Before becoming a teacher, I saw firsthand the impact of guidance and encouragement when a child I coached in grassroots football progressed to an academy level. This experience reinforced my belief that every child has potential, and with the right support, they can achieve great things. As I moved into teaching, I found the same joy in seeing children progress academically and pastorally. Additionally, I was inspired by headteachers I worked under, who championed child-centred education, collaborative thinking, and a values-driven ethos that placed children and staff at the heart of everything.

One of the things I am most proud of as Head is fostering a school community that has come together to drive real growth. We reinvigorated the delivery of our teaching and learning, ensuring children are active participants in their education. The curriculum and timetable have been developed holistically, giving pupils the chance to thrive across a broad range of subjects. The increased opportunities for our pupils, along with strong 11+ results and academic and co-curricular scholarships, are a testament to this approach. But more importantly, we have created an environment where children develop confidence, curiosity, and a love for learning.

A successful prep school nurtures the whole child—academically, socially, and emotionally—while instilling a lifelong love of learning and strong values. At its core, a clear and well-defined ethos ensures that pupils, staff, and parents share a common vision.

High-quality teaching is key, with skilled and passionate educators who engage and inspire pupils through a balanced curriculum that blends traditional and innovative approaches. A strong prep school prioritizes pupil wellbeing alongside academic excellence, creating a nurturing environment where every child is known, valued, and supported to reach their potential. Small class sizes allow for personalized learning, while a robust pastoral care system ensures pupils feel safe and encouraged.

Beyond the classroom, a rich extracurricular program—including sport, music, drama, and outdoor learning—provides opportunities for children to discover new interests, build resilience, and develop leadership skills. Academic excellence remains a priority, with strong preparation for 11+ and Common Entrance exams, but success is also measured by pupils’ ability to think critically, solve problems, and approach challenges with confidence.

The best prep schools focus on finding the right senior school for each child, ensuring a seamless transition. A strong sense of community is vital, with engaged parents, valued pupil voices, and a culture of collaboration. Ultimately, a successful prep school is one where children are nurtured, engaged, inspired, and challenged—leaving with the knowledge, skills, and character to thrive in the next stage of their education and beyond.

When pupils leave our school, I want them to be not only well-prepared for the next stage of their academic journey but also instilled with a lifelong passion for learning. More than that, I want them to carry with them essential life skill and values including collaboration, empathy, kindness, resilience, and adaptability, so they can thrive in the ever changing world beyond. These qualities will help them navigate challenges, work with others, and approach life with confidence and curiosity.

Achieve, Strive, Participate, Investigate, Respect, and Enjoy