independent_schools_Autumn

Thursday, September 13, 2018

Newbury Weekly News

Pull-out and keep guide

2018

Independent Schools

Autumn 2018

2018

09:00 - 11:00AM Open Day OCT 05

P I CK YOUR PATH AT. . .

The Mount, Highclere, Newbury, RG20 9PS Tel: +44 (0) 1635 253172 www.thorngroveschool.co.uk

Thursday, September 13, 2018

Newbury Weekly News

Open Morning Saturday 6 October 9.30 - 12.30 Independent Day School Boys 6 months - 11 years Girls 6 months - 18 years

“St Gabriel’s is a school where pupils stand out for all the right reasons; join us at our Open Morning to discover what makes a St Gabriel’s education distinctive.” Ricki Smith, Principal 10.30am Talk by Ricki Smith, Principal 80% A*-B at A level STEM subjects 50% Grade 9 at GCSE Biology (national average 12%)

To reserve your place, please contact - admissions@stgabriels.co.uk

01635 555680 www.stgabriels.co.uk

f

St Gabriel’s Sandleford Priory Newbury RG20 9BD

Thursday, September 13, 2018

Newbury Weekly News

Pangbourne College

which we can provide.” The co-curricular programme combines a broad array of sport, music and drama activities. Additionally, the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award scheme has gone from strength-to-strength since its inception at the school in 2004 and the Combined Cadet Force is another option enjoyed by pupils outside the classroom. Entry is offered at 11+, 13+, and 16+, and occasionally into other year groups. The best way to experience Pangbourne is to come and visit, enjoy a tour of the college and speak to pupils and staff. The next open morning will be held on Saturday, September 22, from 9am- noon, and there is a Year 7-8 open morning on Saturday, October 13, from 9am-noon. Come and visit to gain a real insight into what

“Pangbourne is known for its outstanding pastoral care – recognised as excellent in the recent ISI report – and we take an integrated approach to caring for each pupil. “We are not complacent about the challenges that young people face and are always seeking to improve the support,

physical skills and their appreciation of who they are and what they can contribute to the world.” Results at GCSE and A-Level this year have reflected the positive work ethic at the school, with a 93 per cent pass rate at GCSE, including 41 per cent of students achieving grades 9-7 under the new specification. A-Level students achieved a similarly impressive set of results, with the best A*-B ratio at the college since 2011, of 54 per cent. Mr Garnier continues: “Pangbournians are encouraged not only to challenge themselves and reach their potential, but also to be happy and fulfilled. “The college offers a comprehensive co-curricular programme, which enables pupils to find their niche and thrive as

Natural Beauty, within easy reach of excellent transport connections. It is 10 minutes from Junction 12 of the M4 and served by London Paddington – Oxford Mainline rail network. Daily school transport services are available from Newbury, Basingstoke, Wantage, Henley, Twyford, Wargrave and the surrounding areas. Headmaster, Mr Thomas Garnier, says of the college: “Pangbourne is a place where the individual matters. We have a beautiful site and excellent facilities, but first and foremost, this is a ‘people place’. We are committed to the personal development of our pupils in the fullest sense. “They are encouraged to work hard towards academic success and we are proud of the results which they achieve, but just as important is the development of their characters: their confidence and values, their creative and

ethos and go a long way to preparing pupils for life’s challenges and the responsibilities of adulthood. The aim is to equip Pangbournians with the strongest possible foundations for their future. Pangbourne is set in 230 acres within an Area of Outstanding The personal development of Pangbourne’s students is out- standing, and supported by an excellent, broad curriculum which enables students to progress academically and sup - ports the development of the whole individual. ISI Inspection Report “

PANGBOURNE College offers wide-ranging academic and co-curricular opportunities to girls and boys aged 11-18, with an emphasis on outstanding pastoral care and character development. Pangbourne is a vibrant boarding and day school community, perfectly balancing strong service values with a dynamic, modern outlook and unpretentious, inclusive attitude. The college is proud of its outstanding pastoral care, taking an integrated approach to caring for each pupil, and understanding the challenges young people face in order to improve the support it provides. The Flag Values of kindness, selflessness, moral courage, initiative, industry, resilience, and integrity underpin every aspect of life at the college. They are rooted in a Christian

“

A distinctive school that puts huge emphasis on self- discipline, teamwork and leadership. Caring and supportive, Pangbourne buzzes with activity and encourages ev ry pupil to have a go.

Pangbourne is today. www.pangbourne.com

Good Schools Guide

their specific abilities are recognised and developed.

Leading HMC Co-educational Boarding and Day School for children aged 11 – 18

Next College Open Morning: 22 September 2018, 9.00am – 12.00pm Year 7 – 8 Open Morning: 13 October 2018, 9.00am – 12.00pm

Please contact the Admissions Office on 0118 976 7415, or email registrar@pangbourne.com

Pangbourne College Pangbourne Reading Berkshire RG8 8LA Tel: 0118 984 2101 pangbourne.com

Thursday, September 13, 2018

Newbury Weekly News

Moulsford Prep School

Expectations are high, in terms of manners and discipline, and the boys respond accordingly. There is a strong rapport between staff and boys, and a sense of mutual respect. Mental wellbeing for both staff and pupils is taken very seriously. The school is in regular contact with mental health charities to understand the latest research. They also have an independent school counsellor who is available to meet boys weekly. One measure of Moulsford’s success is the broad range of scholarships and exhibitions awarded each year. For 2018 at 13+, four boys have gained awards to Abingdon School, two to Radley, one to St Edward’s Oxford, one to Bradfield, one to Stowe and one to Wellington, all across a range of academic, sports, music and all-rounder awards. In addition to these schools, others to which Moulsford boys are progressing to this year include Marlborough, Eton, Magdalen College School, Shiplake and Pangbourne. A daily bus service runs to and from Shiplake via Henley, as well as minibus routes via Watlington, Upper Basildon and Culham, with an additional route planned from Hermitage. Please do join the team at Moulsford for an informal visit and tour at one of the next open days on Friday, September 21, from 10am-noon or 1pm-3pm, or on Saturday, September 22, from 9am-noon.

MOULSFORD Prep School is an independent day and boarding school for boys aged 4-13, set in idyllic grounds of 30 acres beside the Thames, near Goring and Streatley. Moulsford offers boys superb opportunities for learning while having fun. A restructured curriculum was successfully introduced in September 2017, which moves away from the traditional Common Entrance preparation. The focus is not only to prepare boys for senior schools, but also to ensure they have the skills for life beyond. The new curriculum encourages boys to have a go, take a well-thought-out risk and, on occasion, fail. Exploration and enquiry is strongly encouraged and Moulsford life aims to develop boys’ resilience. Through the school’s activities programme, they offer opportunities to develop new The programme gives boys the chance to try magic tricks, bike maintenance, bushcraft, photography, drama, sailing, genealogy, subuteo, chess and bridge, pantomime, parkour, night-running, golf, stand-up comedy, geocaching and many more. The most popular activities are kayaking, climbing, archery, cooking and ceramics. This non-compulsory activities skills and talents, while becoming a conscientious citizen.

of the musical calendar is the open-air Summer Concert, with the choirs, orchestra and various ensembles (wind, string, jazz) performing on a July evening on the lawn beside the river, with parents bringing picnics. The core values of respect, compassion and independence are at the heart of all that the school does.

popular at Moulsford and roughly three quarters of the boys from Years 3 to 8 play an instrument, with 14 per cent learning two. Places in the choir are hotly contested, with a total of 58 boys in the senior choir and 80 in the Junior Choir. As well as two outstanding productions a year, the highlight

programme has a 75 per cent take up rate, and the talented staff are able to offer these activities in-house and therefore most are free of charge. Moulsford’s reputation for sport, and particularly rugby, remains extremely strong. While sporting glory is always the goal, and often achieved, the primary aim at Moulsford is to

provide opportunity across the ability range, with all boys in teams A to F regularly playing competitive matches. Minor sports have also seen significant successes in golf, skiing, fencing and judo, with some of the less overtly sporty boys finding their niche and talent in these arenas. Music and drama remains

OPEN DAYS

Friday 21st & Saturday 22nd September

Independent day and boarding school for boys aged 4-13

To attend an Open Day or to arrange an individual visit, please contact us: pa.registrar@moulsford.com • 01491 651438 • www.moulsford.com Moulsford Preparatory School, Moulsford-on-Thames, Oxon, OX10 9HR Getting the Best out of Boys

Thursday, September 13, 2018

Newbury Weekly News

Thursday, September 13, 2018

Newbury Weekly News

Shiplake College

SHIPLAKE College is a thriving boarding and day school for boys aged 11-18, with girls joining in the sixth form. The college starts its 60th anniversary year in September 2018 with a record 485 pupils on roll, including 200 girls and boys in the sixth form. Overlooking the River Thames, two miles upstream of the famous Henley Royal Regatta stretch, students enjoy an inspirational 45-acre rural site. Shiplake provides a friendly, supportive and structured environment to bring out the best in each and every pupil and equip them with the skills they need to enter the next stage of their lives as confident, personable and talented young adults. Increasingly academically ambitious and renowned for outstanding pastoral care and personal development, the college welcomes pupils with wide-ranging skills and talents, who will make the most of the many opportunities offered to them. Every pupil is placed at the heart of Shiplake life and the college’s ethos is underpinned by the three Is – Inclusive, Individual and Inspirational. All pupils are valued regardless of academic prowess, artistic flair or sporting ability, with opportunities for all to join in and try new things. Shiplake is a small community where every pupil becomes well-known to their house’s pastoral team, especially the

housemaster, personal tutor and matron. Each pupil’s best method of learning is identified and catered for by their teachers, with high-achieving pupils continually stretched, while those requiring additional support can access it in a variety of ways. There is a wide range of A-Level and BTEC subjects available, with all sixth formers also undertaking either the EPQ or CoPE as part of a bespoke PULSE (Personal Understanding, Learning Skills and Enrichment) programme. Interpersonal skills, confidence and talents are also discovered outside the classroom, through excellent sporting, artistic and co-curricular opportunities. Two afternoons are reserved for an array of clubs and activities, including a comprehensive outdoor education programme, with pupils encouraged to extend their horizons and experience new challenges and responsibilities. Sports training takes place on three afternoons a week, with the majority of fixtures on Saturday mornings. The college recruits highly motivated teaching staff with an ability and passion to inspire future generations and ensures pupils have the best possible learning resources and facilities at their disposal. The environment encourages pupils to take inspiration from their teachers, their surroundings, and each other. In 2019 the college hopes to open

100 per cent all-rounder scholarship to a boy currently at a state-maintained primary school who would be looking to join Year 7 in September 2019 and who would not be able to attend Shiplake without substantial financial support. Entry points are normally at Year 7 (11+), Year 9 (13+) and Year 12 (16+). Prospective families are encouraged to arrange an individual visit or attend an open morning on Saturday, September 22 (whole school) or

Saturday, October 6 (sixth form only). Please go to www.shiplake.org.uk to book your attendance, register your child, or request a prospectus, as well as explore the whole site, which contains a wealth of information relating to all aspects of life at Shiplake. This is the first port of call for details of admissions processes, fees, bus routes and answers to most academic, co-curricular and pastoral questions that prospective parents may have. www.shiplake.org.uk

room, which transforms into a function room, with a balcony overlooking the river. Full, weekly and flexi-boarding is available from Year 7 (age 11), tailored to suit individual needs. Full boarders take part in a vibrant weekend programme of trips and activities on Saturday afternoons and Sundays. Academic, art, music, drama and sport scholarships, as well as means-tested bursaries, are available. The college is also offering one

a Sixth Form Centre, with a café where Year 12 and 13 girls and boys can socialise and work independently, and some additional classrooms, and a boathouse and multi-activity centre. This exciting facility will not only include storage for rowing boats and other watersports, mountain biking and outdoor

education, CCF and DofE equipment, but will also incorporate an indoor

archery/rifle range, a climbing wall, weights room and an ergo

485 pupils (boys 11-18 and girls 16-18) )XOO ZHHNO\ ÀH[L DQG GD\ IURP

INCLUSIVE • INDIVIDUAL • INSPIRATIONAL

Thursday, September 13, 2018

Newbury Weekly News

t Helen and St Katharine

expeditions and productions, the choice is vast. At the heart of St Helen’s is a question: what will you find? An invitation to each pupil to discover opportunities and develop her strengths, enabling her to fully know herself and how best to use her talents. Wellbeing comes from being known and appreciated for being herself. It comes from the ethos which celebrates, but does not revere, success; it rests on intuitive support systems that are there for the best and worst of days; it hails from the award-winning food and the most loveable of all school dogs. It also comes from a commitment to physical activity through sport and fitness programmes – the aim is to create habits that will see physical wellbeing be a lifelong priority – and a focus throughout the school on

Sixth form pupils studying government and politics get to grips with the UK and US political systems, while familiarity with non-European languages is fast becoming a major asset for any young learner. Pupils from Year 8 to Upper Sixth can study Mandarin and Arabic, broadening their cultural awareness as well as linguistic skills. Outside the classroom all pupils are encouraged to live fully and to give anything that interests them a go. Opportunities are provided for this with the Beyond programme, in which more than 100 extracurricular clubs and societies flourish, some run by the pupils. From philosophy and fencing to photography and musical theatre, as well as numerous

nurturing individual character. Screens are an inevitable companion in 2018 and there are important lessons to be learned about digital selfhood. Part of this is teaching a healthy balance between engagement in social forums and being able to willingly put down a phone in order to read, compete, play and converse. Good and safe tech habits are encouraged from Year 5, and the school works closely with pupils and parents to manage online lives and the bombardments of social media. Year 9 pupils undertake a digital detox week – locking away their phones, iPads and laptops. This encourages discussions rather than Snapchat exchanges and exploration of different activities. Pupils’ reactions progress from doubt to resolutions to spend less time

of St Helen’s role in each pupil’s development is to help them prepare for life beyond school. As the job market toughens, graduates need friends on the inside in order to break through. A final piece of the St Helen’s jigsaw is the Kate Scheme, where sixth form students are mentored by alumnae as they make deci- sions about their careers. Inspiring and helping them as education and their careers, the Kate Scheme provides the hand reaching from the other side, the beginnings of a professional network. they make the transition between school, higher

on their phones. They sleep better and enjoy more profound interactions with friends and family. Yet the school is also aware that working in the digital age will require digital literacy. Computer science is an integral programming and algorithm design are studied from Year 7, while Year 5 and 6 begin with cryptanalysis, enriched by visiting Bletchley Park and examining the Enigma machine. Pursuits in this area show pupils a broader side of the subject – just as performing a Shakespeare play or visiting CERN may do for English literature or physics. In GreenPower, pupils use computer science to design and build a battery-powered car, which they then enjoy racing. One of the most important parts part of the St Helen’s curriculum. Coding,

ST HELEN and St Katharine prepares girls and young women for their whole lives, not just the next educational step. The school’s aim is for young women to leave with confidence in their abilities and a strong curiosity about the world. The educational environment fosters passion and excitement about learning in the generations of pupils who attend and the school takes pride in its culture of kindness and breadth of opportunity. In these changeable and volatile times it is more important than ever for schools to evolve and adapt so that every pupil can thrive on her own terms. Pupils are active, independent learners, able to think for themselves and prepared to take risks. The curriculum inspires confident futures.

St Helen and St Katharine, Abingdon, Oxfordshire – Independent day school for girls aged 9-18 – open day September 29. www.shsk.org.uk

Open Day Saturday 29 September, 9.30am–1.30pm

shsk.org.uk 01235 530593 admission@shsk.org.uk

A-level Options Open Evening Thursday 4 October, from 5.00pm

School bus service with collection points across the Thames Valley

Bursaries available up to 100% of fees fromYear 7

Independent day school for girls aged 9–18

ABINGDON • OXFORDSHIRE

Thursday, September 13, 2018

Newbury Weekly News

The Oratory School

To this end a wide variety of co- curricular activities enrich the pupils’ learning. The Oratory is not a large school, and this enables each and every pupil to be known, valued and stretched as an individual within the nurturing community. It is a Catholic school which welcomes pupils of all faiths or none. Visitors often comment on the inclusive community atmo- sphere of the school, which staff believe nurtures confidence, self- expression and a desire to learn and grow. The Oratory School celebrated

another year of A-Level result success with 40 per cent of pupils achieving an A*-A. They are also incredibly pleased with their value added results for A-Level, which place The Oratory School in the top 3 per cent of schools for adding value to this year’s Upper 6th cohort. This year’s GCSE results also demonstrate the impact of the academic rigour that is practice at the school, with 46 per cent of all grades being the top grades of 9-7 (A*-A).

THE Oratory School is an independent school for pupils aged 11 to 18 in South Oxford- shire. They offer pupils an all-round education that is second to none. THey offer small class sizes and outstanding facilities on a wonderful country estate. The school has high academic standards, however, they believe that an education is about more than statistics. Head Master Joe Smith has a clear vision to ensure that each pupil flourishes both in and far beyond the classroom.

Oratory Preparatory School

not only academic achievement, but also a breadth of experience that prepares them way beyond the classroom. Oratory Preparatory School enjoys a well-deserved reputation, which the Good Schools Guide describes as an education “for all sorts of children. A place with a palpable buzz and vibrancy that gets the balance right between giving children the freedom to be themselves, while maintaining a focus on traditional values”.

enriched education. It is an all-round education that promotes creativity and fun, trying new things, taking risks, and which builds each child’s resilience, determination and belief in themselves. They support and continually extend children on their learning journey. From the age of two, they are immersed in Forest School, introduced to weekly swimming lessons, theatre workshops and much more. As pupils move through the school they take with them

THE Oratory Preparatory School is a thriving, happy school in South Oxfordshire. Set in stunning grounds they combine outstanding teaching with wonderful facilities, dedicated staff and excellent pastoral care. They educate girls and boys from two to 13, sending children to a whole host of top schools, locally and nationally. They develop and nourish every aspect of a child’s character through a broad and

Catholic independent day and boarding school for boys and girls aged 2 to 13

Independent Catholic Day and Boarding School For Boys aged 11 to 18

An All-Round Education in a Nurturing Environment

Open Morning Saturday 29 September 2018 10.00am –12.30pm

Open Morning Saturday 24 November 2018 9.30am - 12.30pm Email registrar@oratory.co.uk or call 01491 683522

Goring Heath, South Oxfordshire, RG8 7SF tel: 0118 984 4511 IQEMP SJ½GI$SVEXSV]TVIT GS YO [IFWMXI [[[ SVEXSV]TVIT GS YO

Discover more at oratory.co.uk

Thursday, September 13, 2018

Newbury Weekly News

Abingdon School

curriculum and our approaches to teaching and learning. “Looking ahead to university and career choices, you’ll be able to hear about our unique careers programme, which features workshops and activities that help our pupils to make informed choices at each stage of their education. “Visitors will also be able to experience what we call here the ‘Other Half ’ – the vast array of more than 120 activities that run alongside academic lessons. “From robotics to rowing, film-making to climbing, we’re confident that any pupil can find his niche here and discover opportunities to build confidence and a sense of adventure. “One of the highlights of the visit will undoubtedly be Beech Court, a new building that opened at the start of the academic year and which houses the new sixth form centre, with space for socialising, studying and relaxing, as well as the new library and an expansive art department, including facilities for 3D work and photography. “Our facilities are increasingly used not just for the benefit of our pupils, but also for the wider community through an extensive partnership programme. “Many of our pupils are day boys who travel to school using the extensive bus service which we share with the girls from the School of St Helen and St Katharine, just down the road. “But if weekly or full boarding

WITH a new sixth form centre, library and art department, visitors to Abingdon School’s Open Day on Saturday, September 29 will see the school at an exciting point in its development. Abingdon School headmaster Michael Windsor writes: “We hope our open day will give visitors a real insight into what life is like at Abingdon. “Every department will be open and there will be plenty of hands-on activities to keep our younger visitors busy. “There will, for example, be a chance to experience our new Virtual Reality technology that we are using to extend pupils’ coding skills and make lessons more immersive. “I tried it recently, using a programme built by our pupils, and found it an extraordinary – and frankly overwhelming – experience, and I’m sure our younger visitors will love it too. “Most importantly, I hope visitors will talk to our pupils to hear their perspectives and to find out just what an Abingdon education offers them. “You’ll discover that there is no such thing as a ‘typical’ Abingdon boy, but what unites them is a spark of individuality and enthusiasm that allows them to make the most of their time at school. “The open day is a great opportunity to meet our expert and hugely enthusiastic staff and to find out more about the

Abingdon Prep School open morning, Saturday, October 6, 10am-noon. The prep school educates boys age four to 13 and is based at Frilford, just outside Abingdon. abingdon.org.uk/prep

“Abingdon is an extraordinarily vibrant place of endeavour, ambition and adventure. “I’m looking forward to welcoming our many visitors on Saturday 29th and hope you might be tempted to join us too.” www. abingdon.org.uk

to make our education available to as many people as possible and can offer assistance, up to 100 per cent of fees. “You can find out more about bursaries from our admissions staff, who will be on hand on the day, and from the school website.

is of interest, you’ll have a chance to look round our accommodation and get an insight into boarding at Abingdon, which is an integral part of school life. “Parents might be put off by the thought of fees, but we are keen

Open Events 2018 Abingdon School Saturday 29 September Prep School Saturday 6 October

New Sixth Form Centre Art facilities Library

abingdon.org.uk

Bursaries available up to 100% of fees

Thursday, September 13, 2018

Newbury Weekly News

Reading Blue Coat School

READING Blue Coat School is a friendly and busy school of some 760 pupils. Although it values its strong traditions of scholarship and learning, it is forward-looking and wholly committed to prepar- ing its pupils for life. The school makes the most of its fantastic setting on the banks of the Thames, in the village of Sonning, and seeks to create an environment that fosters the growth of self-confidence, instils the joy of learning and prepares its pupils for full participation in a diverse and changing world. There is a buzz and excitement about academic life at Blue Coat, where the friendly and support- ive environment enables pupils to flourish and thrive. Academic achievement is valued highly and the school has enjoyed strong results in recent years. Learn more about the school’s results and university destinations at www.rbcs.org.uk. The curriculum is designed to provide the best possible prepa- ration for life after school. Careers education runs through- out the school to help students make the right choices as they consider their options for university and beyond. In the sixth form particularly, students are given weekly careers guidance, guest speakers feature at a special Higher Education evening and other events include a Careers Fair, a UCAS Convention and group university visits. Pupils are also encouraged to participate in a wide range of co-curricular activities, and the school offers generous provision in sport, music, drama, public

ookwood School

programme and was recently awarded the prestigious School Games Gold Mark in recognition of its sporting endeavours. Rookwood’s motto is ‘Sapere Aude’, which translates as ‘dare to know’ or ‘have courage to understand’ and is clearly seen in everything the pupils do. Pupils are challenged to have courage¸ to learn new things, develop new skills and deepen their understanding. They are encouraged to know and understand themselves and those around them. To recognise that life has its ups and downs and that through knowing themselves they learn to build on their experiences and develop as our future citizens. As a result, students leave Rookwood as confident, resilient and principled young adults, ready for the next stage of their education. To find out more about what a Rookwood education has to offer, or to arrange a visit, call (01264) 325910.

While Rookwood is non-selective, it still achieves excellent academic success. High-quality teaching coupled with motivated, positive pupils ensures pupils really do fulfil their potential. In 2018, 97 per cent of pupils gained five or more GCSE grades 9-4 and an outstanding 100 per cent of pupils achieved 9-4 in both maths and English language. However, Rookwood is so much more than exam results. Pupils have many opportunities to expe- rience a broader education than is simply presented on the timetable. School life is rich in experiences and ensures that pupils have a varied and balanced education that not only focuses on academic achieve- ment, but also on personal devel- opment. There are more than 100 weekly clubs and activities across the arts, sport and science as well as residential and overseas trips. The school also runs a thriving Duke of Edinburgh’s Awards

ROOKWOOD is a co-educational, day and boarding school, for pupils aged two to 16, in the heart of Andover, Hampshire. Across the school pupils benefit from high-quality teaching, excellent facilities and small classes. The favourable teacher-pupil ratio ensures that pupils receive individual attention and that teaching can be tailored to meet the needs of all pupils. Set in eight acres, the school has an impressive range of amenities including a state-of-the-art sports hall, outdoor swimming pool, excellent art and science facilities and a new music iMac suite. Additionally, there is an ISI rated ‘excellent’ boarding house, which offers full and flexi-boarding for pupils from Year 3 upwards. It is led by experienced house parents who provide the highest quality of care to pupils around the clock and is noted for its home from home atmosphere.

swimming pool, a purpose-built science centre and a cricket pavilion. Blue Coat is an independent day school for boys aged 11-18 and girls aged 16-18. For further details, please contact Mrs Jane Jarrett or Ms Audrey Fernandes in Admissions on (0118) 944 1005 or admissions@rbcs.org.uk. Further information is also available on the school’s website, www.rbcs.org.uk

speaking, the CCF, the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, Young Enterprise and numerous additional activities. Blue Coat’s new design technology centre, complete with 3D printers, further enhances the school’s impressive facilities, which also include an IT centre, a psychology and geology block, the 23-classroom Richard Aldworth Building, an extensive sixth form centre, an all-purpose sports hall, an indoor

ROOKWOOD SCHOOL Co-educational | Day & Boarding | 2-16 Years Celebrating excellent 2018 GCSE results

READING BLUE COAT SCHOOL An Independent Day School for Boys, with a Co-Educational Sixth Form

Join the adventure!

GeneralOpenMorning Saturday6thOctober Toursstart9:30am SixthForm OpenEvening Tuesday

16thOctober From5:00pm

Open Events Please register online: www.rbcs.org.uk

OPEN MORNING Thursday 20th September 2018 9.30am-12.30pm To reserve a place call 01264 325900 New school bus route available from Newbury Weyhill Road, Andover, Hampshire, SP10 3AL www.rookwoodschool.org

Thursday, September 13, 2018

Newbury Weekly News

Thorngrove School

Director of sport Nick Harrison has brought in pre-season sports training with professional sports coaches, which is a real hit. Fiddler on the Roof was the big senior school musical last year, with 70 pupils taking part. The school also hosts a dance project with Mary Hare, a local special school for deaf children. In the summer, there was a dance project with Year 3 and Year 4 pupils. They experienced all forms of dance from ballet to street. Drama is on the curriculum with LAMDA teacher Julia Lee-Delisle. Every child this year who took a LAMDA exam achieved either merit or distinction. At Christmas, Thorngrove’s ballet teacher, Miss Holly, hosted a ballet project with local primary schools using The Nutcracker as her theme. Eighty per cent of pupils from Year 3 up learn a musical instrument. There is a plethora of music groups and all pupils take part in a Music Festival, with many forming their own groups and creating their own music. The choir went on tour to Wales in May and sung evensong in Llandaff Cathedral with the

in the school having their artwork professionally hung and judged. The school offers more than 30 activities every week. The quirkiest ones are disco roller skating, fishing, street dance, remote control car club, forest school, golf and Yoga for four-year-olds. The school recently taken up clay pigeon shooting and plans to host its own competition next term. Mindfulness is a big part of Thorngrove. The school has recently appointed a new Deputy Head Pastoral and also has a teacher who teaches mindfulness and meditation to all age groups. There is a school counsellor and next year they are planning to create a drop-in facility for pupils to pop in and chat to a trained counsellor if they have any worries. There is a strong learning support department that supports children in their learning inside the classroom and on a one-to-one basis. If you would like to see the school for yourself and find out how a Thorngrove education could benefit your child please call the registrar Bev O’Brien on (01635) 253172. Alternatively, you can call the school office on the same number and book a place at Thorngrove’s Open Day on Friday, October 5, from 9am- 11am.

THORNGROVE is a happy, nurturing school where children can be themselves, fulfil their dreams and ultimately become well- rounded, well-rooted and resilient young people. Most children will usually join the nursery or reception class. The other main points of entry are usually Years 3 and 4. At the end of Year 8, pupils go on to an eclectic list of senior schools. In most years 25 per cent of Year 8 pupils will pick up awards to their next school. Last year, leavers went to Abingdon, St Helen & St Katharine, Bradfield, Marlborough, Pangbourne, Millfield and Sherborne Girls. Roughly a third will board and two thirds will head off to independent day or flexi-boarding schools nearby. Thorngrove’s sports department prides itself on making sport for all. Everyone from Year 3 up plays in a team for the school and there is a wide-ranging fixture list. As well as the usual sports, there is so much on offer, including contemporary dance and ballet, archery and fencing. The school has also introduced girls’ cricket for the first time this summer and has built a brand new three-lane cricket net facility. Tours last year headed off to Barcelona and the West Country.

resident cathedral choir. Art is strong, with two

scholarships awarded this year to Bradfield and Pangbourne. The school’s art exhibition is loads of fun with every pupil

#P ic kY ou rP at h

ww w. th or ng ro ve sc ho ol .c o. uk /o pe n- mo rn in gs

Open Morning | 05 October | 09:00 - 11:00AM

Connect with /ThorngrovePrep

The Mount, Highclere, Newbury, RG20 9PS, UK | Tel: +44 (0) 1635 253172

Thursday, September 13, 2018

Newbury Weekly News

Cheam School

children love it. Rugby, football and cricket are the major team games for the boys whilst netball, rounders and hockey for the girls. There is a heated outdoor swimming pool for use during the Summer Term and six all- weather tennis courts and a nine-hole golf course; so there is something for everyone. For further information please contact The Registrar, Cheam School, Headley, Newbury, Berkshire RG189 8LD. Telephone (01635) 267822 or email registrar@cheamschool.co.uk

their early school days. Classes are small (maximum 18) and pupils are prepared for the major senior independent schools. The classrooms are light and bright with interactive white boards throughout and excellent facilities for design and technology, art, IT, science, sport and a strong music department. Most of the children learn a musical instrument with choirs for all ages, several orchestras and a large jazz band. The sporting life at Cheam is very impressive and all the

CHEAM School is one of the oldest Prep Schools in the country with its origins in the 17th century. The school became co-educational in 1997 and offers parents the opportunity for education from three to 13 plus for their sons and daughters. Cheam is situated half way between Newbury and Basingstoke on the A339 and is within easy reach of the M3 and M4 motorways. Set in 100 acres of glorious countryside it is the perfect school for children to spend

Ludgrove

paramount. More than anything we want our boys to leave us with the confi- dence that they can give anything a try and with a good set of manners and values to last through life. Additionally, we hope that they will all have a strong, loyal set of friends and will have found that little something in the school day that gives them huge pleasure and makes them feel good. As a preparatory school, our role ultimately is to prepare them for public school and give them as many opportunities to discover what makes them tick, so they can enjoy doing lots of it – whether that be singing, pottery, general knowledge, drama or athletics.

Ludgrove is unashamedly ambitious for every boy and proud of our strong academic record, particularly as we remain non-selective in Year 4. In recent years, we have sent over 70 per cent of boys on to Eton, Harrow, Radley and Winch- ester, in addition to other distin- guished public schools. The boys have a wealth of opportunities: a stimulating curriculum delivered by enthusiastic and dynamic staff, exceptional facilities and a vibrant extra-curricular programme. Friendships are made for life, boys can be boys and the unique Ludgrove spirit allows boys to thrive in an atmosphere of happi- ness, high achievement, good manners and kindness.

LUDGROVE is a thriving full boarding school for 190 boys aged eight to 13, which sits in 130 acres of spectacular grounds. It is a magical place to spend five years of childhood, where outstanding pastoral care lies at the heart of everything and with fortnightly exeats we have a wonderful balance between school and home life. We firmly believe that the pastoral care and support must be delivered by the staff as a whole, as, unless the boys are happy, well rested, clean and eating well, then they will not flourish in the classroom. As a school we are a strong community where respect and kindness towards others and traditional values are

Ludgrove

• 100% full boarding boys’ prep school • Fortnightly exeat weekends

Co-educational boarding and day 3-13 years Cheam School, Headley, Newbury, Berkshire, RG19 8LD registrar@cheamschool.co.uk +44 (0)1635 268242 www.cheamschool.com @cheamschool

• Glorious rural setting, with easy access to London • Excellent academic record • Bursaries available

Ludgrove, Wokingham, Berks RG40 3AB · 0118 978 9881 registrar@ludgroveschool.co.uk · www.ludgrove.net

Thursday, September 13, 2018

Dauntsey ’s Newbury Weekly News

THE Manor is Dauntsey’s Lower School boarding house for girls and boys aged 11 to 14 years old. As a co-education house, boys and girls study, socialise and eat together, forming friendships that often last a lifetime. As The Manor is a five minute walk from the main school site and set in 65 acres of grounds and woodland, pupils are free to enjoy their childhood for that bit longer. Housemistress at The Manor Anne Sampson has a promise she makes to all boarders in her care: I promise I will n encourage you to read a book for at least 10 minutes before bedtime n check you have packed your bag for school the night before and recheck before you leave in the morning in case gremlins have removed your books in the night n bake you a cake on your birthday, make sure you wear the Manor birthday hat, get the whole house to sing to you – and that includes the staff n welcome your pet hamster, guinea pig, gerbil, fish or budgie to come and live with us – but not your cat, dog, snake or chin- chilla n help and encourage you with your prep, but will not do it for you n get up in the night if you are not feeling well – you just have to knock on my door n organise fun things to do from ballroom dancing to zip-wiring

Downe House

box are all key. At Downe House, girls are encouraged to develop their individuality and spirit through exploring opportunities provided beyond lessons in, for example, sport, the creative and performing arts and the wide-ranging co-curricular programme. The girls’ understanding of the world and awareness of their place in it, is supported by a Global Schools’ Exchange Programme, as well as involvement with more than 20 local, national and international charities. Girls in Year 8 spend a term in Veyrines, France, the school’s fourth lower-school boarding house. This remarkable experience includes being taught in French and immersion into life in a working village. The legacy of this special term shines through

this year’s exceptional French GCSE results. Downe House is constantly evolving to keep pace with life in the 21st-century, yet care for the girls remains constant – threaded through the fabric of the school is an exceptional pastoral care programme where the housestaff make each house a home-from-home and every girl has the support of an academic tutor. Mrs McKendrick sums up: “We aim to give our students a strong sense of self-belief and a sense of what is possible – this is only achieved by giving them opportunities and by creating a safe and caring environment in which to grow. “A girl’s academic journey should be an adventure with many opportunities outside the classroom complementing those within.”

THIS summer, Downe House Sixth Form celebrated superb A-Level results – 90 per cent of girls achieved A*-B grades and all the results showed a consistently high level of performance enabling the girls to move on to leading UK and worldwide universities. Headmistress Mrs Emma McKendrick explains: “This was a remarkable set of results, however, alongside our strong academic ethos, we never lose sight of the fact that these are just part of a girl’s development. “With so many enrichment and co-curricular opportunities available to the girls at Downe, we believe that this balance is crucial.” This emphasis on academic success is implicit, yet is not enough to prepare pupils fully for their life ahead. Creativity, problem-solving and the ability to think outside the

in the woods, to movie nights or baking cakes n get you to bed early if you are grumpy and tired n remind you every night to hand your phone in, brush your teeth and put out your clothes for washing n call your parents if you get into trouble, but I will also let them know that you are not the first – and won’t be the last

n support you in your music, drama and sport – particularly if your parents can’t make it n be someone you can trust and confide in And, most important of all… n make sure there is always hot chocolate when you come back from school. To find out more, please go to www.dauntseys.org

Join us!

Lessons for life

For a taste of adventure at Downe House come to our Lower School Experience Morning on Saturday 13 October

An independent boarding school for girls aged 11-18

OPEN MORNING 6 October from 10am

www.dauntseys.org BOARDING & DAY SCHOOL COEDUCATIONAL 1118

Please book with registrar@downehouse.net Individual visits may also be arranged

Cold Ash, Thatcham, Berkshire RG18 9JJ T: 01635 204701 www.downehouse.net

Thursday, September 13, 2018

Newbury Weekly News

Horris Hill School

HORRIS Hill School has a unique ethos which develops every boy as an individual and provides a rigorous and extensive academic, sporting, musical and artistic foundation. Horris Hill believes that the period from 7-13 years of age are the most critical in any boy’s life. These are the years where the foundations of the men they can become are laid. At such a crucial stage in their cultural development, an all-boys’ school provides the optimal setting where they can exercise their intellectual inquisitiveness, are free to explore all avenues, and can build self-confidence and awareness in a safe and encouraging environment. The school offers a wide variety of sports and extra-curricular activities, so that every boy has the opportunity to develop interests away from the classroom. The main sports are rugby, football, cricket, hockey and tennis. The school also has its own golf course, train and modelling room, swimming pool, squash court and cross country course. For boys with green fingers, there is a kitchen garden. The school also offers Lamda for budding performers, judo, sail- ing, clay pigeon shooting, Mandarin and a hugely success- ful chess club. For local day boys there is a morning bus service. The day fee for Years 3-5 from September 2018 will be £5,600 per term. Bursaries are available. Many boys join in

Elstree School

The offer of home visits and taster days prior to a child starting in the Early Years eases the transition between home and school. The children have the opportunity to make use of all the extensive facilities at Elstree School and children benefit from specialist PE, French, drama and music lessons. Home Farm also has an engaging woodland area where each week, the Early Years children spend a full day investigating and exploring the natural environment. Buses run from Hungerford, Peasemore, and Basingstoke and after-school clubs are provided. To find out more, please come and visit at the next open morning on Saturday, October 13.

environment for children to discover their individual talents. The family-friendly boarding model enables boys to develop life skills that will serve them well at senior school and beyond. This is an exciting time to be at Elstree. The school’s latest ISI Inspection Report (2015) stated: “Elstree School is highly successful in meeting its aim of providing a first class all-round education, while embedding the values of hard work, kindness to others and making the most of opportunities. This is thanks to an excellent curriculum and extra-curricular opportunities and to excellent teaching, which inspires and moti- vates pupils to want to learn.” Home Farm caters for 70 girls and boys, aged three to seven. It is often the child’s first experience of school life and staff understand how important these initial steps are.

ELSTREE School, Woolhampton, is academically ambitious and provides a first class all-round education. The school has an excellent track record of boys gaining places at leading public schools, together with scholarships and exhibitions. The school comprises Home Farm, Elstree’s Nursery and Pre-Prep, and Elstree Prep. From Year 4, Elstree caters for boys only as boarders, flexi-boarders and day boys. In its magnificent 150-acre setting, pupils are exposed to a wide range of opportunities including music, art, DT and sport. classrooms, a newly-opened music school, a full size all-weather pitch and spacious play areas ensure that the school offers a purposeful, stimulating and supportive Two state-of-the art science laboratories, well-equipped

Boarding in Years 3-6, which will be four nights a week. These boys will board on Monday and Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, but will be at home on Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday nights. This structure fits nicely with the rhythm of the school week as well as providing a stepping stone to full boarding. The transition boarding fee from September 2018 will be £7,950 per term. To see for yourself what a difference a Horris Hill education could make for your son, you are welcome to visit the school. Email registrar@horrishill.com to arrange an appointment. They look forward to welcoming you to Horris Hill.

Y3 as day pupils and transition to boarding by Y6. Horris Hill is an all-boys full boarding school, successfully preparing boys for 13+ entry to senior schools. Recent awards to senior schools have included academic at Winch- ester, Eton and Marlborough, outstanding talent at Harrow, music and drama at St Edward’s Oxford and Milton Abbey and sport at Millfield, Charterhouse and Sherborne. However, it appreciates that the choice between being a day boy and a boarder for the younger boys is made harder by the board- ing model being at least six nights a week. From September 2018, families will have the option of Transition

Call (0118) 9713302 or visit www.elstreeschool.org.uk

To see for yourself the gold standard in boys’ preparatory education, where ethos and environment nurture and inspire all-round excellence, then please visit us in person.

To book a visit please contact registrar@horrishill.com OPEN MORNING 2018 Saturday 24th February from 10am - 12 noon OPEN MOR I t 6th October from 10am-12 no n

horrishill.com