girls for their senior education, and the important public exams that come with it.

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Free of the National Curriculum, prep schools can differentiate their curricula according to what they think best prepares children for their later education. Most prep school children will be learning a foreign language from the very first year, and don’t be surprised to see subjects like Latin, Philosophy and Physics in the classroom, with cricket, rugby and tennis all on offer during games.

As children reach the end of their time at prep school, most will look to the Common Entrance Exam as their gateway into the senior schools. It is during this transition process that senior schools are also looking for talented pupils for scholarships and other awards, so the very able students may be asked to attend further examinations/ recitals/matches &c, depending on where their particular strengths lie.

In the state system, children are tested by the Government SATs, however many schools in the independent sector will have their own internal methods of measuring the performance of the children. There are around 499 prep schools in the Independent Association of Prep Schools, one of our constituent Head’s Associations, collectively educating over 134,000 children.

Senior Schools

(Ages 11 years -18 years)

Most of the pupils in independent education are in senior school, educating over 350,000 senior school students in almost eight hundred schools.

Independent Senior Schools offer approaches to education, subjects, facilities and sports unparalleled in the state sector – students can study History of Art, Government, Russian and Japanese, and try their hands at Astronomy, Ceramics or Equestrianism. They could be on their school judo or sailing team, and take trips all over the world. Whatever your child’s particular strengths, passions and interests, there is almost certainly a school which can offer the chance to try all of them.

BROMLEY HIGH SCHOOL

INDEPENDENT EDUCATION FOR GIRLS AGED 4‐18 YEARS

Cradle to College The benefits of allthrough education. words Louise Simpson, Head, Bromley High School

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chool choice, it seems, is a fraught process; parental expectations, fierce competition for the very best schools, hours of tutoring, pre-testing and waiting lists are an inevitable part of many children’s lives between the ages of 8 and 12 as they approach the end of their junior education and look forward to the challenges of senior school. From my perspective, as Head of an all-through school, it seems that those who come off worse in this scenario are the children. I interview lots of 10 year old girls and I am amazed at how little time they have in Years 4, 5 and 6 just to be children and to pursue the co-curricular clubs and activities that they love so much. They feel under pressure and spend a lot of their time practising for endless entry tests. That can’t be right, can it?

Fortunately, many schools now offer all-through education ‘from cradle to college’ as it were and there are huge benefits to this.

Securing your child a place in your chosen school at the age of 4 years gives you security for the future. In that school they will develop familiarity with the school, staff and their peers over an extended period and the school, crucially, will not be under any pressure to prepare your child for any entry tests. Just imagine the freedom in the curriculum that comes with that! Upper primary teachers in all-through schools can focus on exciting, creative project work, allow your child to follow their dreams and passions and try new topic areas well away from the Key Stage 2 or Common Entrance syllabuses. This freedom generates more innovation in the teaching and learning and makes for exciting, sparky lessons taught by teachers who are unencumbered by the straightjacket of having to teach to the test.

All-through schools offer many benefits to the older pupils too; there are myriad leadership opportunities for the senior pupils, clubs and societies, reading partnerships, sports coaching, clubs and visits are just some of the ways that pupils can work together, and the whole school can benefit.

Choosing a school for a 4 year old can be tortuous; but that need be the only choice you make. If you choose an all-through school at 4 you can sit back and enjoy watching your child grow, progress and thrive in an environment that will suit them from cradle to college.

Please get in touch with us at admissions@bro.gdst.net.

We look forward to meeting your daughter at our next open event.

OPEN EVENTS Thursday May 1st 2014 (2.15 ‐ 3.45 pm) Saturday October 4th 2014 (9.30 am ‐ 1.00 pm)

YEAR 5 TASTER DAYS Tuesday 17th and Thursday 19th June 2014 (12.00 am ‐ 3.45 pm)

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT LIFE AT BROMLEY HIGH SCHOOL

4+, 7+, 11+, 13+ and 16+ Fees assistance & Scholarships available in the senior school

Please register online to attend

With

Us she willThrive

Tel: 020 8781 7000 admissions@bro.gdst.net www.bromleyhigh.gdst.net

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Fairley House

Fairley House, described in the Sunday Times as ‘The Gold Standard’ is London’s leading day school for children with specific learning difficulties.

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e offer an education almost unique in that Educational Psychologists, with Speech, Language and Occupational Therapists are integrated into the school curriculum. We enjoy a central London location with excellent facilities.

Fairley House addresses the difficulties of children between 5 and 14 with dyslexia and dyspraxia. There is a staff/pupil ratio of 1: 3.5 and the average stay is two to three years after which children return to mainstream schooling with a new ‘can do’ attitude.

At Fairley House our intention is to provide your son or daughter with an educational experience which rivals that of any mainstream independent school. Many of our alumni have had excellent grades at GCSE and A-Level and progressed to top universities and now have successful careers in a range of areas.

...and all of a sudden, nothing is impossible.

‘The Gold Standard’ Sunday Times ‘A haven of expertise in the centre of London’ CReSTeD

London’s leading day school for specific learning difficulties 020 7976 5456 fairleyhouse.org.uk

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Education for Life..

School Tours with the Headmistress To book 020 7348 1793 www.stjamesjuniors.co.uk Earsby Street | London W14 8SH Registered Charity No. 270156

ST JAMES Junior School for girls and boys

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Educating young people of competence, conscience and compassion

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onhead Preparatory School in Wimbledon, is a thriving independent Jesuit preparatory school for boys aged 4-11 years. Applications from other denominations, faiths and those of no faith are welcomed, and 25% of places are reserved for non-Catholic applicants.

Children are prepared thoroughly for selective state and independent schools, as well as maintaining a regular number of pupils transferring to Wimbledon College, a Jesuit secondary school. There are 320 pupils in the school.

The school roll has doubled in the last 7 years and has benefitted from a £4.5m investment in additional and improved facilities during that time.

Jesuit education seeks to educate young persons of competence, conscience and compassion. It is hoped that Donhead leavers, in whatever profession they pursue, will be ‘leaders in service’; taking the lead in serving the needs of those who need their help most. To cultivate this spirit of generosity in the pupils is the core purpose of the school.

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The children are urged to do their very best in all that they do, develop their talents to the full and, in so doing, be able to make a real difference to others when the opportunity comes to them.

The by-product of this is considerable success in academic and sporting endeavours. Last year 9 Scholarship Awards were secured to selective independent schools and, in the last three years, two of the year groups have been National Champions at rugby, winning the National Schools Rugby Tournament. The school also has 3 choirs and an orchestra. The quality of music is a joy of the school.

Donhead is a strictly non-selective school, as it is not just clever boys who can make a difference.

Places are awarded on a date of registration basis only, with preference given to siblings and to boys transferring into our Reception Class from The Ursuline Preparatory School.

For more details please visit the school website at www.donhead.org.uk Donhead Preparatory School, 33 Edge Hill, London SW19 4NP

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DONHEAD

PREPARATORY SCHOOL A Jesuit Preparatory Day School for boys aged 4 to 11 years Outstanding Inspection Report available to view at www.donhead.org.uk Under 8 National Preparatory School Rugby Tournament 2013 Winners: NATIONAL CHAMPIONS        

Completion of £4.5M development Catholic ethos Children of all denominations welcome Entry and scholarships achieved to top state and independent schools All abilities catered for Outstanding sporting and musical tradition Extensive extra-curricular provision Wrap-Around Care from 8.00am to 6.00pm

Full admissions details available via the website.

To arrange a personal tour please contact: Mrs June Smith, PA to the Headmaster, at headmasterpa@donhead.org.uk or telephone 020 8946 7000 (extension 1)

S incl air H ouSe S cHool Montessori Nursery and Preparatory School for Boys and Girls aged 2-13

• Academic Excellence • Small Classes • Catholic Ethos • Extra Curricular Activities MoNtESSori NurSEry

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tel 020 7736 9182 info@sinclairhouseschool.co.uk www.sinclairhouseschool.co.uk

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PrEPArAtory SChool 59 Fulham High street, Fulham, london sw6 3JJ

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lower nursery 196 Munster road, Fulham, london sw6 6Au upper nursery 159 Munster road, Fulham, london sw6 6DA

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33 Edge Hill Wimbledon London SW19 4NP T: 020 8946 7000 www.donhead.org.uk

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Discover South London’s

best kept secret...

Virgo Prep School, an independent school for boys and girls aged 3-11

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irgo Prep School has a rich history of educating young minds.

Founded in 1848, it is part of a Catholic order where teaching is based on Christian principles with an emphasis on caring and kindness to others. This independent school is open to children of all faiths from 3-11 years.

The main objective of Virgo Prep School is to encourage every child to be the best they can be. By maintaining small class sizes, each child receives a personalised education from experienced staff while they develop their talents. Specialist teachers are provided for French, Art, Sports and Music.

This approach has proven effective, with all Year 6 pupils achieving 100% in Maths, Science and English before progressing to a wide range of independent, grammar and state schools.

Virgo Prep School has been described as “South London’s best kept secret” due to the warm and safe feeling of this small school set in large grounds, with a woodland area providing a superb location for outdoor learning. Each key stage has a separate playground, allowing children to flourish with their peers.

The vast playing fields regularly host major ISA sporting events including cricket, rugby, football, golf and cross-country.

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The Virgo Prep Nursery provides a nurturing environment where children settle in quickly and enjoy the benefits of being located within the Prep school. Ofsted said “The quality of teaching and learning is outstanding. Children’s attitudes to learning, their behaviour and general level of engagement are excellent, aiding them to make superb progress. The leadership and management are outstanding and extremely effective in promoting an inclusive environment in which every child matters.”

In a parent’s words, “I just wanted to thank you and your wonderful school for everything you have done. He has loved every moment of his time at Virgo Prep School and he is truly sad to leave, just as we all are.”

Extensive co-curricular opportunities range from additional foreign languages to gardening clubs, from ballet to Tae Kwon Do, allowing the children to gain confidence in a wide range of activities before progressing to the next stage of their educational journey.

Virgo Prep School takes pride in being a warm and welcoming school and considers pupils to be its best advertisement.

Call 020 8653 2169 to make an appointment to visit and discover South London’s best kept secret...

147 Central Hill, London SE19 1RS www.vfps.org

St Benedict’s, Ealing Independent Catholic Day School

Teaching a way of living

Co-education from 3 years through to 18

OPEN MORNINGS

20 May, 10 June – NURSERY 26 June – JUNIORS 6 May, 23 June – SENIORS ‘Outstanding’ Diocese of Westminster Inspection Report (Sept 2013) SCHOLARSHIPS AND BURSARIES IN SENIOR SCHOOL

To book a place at an open event or for more information, please contact: T: 020 8862 2254 E: enquiries@stbenedicts.org.uk W: www.stbenedicts.org.uk We respect the dignity of all and welcome children of other faiths.

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Nurturing potential

If Rosemead had any qualms about whether the Dulwich preparatory school could maintain its impressive entrance examinations record with an expanded Year 6, it had no cause for concern.

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he 46 boys and girls who sat the recent secondary transfer examinations have been offered 127 places, with 46 at award level. These include 29 academic scholarships, three foundation scholarships and one bursary.

This is the first time Rosemead has prepared a three-class Year 6 and Arthur Bray, the Headmaster, said the results were testament to the work put in by the boys, girls and their teachers. “We are extremely proud of our children; their success is the result of the unique partnership between parent, teacher and child that starts the moment a child joins Rosemead.

The children are nurtured to believe in themselves and to shine in everything they do.”

Rosemead pupils were offered places at 32 schools, including Alleyn’s (seven places, an increase of 75% on last year); JAGs (13 places, a 63% rise); and Dulwich College (six places, a 50% increase). There was also a 67% increase in the number of pupils – four – offered grammar school places. Several children secured entry to popular state schools, including Burntwood, The Charter, Graveney and Kingsdale.

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There was a significant increase in places at Streatham and Clapham Girls School, Sydenham School, Emanuel, and Royal Russell. A number of places were offered at Trinity and Whitgift, and at the more academically competitive City of London Girls, City of London Boys and St Paul’s School for Girls.

The recent enhancement of Rosemead’s art facilities has had a clear impact. A record seven art scholarships were given, plus three music and three sports scholarships.

Increasing a school from a two-class entry to three classes from Year 3 onwards is challenging and Mr Bray applauded his staff’s efforts. “The growth in numbers could have adversely affected the closeknit family feel of the school, but the staff have worked exceptionally hard and it is now an even stronger family.”

If you would like more information about Rosemead, please contact Debbie Louks-Middleton at admissions@rosemeadprepschool.org.uk or telephone 0208-670 5865. www. rosemeadprepschool.org.uk

Alleyn’s School

Independent Co-educational 3-11 years. Founded 1942. ISA & IAPS

Co-educational, academic excellence is closer than you think.

Westminster 3 miles

Surrey Quays 4 miles

Notting Hill 6 miles

Marble Arch 5 miles

Knightsbridge 6 miles

Greenwich 4 miles

Fulham 6 miles

Balham 3 Miles

Prep Department, 70 Thurlow Park Road, SE21 8HZ Pre Prep Department, Elmcourt Road, SE27 9BZ email: admissions@rosemeadprepschool.org.uk www.rosemeadprepschool.org.uk

Clapham 3 miles

020-8670 5865

The City 5 miles

Tours of the school are held on Tuesday mornings Bursaries available

Independent day school for boys and girls aged 4–18.

Dedicated daily coaches serving inner and outer London.

Chelsea 6 miles

Tuesday 3rd June 9.30-11.00

Borough 5 Miles

Open Morning

Alleyn’s School, Dulwich: 14 minutes from London Bridge; 12 minutes from Victoria.

Battersea 5 Miles

We all look forward to meeting you at our

SINGING FROM THE HEART Being a chorister at St Paul’s Cathedral is the experience of a lifetime St Paul’s choristers sing in one of the most famous and beautiful places of worship in the world, perform in concerts around the globe, and receive a first-class academic education at the Cathedral School. Boys are not expected to have fully-developed voices or much formal singing experience – enthusiasm, intelligence and musical potential are the keys.

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100% tuition fees for all choristers Assistance with boarding fees available One of the top preparatory schools in the country The finest musical education An amazing start to life

If your son is aged 6–8 and shows musical promise, do get in touch.

He could become one of the next generation of choristers at St Paul’s.

For more information please contact: Clare Morgan, Registrar, St Paul’s Cathedral School 020 7248 5156 · admissions@spcs.london.sch.uk

OPEN DAYS 2014 11+, 13+ Wednesday 17 September 2.00pm 11+, 13+, 16+ Saturday 4 October 9.30am 16+ Tuesday 4 November 2.30pm 11+, 13+ Wednesday 5 November 2.00pm All welcome – no need to book For more information visit our website alleyns.org.uk Tel: 020 8557 1478

DEVONSHIRE HOUSE PREPARATORY SCHOOL

2 Arkwright Road, Hampstead, NW3 6AE a co-educational iaPS Prep and Pre-Prep School for children from 3 – 13 with its own OAK TREE NURSERY for children from 2½ to 3½

OPEN MORNINGS tuesday, 6th May 2014 Wednesday, 7th May 2014

initial entry is usually into the oak tree nursery at 2½, Pre reception at age 3, or reception at age 4. there is a small intake at 7 and 8+ into Years 3 and 4 and there are occasionally vacancies for other age groups. academic / Music scholarships are available for children aged 7 or 8.

For more information contact the admissions’ Secretary:

020 7435 1916

enquiries@devonshirehouseprepschool.co.uk www.devonshirehouseschool.co.uk

A thriving Surrey prep school where boys get a head start • 125-year heritage, totally up-to-date teaching • Set in 45 acres of gardens and playing fields • Enthusiastic, dedicated and caring teachers • Exceptional results at Common Entrance • Huge range of sport and pastoral activities • Excellent transport links to/from London • For boys aged 4-13, with co-educational nursery

The Manor, Stoke D’Abernon, Cobham KT11 3PX

01932 862749 • office@parkside-school.co.uk

OPEN MORNING 23rd MAY 2014

Whitgift.

One of Britain’s finest independent day and boarding schools for boys excellent academic results more than 200 Oxbridge entrants in the past ten years

unrivalled sporting success over 100 national titles in the past five years

professional creative connections partnership with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra

unsurpassed curriculum IB, Bilingual IB, A Level or BTEC

exciting range of co-curricular activities 80+ diverse clubs and societies, from astronomy to wakeboarding

superb location close to central London yet situated in beautiful parkland

Open Morning | Saturday 20 September 2014 admissions@whitgift.co.uk +44 (0)20 8688 9222 www.whitgift.co.uk Whitgift. An outstanding education.

Whitgift School, Haling Park, South Croydon, CR2 6YT, United Kingdom

CE 4113 Fulham Life Advertisement:Layout 1 4/4/14 12:33 PM Page 1

York, North Yorkshire

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Ranked by the daily Telegraph the top Northern day and Boarding Co-Educational School for Academic results - average UCAS point score

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Over £65m invested in new facilities

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New £6m Sports Centre Wide choice of GCSEs, A-Levels and BTECs 98% of 6th form students go to University; mostly to prestigious Russell Group Universities Confident, happy and highly successful students Next Open Day is 10th May 10.30 ~ 3.30.

Come and see for yourself what makes us so special.

www.qe.org Thorpe Underwood Hall, Ouseburn, York | 01423 333330 info@qe.org

Fulham Prep School

Queen Ethelburga’s

Is your child the next sporting sensation, or perhaps a very good all rounder?

Find out how your child can reach their full potential by calling 020 7371 9911 (reception to year 2) or 020 7386 2444 (years 3 to 8) www.fulhamprep.co.uk

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Fundamentally different at

H aileybury ,

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any schools describe themselves as offering an ‘all-round education’ and much emphasis is placed upon their range of extra-curricular clubs and activities – from chess to cheerleading, squash to scuba diving.

Haileybury is different. The bespoke education Haileybury offers does not depend on children choosing ‘bolt-on’ options in order to balance their academic studies; the co-curricular programme is fundamental to a Haileybury education – it is a way of life.

Whether Haileyburians enter the school at 11, 13 or 16, the College strives to ensure all pupils fulfil their academic potential. The College prides

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itself on discovering as well as nurturing talent and offers a personalised learning experience that encourages intellectual exploration and practical ambition. Sport, music, art and drama are not just optional extras but ensure pupils engage outside the classroom and learn key life skills which will stand them in good stead for university and the wider world beyond.

Participation for all is crucial, but the school also actively supports individuals in the elite levels of their chosen sport. Current Haileyburians include national and international representatives in various age ranges in rugby, hockey, sailing and karting and the Performance programme at the Legends Tennis Centre on site provides coaching to promising young stars.

If your child is aged 9-12 and would like a taste of life at Haileybury, book a place now on the Boarding Activity Weekend on 18th – 20th July.

Visit www.haileybury.com or call the Haileybury Box Office on 01992 706355 for further details.

For further information, or to attend an Open Morning, you are warmly invited to contact the Registrar, Iona Hutchinson Tel: 01992 706353 or email: registrar@haileybury.com Haileybury, Hertford SG13 7NU @HaileyburyUK Registered charity number 310013 www.haileybury.com

inspires We are a leading 11–18 boarding & day school for boys & girls. Academic rigour and outstanding co-curricular provision are at the heart of Haileybury, providing the exceptional opportunities and truly all-round education that allow our pupils to discover enduring passions and talents. We offer a choice of IB Diploma or A Levels in the Sixth Form. Our next Open Mornings are: (11+) Thursday 15 May; (13+) Saturday 11 October; (16+) Saturday 13 September

For further information, or to attend an Open Morning, you are warmly invited to contact the Registrar, Iona Hutchinson registrar@haileybury.com 01992 706353 Haileybury Hertford Herts SG13 7NU

AN EXCEPTIONAL SCHOOL

haileybury.com

@HaileyburyUK

www.facebook.com/HaileyburyUK Registered charity number 310013

NEXT OPEN DAY 18th June 2014 9.30-12pm

(by appointment)

TOP 20 INDEPENDENT GIRLS’ DAY SCHOOL, AGED 3 TO 18 OUTSTANDING ACADEMIC RESULTS LOCATED IN NORTH WEST

LONDON ADJACENT TO NORTHWOOD UNDERGROUND

For more information contact admissions@sthn.co.uk Tel: 01923 843230

www.sthn.co.uk

WESTMINSTER SCHOOL www.westminster.org.uk

‘For the right girl or boy, simply the best.’ Good Schools Guide

16+ ENTRY FOR GIRLS & BOYS To find out about Open Days and online registration please look at our website.

13+ BOYS ENTRY To request a prospectus or to arrange a tour of the school, please call 020 7963 1003 or email registrar@westminster.org.uk For information about 7+, 8+ and 11+ entry to Westminster Under School please go to www.westminsterunder.org.uk Westminster School is a charity (No. 312728) established to provide education.

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Summer courses for young people AT MOUNTVIEW INTRODUCTION TO DRAMA SCHOOL Two-week courses specifically designed for students aged 17+ who are planning on training in acting or musical theatre at drama school. Taught in groups of 14 to 16 they give a taste of the life of a Mountview student and prepare participants for the audition process.

28 JUL – 8 AUG | £725 ENGAGE! Week-long courses for young people aged 9 to 16 years old develop acting, singing or dance skills through fun and dynamic workshops.

Students work in small groups towards an end-of-course show for family and friends.

28 JUL – 1 AUG | 5 – 9 AUG | £175

Find out more and apply

MOUNTVIEW.ORG.UK/SHORTCOURSES · 020 8826 9217

28/06/2013 12:12

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Sydenham High girls have a ball with charity challenge

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group of 12 and 13 year-old Sydenham High schoolgirls are hoping they have raised thousands of pounds for disabled mobility charity WhizzKidz by organising a grand charity ball as part of an Apprentice-style charity challenge.

WhizzKidz provides disabled children with the essential mobility equipment so they can lead fun and active childhoods. A wheelchair costs around ÂŁ1,000 so fundraising needed to go beyond cake sales.

Having secured the school’s main hall as the venue the girls hit phones and email to cajole everyone they could think of into helping them make their plan a reality. This included selling advertising space in their programme and collecting an array of desirable raffle prizes worthy of a professional charity fundraiser, from signed sports memorabilia to super-cool Beats headphones.

The ball was a huge success but they girls are still fundraising. To donate visit their Just Giving page at: www.justgiving.com/lexie-webb1

What makes us different is the difference we make...

From scientific exploration to personal discovery, our outstanding education goes way beyond the curriculum

Find out more at our Open Events Junior: Wed Sat Senior: Thur Wed Sat

7 May 27 Sept 8 May 25 June 20 Sept

9:30am 10.00am 9:30am 6.30pm 10.00am

Places for girls from 4 to 18 020 8557 7004 www.sydenhamhighschool.gdst.net admissions@syd.gdst.net

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11am 1pm 11am 8pm 1pm

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World War 100

I

By Michael Hale, History Teacher at Merchant Taylors’ School

n this edition, rather than write on current topics of educational controversy, we are devoting our column to an issue that will be at the heart of the teaching of history in independent schools this year. This year marks the centenary of the First World War, a conflict that changed Britain forever. In 2014, Merchant Taylors’ School will commemorate all those who served, and in particular remember the invaluable contribution made by Old Merchant Taylors’ (OMTs) in a war that we now recognize as the greatest collective undertaking in British history.

Dulce et Decorum est On the eve of war in 1914, the British army was a small, but well-trained fighting force of 247,432 regular officers and men, very different from the mass field armies of France, Russia, and Germany. R.B. Haldane (the Liberal Secretary Of State for War) who created an expeditionary force of six infantry division and one large cavalry division had reformed it between 1906 and 1909. In addition, Haldane had sought to improve the training of officers and looked to the public schools of England to provide suitable recruits. From the 1880s, the public schools had been an increasingly rich breeding ground for potential officers and accounted for three-quarters of the Woolwich entry (for the artillery and engineers) and over one-half of the Sandhurst entry (for officers of other arms) in 1896-1900. Haldane hoped that the public schools would play a part in a rejuvenation of the armed forces and the Ward Committee of 1906 advised that existing school cadet corps and university rifle volunteer units should be united to form the Officers’ Training Corps (OTC). Once founded in 1908, they proved immensely popular, and by 1910, there were 152 contingents in the ‘Junior Division’ at schools such as Eton, Haileybury, and Uppingham, and 19 in the ‘Senior Division’ at universities.

Following the outbreak of war in the summer of 1914, the British Expeditionary Force (B.E.F.) was sent to France. Between the summer and Christmas of that year, the B.E.F. lost 16,200 men killed, 47,707 wounded and another 16,746 missing and taken prisoner. Most of these casualties had been sustained by the regular army, which immediately called for volunteers to enlist. In the next eighteen months, 2,466,719 men answered the call to arms, and between August 1914 and March 1915, 20,577 officers were commissioned from OTCs, whilst it is estimated another 12,290 ex-OTC men were serving in the British Army. The schools had done their job but were fated to be racked by grief, on an unprecedented scale, in recompense.

Some corner of a foreign field As one of the ‘Great Nine’ schools of England, it was entirely fitting that 20 april2014

Merchant Taylors’ should have a cadet force although the exact origins remains a mystery. While boys were involved in external units from 1878, the official establishment of the Combined Cadet Force (CCF) was not until March 9, 1900. It swiftly became an integral part of school life and flourished in the early years of the twentieth century; many former members of the corps served during the conflict. Throughout the war, precisely 1820 OMTs served, including three recipients of the Victoria Cross, the most highly coveted decoration in the British Armed Forces.

Lieutenant J.C. Barrett, Midshipman G.L. Drewry and Captain A.O. Pollard were all awarded the VC for conspicuous bravery, whilst 297 other OMTs received war honours. One in six OMTs were decorated for their services in His Majesty’s Armed Forces. With ghoulish symmetry, approximately one in six OMTs were killed on Active Service too, fearful losses for any School to bear. In addition, 245 were wounded or gassed whilst 297 OMTs died, including the great England rugby union international John Raphael.

World War One hundred To commemorate the centenary of the First World War and the part played by Merchant Taylors’ School in the conflict, the School is inaugurating a series of events – World War 100 – which will run for four years. They include creating an interactive online resource where today’s boys will research OMTs who served in the conflict, and where families with historic links to the school can upload information about the involvement of their ancestors. There will also be an emphasis on the role of Empire, reflecting the rich cultural diversity of Merchant Taylors’ today: over 8,500,000 men from all corners of the earth served in the British Army in the First World War. In addition, we will also host guest speakers such as Max Hastings, author of Catastrophe. Europe goes to war in 1914 in April, undertake trips to the Imperial War Museum in conjunction with our annual visits to the battlefields plus art exhibitions, drama workshops and productions, major concerts, poetry recitals, cross-curricular learning and historical scholarship. Finally, we will utilize the school, OMT & Company archives to create a Book of Remembrance for all OMTs who served in World War 1. It is our aim to bequeath a legacy to the next generation of OMTs and we hope that they will understand, honour, and remember the sacrifices made by their predecessors one hundred years ago: “Time, like an ever rolling stream, bears all its sons away; they fly, forgotten, as a dream dies at the opening day”. We will never forget them.

MTS

e ducat i o n

Merchant Taylors’ School Excellence, integrity and distinction since 1561

1561

Open Morning

May 10th 2014 10.00 - 12.30

Wouldn’t you prefer a London school in the country?

40 minutes from Bond Street and Marylebone is: • 2015 Registration: 13+ June 30 2014 11+ November 30 2014 16+ December 31 2014

• A traditional boys’ education for your son at a ‘Top Ten’ boys’ school • Exceptional record of academic success • Inspirational teaching • Unique tutorial system • Civilized, friendly & unpressured • Magnificent sports fields • Superb facilities set in 250 acres

• Bursaries • Academic, Art, Drama, Music and Sport Scholarships

Getting here • Coaches Beaconsfield, Ealing, Harpenden, Harrow, Highgate, Mill Hill, Radlett, Stanmore • Car MTS is 15 minutes from the M1, the M25 and the A40 • Transit MTS is adjacent to Moor Park (Metropolitan Line)

and is accessible from any Jubilee/Metropolitan Line station Chiltern line trains change at Rickmansworth From Marylebone: Chiltern Line trains change at Harrow Travelling time from WC1/W1 is 40 minutes

Guided tours (last tour 11.30) The Head Master speaks at 11.15 and 12.15

www.mtsn.org.uk Find us on Facebook Merchant Taylors’ School Follow us on Twitter @MerchantTaylors

Please contact Gregg McCann, Admissions Officer admissions@mtsn.org.uk +44(0)1923 845514 Merchant Taylors’ School Northwood Middlesex HA6 2HT

Excellence, integrity and distinction since 1561.

For boys 11 - 18

100 YEARS OF HABS CADETS Haberdashers’ Aske’s Boys’ School celebrated the centenary of their Cadet Corps on 14th March 2014. A Spitfire flyover, piloted by local veteran Peter Teichman, was the crowning moment of this special event, which was a part of the Biennial General Inspection. Inspecting Officer – Air Commodore ME (Sammy) Sampson DSO MA RAF began the day’s events by inspecting the Guard and Corps of Drums at midday, followed by a reception and lunch in Aldenham House.

In recognition of the CCF Centenial celebrations Jake Krais wore a WW1 replica uniform. There were a number of Old Haberdashers who attended the event: Duncan Jenkins, Melvin Leong and Andrew Carr, the Assistant Clerk to the Haberdashers’ Company. The event was full of activities and competitions including a flight simulation classroom, an army section skirmish and sailing across Aldenham Reservoir. Air Commodore M E Sampson presented the trophies for the competitions and gave an address after the day’s activities. was valuable in aiding the cracking of the German ‘Enigma Code’, working with Alan Turing at Bletchley Park. Contacts between Habs and the Army are still strong. Old Haberdashers have served in Afghanistan and Iraq, with Major Jeremy Lamb receiving the Military Cross for his service. An Army scholarship has just been given to Russell Hughes, a sixth form member of the CCF 850 Old Haberdashers served in World War II – over half Army section. as officers. There were many honours awarded, 10 MCs (Military Crosses) and 9 DFCs (Distinguished Flying Crosses). Regrettably 87 Old Haberdashers lost their lives Haberdashers’ Aske’s Boys’ Butterfly Lane, Elstree, along with one master. There were many who made School Hertfordshire WD6 3AF important contributions to the war effort, Alan Whicker, the Tel: 020 8266 1700 acclaimed broadcaster and journalist, was one of the first office@habsboys.org.uk www.habsboys.org.uk in the Allied forces to enter Milan. Jack Good, who was a Open Day: Sat 11th non-combatant Old Haberdasher and later a professor, October, 2014 1-4pm The Habs Corps was granted official recognition in 1914, when war broke out and by 1915 had 240 members. Over 500 Old Haberdashers served in the Great War, 18 were awarded MCs (Military Crosses), sadly 107 gave their lives.

The sacrifice made by every man will always be remembered at Habs with a memorial for every Old Haberdasher lost.

Haberdashers’ Aske’s School for Girls

learning & independence Junior Open Morning

5 July 2014, 10.30am-1pm

Open Day 11 October 2014

Juniors 10am-12.30pm, Seniors 2pm-5pm Scholarships and Financial Assistance available from 11+ Independent Day School for Girls aged 4-18 Aldenham Road, Elstree, Herts, WD6 3BT e: admissions@habsgirls.org.uk t: 020 8266 2300 www.habsgirls.org.uk Registered Charity No. 313996

The Haberdashers’ Aske’s Boys’ School Nurturing Excellence

An outstanding independent day school for boys aged between 5 and 18.

Open Day Saturday 11th October 2014, 1–4pm (no appointment necessary)

Headmaster Peter B Hamilton MA Butterfly Lane, Elstree, Hertfordshire WD6 3AF Tel: 020 8266 1700 office@habsboys.org.uk

www.habsboys.org.uk

registered charity no: 313996

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the future elite

by James Fowler – Headmaster, Aldenham School

O

ne of the aspects of a UK independent education that is so striking to foreigners is the absolutely central role that school sport, and especially team sport, plays in school life.

In other countries sport plays its part, but usually beyond the school gates, whilst in a school like Aldenham the routine of sports matches is a prime part of our programme.

Just one example; over the last two terms our boys ‘and girls’ hockey teams have played over 170 different fixtures against other schools.

In these events, the teams have experienced the chance to compete keenly, sometimes in national tournaments (four of our teams reached regional finals) winning, losing and drawing in roughly equal measure and thereby learning to experience both success and disappointment, hopefully able to treat them “both the same” as Kipling would have it.

125 x 185 Life Magazines1:Layout 1 30/01/2014 14:00 Page 1

It is also clear that the role of school sport is recognised widely by elite sporting development programmes in this country, so that our pupils who are on academy programmes at premiership football clubs, on representative teams for hockey, on national programmes for swimming or gymnastics, or in county teams for cricket are all allowed to compete for their school and learn to lead others by their excellence.

Headmaster will speak at 10.15am and 11.15am Head of Prep School speaks at 11.00am Last tour in the Senior School is 12.00 noon

Open Morning

Saturday 14 June 2014 10.00am-12.30pm

Outstanding Boarding / Day options for boys & girls within the M25 An excellent all round education Aldenham School, Elstree, Herts WD6 3AJ Tel: 01923 858122 www.aldenham.com

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Fundamentally different a t

H a i l e y b u r y ,

M

any schools describe themselves as offering an ‘all-round education’ and much emphasis is placed upon their range of extra-curricular clubs and activities – from chess to cheerleading, squash to scuba diving.

Haileybury is different. The bespoke education Haileybury offers does not depend on children choosing ‘bolt-on’ options in order to balance their academic studies; the co-curricular programme is fundamental to a Haileybury education – it is a way of life.

Whether Haileyburians enter the school at 11, 13 or 16, the College strives to ensure all pupils fulfil their academic potential. The College prides

2 april2013

H e r t f o r d

itself on discovering as well as nurturing talent and offers a personalised learning experience that encourages intellectual exploration and practical ambition. Sport, music, art and drama are not just optional extras but ensure pupils engage outside the classroom and learn key life skills which will stand them in good stead for university and the wider world beyond.

Participation for all is crucial, but the school also actively supports individuals in the elite levels of their chosen sport. Current Haileyburians include national and international representatives in various age ranges in rugby, hockey, sailing and karting and the Performance programme at the Legends Tennis Centre on site provides coaching to promising young stars.

If your child is aged 9-12 and would like a taste of life at Haileybury, book a place now on the Boarding Activity Weekend on 18th – 20th July.

Visit www.haileybury.com or call the Haileybury Box Office on 01992 706355 for further details.

For further information, or to attend an Open Morning, you are warmly invited to contact the Registrar, Iona Hutchinson Tel: 01992 706353 or email: registrar@haileybury.com Haileybury, Hertford SG13 7NU @HaileyburyUK Registered charity number 310013 www.haileybury.com

inspires We are a leading 11–18 boarding & day school for boys & girls. Academic rigour and outstanding co-curricular provision are at the heart of Haileybury, providing the exceptional opportunities and truly all-round education that allow our pupils to discover enduring passions and talents. We offer a choice of IB Diploma or A Levels in the Sixth Form. Our next Open Mornings are: (11+) Thursday 15 May; (13+) Saturday 11 October; (16+) Saturday 13 September

For further information, or to attend an Open Morning, you are warmly invited to contact the Registrar, Iona Hutchinson registrar@haileybury.com 01992 706353 Haileybury Hertford Herts SG13 7NU haileybury.com

@HaileyburyUK

www.facebook.com/HaileyburyUK Registered charity number 310013

St Edmund’s is an independent, Catholic co-educational day and boarding school for pupils aged 3 - 18 years

Open Mornings 2014 2 May and 8 May 9am – 12 noon Nursery, Prep, College and Sixth Form are open on both days - to attend please register by visiting www.stedmundscollege.org or call 01920 824247

Excellent academic support, facilities and extra-curricular opportunities ensure that life at St Edmund’s helps to develop maturity, independence and self-confidence from our Nursery to Sixth Form. Full, weekly and flexi boarding options are available from Year 7.

Old Hall Green, Ware, Hertfordshire SG11 1DS

www.stedmundscollege.org

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An Enviable Reputation Developing Personal Integrity, Intellectual, Creative, And Sporting Talents

S

t Helen’s is one of the top 20 girls’ independent day schools in the country. It has enjoyed an enviable reputation for providing an excellent academic education since 1899.

AN EXCEPTIONAL SCHOOL

As an exceptional school we will provide a complete education for able girls aged 3-18, developing personal integrity alongside intellectual, creative, and sporting talents.

With highly qualified and enthusiastic staff

and excellent facilities, we know and care for every pupil.

Building on this, we are now entering a very exciting 5 year plan to take the school to the next level.

St Helen’s is located in Northwood on a spacious 20 acre parkland site easily accessible on the Metropolitan Line. The school is adjacent to Northwood Station connecting to

Baker Street (30 minutes) and Amersham (20 minutes). Girls achieve outstanding results in public examinations at all levels. Main entry points are at 3+, 4+, 7+, 11+ and 16+.

In our flourishing Sixth Form, there are approximately 160 girls who are able to choose from over 20 subjects to study at A Level. They go on to prestigious universities, including Oxford and Cambridge, and enjoy successful careers thereafter.

NEXT OPEN DAY 18th June 2014 9.30-12pm

(by appointment)

TOP 20 INDEPENDENT GIRLS’ DAY SCHOOL, AGED 3 TO 18 OUTSTANDING ACADEMIC RESULTS LOCATED IN NORTH WEST

LONDON ADJACENT TO NORTHWOOD UNDERGROUND

For more information contact admissions@sthn.co.uk Tel: 01923 843230

www.sthn.co.uk

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Success takes many forms The early years are not only critical for developing good learning habits, but are also essential to foster a lifelong love of sports.

W

ith outstanding sports facilities including: a floodlit, all-weather sports surface, fully-equipped Sports Hall, squash courts, swimming pool, tennis and netball courts, as well as pitches for cricket, rugby, hockey, lacrosse and football, Beechwood Park School offers students the opportunity to try a wide range of sports, helping every child to find one that they enjoy.

In addition to P.E. lessons and extra-curricular clubs, Beechwood Park runs a Sport for All programme on Wednesday afternoons, which allows pupils to try out a variety of activities including sailing, fencing, BMX racing, table tennis and martial arts.

Whilst some pupils have gone on to achieve success in local and national competitions, others have simply found a sport they love and will continue to practise outside school and well beyond their time at Beechwood Park.

Orienteering is one example of a popular activity which was recently introduced, described by pupils as ‘making cross country more fun’. Having completed the school’s course, pupils now represent Beechwood Park at inter-school competitions.

Beechwood Park School... for the best possible start

Put your child on the path to success Beechwood Park School Open Morning - May 23rd • Montessori nursery for 3-4 year olds • Average teaching group of 15 • Breakfast and After School Clubs • Optional, flexible, weekly boarding from Year 5 To find out how we create an environment where every child can fulfil their potential, call our Registrar Liz Graham on 01582 840333, or visit www.beechwoodpark.net/openday

Beechwood Park School Markyate Hertfordshire AL3 8AW

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World War 100

I

By Michael Hale, History Teacher at Merchant Taylors’ School

n this edition, rather than write on current topics of educational controversy, we are devoting our column to an issue that will be at the heart of the teaching of history in independent schools this year. This year marks the centenary of the First World War, a conflict that changed Britain forever. In 2014, Merchant Taylors’ School will commemorate all those who served, and in particular remember the invaluable contribution made by Old Merchant Taylors (OMTs) in a war that we now recognize as the greatest collective undertaking in British history.

Dulce et Decorum est On the eve of war in 1914, the British army was a small, but well-trained fighting force of 247,432 regular officers and men, very different from the mass field armies of France, Russia, and Germany. R.B. Haldane (the Liberal Secretary Of State for War) who created an expeditionary force of six infantry divisions and one large cavalry division had reformed it between 1906 and 1909. In addition, Haldane had sought to improve the training of officers and looked to the public schools of England to provide suitable recruits. From the 1880s, the public schools had been an increasingly rich breeding ground for potential officers and accounted for three-quarters of the Woolwich entry (for the artillery and engineers) and over one-half of the Sandhurst entry (for officers of other arms) in 1896-1900. Haldane hoped that the public schools would play a part in a rejuvenation of the armed forces and the Ward Committee of 1906 advised that existing school cadet corps and university rifle volunteer units should be united to form the Officers’ Training Corps (OTC). Once founded in 1908, they proved immensely popular, and by 1910, there were 152 contingents in the ‘Junior Division’ at schools such as Eton, Haileybury, and Uppingham, and 19 in the ‘Senior Division’ at universities.

Following the outbreak of war in the summer of 1914, the British Expeditionary Force (BEF) was sent to France. Between the summer and Christmas of that year, the BEF lost 16,200 men killed, 47,707 wounded and another 16,746 missing and taken prisoner. Most of these casualties had been sustained by the regular army, which immediately called for volunteers to enlist. In the next eighteen months, 2,466,719 men answered the call to arms, and between August 1914 and March 1915, 20,577 officers were commissioned from OTCs, whilst it is estimated another 12,290 ex-OTC men were serving in the British Army. The schools had done their job but were fated to be racked by grief, on an unprecedented scale, in recompense.

Some corner of a foreign field As one of the ‘Great Nine’ schools of England, it was entirely fitting that 6 april2014

Merchant Taylors’ should have a cadet force although its exact origins remain a mystery. While boys were involved in external units from 1878, the official establishment of the Combined Cadet Force (CCF) was not until March 9, 1900. It swiftly became an integral part of school life and flourished in the early years of the twentieth century; many former members of the corps served during the conflict. Throughout the war, precisely 1820 OMTs served, including three recipients of the Victoria Cross, the most highly coveted decoration in the British Armed Forces.

Lieutenant J.C. Barrett, Midshipman G.L. Drewry and Captain A.O. Pollard were all awarded VCs for conspicuous bravery, whilst 297 other OMTs received war honours. One in six OMTs were decorated for their services in His Majesty’s Armed Forces. With ghoulish symmetry, approximately one in six OMTs were killed on Active Service too, fearful losses for any school to bear. In addition, 245 were wounded or gassed whilst 297 OMTs died, including the great England rugby union international John Raphael.

World War One hundred To commemorate the centenary of the First World War and the part played by Merchant Taylors’ School in the conflict, the School is inaugurating a series of events – World War 100 – which will run for four years. They include creating an interactive online resource where today’s boys will research OMTs who served in the conflict, and where families with historic links to the school can upload information about the involvement of their ancestors. There will also be an emphasis on the role of Empire, reflecting the rich cultural diversity of Merchant Taylors’ today: over 8,500,000 men from all corners of the earth served in the British Army in the First World War. In addition, we will host Max Hastings, author of ‘Catastrophe: Europe Goes to War’ this April 30, undertake trips to the Imperial War Museum in conjunction with our annual visits to the Somme, host art exhibitions, drama workshops and productions, major concerts, poetry recitals, cross-curricular learning and undertake historical scholarship. Finally, we will utilize the School, OMT & Merchant Taylors’ Company archives to create a Book of Remembrance for all OMTs who served in World War 1. It is our aim to bequeath a legacy to the next generation of OMTs, and we hope that they will understand, honour, and remember the sacrifices made by their predecessors one hundred years ago: “Time, like an ever rolling stream, bears all its sons away; they fly, forgotten, as a dream dies at the opening day”. We will never forget them.

MTS

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Merchant Taylors’ School Excellence, integrity and distinction since 1561

1561

Open Morning

May 10th 2014 10.00 - 12.30

Why not choose the best for your son?

• A traditional boys’ education for your son at a ‘Top Ten’ boys’ school • Exceptional record of academic success • Inspirational teaching • Unique tutorial system • Civilized, friendly & unpressured • Small class sizes • Magnificent sports fields • Superb facilities set in 250 acres

• 2015 Registration: 13+ June 30 2014 11+ November 30 2014 16+ December 31 2014 • Bursaries • Academic, Art, Drama, Music and Sport Scholarships

Getting here • Coaches • Car • Transit

Beaconsfield, Ealing, Harpenden, Harrow, Highgate, Mill Hill, Radlett, Stanmore MTS is 15 minutes from the M1, the M25 and the A40 MTS is adjacent to Moor Park (Metropolitan Line) www.mtsn.org.uk Chiltern line trains change at Rickmansworth Find us on Facebook Merchant Taylors’ School From Marylebone: Chiltern Line trains change at Harrow Follow us on Twitter @MerchantTaylors Travelling time from WC1/W1 is 40 minutes

Guided tours (last tour 11.30) The Head Master speaks at 11.15 and 12.15

Please contact Gregg McCann, Admissions Officer admissions@mtsn.org.uk +44(0)1923 845514 Merchant Taylors’ School Northwood Middlesex HA6 2HT

Excellence, integrity and distinction since 1561.

For boys 11 - 18

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Developing pupils’ interests at Edge Grove Edge Grove works hard to discover and nurture the talents of each pupil to ensure that they grow in confidence, develop a love of learning and are well prepared for the next stage of their education.

T

Pre-Prep children enjoy a full range of After-School clubs to enrich their learning such as Football, Construction, Ballet and Adventure Club. For children in Years 3-8 the programme runs in two sessions after school, offering the flexibility of a choice of pick-up times, with additional options for activities on Saturday mornings.

The After-School Activities Programme is offered to all pupils from Reception through to Year 8, providing a plethora of extra-curricular opportunities to enrich pupils’ lives and create lasting memories.

The range of activities on offer is extensive, from Squash, Girls’ Football, Fencing, Taekwondo, Golf and Netball, to Speech and Drama (LAMDA), National Geographic Club, Mandarin, Horse-Riding, Street Dance, Chess, Film Making, Cookery, Creative Clay and Airsoft Target Range. Older pupils can also develop their initiative and collaborative skills by working towards the Edge Grove Award, a three-part qualification completed over a year, involving Expedition, Community Service and Skill.

he school provides many opportunities for pupils to embrace new interests and expand their experience, such as the recent Cricket Tour to Sri Lanka that offered a group of Year 7 and 8 boys a ten-day ‘trip of a lifetime’.

Educational trips and visits play an important part in the delivery and enrichment of the curriculum at Edge Grove and are invaluable in bringing learning to life.

The school has the advantage of excellent facilities, including an outdoor heated swimming pool, croquet lawns, playing fields, a new purpose-built Home Economics building, fully-equipped Textiles room and adventure playground.

Most pupils at Edge Grove take part in at least one activity and enjoy broadening their education and learning a new skill.

Edge Grove is a leading independent day and boarding preparatory school for boys and girls aged 3 -13, set in 28 acres of beautiful Hertfordshire countryside.

• A broad curriculum, inspirational teaching and superb pastoral support ensure outstanding academic achievement • First-class facilities including a new purpose-built Home Economics building, fully-equipped Textiles room and adventure playground • Full, weekly or flexi boarding available from age 7 • After-school Activities Programme every day until 6pm

‘School in Action’ Open Morning Friday 2nd May 2014, 10am - 12pm No pre-booking necessary Edge Grove, Aldenham Village, Hertfordshire WD25 8NL 01923 855724 admissions@edgegrove.com www.edgegrove.com

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Outstanding opportunities for learning & personal development at Abbot’s Hill School

T

Abbot’s Hill is a vibrant and dynamic school for girls aged 3-16 and boys aged 3-5 situated in over 70 acres of parkland on the outskirts of Hemel Hempstead.

he school has a strong record of academic success. The Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) report 2012 stated that “Across the school, small classes, in which pupils feel well-known and supported, enable them to fulfil their potential.” The 2013 GCSE results reflect the excellent academic standards with 96.9% of passes at A* - C and 54.5% at A*-A. The superb facilities and dedicated staff provide an inspiring environment for learning and personal development. Pupils are encouraged to discover their individual talents in an atmosphere which combines the right blend of support and challenge, and which celebrates not only success but also collaboration, commitment and endeavour. The ISI report stated that “Excellent relationships, between staff and pupils and amongst pupils, are at the heart of the success of the school.” and that “The quality of pupils’ personal development is outstanding.”

The typical day at Abbot’s Hill is action-packed and on top of their academic work girls take part enthusiastically in a range of activities from drama and music to engineering and debating. We make the most of our superb grounds and offer a range of sporting opportunities.

Whilst many of our girls compete at regional and national levels there is a culture of sport for all at Abbot’s Hill, ensuring all girls develop an active, healthy lifestyle.

Abbot’s Hill is well served by major transport links and offers before and after-school care. There are school buses from a number of locations.

There will be a Working Open Afternoon for the Nursery and Prep School on Thursday 8 May 2014. The next Whole School Open Day is on Saturday 4 October 2014. If you would like to arrange a tour of the school please contact the Registrar on 01442 240333. www.abbotshill.herts.sch.uk.

Independent Day School Girls 3-16 Boys 3-5

“The quality of pupils’ personal development is outstanding” ISI report January 2012

Working Open Afternoon Thursday 8 May 2014 See our Nursery and Prep School in action. Please telephone to book your place.

Abbot’s Hill is a happy, dynamic and thriving community with an excellent record of academic success and an outstanding reputation for pastoral care.

- We aim high - We love learning

- We value friendship - We grasp opportunities

• Breakfast and after-school care • School buses run from a number of areas • Nursery offering flexible sessions 8am-6pm • Childcare vouchers accepted.

Bunkers Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire HP3 8RP T: 01442 240 333 E: registrar@abbotshill.herts.sch.uk abbotshill.herts.sch.uk

100 YEARS OF HABS CADETS Haberdashers’ Aske’s Boys’ School celebrated the centenary of their Cadet Corps on 14th March 2014. A Spitfire flyover, piloted by local veteran Peter Teichman, was the crowning moment of this special event, which was a part of the Biennial General Inspection. Inspecting Officer – Air Commodore ME (Sammy) Sampson DSO MA RAF began the day’s events by inspecting the Guard and Corps of Drums at midday, followed by a reception and lunch in Aldenham House.

In recognition of the CCF Centenial celebrations Jake Krais wore a WW1 replica uniform. There were a number of Old Haberdashers who attended the event: Duncan Jenkins, Melvin Leong and Andrew Carr, the Assistant Clerk to the Haberdashers’ Company. The event was full of activities and competitions including a flight simulation classroom, an army section skirmish and sailing across Aldenham Reservoir. Air Commodore M E Sampson presented the trophies for the competitions and gave an address after the day’s activities. was valuable in aiding the cracking of the German ‘Enigma Code’, working with Alan Turing at Bletchley Park. Contacts between Habs and the Army are still strong. Old Haberdashers have served in Afghanistan and Iraq, with Major Jeremy Lamb receiving the Military Cross for his service. An Army scholarship has just been given to Russell Hughes, a sixth form member of the CCF 850 Old Haberdashers served in World War II – over half Army section. as officers. There were many honours awarded, 10 MCs (Military Crosses) and 9 DFCs (Distinguished Flying Crosses). Regrettably 87 Old Haberdashers lost their lives Haberdashers’ Aske’s Boys’ Butterfly Lane, Elstree, along with one master. There were many who made School Hertfordshire WD6 3AF important contributions to the war effort, Alan Whicker, the Tel: 020 8266 1700 acclaimed broadcaster and journalist, was one of the first office@habsboys.org.uk www.habsboys.org.uk in the Allied forces to enter Milan. Jack Good, who was a Open Day: Sat 11th non-combatant Old Haberdasher and later a professor, October, 2014 1-4pm The Habs Corps was granted official recognition in 1914, when war broke out and by 1915 had 240 members. Over 500 Old Haberdashers served in the Great War, 18 were awarded MCs (Military Crosses), sadly 107 gave their lives.

The sacrifice made by every man will always be remembered at Habs with a memorial for every Old Haberdasher lost.

Haberdashers’ Aske’s School for Girls

learning & independence Junior Open Morning

5 July 2014, 10.30am-1pm

Open Day 11 October 2014

Juniors 10am-12.30pm, Seniors 2pm-5pm Scholarships and Financial Assistance available from 11+ Independent Day School for Girls aged 4-18 Aldenham Road, Elstree, Herts, WD6 3BT e: admissions@habsgirls.org.uk t: 020 8266 2300 www.habsgirls.org.uk Registered Charity No. 313996

The Haberdashers’ Aske’s Boys’ School Nurturing Excellence

An outstanding independent day school for boys aged between 5 and 18.

Open Day Saturday 11th October 2014, 1–4pm (no appointment necessary)

Headmaster Peter B Hamilton MA Butterfly Lane, Elstree, Hertfordshire WD6 3AF Tel: 020 8266 1700 office@habsboys.org.uk

www.habsboys.org.uk

registered charity no: 313996

e ducat i o n

the future elite

by James Fowler – Headmaster, Aldenham School

O

ne of the aspects of a UK independent education that is so striking to foreigners is the absolutely central role that school sport, and especially team sport, plays in school life.

In other countries sport plays its part, but usually beyond the school gates, whilst in a school like Aldenham the routine of sports matches is a prime part of our programme.

Just one example; over the last two terms our boys ‘and girls’ hockey teams have played over 170 different fixtures against other schools.

In these events, the teams have experienced the chance to compete keenly, sometimes in national tournaments (four of our teams reached regional finals) winning, losing and drawing in roughly equal measure and thereby learning to experience both success and disappointment, hopefully able to treat them “both the same” as Kipling would have it.

125 x 185 Life Magazines1:Layout 1 30/01/2014 14:00 Page 1

It is also clear that the role of school sport is recognised widely by elite sporting development programmes in this country, so that our pupils who are on academy programmes at premiership football clubs, on representative teams for hockey, on national programmes for swimming or gymnastics, or in county teams for cricket are all allowed to compete for their school and learn to lead others by their excellence.

Headmaster will speak at 10.15am and 11.15am Head of Prep School speaks at 11.00am Last tour in the Senior School is 12.00 noon

Open Morning

Saturday 14 June 2014 10.00am-12.30pm

Outstanding Boarding / Day options for boys & girls within the M25 An excellent all round education Aldenham School, Elstree, Herts WD6 3AJ Tel: 01923 858122 www.aldenham.com

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‘What do you want the school to do for your child?’

What follows conflates what is so often said.

by Ben Walker, Headmaster Lochinver House School “Firstly we want our child to feel happy, safe and secure. We want the learning to be stimulating and fun! We hope that our child will be known for the individual he is, that he will be encouraged to try new things and to take risks in his learning. We hope that he will ‘dare to do’, to take on new things and not to

fear failure. We want him to be supported and challenged. We hope that he will be taught that it is good to enthuse, to be committed and to be curious about the world around him. We want him to be held securely and from external discipline, to develop inner discipline and resilience. We want him to

develop his talents and a set of skills that will lead to his independence as a learner. We want him to appreciate his privileges, to develop a generosity of spirit and a desire to care for others. We want him to be confident without being arrogant and to be assertive enough to speak up when something is wrong.”

LOCHINVER HOUSE SCHOOL

Heath Road Little Heath Potters Bar Hertfordshire EN6 1LW Telephone: 01707 653064 Fax: 01707 620030 Independent Prep School for Boys (Aged 4 - 13) www.lochinverhouse.herts.sch.uk Headmaster: Ben Walker B.Ed (Hons) PGCE CELTA

Judged as ‘EXCELLENT’ following ISI Inspection

OPEN MORNING

WEDNESDAY 21 MAY A tour of the school at 10.15 am will be followed at 11.00 am by an address from the Headmaster A Crèche will be available for toddlers and babies over four months Please contact the Registrar, Mrs Anne Meir, for more details and a copy of our Prospectus Telephone: 01707 620036 e-mail: registrar@lochinverhouse.herts.sch.uk Lochinver House School: a company limited by guarantee. Registered in England: Company Number 4374254: Registered Office: as above. Registered Charity Number: 1091045

e ducat i o n

The Columban code

Courage, Courtesy and Compassion S

t Columba’s College provides an inspiring and challenging environment where boys from the age of four to 18 years old aspire to achieve their own best standard.

A Catholic school, St Columba’s is open to boys of wide variety of religious traditions, with learning underpinned by the Columban code of Courage, Courtesy and Compassion. While striving for academic excellence the College realises that it is whole-person education that best prepares boys for the world, recognising that moral and spiritual qualities are essential in achieving roundness of character.

In addition to the curriculum, there is an extensive Extra and Extended Curriculum ranging from the Duke of Edinburgh Award and the Combined Cadet Force to Young Enterprise. These activities develop

qualities of self-knowledge, teamwork, leadership and resilience.

The College regularly wins trophies for Rugby, athletics, basketball and other sports. There is a strong tradition of music, drama and public speaking with regular concerts and drama productions.

The school’s strength lies in the combination of high expectations, a culture of mutual respect and care, creating a stimulating happy environment in which boys thrive and learn, building firm foundations for confident socially-skilled pupils. The community is vibrant and the students are the best evidence of what a Columban education can produce.

Browse the website and have an individual tour of the College with one of the boys. www.st college.org

ST COLUMBA’S COLLEGE

A CATHOLIC INDEPENDENT (HMC) DAY SCHOOL FOR BOYS, AGES 4-18

Courage, Courtesy, Compassion

SINGING FROM THE HEART Being a chorister at St Paul’s Cathedral is the experience of a lifetime St Paul’s choristers sing in one of the most famous and beautiful places of worship in the world, perform in concerts around the globe, and receive a first-class academic education at the Cathedral School. Boys are not expected to have fully-developed voices or much formal singing experience – enthusiasm, intelligence and musical potential are the keys.

Inspiring and challenging boys

OPEN SCHOOL WORKING DAY Friday 6th June King Harry Lane St Albans Hertfordshire AL3 4AW T: (Senior) 01727 855185 (Prep) 01727 862616 E: admissions@stcolumbascollege.org www.stcolumbascollege.org

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100% tuition fees for all choristers Assistance with boarding fees available One of the top preparatory schools in the country The finest musical education An amazing start to life

If your son is aged 6–8 and shows musical promise, do get in touch.

He could become one of the next generation of choristers at St Paul’s.

For more information please contact: Clare Morgan, Registrar, St Paul’s Cathedral School 020 7248 5156 · admissions@spcs.london.sch.uk

E ducat i o n

Good Results, Good Manners and Good Fun The Lockers Park School Motto

S

et in 23 acres of parkland, Lockers Park is a day and boarding school that has been educating boys aged 5 - 13 to the highest standard for over 130 years. Our emphasis on academic excellence combined with first-rate pastoral care nurtures the boys to produce their best. We prepare boys for the best of British public and independent schools. We do not feed to any particular school, but work with the boys and their parents to find the most appropriate school to further his education.

Lockers Park academic results are excellent. As a small family school of 145 boys with an average class size of 14 and an impressive staff:pupil ratio of 1:8, we are able to allow individuality to flourish. This ensures that every boy achieves his full potential and, each year, all the leavers succeed with Common Entrance and pass on to the senior school of their choice, often with a scholarship. The most recent ISI inspection described the curriculum as “excellent” and commented on the breadth of subjects covered.

However, it isn’t all about what happens in the classroom. At Lockers Park, we believe that our emphasis on outdoor play, exercise and a wide range of boys’ activities leads to increased concentration during lessons. All the boys have the opportunity to take part in sports and activities every day and, as well as our main team games of rugby, football, cricket and hockey, we offer a variety of individual sports such as tennis, squash, athletics, shooting and skiing. Both boarders and day boys also take part in many other extracurricular activities including joining our very own Cub or Scout pack.

The arts are a very important part of life at Lockers. The junior and senior plays are the focus of the drama year but there are plenty of other opportunities to perform including the Poetry Speaking Competition and the hotly contested Debating Competition. Music is one of the major strengths of the school with nearly all the boys learning to play an instrument, and many learning two or three. The String Orchestra, Junior Choir, Brass Ensemble and Guitar Ensemble all perform to a very high standard and the Chapel Choir regularly sings at prestigious venues such as St John’s, Smith Square, London. The annual Chapel Concert and Summer Concerts are the highlights of the School’s musical calendar, showcasing all that is best about music at Lockers. However, in keeping with the Lockers Park ethos, there are regular informal concerts and participation for all is the mantra.

In short, Lockers Park is a very special place where happy and wellmotivated boys flourish in an environment that is specifically suited to their needs. In the words of Christopher Wilson, the Headmaster, “At Lockers Park, we offer a first class education, hold traditional values dear but infuse this with modern practice. We encourage all boys to participate by living a full life and enjoying the busy school day. Boys are motivated, energetic and ambitious when they leave us for senior school.

We are proud of the school and all it stands for, perhaps summed up best by the school motto – good results, good manners and good fun.”

LOCKERS PARK Bene agere ac Laetari: good results, good manners, good fun “A winning formula of security, activity and motivation designed to prepare boys to continue with confidence and success.” Good Schools Guide.

Day & Boarding Preparatory School for boys aged 5 - 13 years

OPEN MORNING Saturday 10th May 2014 at 10.30am www.lockerspark.herts.sch.uk Bursaries are available to boys Years 3 to 6

Telephone: 01442 251712 Hemel Hempstead

Registered Charity Number 311061