Despite its urban location, Thomas’s Battersea boasts a spacious environment that combines period charm with modern facilities. The main school building houses not only classrooms but also a purpose-built dining hall, dedicated gym, specialised art rooms (including a pottery studio), and drama and music rooms. The expansive on-site playground is a rare find among London schools, providing students with ample space to play and unwind. The campus is divided by a tranquil courtyard that adds a touch of calm to the lively atmosphere.

An Ethos of Kindness and Academic Breadth

The guiding principles at Thomas’s Battersea are encapsulated in its ethos: “Be Kind, Broad Curriculum, Academic Success.” This vision, dating back to founders Joanna and David Thomas in the 1970s—an actress and a Gurkha officer, respectively—originally emphasised “Be Kind and Don’t Run.” While the school achieves impressive academic outcomes, it is far from being an exam factory. The 11+ and 13+ assessments are acknowledged as significant milestones but are described as “bottlenecks” within the broader educational journey. Academic success is underscored by a holistic approach, preparing students for senior schools with confidence.

The school organises three classes per year up to Year Six and four classes in the final two years, with academic setting commencing from Year Three. While some students, predominantly girls, depart at 11+ to join senior London day schools, this is offset by a notable Year Seven intake from Thomas’s Fulham and Thomas’s Kensington. The Upper School (Years Seven to Eight) is distinct in its preparation for the rigours of senior school life, featuring specialised subject classrooms. Year Eight focuses heavily on Common Entrance and scholarship preparation.

Entry Points and Admissions

The main entry points for Thomas’s Battersea are at Reception (4+) and Year 7 (11+). The school also welcomes applications for ‘Occasional Places’ in Years 1 to 6 and Year 8, accommodating families looking to join the school community mid-course.

Thomas’s Outdoors and Enrichment

Outdoor learning and enrichment are embedded in the curriculum. Older students participate in week-long residential trips, and Thomas’s Daheim, the school’s hostel in Austria, offers memorable ski trips—a notable highlight when former head Ben Thomas joined Year 5 on the slopes. Core sports include hockey, rugby, netball, football, and cricket—all played by both boys and girls—at facilities such as Barn Elms Sports Centre, with swimming at Latchmere Leisure Centre.

Thomas’s Battersea also offers a wide range of extracurricular clubs through which pupils can discover new passions and explore their physical, creative, social, global, moral, and cultural interests with like-minded peers. Some of the diverse activities available include ballet, debating, karate, gardening, swimming, and judo, ensuring students have ample opportunity to broaden their horizons beyond academics.

A Prep School with a Forward Vision

Thomas’s Battersea is currently refocusing on its identity as a 4 to 13 prep school after an ambitious, yet ultimately paused, plan to expand into senior education on-site. The next chapter will see the launch of Thomas’s College in Richmond, an 11 to 18 school set to open in September 2025. Pupils at the existing Putney Vale site will transition there in 2025.

Cosmopolitan Setting with Community Awareness

The cosmopolitan neighbourhood adds an eclectic charm, with nearby institutions like St John Bosco (a voluntary-aided RC school for ages 11-18) and L’Ecole de Battersea, an “École Homologuée” situated almost directly opposite. Despite being a part of an elite educational circuit, Thomas’s Battersea maintains a grounded atmosphere, blending privilege with a keen awareness of its surroundings. The school incorporates activities like cycling classes on local streets and fosters strong community connections.

While it may not appear as the archetypal elite West London prep school—and it might be hard to picture Prince George among its pupils—Thomas’s Battersea thrives on a mix of international backgrounds, reflecting Battersea’s diversity.

In essence, Thomas’s Battersea balances academic achievement with the nurturing of creativity, character, and community—remaining true to its motto: “Be Kind.

Contact us today to discover how our relationship with top schools like Thomas’s Battersea can elevate your child’s educational experience.

(Images Credit: Thomas’s Battersea; Front Image: The Times)

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Berkhamsted School, a prestigious independent day and boarding school based in Hertfordshire and Buckinghamshire, offers high-quality education for boys and girls from 5 months to 18 years. The school prides itself on delivering excellent education and care, focusing on nurturing each child to thrive and flourish through a progressive curriculum. The school’s diamond structure includes co-educational prep, single-sex senior schools, and a co-educational sixth form, ensuring that the educational experience is tailored to meet the needs of students at different stages of their development.

Early Years Education (5 months to Reception)

The Early Years curriculum is an evolving and developmental programme that highlights key milestones in a child’s growth from birth to five years old. This curriculum adheres to the Early Years Foundation Stage framework, emphasising seven areas of learning: Personal, Social, and Emotional Development; Physical Development; Communication and Language; Literacy; Mathematics; Understanding the World; and Expressive Arts and Design. The goal is to establish a solid foundation for lifelong learning and well-being. The move to Pre-Prep is carefully handled to ensure a smooth transition and preparedness for the next phase of education.

Pre-Prep

The Pre-Prep is a co-educational independent day school for pupils aged 3 to 7. The curriculum follows the National Curriculum but is enriched by specialist instruction in Art, Drama, French, Music, and PE. The school actively encourages pupils in Years 1 and 2 to develop personal responsibility and serve as role models for younger children. Their personal, social, and emotional education continues to prioritise the well-being of the pupils, helping them reflect on the qualities needed to be part of a community and further developing their self-esteem and resilience. Pupils in Years 1 and 2 take on positions of responsibility, such as serving on the School Council and as House Captains, to cultivate their early leadership skills.

Prep School

Junior school education at Berkhamsted is crafted to nurture and develop each child’s potential. The curriculum emphasises opportunities for pupils to cultivate life skills, critical thinking abilities, and fluency in technology, media, and the creative arts. Simplified neuroscientific concepts and metacognitive strategies are integrated into the curriculum to foster self-aware learners who take active control of their education. These skills ensure that pupils grow into remarkable individuals, well-prepared for their transition to Senior School and laying the groundwork for life beyond Berkhamsted.

Senior School

Senior School education at Berkhamsted is single-sex (one school for boys and one for girls) for pupils aged 11 to 16.

Berkhamsted Girls

At Berkhamsted Girls Senior School, the focus is on academic excellence, personal development, and extracurricular involvement. The GCSE programme includes core subjects and offers additional options such as the Learning Pathway Programme and the HPQ project. The school aims to foster a supportive environment where girls can excel both academically and personally. The curriculum emphasises life skills, critical thinking, and fluency in technology, media, and the creative arts. Incorporating simplified neuroscientific concepts and metacognitive strategies, the curriculum helps develop self-aware learners who take charge of their education. These skills ensure that pupils grow into outstanding individuals, well-prepared for the transition to further education and laying a strong foundation for life beyond Berkhamsted.

Berkhamsted Boys

Berkhamsted Boys Senior School focuses on holistic development and nurturing lifelong learners. The GCSE programme comprises core subjects and a range of optional subjects, with a special focus on languages, humanities, and creative disciplines. The school provides a supportive environment that encourages boys to reach their full potential both academically and personally.

From September 2021, Berkhamsted introduced innovative changes to the Key Stage 4 curriculum. Pupils now take three core GCSE subjects (English Literature, English Language, and Maths) and can choose six additional subjects, one of which must be a Science. To ensure a broad academic portfolio, pupils are encouraged to select at least one language, one humanities subject, and one creative subject among their options. Alongside their GCSE subjects, pupils participate in the Learning Pathway Programme, an in-house curriculum designed to develop key skills for A-level study and beyond. Some pupils are also invited to complete an HPQ project, equivalent to half a GCSE.

Latest Results

In 2023, 65 per cent achieved grades 9-7 at GCSE, and 40 per cent attained A*/A at A level (74 per cent at A*-B). In 2019 (the last pre-pandemic results), 65 per cent achieved grades 9-7 at GCSE, and 47 per cent attained A*/A at A level (79 per cent at A*-B). All results are combined with those of the girls’ school.

UKiset Entrance Examination for Berkhamsted School

As a UKiset partner school, Berkhamsted School requires UKiset results as part of its entrance examination process. UKiset (UK Independent Schools’ Entry Test) is an adaptive online assessment designed for international students who are looking to enter the UK education system. It evaluates a student’s academic abilities and English language proficiency.

Why UKiset?

• In-person and Online Invigilation: UKiset can be taken in approved test centres worldwide, making it accessible to students from many different countries.
• Comprehensive Evaluation: The test covers a wide range of skills, providing a holistic view of a student’s academic abilities.
• Streamlined Admissions: Using UKiset scores can simplify the admissions process for international students, as they only need to take one standardised test.

In conclusion, the entrance examination for Berkhamsted School is a comprehensive process designed to identify students who will thrive in their academic environment. For international applicants, UKiset provides a valuable and standardised assessment tool that helps streamline the admissions process while ensuring candidates meet the high standards expected at Berkhamsted.

Learn more about UKiset here.

Sixth Form at Berkhamsted

The Sixth Form at Berkhamsted School is now co-educational. It offers thorough preparation for university and life beyond. Combining academic rigour with personal development opportunities, the school ensures that students are well-equipped for their future careers and personal lives. Berkhamsted students are encouraged to set ambitious goals, reflect on their strengths and weaknesses, and work with teachers and pastoral staff to monitor their progress and achieve their potential. The school promotes high academic performance, offering a choice of 27 A-Level subjects and the option of an EPQ. It takes pride in the consistently high academic achievements of Sixth Form students each year, with the majority studying three core linear A-Levels. Approximately 15 per cent of students leave post-GCSEs for various reasons, including a desire for change, interest in more vocational subjects like criminology, financial considerations, or not meeting academic requirements. Most Sixth Formers proceed to university, with around half attending Russell Group institutions. Popular choices currently include Exeter, Nottingham, Bristol, Leeds, and Nottingham Trent. Berkhamsted boasts a dynamic and diverse community that provides a stimulating and supportive transition between school and university.

Boarding

Berkhamsted School provides a flexible boarding experience for both UK and international students, offering options for full-term boarding, weekly boarding from Year 9 (Sunday to Thursday nights), flexi-boarding from Year 7, and short-term boarding. The boarding facilities are designed for comfort and community, featuring spacious rooms accommodating 2-3 students. Sixth Formers have access to single or double rooms, some with en-suites. The school has two boarding houses: St John’s for girls and Incents for boys, both located on Chesham Road, within a short walk of the Senior and Sixth Form campuses and the town centre. Each house has a common room and kitchen facilities, and the large gardens are shared by both houses. Dining facilities allow boys and girls to meet, and joint house outings are regularly organised. Boarders also enjoy free private membership at the Knox-Johnston Sports Centre, which includes a fitness suite, sports hall, and 25m swimming pool. Boarders can participate in a variety of evening and weekend classes, from aqua aerobics to pilates. The school places a strong emphasis on community life, fostering lifelong friendships and a supportive network for students. Meals are nutritious and cater to diverse dietary needs, ensuring all students feel welcome and included.

The Arts and Extracurricular

Berkhamsted School offers a diverse range of extracurricular activities alongside its rigorous academic programmes. The arts and music departments are particularly strong at the school. Students can engage in private lessons, orchestras, choirs, and joint productions. The comprehensive curricular and extracurricular options include LAMDA classes and exhibitions showcasing various techniques such as watercolours, acrylics, textiles, ceramics, digital media, and photography.

The outdoor education programme is equally robust, featuring activities like high ropes courses, bushcraft, climbing trips, and international skiing expeditions. This diverse range of offerings ensures students have ample opportunities to explore their interests and develop new skills beyond the classroom.

The school is also known for its outstanding sports performance in rugby, football, cricket, and netball, supported by tailored training programmes for aspiring athletes.

Final Thoughts

Berkhamsted School offers a nurturing environment where ambitious, eager learners are bound to flourish. It is particularly well-suited for families seeking a consistent, all-through education with a sense of familiarity throughout the years. The school caters to those progressing from Berkhamsted Pre-Prep, providing continuity in their educational journey. Parents who appreciate extensive facilities and a convenient town centre location will find it appealing. Berkhamsted is ideal for go-getters who strive to distinguish themselves and maximise their educational opportunities, offering a wealth of experiences that help pupils stand out from the crowd.

Contact us today to discover how our relationship with top schools like Berkhamsted can elevate your child’s educational experience.

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Background and Overview:

Sibford School, established in 1842, is a non-selective, co-educational independent institution for students ages 3 to 18. Originally founded for Quaker families, the school now welcomes all while retaining its Quaker ethos of “seeking that of God in everyone.” The school’s guiding principles, derived from Quaker beliefs, focus on respect, integrity, simplicity, equality, peace, truth, and sustainability. In keeping with Quaker tradition, teachers are addressed by their forenames and surnames rather than the usual Mr. and Miss, with surnames often dropped in higher grades

The school hosts 440 students across Reception, Junior, and Senior school faculties, including 62 in the Sixth Form. Both the Junior School and Sixth Form enjoy the range of facilities available on 50-acre campus. Class sizes are intentionally small, maximum 15-18 students. This allows individualised attention and fosters an inclusive, nurturing environment. Sibford truly excels in providing a vibrant and enriching extracurricular program, boasting an impressive array of over 90 clubs and activities with the facilities to cater for this.

Location:

Nestled in the heart of the picturesque Oxfordshire countryside, the school is close to major airports—Heathrow, Gatwick, and Birmingham—just over an hour’s drive from Heathrow Airport. The school is conveniently situated 55 minutes by train from London. It is also handy to know that Sibford will arrange collection and drop-off from Banbury train station, located just 10 miles from the campus.

Leadership and Curriculum:

Rebecca Evans, who took on the role of head in September 2023, is just the 12th leader in the school’s 177-year history. Her appointment involved students’ participation, and parents recognise her kindness, empathy, and dedication. Under her dynamic leadership, the senior management team has not only grown stronger but has also been revitalized with fresh teaching talent.

Sibford’s educational approach emphasizes anxiety-free academic learning. They don’t do SATs or teach to age-related expectations. Instead, the school tailors the curriculum to each student’s individual abilities. The transition from junior to senior school is handled with care, with most juniors progressing to the senior school. Year 7 typically comprises an even split of new joiners and those advancing from the junior school.

In the senior school, English, Maths, and Science are taught in ability-based sets. Students can opt for dual award or separate sciences. Language options include French and Spanish, with German available as an extracurricular choice. Year 7 is divided into four teaching groups, averaging 15 pupils each. The smaller cohort encourages broader participation in sports, music, and arts, giving every student the opportunity to excel.

The Sixth Form curriculum is diverse, offering 28 courses, including traditional A-levels and subjects like textiles and product design. BTECs at levels 2 and 3 are available in areas such as business studies, sport, ICT, and media. The school is committed to running courses even with low enrollment numbers. Additionally, students can pursue Extended Project Qualifications (EPQs) for UCAS application credits.

Learning Support and Special Educational Needs:

Approximately 30% of students receive support for various learning needs. The school typically arranges for support during language lessons. For students with autism or other conditions requiring emotional support, the school creates a network of key staff members available throughout the day for immediate assistance. The school also employs two Gifted & Talented coordinators and a Head of Support for Learning. An improved data tracking system has also been implemented to monitor student progress.

Arts and Extracurricular Activities:

Sibford puts great emphasis on creativity and imagination across all disciplines. The music department serves as a vibrant hub, featuring a grand piano, individual practice rooms, and a recording studio. Students can participate in various choirs, orchestras, and bands. The school boasts a well-equipped performance hall with professional lighting and sound systems and a dedicated music building housing an ensemble room and practice spaces. Several senior choirs, string and chamber groups, and a monthly full symphony orchestra rehearsal with the Sibford Community Orchestra are available

Drama is another strong suit, with LAMDA training being particularly popular. The department stages impressive annual musicals. Food and nutrition, as well as design technology, are also favored subjects among students.

The art department is a point of pride, featuring separate studios for painting, textiles, ceramics, and sculpture, plus a dedicated Sixth Form art studio. The design technology suite is equally impressive in scale.

Sibford offers a wide range of before-school, lunchtime, after-school, and evening clubs. Activities include climbing, sailing, horse riding, golf, and swimming. The school also organizes various talks and trips, including an annual ski expedition.

Boarding:

From Year 7 onwards, students can opt for full-time, weekly, or flexible boarding arrangements. Two boarding houses are available: Fielding House for weekly and full-time boarders, offering shared twin rooms, and Margaret Fell House for flexible boarders. House Parents live at opposite ends of the boarding houses and get to know their boarders well. Like parents, they stay updated on their academic progress and offer a secure home environment away from the pressures of academic work. They organise a range of cultural activities for evenings and weekends, alongside quiet times for relaxation

Final Thoughts and Parental Perspective:

Sibford School attracts a diverse parent body united by their belief in Quaker values and a desire for their children to be happy, included, and to achieve their potential. Many students come from local primary schools and the state sector, with parents working hard to afford these opportunities for their children.

The school is often described as a hidden gem, focusing on personal development and academic achievement without the stress of a highly competitive environment. Its rural setting, spacious campus, and high level of pastoral care make it an attractive option for parents seeking a nurturing educational environment. The convenience of a through-school model (from ages 3-18) is particularly appealing to families who prefer a consistent educational journey without the need for multiple transitions

Contact us today to discover how our relationship with top schools like Sibford can elevate your child’s educational experience.

Credit: All photos kindly provided by Sibford School

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Situated in the vibrant heart of South Kensington, Mander Portman Woodward (MPW) London combines the tranquility of its serene campus with the bustling energy of Central London. Just a stone’s throw from iconic parks and museums, and a mere ten-minute walk from South Kensington Underground Station, MPW is perfectly positioned for students desiring a comprehensive educational experience in the capital.

Established in 1973, MPW is a premier Fifth and Sixth Form College catering to both UK and international students. In addition to its Central London grounds, MPW has campuses in Birmingham and Cambridge, providing a diverse choice for students wishing to join the school. MPW annually educates an estimated 1,200 students representing 72 different nationalities, offering a culturally inclusive and diverse education. As a co-educational institution, MPW offers a comprehensive curriculum of courses, including GCSEs, IGCSEs, A-Levels, and Easter Revision Courses.

School Ethos:

At MPW, their ethos strongly focuses on 1-to-1 individual attention by tailoring their classrooms to fewer students. The school stands out for its commitment to student well-being, academic growth and personal development. Their emphasis on embodying smaller class sizes ensures each student receives individualised support, fostering a tailored, attentive learning environment. The approach complementing 1-to-1 tutoring, reinforces the school’s dedication for their students to strive for academic excellence.

It is further important to understand MPW’s philosophy, which extends a strong focus on societal values and community engagement. The school encourages students to participate in various extracurricular activities, ranging from sports and arts to volunteering and leadership opportunities. MPW embodies a holistic approach for their students, aimed at cultivating well-rounded individuals prepared for academic and personal success.

Courses / Facilities:

MPW London offers both one-year and two-year GCSE courses for over 30 subjects, providing ample choice to their students. To ensure a hands-on approach for GCSE courses, classes have an average of six students, guaranteeing tailored and focused support. Classrooms are designed with a specific focus, with many academic facilities, including multiple science laboratories, several computer rooms, and an impressive emphasis on their art and photography studios. For students passionate about art, MPW offers a remarkable variety of art studios, including 3D design and ceramics, textile design, and art and design studios, as well as a dedicated photography room.

Boarding:

A short walk down Queen’s Gate leads us to the new boarding house where international students reside. This new facility now features modern en-suite bedrooms providing quiet, relaxing views of South Kensington. Each room is designed to be compact yet still spacious enough to move around, along with other important features, including bed comfort, ample desk space, and well-appointed bathroom amenities. Boarding students benefit from a well-balanced experience, enjoying personal space with en-suite facilities while also engaging in social development with their fellow boarding peers.

MPW London Foundation Programme:

MPW London offers an Academic Foundation Programme ideal for students planning to study at top universities in the UK or abroad. MPW’s University Foundation Programme provides a supportive pathway for students to meet the UK’s university application requirements. Upon completion, students achieve results comparable to A-levels, giving them a strong foundation for university success and beyond.

Summary:

A distinctive feature of MPW is the absence of a uniform requirement. MPW embraces a holistic approach to education, prioritising robust academic development and personal growth over a strict uniform policy. This philosophy allows students to focus on their studies without uniform constraints, fostering a relaxed learning environment where individuality and self-expression are encouraged.

Overall, MPW offers a comprehensive and enriching educational experience, allowing students to pursue academic excellence along with personal and community development. The combination of individualised support, diverse extracurricular activities, and a supportive environment makes MPW a desirable choice for students seeking education in the heart of South Kensington.

If you’re interested in the importance of making the right choice for Sixth Form registration, check out our previous blog for detailed guidance.

Contact us today to discover how our relationship with top schools like MPW can elevate your child’s educational experience.

Credit: All photos kindly provided by MPW

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Kingswood School in Bath uniquely combines countryside serenity with city accessibility, situated on 120 acres of picturesque land just under two hours by train from London. Founded by the Methodist, John Wesley, this co-educational institution serves 900 students, aged 11 to 18, with a linked prep school and diverse student body representing 23 different countries, enriching the school’s cultural environment.

Kingswood offers day schooling, alongside flexible boarding options. As part of the Kingswood Foundation, the school includes a Prep and Nursey School on the same campus. The state-of-the-art Nursery welcomes children from 9 months old and is open for 45 weeks of the year, providing a nurturing and enriching environment where children can develop, learn and play.

Focused on fostering a holistic and inclusive community, students are able to develop their confidence and personal motivation, allowing them to reach their full potential. By encouraging a broad and balanced education, Kingswood aims to cultivate not only academic excellence but also the social, moral and personal development of each student. This comprehensive approach ensures students are well-prepared to face the real world with resilience and kindness.

Academic Ethos

Kingswood School is dedicated to fostering holistic development in its students, placing a strong emphasis on personal growth, responsibility, service, and a commitment to academic excellence.

Admissions for years 7 and 8 involve assessments in maths, English, and non-verbal reasoning, with additional subjects for years 9 and 10.  Sixth form entry requires specific GCSE grades and an interview with the head.

The school offers a diverse curriculum of 20 GCSE subjects and 23 at A Level, including traditional and modern disciplines, such as computing, design and technology, economics, politics, psychology, drama, theatre studies and sports BTEC Level 3. Social sciences and the arts are popular, with biology performing exceptionally well. Students can combine an art with two sciences. Maximum class sizes are 24 in years 7-8, 20 in years 9-11 and 14 in the sixth form, with ability-based sets in Maths and English.

At A-Level, Kingswood demonstrates impressive academic results with over 50% of students achieving A* or A grades, and 83% attaining A*-B grades. The school maintains a 100% pass rate, reflecting their commitment to supporting all students in achieving their academic goals. Furthermore, Kingswood prepares their students for higher education, with 90% successfully securing places at their preferred universities, often within the prestigious Russell Group. Popular destinations include Exeter and Birmingham, with Nottingham, Cardiff, Manchester, Southampton and Leeds, also frequently chosen. In 2023, nine students secured places in medical schools, while three gained admissions to Oxbridge.

Facilities

Kingswood School features an expansive campus that blends traditional 1920s buildings contrasted with contemporary classrooms. Students have access to three big AstroTurf’s, tennis and netball courts, a strength and conditioning gym, a spacious theatre and Harry Potter themed dining hall. The campus also offers a dedicated art and design studio tailored for enthusiastic art students.

Co-Curriculars

At Kingswood, students engage in a rich tapestry of over 100 extracurricular activities, encompassing sports, music, drama, and the Duke of Edinburgh Award.

The music department, fondly regarded as a sanctuary by pupils, provides 240 individual lessons weekly, alongside numerous choirs, orchestras, and ensembles. Students showcase their talents in various venues, from school events to Bath Abbey and regional festivals. Drama thrives in the school’s 366-seat theatre, hosting two major productions annually and the recent addition of LAMDA exams.

Kingswood’s sporting ethos is inclusive yet competitive, catering to casual participants and elite athletes alike. The school’s impressive 57-acre campus boasts extensive facilities, including astro fields, an athletics track, and cross-country trails. With 30 active weekly teams and strong links to Bath’s city and university clubs, students have ample opportunities to excel in sports at national and international levels. Popular sports include rugby, hockey, cricket, athletics, tennis, netball and basketball. This comprehensive approach to extracurricular activities complements Kingswood’s academic rigour, ensuring students develop a broad range of skills and interests during their educational journey.

Boarding

Kingswood School provides a variety of boarding arrangements, including full, weekly and flexi boarding, accommodating 140 boarders across five well-appointed boarding houses. Each house is managed by a House Parent and supported by a dedicated team of matrons and tutors who ensure to provide daily care and support. There are no exeat weekends, allowing students to experience continuous community life at the school. With dedicated house staff and exciting weekend adventures, students can apply to board from the age of 11, ensuring a nurturing and enriching experience. The boarding houses have a blend of traditional and modern decor, while gradually undergoing renovations to include outdoor decking, ensuite bathrooms and state-of-the-art technology.

Pastoral care is exemplary at Kingswood, infused with inclusivity and kindness. While an academically achieving school, a holistic approach to students’ wellbeing and personal development is provided. Lots of mental health support is available with the health and wellness centre always open, a mindfulness programme with integrated yoga, counsellors on-site and visible safeguarding staff.

Summary

Overall, Kingswood is committed to academic excellence while fostering a supportive and inclusive atmosphere. The school prepares students for successful careers, but it’s focus extends beyond academics. For those seeking to excel in co-curricular activities, Kingswood offers opportunities for holistic development. Kingswood stands out for their comprehensive approach to education combining rigorous academic standard with a nurturing environment encouraging personal and intellectual growth. Providing the best of both worlds, the school boasts a serene countryside setting with easy access to the city centre.

Contact us today to discover how our relationship with top schools like Kingswood can elevate your child’s educational experience.

Credit: All photos kindly provided by Kingswood School

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Secluded just an hour by train from London, St Joseph’s Day and Boarding School is nestled in the heart of Ipswich. This modern campus sits on Belstead Road and is a short 7-minute drive from the train station and 10-minute drive from the city centre. Accommodating just under 600 students, St Joseph’s offers both day schooling and boarding. The student body is diverse, with international students representing over 93 different nationalities, as well as local students from surrounding towns. St Joseph’s takes paramount importance for the safety and convenience of its students by providing a return minibus service from Essex and Suffolk, and a return shuttle from the train station each morning.

Dedicated to recognising the individuality and uniqueness of each child, St Joseph’s ensures personalised care and attention to each student. The school prioritises its students through actively safeguarding their students and offering equal educational opportunities. The school environment is full of integrity, kindness, respect, courtesy and enjoyment, providing an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere and community feel, allowing each student can reach their potential. Reflecting this ethos, St Joseph’s offers a continuous and comprehensive educational journey, starting with nursery and prep school, and continuing through to senior school and Sixth Form.

Academic Ethos

At St Joseph’s, all students are empowered to become successful learners and take pride in their achievements. Each subject is taught using innovative and creative methods to ensure an engaging and dynamic learning experience. From a young age, students are encouraged to exhibit good manners and attentiveness. In return, the school provides a supportive environment that promotes responsibility and independence in their work. As students’ progress to senior school and Sixth Form, they are guided by this foundation of responsibility, with supportive staff available to assist them on their journey towards academic and personal growth.  

In senior school, class sizes typically range from 15 to 18 students varying for GCSEs depending on the subject, though they do not exceed 20. For A-Levels, class sizes also vary by subject, with some subjects being by invitation only, limiting class sizes to a maximum of 5 students. Popular subjects include Business, Economics, Maths, Engineering, Art and Design, and Photography. The art and photography department are particularly strong as staff are highly qualified with over 15 years’ experience.

Recent A-Level Results are impressive, with 50% of students achieve A*/A grades and 32% achieved two A* and one A. Students have an average of 128 UCAS points, with university destinations including UCL, Warwick, Kings, Loughborough, Edinburgh and Sheffield,

 Sport Curriculars

St Joseph’s is renowned for its exceptional performance and sporting achievements. The school attracts international students with its outstanding sports programme, many of whom aspire to pursue professional sport careers. St Joseph’s offers tailored training programmes for its athletes, including strength training, after-school sessions, and meal plans, all designed to complement their academic schedules. With an incredibly talented performance squad of boys and girls, the school excels in rugby and football. Last year, the girls U18 football team won every major trophy in the UK, highlighting the school’s commitment to excellence in both academics and athletics. However, not limited to football and rugby, students also excel in cricket and netball with impressive cricket pavilion grounds and netball courts for these sports to be played year-round.

Boarding

St Joseph’s offers a unique and flexible boarding experience for both UK and international students. Whether students are looking for weekly, flexi or short-term options, St Joseph’s accommodates adaptable needs for students with flexible entry, accepting applications all year round.

The traditional boarding facilities are designed with comfort and community in mind. The spacious rooms, with high ceilings and large windows, accommodates 2-3 students, with the youngest boarder accepted from the age of 9. Each student has their own personal space within the room, complete with a desk and wardrobe. Shared rooms foster a sense of camaraderie and friendship while maintain a perfect balance between personal space and social development. For those in Sixth Form, there are a few single rooms available, for more privacy and independence.

The communal lifestyle for boarders at St Joseph’s fosters a strong sense of community. Life is not just about academics, it’s about building lifelong friendships, creating a supportive network, and guiding students to reach their full potential.

St Joseph’s ensures every boarder is well-nourished with three meals a day during the week. Catering to diverse dietary needs, the school provides alternative milks, Halal meat options and always a vegetarian choice. For those on the go, grab-and-go options are available with a well-stocked salad bar also available. The inclusive dining experience, with long tables, ensures all students feel like they belong. 

 Overall, St Joseph’s is a perfect balance for well-rounded students. St Joseph’s stands out as an institution that does not limit students to their academic excellence, but provides a holistic development of their students, ensuring they are well-prepared for future success in all aspects of their life. With robust academic programmes complemented by a wide range of extra curriculars, St Joseph’s nurtures the intellectual, physical, personal and social development of their students. Not only does this school provide a supportive and inclusive environment, but also fosters a sense of belonging and community, allowing St Joseph’s students to feel valued and encouraged.

 Please get in touch with us if you are interested in knowing more information about St Joseph’s Ipswich.

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Set in picturesque Berkshire countryside, Bradfield College is a mere hour away from London, spread around the village of Bradfield in Berkshire, making it a significant part of the local community. It was founded in 1850 to provide education for choirboys of the local church. That church, in which the Duchess of Cambridge was baptised, is now closed, and the school has its own Chapel.

The school has changed considerably since its nineteenth century foundation. Today it is a co-educational boarding school numbering 810 pupils, and offering IB as well as A-levels.

We started our visit to Bradfield College with meeting the headmaster, Dr Christopher Stevens. He’s been at the helm for 4 years, during which time his liberal educational ideas and business savvy helped to improve the school in both reputation and ratings: academically, it’s now three-times oversubscribed and in a good position to select the best students; on the business side, it has international expansion plans. Bradfield’s ethos is to provide an outstanding education for life, equipping the young people in its care to flourish personally and professionally after they leave school. Dr Stevens told us that he encourages his students to follow their calling, even if it goes against their parents’ wishes; and last year’s graduates destinations are the proof of that: while many of last year’s graduates went to Oxbridge and Russell Group Universities, one of the boys joined the youth team of Burnley FC! With his encouragement, decisions in Bradfield are taken by the staff asking themselves ‘what is in the best interests of their pupils?”

After our meeting with the Headmaster, we were taken on a tour of the school, and saw the science and IT labs, the art studio, sports facilities, which impressed us, all being well maintained and intelligently used.

Then came the icing on the cake – the Greek amphitheatre, or ‘the Greeker’ as it is lovingly known at the school. It was built in 1882 in the disused chalk pit by the then headmaster H.B.Gray. When Gray became the headmaster, the college was in decline, and would probably not have made it into the 20^th century had it not been for Gray’s imaginative initiative of introducing the Greek Play. It became so popular, it was talked about in academic circles, reported in The Illustrated London News and brought the school fame, finances and secured its future.

If the Greeker transformed the school’s fortunes, the opening of the Faulkner’s boarding house revolutionised its pastoral set-up. This is where pupils come when they first join the school, they start the year together and do all their activities together as a year group. This allows the new pupils to integrate into the school, before moving to senior boarding houses for the remaining 4 years at the school. The facilities at Faulkner’s are modern, clean, with the homey feel. The house has its own Dining Hall too.

We were impressed with Bradfield: it is a modern school with history and tradition, it has excellent leadership, dedicated staff, great facilities and provides excellent education.

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Stonar is a school like no other. It is a boarding school with a high educational ethos and good facilities, but it is also an equestrian centre of excellence, teaching some young people to ride for pleasure while training others to become champions. As we entered the school, we noticed the sign on the other side, for exit: “Please give way to horses”.  Inside the school, reminders of its equestrian focus are everywhere: there are cabinets full of trophies, awards for winning equestrian competitions displayed on the walls and stands throughout the school. There is an enclosed dressage arena, with a viewers’ gallery above and a line of comfy chairs, for parents and visitors to observe students in training. In an adjacent classroom, a teacher and a group of students were looking at the TV screen, studying minute details of the dressage practice, analysing which gaits were good and which could be improved. As we walked around the school, we had a strong feeling that we were somewhere unusual.

Analyzing the steps of the dressage

And yet, it is a school like any other good school in terms of academic performance. Stonar educates boys and girls from the age of 2 to 18, and is a part of the NACE educational group, with 20 international partners. One of the parents had this to say about the school: “My two daughters have had opportunities to visit other NACE schools, in Spain and Mallorca, with sport, academic and choir groups. Stonar offers them the opportunity to ride every day at the school equestrian centre. The school develops each child and encourages them to achieve their full potential, as well as offering them immense opportunities to develop as individuals.” Isn’t this what we all want for our children? The latest Independent Schools’ inspection report described Stonar as ‘Excellent’, praising pupils’ academic progress and social development. Like the parent’s praise quoted above, the report is a testimony to the quality of academic and pastoral support pupils receive here.

Stonar wasn’t always an equestrian school. It was established at Stour House in Sandwich, Kent, in 1895. In 1920, the school was taken over by three joint heads Miss Gladys Crook, Miss Isabel Blackwell and Miss Edith Joslin, affectionately known by Stonarians as “the Three”. They expanded the school and moved it to a more spacious House.  From then on, it has been known as Stonar House School. The story has it that the first pony called Tufty arrived when the school acquired its new, extensive grounds. Riding was firmly established there by 1934. Stonar House remained the school’s home until the outbreak of the Second World War, when the school had to move. One of the Heads had relatives in Wiltshire who alerted her to Cottles Park. The school was packed up, and, together with the ponies, a goat called Ambrosia, a dog, a cat and a bowl of goldfish, moved to its current location near Bath. In the words of Miss Blackwell: “We were a tired and almost exhausted group of Stonarites who arrived late evening at our new domicile – Cottles Park – was it to be worth it in the future? Time has proved that it was.

Mrs Blackwell, one of the three founders

Well looked after in the school’s stables

Since then Stonar and its unique Equestrian Centre have flourished within its superb parkland setting. We found it heart-warming to see students walking around the territory of the school in their riding gear, carrying saddles and bridles.  The stables were well-appointed, the horses clean and well looked after. There was even a facility for walking the horses, a bit like a hamster wheel or a revolving door of a hospital, only larger; a handsome chocolate-brown Arabian horse with a well-groomed black main slowly did the rounds of his daily exercise routine. We loved the proximity of the stables to the main school, the way the children behaved around the animals, one could feel that, like with children growing on a farm, looking after the horses gave them a particular kind of maturity and confidence. Looking after animals helps the children develop emotionally, gain a sense of responsibility. But with horses, there’s also something else – to ride them, children have to learn to work together, to understand another creature’s needs and concerns and adapt to them. We had a strong sense that horses were a part of the educational process.

In the school’s courtyard – ready to ride

Walking around Stonar, one can feel its warm, supportive ethos. It is not the most modern or best equipped of schools, some of the facilities may seem a bit tired. But the overwhelming atmosphere is happy and positive, children are relaxed and friendly, the stuff open-minded, and as so often the case, when there is competitive sport involved, there is an atmosphere of camaraderie and focus. We visited two boarding houses – a boys’ and a girls’. These were not super modern, but everything was clean and in good working order; the sofas soft and cosy, the kitchen sufficiently equipped and well-stocked with fresh fruit, tea and biscuits, reflecting the caring nature of the school. Many beds sported duvet covers with horses, many bed-side tables had riding trophies on them. We also visited the art studio, and their art is exceptional.

In a girls’ boarding house – unequivocally equestrian

As we were leaving the school, in the once grand reception, now showing signs of wear and tear, we noticed a sculpture. When we got closer, we realised that it was of “The Three”, the founders of the school, as popular in their time as they are today, and warmly remembered. They would have been pleased to know that their impact on the school ethos remains very much alive.

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