Friday 27th March 2026

News from Upper Prep

Following last week’s insightful contribution from our Head Girl, Delilah, I am pleased to share the highlights of what has been an exceptionally productive week for Upper Prep. Despite the fast pace of this short term, our Year 7 and 8 pupils have continued to demonstrate resilience, energy and enthusiasm.

On Monday, Thomas and Josh represented the school at the IAPS Debating Competition held at Barrow Hills. Competing against high-calibre teams from Prebendal School, Aldro, and Danes Hill, the boys showcased sophisticated rhetoric and sharp analytical skills.

I am delighted to announce that they secured a first-place victory and have successfully qualified for the National Finals this coming May. I would also like to thank Alfie, our reserve, whose dedicated support during the preparation phase and was vital to the team’s success. I am incredibly proud of the boys.

On Thursday, Year 8 travelled to London for a modern production of Romeo and Juliet at the Globe Theatre. As Shakespeare remains a cornerstone of the English curriculum through to GCSE and A-Level study, experiencing the plays in their traditional setting is invaluable. This contemporary interpretation was particularly effective, ensuring the themes remained accessible and engaging for all students.

News from Prep

What a wonderful way to round off a busy and successful term!

Earlier in the week, Year 3 enjoyed a fantastic trip to Sayers Croft, where they explored the natural environment, discovered a variety of pond life with some hands on pond-dipping, and learned more about habitats and ecosystems.

Today, we ended the term in the best possible fashion with our much-loved Bunny Run. The children were full of energy and enthusiasm, showing great determination as they completed the course, all while supporting and encouraging one another. It was a wonderful event, filled with smiles, laughter, and a real sense of community spirit – an ‘egg’cellent way to celebrate the end of term.

As we look back over the past weeks, it is clear just how much has been achieved. From performances and trips to sporting events, workshops, and daily classroom successes, the children have approached every opportunity with gumption and positivity. It has been a pleasure to see their confidence grow and their many talents shine.

All that remains is to thank you for your continued support throughout the term. I wish you and your families a restful and happy Easter break, and I look forward to welcoming the children back refreshed and ready for another exciting term ahead.

Kind regards,
Miss Tyrrell, Head of Prep

News from Pre-Prep

Our Pre-Prep Spring Showcase was a wonderful celebration of creativity and confidence, with a special focus on Mother’s Day, spring daffodils and Easter. The children proudly shared beautiful artwork, thoughtful spring-themed poetry, and cheerful songs, making it a truly heartwarming event. It was especially lovely to see the clear progression in the children’s speaking and performance skills. The children’s developing confidence, expression, and stage presence really shone through. We finished with the Easter bonnet parade on the Headmaster’s Lawn and a final chorus of Spring Chicken – a memorable occasion!

I’m sure yesterday’s Specialist Subject Information Morning gave you an interesting insight into what the children from Reception to Year 2 have been covering as part of their curriculum with their specialist teachers. Mme Early, Mr Smith, Mrs Burnett, Mr Behan and Mrs Davies were able to provide an insight into the skills the children from Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 have been exploring and developing so far this year, as well as how this learning underpins what the children will build upon beyond Year 2, as they move into the Prep Department.

Step into a world where imagination blooms, colour speaks, and creativity knows no bounds.

From 22nd – 24th April 2026 

Barrow Hills transforms into a vibrant gallery of bold ideas and brilliant young minds. This year’s exhibition celebrates an explosion of talent across painting, printmaking, textiles, and sculpture – featuring both intimate individual pieces and powerful large-scale collaborations.

Journey through artworks inspired by the curriculum and beyond: expressive portraits and figures, evocative still life, lush rainforests, and stories from the Greeks and Romans – where art meets history and geography.

But we don’t stop there…inspired by this year’s STEM theme of flora and fauna, we’ve gone BIG. With artist-in-residence Laura, students explored dyeing and screen printing, bringing cells and organisms to life on fabric. 

Meanwhile, Artist and Head of Art Ruth Wheeler has worked closely with students to create striking large-scale canvases – bold, expressive, and full of energy. Together, these works bring the A into STEAM in the most exciting way.

🎨 Private View Opening
Wednesday 22nd April | 4:30 – 6:30 pm

🕘 Opening Times
Thursday 23rd April: 8:00 – 9:00 am & 4:30 – 6:00 pm
Friday 24th April: 8:00 – 9:00 am

Come and celebrate curiosity, creativity, and the joy of making. 🌿