Janine White

This year, Hatherop Castle pupils have earned an impressive total of seven scholarships to leading senior schools, including Roedean, Stowe, and Westonbirt. Awards were granted in academics, sport and music, highlighting the ambition, resilience and all-round excellence of our Year 8 cohort. These results reflect the strength of our academic and co-curricular provision, and our commitment to preparing pupils to thrive at the next stage of their education.

Prep 4 took part in a live online session with bestselling author David Walliams. He shared his writing inspirations, character ideas, and read aloud from favourites like Gangsta Granny, leaving the children laughing and engaged. The session sparked enthusiasm for reading and was a memorable highlight of their school week.

Boarding at Hatherop Castle School, whether full, weekly or flexi, offers prep-aged children a unique opportunity to grow in independence, build lasting friendships, and develop life skills in a supportive, home-from-home environment. With its warm community, enriching activities and flexible boarding options, even a single night away from home can be powerfully transformative, preparing children for senior school and beyond.

At Hatherop Castle School, bravery is seen as a key life skill, cultivated through everyday experiences, strong relationships, and hands-on learning. Pupils are supported to try new things, make mistakes, and grow with confidence – whether that’s joining a team, performing in assembly, or tackling challenges in the outdoors. Through a warm, pastoral environment and a culture of encouragement, Hatherop pupils learn that true bravery lies not in being fearless, but in stepping forward with resilience and belief in themselves. These early lessons in courage lay the foundations for a confident, capable future.

To round off the Lent Term, pupils from Prep 6–8 enjoyed a week in Normandy, immersing themselves in French language and culture. From historical visits to Mont St Michel and WW2 memorials, to markets, lessons and treasure hunts, the trip offered a memorable blend of fun, learning and reflection.

Despite illness setbacks, Hatherop’s Addams Family production wowed audiences with its talent, dedication, and eerie charm. The pupils’ perseverance and teamwork ensured a spectacular final performance, earning rapturous applause and admiration.

Hatherop embraces the ethos ‘it takes a village to raise a child,’ encouraging children to enjoy their childhood in a caring, community-driven environment. With exceptional pastoral care, small class sizes, and a tranquil setting, pupils thrive emotionally, socially, and academically.

Prep 1 embarked on a thrilling survival adventure inspired by Bear Grylls, completing challenges to earn their Never Give Up! badge. From navigating obstacle courses and building shelters to learning knot-tying and problem-solving with limited resources, the experience tested their resilience, creativity, and teamwork—an unforgettable day of hands-on learning!