Established within the charming village of Little Bookham in Surrey, Manor House School offers a unique educational experience that combines tradition with modernity. Operating from a picturesque 17-acre site, the school provides a nurturing environment for girls aged two to 16, with a small number of boys in the early years. The school is part of the Effingham Schools Trust, which also includes St Teresa’s and Cranmore schools, creating a collaborative network that enhances educational opportunities.
The school follows a Church of England ethos, fostering a sense of community and moral grounding among its students. This ethos is reflected in the school’s commitment to developing well-rounded individuals who are not only academically capable but also socially responsible and confident in their abilities. The headteacher, Tracey Fantham, has been at the helm since 2016 and brings a wealth of experience from her previous roles. Her leadership style is characterised by warmth and approachability, which resonates well with both students and staff.
Manor House School’s academic performance is commendable, with 59% of GCSE grades in 2024 being between 9-7. This achievement underscores the school’s dedication to academic excellence while maintaining a supportive learning environment. The teaching approach is individualised, allowing each student to reach their personal best. The curriculum is enriched with cross-curricular, project-based learning, especially in pre-prep and prep stages, ensuring that students engage with subjects in a meaningful way.
The merger with St Teresa’s and Cranmore schools into the Effingham Schools Trust has introduced new dynamics to the school. This strategic alliance aims to mitigate costs and provide a co-educational sixth form option from September 2025. While Manor House retains its focus on girls’ education up to Year 11, boys transition to Cranmore after Year 3. The trust’s diamond school formation allows for shared resources and experiences across the schools, enhancing the educational journey for all students involved.
Extra-curricular activities are a vibrant aspect of life at Manor House School. The arts are particularly celebrated, with annual performances that include productions like Frozen and Matilda. Music is gaining momentum under new leadership, offering numerous opportunities for students to participate in orchestras and choirs. The school’s commitment to sports is equally robust, with pupils competing at high levels despite the smaller cohort size. From athletics to football, students are encouraged to pursue their sporting passions.
The school’s pastoral care system is another standout feature. Recent accolades include a Gold Wellbeing Award from The School’s Impact Awards Initiative, highlighting the school’s proactive approach to mental health and emotional support. The presence of an emotional literacy support assistant (ELSA) and initiatives like the supportive friends scheme demonstrate the school’s dedication to creating a safe and nurturing environment for its students.
Parents appreciate the inclusive atmosphere at Manor House School, often choosing it over more academically pushy or boy-centred alternatives. The school fosters a sense of community among parents through various engagement opportunities such as parent choirs and tennis coaching programmes. Additionally, wide-reaching bus routes facilitate easy access for families across different locations.
Financially, the school offers competitive fees compared to local rivals, along with sibling discounts applicable across any Effingham Trust School. Scholarships are available from Year 7 onwards in areas such as sport, drama, art, music, and academics, providing further incentives for talented students.
In conclusion, Manor House School presents itself as an institution where tradition meets innovation. It offers an environment where students can thrive academically while developing into well-rounded individuals prepared for future challenges. The recent merger has brought about changes that promise stability and growth without compromising the school’s distinctive character and ethos.
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