The April Week 3 2025 Education Roundup

All the latest UK news from schools in the past weeks can be read below. Alternatively, find the best school for your child here.

Christ’s Hospital Musicians Secure Prestigious Music Placements

Christ’s Hospital is celebrating an outstanding year of musical achievements, with students receiving offers from top UK institutions including Cambridge University, the Royal Northern College of Music, and the Royal Marines Band Service.

Three talented pupils have earned places to study Music at Cambridge colleges – St John’s, Jesus, and Gonville and Caius. Among these exceptional musicians is Oliver, who delivered a memorable performance of Grieg’s Piano Concerto with the School’s Symphony Orchestra, and Michael, who arrived at Christ’s Hospital with no formal musical training but now holds a Grade 8 distinction in singing, plays piano and organ, and conducts a school choir.

Alexander has secured offers from four leading UK conservatoires with a scholarship to study singing at the Royal Northern College of Music, following in the footsteps of alumni like Gabriel, who won a full scholarship to the Royal Academy of Music last year. Band captain Fleur will join the Royal Marines Band Service as a flautist after being inspired by a visit from Royal Marines musicians.

Music’s central role at Christ’s Hospital is further demonstrated by nine of this year’s ten Oxbridge offer holders being active members of major school ensembles, showcasing the powerful connection between academic and musical excellence.

Young Felsted Rider Excels in Spanish International Showjumping Tour

Amelia K, a 17-year-old Year 12 pupil at Felsted School, made a remarkable impact during her debut at the prestigious Sunshine Tour international equestrian competition in Andalucia, Spain.

The young showjumper delivered impressive performances throughout the four-week event, competing against experienced riders from across Europe. In her first week, Amelia secured third place in the 1.20m class, becoming the only British rider to finish in the top eight.

‘It was a proud moment to see my name on the big screen next to the GB flag,’ said Amelia, who continued to improve with each round. Her dedication led to victory in the 1.20m Open class during the second week, despite being the youngest competitor amongst seasoned riders.

Amelia’s most significant achievement came in the final week when she stepped up to the prestigious 4* 1.35m Grand Prix—the highest class she had ever attempted. She delivered a clear first round, qualified for the jump-off with fences raised to 1.45m, and completed another flawless performance.

Felsted School, which won Boarding School of the Year 2023 at the TES Schools Awards, offers riding as one of its many extracurricular activities, enabling students to develop diverse interests and talents.

The Wait For Primary School Places Is Over

As parents across the country receive primary school placement decisions, Highfield and Brookham Head Suzannah Cryer offers practical advice for those who didn’t secure their preferred choice.

While most families will receive positive news—with 93% getting their first choice in 2024 and 98% securing one of their top three preferences—some parents inevitably face disappointment. Mrs Cryer, who leads the independent school in Liphook, Hampshire, outlines four key options for these families.

‘First, accept the alternative offer to ensure your child has a school place for September,” advises Mrs Cryer. ‘This won’t affect your right to appeal the initial decision.’ She recommends subsequently contacting preferred schools to add your child to their waiting lists, noting that places frequently become available, sometimes even on the first day of term.

Independent education represents another viable option. ‘With nurturing, smaller class sizes and specialist teachers delivering a broad curriculum, private schools offer an excellent alternative,’ says Mrs Cryer, adding that many accept admissions year-round and offer bursaries for families concerned about affordability.

Highfield and Brookham School Runners raise over £9000

Five members of the Highfield and Brookham School community successfully completed the London Landmarks Half-Marathon, raising over £9,000 for the school’s Centenary Bursaries Fund.

The team comprised school owner Bill Mills, Head Suzannah Cryer, Head of Pre-Prep Georgie Hunter, and parents Sarah Bagshaw and Claire Kenwright. All five completed the 13.1-mile course in under two-and-a-half hours, with Claire impressively finishing in under two hours.

Even a last-minute route change due to a police emergency near Chancery Lane couldn’t deter the determined runners. The course took them past iconic London landmarks including Big Ben, Tower Bridge, The Shard and the London Eye, alongside hidden historical gems such as Guy Fawkes’ house, Oscar Wilde’s memorial, and Pudding Lane.

Established 17 years ago, the Highfield Centenary Bursaries Fund supports children experiencing social or educational difficulties who would not otherwise have the opportunity to attend Highfield and Brookham School.

Taunton School Nominated For Best European Secondary School Award

Taunton School has been named a finalist for the prestigious StudyTravel Secondary School Awards in the Best Secondary School in Europe category for the second consecutive year. The school previously claimed this coveted title in 2024.

Finalists for these respected awards are determined by nominations from international education agents worldwide, reflecting strong global industry recognition. The final voting round is now underway, with winners to be announced at the London awards ceremony on 25th April 2025.

Natalie Clatworthy-Cox, Head of International Admissions, expressed pride in the nomination: ‘This recognition highlights the dedication of both our staff and talented students. It also reflects our valuable partnerships with educational agents globally, whose guidance has been instrumental in helping us attract students to find their exceptional.

With over 175 years of experience welcoming students from more than 60 countries, Taunton School continues to expand its international offering. The institution recently unveiled plans for two new boarding houses designed to accommodate senior students following various academic pathways under one roof.

Royal Hospital School Year 11 Pupils Make a Positive Impact on Local Community

Year 11 pupils from Royal Hospital School (RHS) in Holbrook, Suffolk recently demonstrated their commitment to community engagement during the school’s annual Service Day.

The students participated in various hands-on activities across local organisations. At Holbrook Primary School, they assisted pupils with maintaining the Community Garden. On their own campus, they supported classroom activities and improved outdoor spaces through cleaning and painting projects.

A group travelled to Stutton Primary School, where they worked in classrooms, supported reading sessions and played with younger pupils during break times. Others visited Oak House care home, engaging residents through board games and storytelling, with a particularly memorable game of Hangman entertaining all participants.

Naomi Skau, Housemistress and Service Lead at RHS, highlighted the importance of these initiatives: ‘Together, we are dedicated to making a meaningful impact in our local community. Service Day exemplifies how we work together to bring about positive change.’

The school remains committed to fostering strong community relationships and developing compassionate, responsible citizens through these valuable service opportunities.

Surbiton High School Welcomes Back Mr Byron King as Head of Boys’ Preparatory School

Surbiton High School is delighted to welcome back My Byron King as the new Head of the boys’ prep school.

A well-respected member of the school community, Mr King first joined as a Year 5 Form Teacher at the Girls’ prep, later becoming Deputy Head of the boys’ prep. Over the past year, he’s been gaining valuable experience in the education technology sector.

Reflecting on his return, Mr King spoke of his passion for education, the importance of resilience, respect, and lifelong learning, and his excitement about reconnecting with pupils, staff, and families. He looks forward to building on the excellent work of Mrs Chong and her team, ensuring boys continue to thrive in a supportive, ambitious environment.