Norfolk, Suffolk, Cambridgeshire & Essex
Welcome to the Fine & Country Guide to Education 2018 Here at Fine & Country, we understand that people buy as much into the lifestyle of a property and its location as they do the bricks and mortar, and that choosing the right school for your child is an important decision that may directly influence your choice of property. With this in mind and in direct response to the high number of requests we receive from clients about the choice of schooling available in a particular area, this Guide to Education, now in its 6th year of publication, provides you with a comprehensive listing of schools throughout East Anglia. From our offices throughout Norfolk, Suffolk and Essex, we offer a multi award-winning service and our highly skilled team of professionals will ensure that you receive the first-class service you deserve when it comes to buying or selling your property. We utilize sophisticated, intelligent and creative marketing that provides the type of information buyers would never normally see with other agents and this Guide to Education has been designed solely with you in mind, aimed at helping you make an informed decision about securing the best future for your child. If you would like further copies of this 2018 Guide to Education, please call our regional offices listed on the back cover.
www.fineandcountrylifestyles.com
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Burnham Deepdale 2
Hunstanton
Cromer Holt 8
North Walsham W
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Bury St Edmunds
Newmarket
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Cambridge 19
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Stowmarket
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Lavenham
Woodbridge 17
LONG MELFORD* 01787 275012
Ipswich
Sudbury Saffron Walden
DEDHAM
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01206 323375
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Stansted
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01206 545476
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01376 505260 Maldon
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Schools Featured
Map / Page Ref
NORFOLK Beeston Hall............................................................................................... 1 Gresham’s ................................................................................................... 2 Hethersett Old Hall ................................................................................. 3 Norwich High Senior School ................................................................. 4 Norwich High Prep School..................................................................... 5 Norwich School ........................................................................................ 6 Sacred Heart .............................................................................................. 7 St Nicholas House Prep .......................................................................... 8 Wymondham College .............................................................................. 9
SUFFOLK Brookes Cambridge................................................................................10 Culford School.........................................................................................11 Framlingham College..............................................................................12 Framlingham College Prep School ......................................................13 Ipswich High School ...............................................................................14 Old School Henstead .............................................................................15 South Lee School ....................................................................................16 Woodbridge School................................................................................17
Schools Featured
Map / Page Ref
CAMBRIDGESHIRE St Mary's School...................................................................................... 18 The Leys.................................................................................................... 19
ESSEX Bishop’s Stortford College (Herts) ..................................................... 20 Brentwood School .................................................................................. 21 Colchester High School......................................................................... 22 Colchester Royal Grammar ................................................................. 23 Dame Bradbury's .................................................................................... 24 Helena Romanes School........................................................................ 25 Holmwood House .................................................................................. 26 Littlegarth School.................................................................................... 27 New Hall School ..................................................................................... 28 St Margaret’s Prep School ..................................................................... 29 St Mary's Colchester.............................................................................. 30 St Michael’s Prep School........................................................................ 31 Thorpe Hall .............................................................................................. 32
Beeston Hall School Type:
Day and Boarding School
Gender: Co-educational Ages:
4 – 13
Pupils: 150
The scene above may not look like a prep school classroom, but it is a Tuesday morning English lesson at Beeston. To be specific, this is ‘dragon-tracking’; an essential part of the Year 5 curriculum, where children work together to improve their literacy. They could swap the flying helmets for fairy wings or cubist-inspired cardboard boxes; there is endless possibility in our creative approach to teaching and learning. Underpinning this jolly, family atmosphere is a dynamic and forward-thinking staff that employs the matchless facilities to help support outstanding outcomes for children.This was confirmed by the ISI inspection
reports in March 2017 which awarded ‘excellent in all areas’, noting the ‘exceptional achievements’ of children academically, as well as in sport, art, drama or music 65% of leavers won scholarships last year to leading national public schools, chosen to suit them specifically. From the 4 year olds in the pre-prep school, which began in 2016, to the Year 8 leavers, the ‘outstanding social skills’ of the children were noted by the inspectors, along with the way they show awareness of each other and the wider world. It is a caring boarding community – with flexi and day children - where mutual respect underpins everything we do.
T 01263 837324 | E office@beestonhall.co.uk | www.beestonhall.co.uk Beeston Hall School, West Runton, Cromer, Norfolk NR27 9NQ |1
Gresham's School Type: Gender: Ages: Pupils: Fees:
Day & Boarding School Co-educational 2-18 years 830 pupils approximately £3,250 - £11,320
Gresham’s School is located in an area of outstanding natural beauty, only four miles from the stunning north Norfolk coastline. Our three schools offer a seamless education, taking pupils from nursery through to A levels or the IB Diploma. We focus on educating the whole child by providing a broad yet rigorous curriculum, combined with an extensive range of sporting, social and cultural opportunities. In 2016, the school was awarded an ‘Excellent’ rating across all nine categories in all three schools following an Independent Schools Inspectorate visit which is testament to a progressive academic curriculum, high quality teaching and excellent pastoral care. Our fantastic facilities enable children to make the most of their interests and hobbies. Gresham’s is an All
Steinway School and in 2017 the Britten Building, a new, state of the art music school, was opened. We have a tradition of producing outstanding achievers in all walks of life some of our well-known alumni include the composer Benjamin Britten, poet W.H. Auden, inventor Sir James Dyson, and more recently international rugby players Tom and Ben Youngs and BAFTA award winning actress Olivia Colman. Gresham’s is within easy reach of Norwich, with its historical attractions and national and international transport links. A positive environment at the school boosts confidence, happiness, self-esteem and well-being allowing pupils to develop into well-rounded, self-assured adults able to manage the demands of modern life.
T 01263 714614 | E admissions@greshams.com | www.greshams.com Gresham's School, Cromer Road, Holt, Norfolk NR25 6EA 2|
Hethersett Old Hall School Type: Gender: Pupils: Fees:
Day and Boarding (full, weekly and flexi) Boys 3-11, girls 3-18, boarding girls only from 9 170 Day fees £3225-5035; Boarding £6490-£7750 per term; Nursery fees paid per session from £30.80
Stephen Crump, headmaster, writes: “Choosing a school is one of the most important decisions parents face perhaps even more daunting if it’s an independent school you are looking for. There are several good ones in this area, all with prospectuses and websites justifiably glowing with pride! So how do you choose? I believe it largely comes down to personal choice and instinct: after all, you know your own child best. But I can also say with certainty that what makes Hethersett Old Hall stand out from the crowd is the individual nurturing
pupils enjoy in our deliberately small classes, and the warmth of our caring community. This is always remarked upon by visitors and hugely valued by our families. In the end, there is no substitute for visiting in person and having a close look at the schools you are considering. Visit when the school is in full swing if you can, and don’t be afraid to ask lots of questions, not just from the person showing you around and from the Head, but from other parents, pupils and teachers, too.”
T 01603 810390 | E enquiries@hohs.co.uk | www.hohs.co.uk Hethersett Old Hall School, Norwich Road, Hethersett, Norwich NR9 3DW |3
Norwich High School for Girls – Senior School Type: Gender: Pupils: Ages: Fees:
Independent Day School member of the Girls’ Day School Trust (GDST) Girls Senior School and Sixth Form – approx. 430 11 - 18 Senior School and Sixth Form - £4,690 per term. Scholarships and Bursaries are available. Our Senior School is a stimulating academic environment, providing a very special education which allows every girl to achieve. Our stunning 14 acre site includes a wide range of specialist facilities, including a 25m indoor heated swimming pool, a dedicated music school, a state-of-the art performing arts centre and a newly refurbished library. With a wide choice of subjects and small class sizes, each girl can be ambitious in their studies while receiving outstanding support and gaining the confidence to excel. Our girls are just as keen to succeed in computing, engineering and the sciences, as they are in the arts and humanities. We constantly strive to deliver pioneering education, from our hallmark Inspiring Females programme which brings bold, innovative and creative women from all fields into the school to inspire and mentor our girls, to supplying each girl with an iPad to enhance their learning. The quality of creativity shown by the girls is outstanding, from their fantastic performances in drama and music, to the stunning art, textiles and technology exhibitions. Sport thrives here as well, with girls excelling in a whole range of disciplines, including hockey, netball, swimming and rowing. Our enrichment programme, including a new Societies and Activities programme, excellent Duke of Edinburgh scheme and a wealth of co-curricular trips, allows each girl to unlock their potential and develop in confidence and resilience. Every girl has the opportunity to contribute to the wider school community, with an abundance of leadership roles and fabulous opportunities available through the Girls’ Day School Trust network.
T 01603 453 265 | E admissions@nor.gdst.net | www.norwichhigh.gdst.net Norwich High School for Girls, 95 Newmarket Road, Norwich NR2 2HU 4|
Norwich High Prep School and Nursery Type: Gender: Pupils: Ages: Fees:
Independent day school member of the Girls’ Day School Trust (GDST) Girls Nursery and Prep School – approx. 170 3 - 11 Nursery - £2,963 (full time) per term - Early Years Funding can be claimed for the first 15 hours per week. Prep School - £3,653 per term. Our Prep School is a happy and friendly environment where girls between the ages of 3 to 11 thrive. We are committed to providing an unrivalled educational experience within a culture that values resilience, mastery and personal growth for all.We believe that education is about more than exams and that learning should be the ultimate adventure. In each classroom, there is a buzz of cheerful, motivated girls who are absorbed in their learning. Each day brings new fun and adventure; you can sculpt in the Art room, make exploding volcanoes in the Science Lab, bake brownies in the Cookery room, gain confidence in our swimming pool or let your imagination run wild during our Forest School sessions. Each girl will read an incredible range of hand-picked literature and mathematics will shine. Our bespoke curriculum is carefully designed to provide a blend of core subject knowledge and exciting topic-based opportunities that focus on developing skills and a passion for learning. Our Prep School has a range of excellent facilities, including a dedicated IT suite, a well-stocked library and specialist teaching rooms for Science, Art and Design and Music.The girls also benefit from the outstanding facilities available at the Senior School on the same site. Our learning extends beyond the classroom, with a dynamic trip programme and an impressive range of over thirty clubs and activities for girls to enjoy. Parents and families play an essential role in supporting our positive and vibrant community, with many attending our regular sports fixtures, assemblies, plays, concerts and events.
T 01603 453 265 | E admissions@nor.gdst.net | www.norwichhigh.gdst.net Norwich High School for Girls, 95 Newmarket Road, Norwich NR2 2HU |5
Norwich School Type:
Day School
Gender: Co-educational Ages:
7-18 (from September 2018 ages 4-18)
Pupils: 1094 Norwich School is a thriving co-educational, independent day school for pupils aged seven to eighteen. From September 2018, it will be expanding its provision to the pre-prep age range (Reception to Year 2). Set in the Cathedral Close, the school is a traditional, yet lively place where boys and girls enjoy a rounded and stimulating education.The beautiful surroundings and remarkable history provide a fascinating and safe learning environment. Assembly takes place in the Cathedral each day and the statue of Nelson outside the Head Master’s office is a striking reminder of one of the school’s most famous alumni. Norwich School achieves exceptional results and has been named as the ‘East Anglia Independent Secondary School of the year’ in The Sunday Times Parent Power Schools Guide 2018. Whilst the academic side is undoubtedly important, the school also offers a broad range of co-curricular activities and opportunities for leadership and service. Initiatives launched by the school such as the Young Norfolk Arts Festival and Young Norfolk Sports Academy demonstrate the importance placed on developing talent in the arts, music and sport, both in the school and the wider community. Financial assistance is available. For further information and details of admissions events, visit the website www.norwich-school.org.uk or follow us on social media. Twitter/Facebook: @NorwichSchool Instagram: @norwich_school
T 01603 728449 | E admissions@norwich-school.org.uk norwich-school.org.uk | www.norwich-school.org.uk
71a The Close, Norwich, Norfolk, NR1 4DD 6|
Sacred Heart School & Little Pedlars Nursery Type:
Day and Full-time, Weekly and Flexi-boarding
Gender: Co-educational Pupils: 155 pupils Fees:
Day: £2065-4225 Boarding: £6045-7850 Prospective Free School Founded in 1914 by the Daughters of Divine Charity, an international Congregation of Sisters committed to education, the Sacred Heart School is sited close to the Market Square in the small Georgian town of Swaffham in Norfolk. Catering for pupils of all abilities, the school has a reputation for high academic achievement. The Staff and Sisters work to provide a stimulating and caring environment where Christian values are upheld for pupils of all beliefs. As in all schools the development of the individual is vitally important, but as Sacred Heart is a small school, everyone is known personally and is encouraged to fulfil their potential by taking part in all aspects of school life. The school has excellent facilities which include a Sports Hall, Gymnasium, Heated Swimming Pool, School Wide Computer Network and an Arts Centre with a Ceramics Workshop, Art and Music rooms and a 150 seater Studio Theatre. Come and visit us: ‘Every Day is Open Day at Sacred Heart School’.
T 01760 721330 | E info@sacredheartschool.co.uk | www.sacredheartschool.co.uk Sacred Heart School, 17 Mangate Street, Swaffham, Norfolk PE37 7QW
Charity No. 237760
|7
St Nicholas House Prep School and Nursery Type: Gender: Pupils: Fees:
Day School Co-educational 70 ÂŁ1,949 Nursery: separate session rates
Engage
Inspire
Challenge
Nurture
Our aim is to engage our children in their learning and inspire them by challenge and competition within a nurturing environment. Our expectations for each pupil are dependent on their ability and are high but realistic.We unite traditional practice with innovative teaching and believe a happy child is a successful one. The family feel of the school is evident and the intimate atmosphere is a particular strength of the school, enabling us to build close relationships with the children and their parents. Our class sizes allow for more individual attention from staff who can spend quality time with each child to enhance their learning.
We are a small but growing school and our fee structure reflects this. Our fees are approximately half that of many of the other prep schools in the area.This does not mean we offer an inferior service.We have lower overheads that come from being based in a large, family house in North Walsham rather than a city site or stately home with acres of gardens. At the end of the day pupils leave us confident and well mannered, with essential life skills such as the ability to interact with people of all ages and work independently or as part of a team. Education here is for life not just the classroom.
T 01692 403143 | E njo@stnicholashouse.com | www.stnicholashouse.com St Nicholas House School, 46 Yarmouth Rd, North Walsham, Norfolk NR28 9AT 8|
Wymondham College Type:
State Boarding and Day Secondary School
Gender: Co-educational Pupils: 1350 Fees:
boarding fees from £10,044 pa (main school) and £10,710 pa (6th Form)
Wymondham College is the largest State Boarding School in the country, educating around 650 boarders and a similar number of day students students.The highest performing state school in the eastern region, and in the top 5% nationally, the College secured “outstanding” judgements from Ofsted in both the last education and boarding inspections.
High quality education with first class facilities is free for day students, and with extremely competitive boarding fees Wymondham College offers a very attractive alternative to private schooling. Additionally, our latest parental survey was extremely positive with over 95% of parents saying they would recommend the College to other parents.
Strong academic success coupled with an almost unrivalled choice of extra-curricular opportunities makes Wymondham College a very popular choice. Over 60 regular weekly clubs and societies are available together with over 700 annual sporting fixtures, an extremely successful Combined Cadet Force and the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme.
If you would like a personal tour of the College please do get in touch, we would be more than happy to organise this for you and your family. Please contact our registrar Mrs Bunning on 01953 609014 or admissions@wymondhamcollege.org.
T 01953 609083 | E admissions@wymondhamcollege.org | www.wymondhamcollege.org
Wymondham College, Wymondham, Norfolk, NR18 9SZ |9
Brookes Cambridge Type:
Day & Boarding School
Gender: Co-educational Ages:
3 – 18
At Brookes we offer a complete, single school provision where children can remain with us from 3 years old to 18 years old and take the iGCSE and International Baccalaureate, supported by our specialist teachers.
which form the basis of our iGCSE curriculum starting September 2018.We also offer modern boarding accommodation that will be available during this academic year.
We have small class sizes, a nurturing and caring ethos as well as high standards and ambition for every child to reach their potential.We offer wrap around care and have school buses that run through Cambridge, Newmarket and Bury St Edmunds, as well as picking up from local Park and Rides.
As part of an international group of Brookes Schools, Brookes Cambridge is one of five campuses that is spread across the globe.This allows for many more opportunities for our older students to visit and study in our family schools around the world.
In our newly opened Gryphon House, we offer state of the art teaching and learning spaces for our students,
Come and find out for yourself what makes Brookes Cambridge such an inspirational setting.
T 01284 760531 | E admissions@brookescambridge.org | www.brookescambridge.org
Brookes Cambridge, Flempton Road, Risby, Bury St Edmunds, IP28 6QJ 10 |
Culford School Type: Gender: Pupils: Fees:
Boarding & Day School (Ages 1-18) Co-educational 720 Nursery from £74.00 per week, Pre-Prep £2,900-£3,100; Prep: Day £3,770-£4,940; Boarding £7,375-£7,785; Senior: Day £6,330; Part Boarding £8,215 Full Boarding: £9,780
There are few places quite like Culford. It is a school that h places l the h iindividual di id l at iits h heart, where h teachers h are committed to helping every child realise their potential and be the best they can be. You can see such dedication run throughout the school. Whether your child is one or 18 years old, we provide a high quality education and the dynamic support needed to open up opportunities for every pupil. It combines into a highly personalised learning programme that helps a child achieve their aspirations. Our Pre-Prep and Nursery, Prep and Senior School combine to offer a superb through school experience for children.We take enormous pride in all of our pupils, who go on to excel in their academic and sporting pursuits.
Indeed, Culford School is just as unique as its staff and pupils. blend historic the il A bl d off the h hi i and d the h modern, d h school is set in 480 acres of beautiful Suffolk parkland with an 18th century mansion at its centre. It also boasts modern academic and sporting facilities that are the envy of schools and academies across the UK. No matter a pupil’s interest or passion, Culford provides the foundation for them to flourish. Pupils have secured places at the most respected universities in the world, competed at national and international golf championships and have been ranked amongst the top 10 junior tennis players in the UK. Culford is a school where we create individuals and help them realise their potential. Come visit to find out more.
T 01284 385308 | www.culford.co.uk Culford School, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, IP28 6TX | 11
Framlingham College Type: Gender: Ages: Pupils: Fees:
Boarding & Day School Co-educational 13 - 18 425 £19,176 - £29,823 per year
Framlingham College is a dynamic and forward-looking community.This is a school that is interested in the development of the whole person as well as the examination candidate, and we encourage our pupils to open their minds, to aim high in all they do, and to make the most of the opportunities available to them.
A Level stands alongside the very best in the country. Individual programmes of study provide each pupil with the knowledge and expertise to realise their full academic and personal potential, and the majority of our leavers go on to top British universities, including Oxford and Cambridge.
The College has a fine record in stretching the most able pupils, and we know that the bright child will do as well here as they will anywhere else, while our ‘value-added’ rating for those pupils who are not automatically destined to achieve A grades at GCSE and
What is certain is that all pupils can be assured of the highest professional quality of provision and individual care in all areas of school life, whatever their strengths or interests.
T 01728 723789 | www.framcollege.co.uk Framlingham College, Framlingham, Suffolk IP13 9EY 12 |
Framlingham College Prep School Type: Gender: Ages: Pupils: Fees:
Boarding & Day School Co-educational 2 - 13 285 £8409- £14,631; Boarding: £35-38 per night; Nursery: £35 per day
Pupils at Framlingham College Prep School are very proud of their school.They find their preparatory years stimulating, rewarding and enjoyable.The youngsters explore their talents, discover new ones and feel valued in a friendly, caring and supportive environment.We are also conscious of the very different adult world for which we are preparing them, of the qualities they will require to prosper, and of our responsibility in nurturing these qualities.
Parents are equally as proud of their school.There is a plethora of choice out there and parents are very discerning. Increasingly, they look for a school that is as tailor-made to them as much as it is to their children. Flexibility is the key, and schools like us that can offer such a bespoke service combining flexible starts and ends of the day with a flexible boarding option are thriving.
T 01728 685331 | www.framcollege.co.uk Framlingham College Prep School, Brandeston Hall, Suffolk IP13 7AH | 13
Ipswich High School Type:
Day School
Gender:
Co-educational boys and girls
Pupils:
447
Ipswich High School will be offering the Diamond Model of education from September 2018.The Diamond Model offers the benefits of the single-sex classroom for ‘pre-teen and lower-teen’ students, whilst gaining from the social benefits of a co-educational school. It is seen as an approach which not only gets the very best from pupils, but also from teaching staff, as they are able to tailor their techniques for girls and boys. Our beautiful 84-acre campus is located in Woolverstone, just outside of Ipswich.The spacious site has superb facilities including our theatre, ICT suites, a 25m swimming pool, Sixth Form suite, cookery rooms,
dedicated music rooms and floodlit AstroTurf pitches. We capitalise on our outstanding natural surroundings. Our woodland provides an outdoor learning area for the Prep School and the pond and parkland are used for scientific research. We welcome pupils from across Suffolk, Essex and South Norfolk, many of whom travel to school using our extensive coach network.We are proud to develop pupils who are inspirational, respectful, courageous, ambitious and have real integrity. In 2017, 57% of our pupils accepted a place at a Russell Group university.
T 01473 780201 | E admissions@ihs.gdst.net | www.ipswichhighschool.co.uk
Ipswich High School, Woolverstone, Suffolk IP9 1AZ 14 |
The Old School Henstead Type: Gender: Ages: Pupils: Fees:
Independent Day School & Nursery Co-educational 2½ - 11 100 Reception £6,792*; Year 1 £7,680; Year 2 £8,028; Years 3-6 £9,789 per annum. *Early Years funding deductible for under 5s.
The Old School Henstead is committed to ensuring that every pupil maximises his or her potential.The school’s aim is to nurture positive, responsible young people, who can work and co‐operate with others, developing knowledge and skills to make a special contribution to the global environment that awaits them. Above all, the school believes in making learning fun and to engender a love of lifelong learning in every child. Small class sizes, excellent teaching and an insistence on traditional values of hard work and good manners help all pupils to achieve high academic standards.The school caters for pupils of all abilities, taught in class bases in Early Years
and the Lower School, and by subject specialists in the Upper School. Music-making and drama are an important part of life at The Old School Henstead, in keeping with the school’s focus on building pupils’ confidence.The school believes in sport for all, with pupils representing the school in a range of sports. Outdoor Education is an important part of the curriculum, for it is inclusive and encourages supervised, sensible risk-taking and learning opportunities. A range of after school clubs includes a thriving Pony Club.Tours of the school and taster days are available on request.
T 01502 741150 | E office@theoldschoolhenstead.co.uk | www.theoldschoolhenstead.co.uk
The Old School Henstead, Toad Row, Henstead, Nr Beccles, Suffolk NR34 7LG | 15
South Lee School Type:
Day School and Nursery
Gender: Co-educational Ages:
2 – 13
Pupils: 214
South Lee is an established nursery and preparatory school in Bury St Edmunds for children aged 2 13 years 2-13 which is dynamic and contemporary. Children are fully supported by our caring, professional and motivated staff who provide each child with a broad and relevant education, setting high expectations and celebrating effort, curiosity and perseverance. A vibrant and busy school day extends beyond the classroom with
our extensive sport, art, music and drama facilities rounded encouraging pupils to develop into well well-rounded individuals who are ready to thrive in and contribute to the wider community. For more details or to arrange a visit, contact Mrs Ronge – Registrar, on 01284 754654 or visit www.southlee.co.uk
T 01284 754654 | E office@southlee.co.uk | W www.southlee.co.uk South Lee School, Nowton Road, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk IP33 2BT 16 |
Woodbridge School Type: Gender: Ages: Pupils:
Day and Boarding School Co-Educational 4 – 18 810
Founded in 1557,Woodbridge School is a co-educational day and boarding school for pupils of ages 4-18.The School is a caring and nurturing school, with a real sense of warmth and community. Woodbridge focusses on providing an education in which academic results are highly important, but ultimately can only be achieved by innovative approaches to teaching and learning, excellent extra-curricular provision, outstanding pastoral care, and a particular emphasis on the personal development of its pupils.
The central aim of a Woodbridge education is to help equip our students with the qualifications, personal attributes and characteristics that they will need to thrive in a rapidly changing world. Education needs to evolve, and at Woodbridge we aren’t just ‘doing what we’ve always done’ but adapting (while retaining academic rigour) to meet the demands which young people will face in 2025, 2030 and beyond.
T 01394 615041 | E admissions@woodbridgeschool.org.uk | www.woodbridgeschool.org.uk
Woodbridge School, Marryott House, Burkitt Road, Woodbridge, Suffolk IP12 4JH
| 17
St Mary’s School, Cambridge Type:
Independent day and boarding school
Gender: Girls Ages:
4 - 18
Pupils: 650
Surrounding the Cambridge University Botanic Garden, our students delight in their time at St Mary’s School, Cambridge, where we achieve ‘excellence in every possible area of educational provision’ (Independent Schools Inspectorate). We embrace High Performance Learning (HPL) – a proven, research-driven and pedagogy-led approach to education, built on the premise that in the challenging but nurturing environment our school provides, intelligence can be learned and high outcomes achieved by all students. Students are provided with opportunities to try new experiences and to invest in developing their aptitude in
particular areas through our purposefully broad extra-curricular offering – from Young Engineers to Japanese, photography to Model United Nations, a broad range of musical ensembles and theatrical productions, and sports ranging from rowing, netball and squash to Zumba, self-defence and golf. We are committed to on-going improvements, such as investing in our dedicated Sixth Form Centre, Junior School, modern Learning Resources Centre, Science Hub, and our new boarding accommodation, Mary Ward House. Latest investments include our digital strategy, expanding rowing provision with the City of Cambridge Rowing Club (CCRC), and redeveloping our Long Road sports fields.
T 01223 353253 | E admissions@stmaryscambridge.co.uk stmaryscambridge.co.uk/p/FandC
St Mary’s School, Bateman Street, Cambridge, CB2 1LY 18 |
The Leys School Type:
Boarding and Day School
Gender: Co-educational Pupils: 565
Located in the heart of the historic university city of Cambridge,The Leys sits in leafy grounds of over 50 acres. Primarily a boarding school, it offers pupils the best of both worlds, and extensive links with the University means their educational experience is unique, balancing intellectual stimulation with a history and culture that others can only dream of. Add to this the school’s ‘rural’ feel, extensive sports facilities and over one hundred weekly extra-curricular activities, and it is easy to understand why pupils are proud to feel part of such an inspiring and engaging community.
Key to ensuring pupils are happy and achieving is the pastoral care embedded within the school.Whether a boarder, home boarder or day pupil, each child is attached to 1 of 11 houses, each supported by an approachable and nurturing team; a true home from home. The Leys is always keen to encourage those with particular talents and a range of academic, sporting and creative scholarships are available. To arrange a visit and explore the school contact the Admissions Team.
T 01223 508900 | E admissions@theleys.net | www.theleys.net
The Leys School, Trumpington Road, Cambridge CB2 7AD | 19
Bishop’s Stortford College Type:
Independent Day and Boarding School
Gender: Co-educational Ages:
4 - 18
Pupils: 1180 Fees:
Please see the website for full details Bishop’s Stortford College is one of the UK’s top-performing independent co-educational schools for pupils aged 4 to 18. At the heart of the value we offer is the community of people. Pupils are surrounded by inspiring role models who enable them to develop the same confidence and ability to transform the ordinary into the extraordinary. As an all-through day and boarding school, with a flexible approach to boarding, the College is able to cater for boys and girls of different ages within a family and the individual needs of each family. Breadth of experience is woven into daily life at the College. Pupils can, and do, pursue high academic standards whilst enjoying and succeeding in many other interests. As three schools in one, the College is large enough to provide an exceptional range of opportunities, whilst each part is small enough for pupils to be known, valued and nurtured as individuals. Easily accessible, the College is blessed with a peaceful, spacious and safe setting, close to the countryside yet within walking distance of the town centre, midway between London and Cambridge.
T 01279 838575 | E admissions@bishopsstortfordcollege.org | www.bishopsstortfordcollege.org w
Bishop’s Stortford College, 10 Maze Green Road, Bishop’s Stort Stortford, Hertfordshire CM23 2PJ
20 |
Brentwood School Type: Gender: Pupils: Ages: Fees:
Day & Boarding School Co-educational (Diamond Model) 1,570 3 - 18 Please see website for full details
Brentwood School shines out as a beacon of excellence. Academically, we sit comfortably alongside the best schools in the country, and we enjoy an unparalleled local reputation. Our students are happy individuals who thrive on the high standards which are expected of them.They benefit from state-of-the-art facilities, set in the heart of Brentwood, and surrounded by 75 acres of green playing fields and gardens.We celebrate a 461-year history and take our heritage seriously. Our pupils are expected to have self-respect, to exhibit pride in their appearance and embrace values such as courtesy, consideration for others, kindness, honour, courage, sportsmanship, duty and selflessness.
Our pupils achieve excellent academic standards that rank among the best in the country.The average results achieved by A Level and International Baccalaureate Diploma students is the equivalent of AAA at A Level. Brentwood was the first school in Essex, and one of the first in the country, to adopt the Diamond Model: single-sex classes from the age of 11-16 within an overall mixed gender environment.We believe this model helps our teachers to tailor their teaching to the different learning styles of boys and girls and provides the best of single gender teaching within a co-educational environment.
T 01277 243 314 | E admissions@brentwood.essex.sch.uk | www.brentwoodschool.co.uk
Middleton Hall Lane, Brentwood, Essex, CM15 8EE | 21
Colchester High School Type:
Day School
Gender: Co-educational Ages:
2½ - 16
Pupils: 400
Colchester High School is Colchester’s only independent school for girls and boys aged 2½ to 16, uniquely able to offer an excellent family-friendly education to children from nursery through to Year 11. Our welcoming environment and combination of small classes and high-quality teaching allows us to give each child the individual attention they need to flourish. As a result, our pupils exceed national expectations at every level and perform consistently well at the 11+ and GCSE examinations. The foundations of this success are laid in our all-year-round Nursery, where our experienced
practitioners engage each child with an individually targeted blend of free-flowing play and formal learning in phonics and maths.This is built on in our Lower School, where we offer a broad curriculum designed to help each pupil progress at the right speed and is completed in our Senior School, where our subject-specialist teachers help pupils meet our high expectations. Our individualised focus reaches beyond the classroom to take in the worlds of sport, music, the arts and more so that every child can explore all of their talents. Scholarships are available for entry into Year 7 of our Senior School.
T 01206 217116 | admissions@colchesterhighschool.co.uk | www.colchesterhighschool.co.uk
11-13 Wellesley Road, Colchester, CO3 3HD 22 |
Colchester Royal Grammar School Type:
State selective grammar school, Sixth Form boarding
Gender: Boys 11-16, co-educational Sixth Form Ages:
11-18
Pupils: 931
CRGS is an 11-18 state selective grammar school which admits boys from Year 7 and has a co-educational Sixth Form. It is one of the top-performing schools in the country and is one of very few state boarding schools, with accommodation for 30 Sixth Form students.The school has been awarded ‘The Sunday Times Parent Power East Anglia State Secondary School of the Year’ in The Sunday Times Schools Guide 2018. CRGS provides a rich education for its students and promotes their personal development through pastoral care, extracurricular activities and leadership
opportunities. It is proud of its outstanding reputation for games, music and drama, and has its own swimming pool, fully-equipped gymnasium, multigym and extensive games fields. Admission at 11+ is through selection tests and at 16+ is based on performance at GCSE. The family atmosphere, culture of academic excellence and care for the wellbeing of students are key features of the school.
T 01206 509100 | E office@crgs.co.uk | www.crgs.co.uk 6 Lexden Road, Colchester, Essex CO3 3ND | 23
Dame Bradbury’s School Type:
Independent Day Preparatory School
Gender: Co-educational Ages:
3 – 11
p Pupils: 252
Based in the beautiful town of Saffron Walden, we pride ourselves on getting to know every child and their family. Part of the Stephen Perse Foundation, we do things differently, so that each child takes an individual journey with Dame B’s, through which they flourish and succeed.The ISI have deemed us “outstanding”, saying that we “provide an outstanding education that challenges and motivates pupils in equal measure”. Creativity and fun is everywhere - from our inspiring art facilities to our choice of clubs ranging from ballet to
photography, rugby to rock band - there is something to capture the imagination of every child. In class, we build the use of digital media into lessons. In our Forest School, pupils learn about exploring and teamwork as they search for the best wood to make a bow and arrow or cook up a feast in the mud kitchen. Our pupils are willing to experiment, to take on challenges and leave us full of enthusiasm, ready for their next steps. Don’t take our word for it - come and see us in action!
T 01799 522348 | E office@damebradburys.com | www.damebradburys.stephenperse.com
Dame Bradbury's School, Ashdon Road, Saffron Walden, Essex CB10 2AL 24 |
Helena Romanes School & Sixth Form Centre Type:
Day attendance
Gender: Co-educational Pupils: 1,200
Honesty, Respect, Success O school Our h l iis a centre off excellence, ll offering ff i allll who h work and study here the opportunity to succeed at the highest levels and to be part of an exciting and progressive learning community. In our last two Ofsted reports we have been rated as a Good School and our attainment continues to improve with a four year upward trend. As Headteacher, I am committed to providing our students with a first-class educational experience –
creating that to d develop, i an environment i h enables bl them h l flourish and achieve their dreams. At the Helena Romanes School we see you and your child as our partners in valuing, encouraging and ensuring their success within a climate of high expectations. I am immensely proud of the achievements and personal growth of every one of our students and recognise what a privilege it is to play a part in each child’s development.
T 01371 872560 | E blouth@hrs.education | www.helena-romanes.essex.sch.uk Parsonage Downs, Great Dunmow, Essex CM6 2AU | 25
Holmwood House Preparatory School Type:
Day school with flexi and weekly boarding options
Gender: Co-educational Pupils: 300
Holmwood is a unique place. It embodies all of the values of the traditional 4-13 Prep School but tends to do so in a rather individual manner! We take the important things seriously but like to think a little out of the box from time to time. At the heart of any great school is what happens in the classroom and at the heart of our teaching programme is the belief that each child is an individual and should make demonstrable progress in every lesson; wherever they are on the academic spectrum. Great teaching is a way of ensuring even greater learning.We introduce specialist subject teaching from an early age (languages, music, swimming, PE & Games in Reception, adding in
specialist art from Year 2 and science from Year 3). From Year 4, the children are taught in sets by subject specialists across the whole curriculum. Pastoral care is a huge strength of our school; we genuinely aim to live our school's motto every day "Happiness is the Key to Progress".The culture and ethos at Holmwood are embedded in all that we do.We like tradition, we value culture, we care about our school community, we embrace competition, challenge and sportsmanship, we don't like arrogance or poor sportsmanship as we try to live by the Holmwood 3 Cs - care, courtesy and consideration. From September 2018, Saturday School shall cease.
T 01206 574305 | E admissions@holmwood.house | www.holmwood.essex.sch.uk
Holmwood House School, Chitts Hill, Lexden, Colchester, Essex CO3 9ST 26 |
Littlegarth School Type: Gender: Ages: Pupils: Fees:
Day School and Nursery Co-educational 2 - 11 324 Nursery £782 to £2692 Pre-Prep £3054 Years 3 & 4 £3285 Years 5 & 6 £3547
Littlegarth is a happy, friendly and forward thinking school where children between the ages 2½ and 11 begin their exciting journey of discovery. The school aims to inspire a lifelong love of learning. Our stimulating and wide-reaching curriculum is designed to enable each pupil to develop a range of talents and to encourage self confidence. Littlegarth is situated in the heart of Constable Country on the Essex/Suffolk border; with its Grade II listed
Georgian building looking out over the rolling landscaped farmland. The school boasts a large Sports Hall, and with a new building which houses six classrooms, a Library and specialist rooms for the creative and performing arts, Littlegarth has the facilities to ensure that the children achieve their full potential, enabling them to excel in a wide variety of activities. For further details or to arrange a visit to the School please contact: Peter Jones, Headmaster or Carolyne Morey, Registrar.
T 01206 262332 | E office@littlegarth.essex.sch.uk | W littlegarth.essex.sch.uk Littlegarth School, Horkesley Park, Nayland, Colchester, Essex CO6 4JR | 27
New Hall School Type: Gender: Pupils: Ages: Fees:
Day and Boarding School Co-educational (Diamond model) 1,200 3-18 Please see the website for full details
New Hall School is an independent boarding and day school for boys and girls aged 3-18 years. Set in a stunning location and dominated by the former Tudor palace of Beaulieu, New Hall is only 30 minutes from London by train, and in striking distance of the coast.
Key Stages 3 and 4.The provision of single-sex education during formative years enables students to grow in confidence, whilst enjoying an education that is specifically tailored and that recognises the different ways in which boys and girls learn.
At New Hall we operate the highly successful ‘diamond model’ structure; co-education in the Preparatory Divisions (ages 3-11), single-sex education in the Boys’ Division and Girls’ Division (ages 11-16) and co-education in the Sixth Form (ages 16-18). In this way, New Hall provides the best of both worlds; the benefits of a co-educational environment, together with the advantages of girls and boys being taught separately at
We believe that a New Hall education enables students to confidently meet the challenges of the world. Here, students of different traditions are educated in an environment where academic excellence is achieved. This is brought about in surroundings where relationships are based on the Gospel values of trust and respect. New Hall School welcomes all who support the Catholic ethos.
T 01245 467 588 | E registrar@newhallschool.co.uk | www.newhallschool.co.uk New Hall School, The Avenue, Boreham, Chelmsford, Essex CM3 3HS
28 |
St Margaret’s Prep School Type:
Day School
Gender: Co-educational Pupils: 211 Fees:
from £3,105 - £3,760
St Margaret’s is an independent nursery and preparatory school for children aged two to eleven. We lay the foundations of academic success in our “outstanding” Early Years department, comprising Nursery and Reception, and build on this as children progress through our happy school, set in 7 acres of listed parkland. Every Independent school will use the words ‘Unique’, ‘Small Class Sizes’ ‘Bringing the best out in each child’, ‘Excellent Academic Results’ and so forth. St. Margaret’s offers all of those, but you would expect that from any good Preparatory School.
Parents who send their children to St. Margaret’s know they can trust us to make education fun and stimulating. We’ve been established since 1946 so parents know our reputation for developing exceptionally happy, polite, well-rounded pupils with a love of learning. They know our results speak for themselves, with our excellence in scholarships, sport and the arts, particularly music. Our Year 6 pupils consistently exceed national attainment levels and achieve much sought after places at grammar and selective senior schools. Why not arrange to visit us and see for yourself?
T 01787 472134 | E admin@stmargaretsprep.com | www.stmargaretsprep.com St. Margaret’s Prep School, Gosfield Hall Park, Gosfield, Essex CO9 1SE | 29
St Mary’s School Type:
Day school
Gender: Co-eduational Ages:
Boys aged 3-4; Girls aged 3-16
Pupils: 400
St Mary’s, Colchester: ‘One of the UK’s top schools’. It’s among the best schools in the country according to the Sunday Times, but at Mary’s School, Colchester success is not only measured in exam results, but also in the development of each pupil’s individual character, talents and interests. ‘Small classes and attention to the best methods of encouraging each pupil to achieve her potential mean that our students’ academic results are impressive, whatever their starting point,’ says Mrs Hilary Vipond, Principal of St Mary’s, the independent day school for girls aged three to sixteen, with boys aged three and four in its Kindergarten. ‘However, although we are an academic school, our pupils also play an active part in
school life, making the most of a broad, stimulating education in our happy environment’. In St Mary’s very positive culture, young people are keen to achieve and pupils’ GCSE results are consistently among the best in the area. At age 11, SATs results are well above national expectations and pupils achieve grammar school places and Senior School scholarships. No wonder the Sunday Times’ ParentPower judged St Mary’s to be the ninth highest performing preparatory school in the country. At St Mary’s, students achieve academically and at the same time develop the personality and confidence to make the very most of the school years and the life that lies ahead.
T 01206 216420 | E registrar@stmaryscolchester.org.uk www.stmaryscolchester.org.uk
St Mary’s School, 91 Lexden Road, Colchester, Essex CO3 3RB 30 |
St. Michael’s Church of England Preparatory School Type:
Day School
Gender: Co-educational Pupils: 286
St. Michael's School is a popular and forward thinking Prep School where traditional values, progressive teaching and learning methods go hand in hand to provide children with an excellent start to their education. The majority of our Year 6 children go on to one of the grammar schools within the Southend area or to leading independent senior schools. From their earliest days in our thriving Foundation Stage we aim for each child to grow in confidence and
independence and for them to develop into unique and well-rounded individuals. Underpinned by our Christian ethos children learn and grow together happily in our school. St. Michael’s children are frequently involved in a wide variety of musical activities and performances both inside and outside school. Sport and Drama also feature very highly, together with our innovative outdoor education programme.
T 01702 416310 | E admissions@stmichaelsschool.com | www.stmichaelsschool.com 198 Hadleigh Road, Leigh on Sea, Essex, SS9 2LP
| 31
Thorpe Hall School Type:
Non-selective Independent Day School
Gender: Co-educational Pupils: 369 Fees:
Thorpe Hall School is a forward thinking school where new initiatives to support learning are embraced and pupils are encouraged to be the very best they can be. Great emphasis is placed on teaching children how to learn and develop the skills they need to become life-long learners. A broad curriculum balances active, practical and stimulating areas of learning, and outstanding academic results are achieved. A Sunday Times Top 100 UK Preparatory School in 2016 and again in 2017,Thorpe Hall was also recognised by the Independent Schools Association with two consecutive Innovation and Excellence Awards for the quality and breadth of its Senior and Early Years education.
T 01702 582340
From £3,000 to £4,100 per term
Pupils have a very positive school life, rich in variety and with a wealth of opportunity for them to be challenged, supported and successful. At the heart of the school is the understanding that in order to build self-esteem and confidence, a wide range of activities must be provided to enable every child to experience and achieve. These activities are not limited to academic study but include a wealth of sporting, social and cultural opportunities. “In response to the school’s promotion of its values, pupils create the family atmosphere in which they flourish and develop.Their self-esteem builds and they move on with confidence and maturity to achieve their potential.” Independent Schools Inspectorate Report 2014
| E sec@thorpehall.southend.sch.uk | www.thorpehallschool.co.uk
Thorpe Hall School, Wakering Road, Southend-on-Sea, Essex SS1 3RD
32 |
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