News from Head of Prep

There is something particularly special about seeing the girls take their learning beyond the classroom, engaging with new ideas, meeting inspiring people and discovering things that spark their curiosity. These experiences not only enrich the curriculum but also help to build confidence, encourage thoughtful questioning and create memories that will stay with them long after the school day has ended.

Shakespeare has always been a real passion of mine, and so it was an absolute joy to see the Year Six girls beaming with excitement as they threw themselves into our hands-on Shakespeare workshop this week. There is something wonderful about watching the girls discover that Shakespeare's plays are not simply words on a page, but stories full of humour, drama, emotion and wonderfully colourful characters. Through practical activities, performance and exploration, the girls were able to bring the language to life, developing a greater appreciation of the plays and the confidence to engage with them in an entirely different way. The animated discussions around the dining table over lunch were testament to just how much they had enjoyed the experience, and it was lovely to hear them enthusiastically sharing their favourite moments and discoveries.

For our Year Five girls, the opportunity to meet real-life farmers and ask probing questions about sustainability within the farming industry provided another fascinating insight into the world beyond the classroom. It was particularly inspiring to see their curiosity in action as they explored the challenges facing modern agriculture and considered how farmers are working to protect the environment while producing the food we rely upon. The girls were especially fascinated to discover the role that technology now plays in farming, including the use of drones to identify potential issues with crops. This was a wonderful example of how innovation and traditional industries are coming together, and certainly introduced the girls to possibilities they may never previously have considered. Most importantly, it encouraged them to think critically about sustainability, food production and our responsibility towards the world around us.

Forest School continues to go from strength to strength, ably led by our fantastic Mrs Cornelius. It is wonderful to see the girls embracing the opportunities that outdoor learning provides, whether that is exploring their surroundings, working collaboratively, taking on a new challenge or simply enjoying the freedom of being outdoors. The benefits of this approach to learning are well documented, supporting the development of social skills, resilience, independence and confidence, while also nurturing curiosity and emotional wellbeing. There is so much to be gained from learning in a different environment, where the girls can take risks, solve problems creatively and discover that some of the most valuable learning happens when they are given the freedom to explore. My thanks go to Mrs Cornelius for the enthusiasm and expertise she brings to these sessions and for creating such a positive and enriching experience for the girls.

Thursday saw the first of our swimming galas, and what a triumph it was! I am incredibly proud of the swimming provision within the Prep School and hugely appreciative of the passionate and dedicated staff who spend so many hours on poolside, or in the water, guiding, encouraging and supporting the girls as they develop their confidence, stamina and technique. Swimming is such an important life skill, but it also offers so much more: it teaches perseverance, discipline, self-belief and the value of supporting one another. It was a delight to see the girls putting their practice into action, celebrating their own achievements and cheering on their friends. We were delighted to welcome so many families to watch, and the atmosphere was wonderfully supportive and exciting. Events such as these are a lovely reminder that success comes in many forms, whether that is achieving a personal best, overcoming nerves or simply finding the confidence to take part. Well done to all the girls who participated and my sincere thanks to the staff who made the event such a success.

There has also been great excitement surrounding the completion of our playground improvements, and the girls are absolutely delighted with the results! The new markings provide a wealth of opportunities for active play, movement and physical development. From supporting the girls in taking part in the Daily Mile to encouraging activities that develop both gross and fine motor skills, the playground will offer something for everyone. Just as importantly, it provides another space for the girls to play together, develop friendships, practise teamwork and, of course, have plenty of fun. Play is such an important part of childhood and a valuable opportunity to develop skills that extend far beyond the playground itself. It has been lovely to see the girls exploring the new markings with such enthusiasm and I look forward to seeing how they make the most of this refreshed space.

As I reflect on the week, I am struck once again by the breadth of opportunities available to our girls and the many different ways in which learning can take place. Whether discovering the magic of Shakespeare, exploring the future of sustainable farming, developing independence outdoors, celebrating achievements in the swimming pool or enjoying the simple pleasure of playing together, each experience contributes to the development of confident, curious and well-rounded young people.

It is these moments of discovery, challenge, excitement and achievement that make life in the Prep School so special. My thanks, as always, go to our wonderful staff for the care, creativity and commitment they bring to making these opportunities possible and to our families for their continued support. It is a privilege to see the girls flourishing, embracing new experiences and, most importantly, enjoying their learning along the way.

Have a lovely weekend.

Mrs N Hobson

Head of Preparatory School