Blogs
Education Can’t Wait: Why Schools Must Act Ahead of Curriculum Reform
By Suzannah Cryer: Head of Highfield and Brookham School We are living in a vastly different world, and the career and employment landscape is changing at an unprecedented pace. Advances in technology, evolving workplace structures, and the growing influence of artificial intelligence are redefining what young people will need to thrive. While the government has now…
11th Feb 2026
5 mins
Why Singing Still Matters: Music, Belonging and Opportunity in Today’s Schools
During the festive season many parents experienced one of childhood’s simplest and most joyful moments: watching their children sing. Carol concerts, nativity performances and end-of-term assemblies remind us how powerful music can be in bringing children together. Yet, as highlighted in a recent BBC News feature, these moments are becoming increasingly rare in schools across…
9th Jan 2026
4 mins
Classroom Design Transforms Learning
By Kerri Wilkes, Deputy Head (Professional Development) At Highfield and Brookham, we’re always seeking new ways to better support and inspire our pupils. Recently, members of our senior leadership team and I attended an IAPS (Independent Association of Prep Schools) training session focused on the vital role of the physical learning environment. The insights we…
23rd Oct 2025
3 mins
Reception Ready: A Parent’s Guide
By Georgie Hunter, Head of Pre-Prep Starting school is an unforgettable family milestone. It’s a heady mix of excitement, pride and probably a few butterflies too. For children, it’s the beginning of a new adventure, and for parents it can feel like a leap into the unknown. Whether your child is bounding through the gates…
24th Jun 2025
5 mins
Music education: A school essential
By Jess Harman, Assistant Director of Music Inspired by Ed Sheeran’s recent plea to Prime Minister Keir Starmer for increased funding for music education in schools, and as a Music Teacher with over 20 years’ experience, I felt compelled to share my perspective. Having taught from Early Years to GCSE, I can say wholeheartedly that…
30th May 2025
4 mins
Essential skills for a changing world
by Kerri Wilkes, Deputy Head (Professional Development) It is increasingly evident that skills-based learning is not just a trend, it is the future of education. At Highfield and Brookham, we believe that in a rapidly changing world, it is not enough to educate children for academic success alone. We must also equip them with the…
16th May 2025
4 mins
Primary school place disappointment?
by Georgie Hunter, Head of Pre-Prep As both a teacher and a parent, I totally understand that this week can feel like an emotional rollercoaster. One moment you’re wondering how your little one is already old enough for school, and the next, you’re looking at a school offer that maybe isn’t quite what you were…
16th Apr 2025
3 mins
Years 7-8: Unlock your child’s potential
by Charlotte Cottrell, Admissions Registrar As your child approaches the end of their primary or prep school education you may find yourself at an important crossroads. Does your current school finish at the end of Year 6, while your preferred senior school options begin at Year 9? Or perhaps you’re considering a transition from state…
21st Mar 2025
5 mins
Is there a best time to move out of London?
by Suzannah Cryer, Head I often get asked this question by parents looking to make the leap from city life to the countryside. Is there a best time to move out of London with your family? The easy answer to this is, there is no specific time, it really comes down to what is going…
11th Feb 2025
5 mins