Situated within the picturesque Bourne Valley, Westbrook Hay Prep School offers a co-educational environment for children aged three to 13. This Christian-affiliated institution is strategically placed near major transport links like the M25 and M1, making it accessible for families in and around Hemel Hempstead. The school operates from a sprawling 26-acre campus, providing a safe and stimulating haven for its students.
The academic performance at this school is commendable, with a 100% success rate in placing children in their chosen schools. This achievement underscores the school’s commitment to academic excellence and personalised education. The curriculum is broad and balanced, with specialist teaching introduced from Reception in subjects such as Music, Dance, Design Technology, and Physical Education. By Year 5, all subjects are taught by specialists, ensuring that students receive high-quality instruction tailored to their individual needs.
Sport plays a significant role in the school’s ethos, with activities scheduled at least four times a week. The school offers an impressive array of sports, including football, rugby, netball, swimming, cricket, athletics, cross country, basketball, and golf. The grounds boast ample pitches, a mini-golf course, netball courts, a heated outdoor pool, and a large sports hall. Every child represents the school in sports at least once a term, fostering an inclusive environment where all students can thrive.
Beyond academics and sports, the school provides numerous opportunities for students to engage in the arts. Drama and dance are integral parts of the curriculum, with children encouraged to participate in various productions throughout the year. The performing arts centre features a 300-seat auditorium, music practice rooms, and a dance studio. The popularity of LAMDA courses highlights the school’s dedication to nurturing dramatic talent.
The Headmaster since 2019, Mark Brain BA (Ed), brings a wealth of experience from his background in education and sports. His leadership has been described as transformative yet subtle, focusing on polishing existing strengths rather than overhauling systems. His approachable nature and commitment to maintaining open lines of communication have earned him praise from parents and staff alike.
The school is selective-ish in its admissions process. Most students join at nursery or reception levels, with some entering at Year 4 or Year 7. The school observes prospective students’ behaviour and willingness to participate during trial days to ensure they meet developmental milestones. Plans are underway to expand the school’s provision by opening a co-ed senior section offering GCSEs by September 2025.
Pastoral care is another strong point of this institution. A full-time Head of Learning Support leads the department dedicated to addressing various learning needs such as dyslexia and dyspraxia. Parents have praised the school’s efforts in providing tailored support for children with disabilities or learning challenges.
The school community comprises families primarily from areas like St Albans, Harpenden, Berkhamsted, Tring, Watford, Kings Langley, Chesham, Chipperfield, Bovingdon, Felden, Hemel Hempstead and Aylesbury. These families appreciate the easy access to major roads and train stations leading into London Euston.
Westbrook Hay Prep School is not just about academics; it also places great emphasis on character development through extra-curricular activities like skiing, golf games coding debating theatrical make-up among others offered during Thursday Friday afternoons as part of its Westbrook + programme which includes wrap-around care enabling children stay from 7:30 am till 6 pm including breakfast supper chance complete homework attend afternoon club every day.
The school’s approach towards sustainability includes plans for planting an apple orchard led by students while considering introducing beekeeping club further enhancing environmental awareness among pupils who already tend chickens grow vegetables within Peter Rabbit garden.
Overall this institution stands out due its holistic approach combining rigorous academics vibrant arts scene robust sporting programme alongside strong pastoral care creating nurturing environment where children can truly flourish become confident individuals ready tackle challenges future holds them
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