Upper School

Upper School: Stretching Potential, Shaping Futures

At Hatherop Castle, our Upper School (Prep 6, 7 and 8) is where children truly come into their own. These final years are a time of transformation, when confidence blossoms, leadership flourishes, and our pupils begin to shine as the young people they are becoming.

Whether it’s taking centre stage in the school production, captaining a sports team, leading a boarding house, or guiding younger pupils as Head of School, every child is given the chance to step up, make their mark and grow in independence.

These years are rich with opportunity. We challenge our pupils to push beyond their comfort zones, academically, creatively, physically and socially. They experience the thrill of achievement, the joy of teamwork, and the adventure of childhood in its fullest sense.

From dynamic learning in the classroom to inspiring residential trips, these years build resilience, independence and a real sense of purpose, all key ingredients for a smooth and successful transition to senior school.

The Electives Programme: Real World Readiness Starts Here

Our unique Electives Programme, offered to pupils in Prep 7 and 8, goes far beyond the traditional curriculum. Designed to ignite curiosity and foster independent thinking, the programme introduces children to a world of real life skills, big ideas, and hands on experiences.

Every Monday afternoon, pupils dive into a specialist module of their choice, an inspiring mix of academic, creative, and practical learning that broadens their horizons and challenges them to think differently.

Some of the exciting options include:

  • Countryside Skills – Outdoor teamwork and practical rural knowhow
  • Business Studies – Budding entrepreneurs learn to think strategically and manage finances
  • The Repair Shop – A hands on look at restoration and sustainability
  • Politics – Engaging debates and insights into government and current affairs
  • Computer Building – Learn what really makes a computer tick, then build one!
  • Theatre Studies – Explore global theatre traditions and bring them to life
  • Modern Embroidery – Creative design meets traditional craftsmanship
  • Sports Psychology – Understand how mindset and performance are linked
  • Child Development – Discover how children grow, learn and thrive

Each term, pupils choose a new elective, giving them the chance to develop a wide range of skills, from critical thinking and creativity to resilience and responsibility.

A Philosophy That Puts Pupils First

At the heart of the Upper School is a belief that education should be exciting, enriching and deeply personal. We give every child the chance to discover their talents, try new things, and begin to understand the world around them, with all its challenges and possibilities.

These final years at Hatherop are not just about preparing for senior school, they are about preparing for life. Through a balance of academic rigour, adventure and real world readiness, our pupils leave us not just with excellent results, but with confidence, character and a sense of direction.