Ashfold Prospectus by ashfoldschool

PROSPECTUS

Nestled in the heart of the beautiful Buckinghamshire countryside, Ashfold is a school where childhood is treasured, curiosity is ignited, and every child is inspired to flourish. We offer a vibrant and nurturing prep school education for girls and boys aged 3 to 13, blending academic ambition with exceptional pastoral care and a rich variety of opportunities in sport, music, the arts and outdoor learning.

What makes Ashfold special is our deep commitment to developing the whole child. We celebrate traditional values while embracing innovative approaches to learning — equipping children not only with knowledge, but with the confidence, compassion and creativity to navigate an ever-changing world.

As part of the Stowe Group, we share a bold vision for education — developing young people who are not only academically accomplished but also courageous, kind and outward-looking. This is reflected in our focus on preparing Change Makers: children who are eager to explore new ideas, unafraid of challenge, ambitious in their goals, and independent in thought and spirit.

Every child at Ashfold is known, supported and encouraged to become the very best version of themselves. Whether it’s a scientific breakthrough, a personal sporting achievement, a quiet gesture of kindness or a confident performance on stage, our children gain the skills and self-belief to lead, contribute and succeed.

I warmly invite you to explore this prospectus and discover what makes Ashfold such a wonderful place to grow up. I very much hope you will see how your child could thrive in our extraordinary school community.

Mike Rickner | Head

WE ARE Ambitious

High aspirations and personal growth are integral to our approach to learning. We will help your child achieve their full academic, creative and sporting potential through a broader and deeper curriculum, with inspirational teaching and coaching, both inside and outside the classroom.

We are proud of our consistently impressive academic results and scholarships, but more importantly, we aim to instil intellectual curiosity, a love of learning and the self-belief that anything is possible.

Open-minded and ambitious, we are motivated learners

WE ARE Respectful

We believe respect begins with how we treat one another — with consideration and integrity — and extends to how we care for our environment and wider community.

Our beautiful countryside setting allows children the space to enjoy a true childhood: to play freely, explore their surroundings and form lasting friendships. Education here goes well beyond the classroom. Our younger pupils benefit from Forest School sessions, while older children enjoy outdoor learning around our fields, lake and woods. At break times, they have the freedom to climb trees, build dens and simply be children.

We know that when children are happy, they thrive — and at Ashfold, they develop not only a deep respect for others, but a strong sense of self-worth and responsibility.

Grounded in nature and guided by respect,we are adventurous, responsible and caring

WE ARE Independent

Independence is nurtured through opportunity, guidance and trust. Our forward thinking curriculum encourages children to think for themselves, solve problems and take ownership of their learning.

We help them become digitally literate and confident in using technology, while also equipping them with essential life skills — such as critical thinking, collaboration and communication. These qualities enable children to navigate today’s world with assurance and meet the challenges of tomorrow.

With the right balance of structure, encouragement and freedom, Ashfold pupils are given the space to explore their interests, express their ideas and grow in self-confidence — ready to lead their own independent path.

Digitally literate and forward thinking, we are future problem solvers

WE ARE Curious

At Ashfold, questions are welcomed, and creativity is encouraged at every turn. Our curriculum and co-curricular programme ignite a lifelong curiosity — inspiring children to explore how things work, how challenges can be overcome, and how ideas can shape the world around them.

From academic lessons to the Arts, pupils are immersed in rich opportunities to think imaginatively and express themselves. Exploration takes many forms — from written reflections and hands-on projects to collaborative creative work. Every child is encouraged to develop their talents — whether through music, singing, drama or art and design — building confidence and discovering their own voice.

Concerts, plays and exhibitions are much-loved moments in the Ashfold calendar, giving pupils the chance to share their creativity with friends, families and the wider school community.

Curious and passionate, we are inspired to step out of our comfort zone

WE ARE Courageous

Both in and beyond the classroom, we encourage every child to embrace new experiences and discover what they are truly capable of. Courage isn’t just about taking risks — it’s about developing a spirit of adventure, determination and a readiness to grow through the unfamiliar.

Whether it’s speaking in front of an audience, tackling a challenging piece of work or heading off on a residential trip, pupils are supported every step of the way. Through encouragement and trust, we help them move past hesitation and into action.

Our extensive activities programme, alongside enriching school trips and outdoor learning, empowers children to be brave and proud of who they are becoming — building lasting confidence and a lifelong willingness to have a go.

Courageous and confident, we develop strong life-values

WE ARE Resilient

Challenge is part of every learning journey and we teach our children not to fear it, but to embrace it.

Whether in the classroom, on the sports field, or through teamwork and leadership opportunities, our pupils are encouraged to persevere, adapt and grow stronger from setbacks.

We create a culture where taking risks and making mistakes are seen as vital parts of learning. In our safe and supportive environment, children are empowered to step forward with confidence, knowing that every experience — even failure — is an opportunity to improve, reflect and build character.

This mindset builds confidence and a sense of purpose — vital qualities for a fulfilling and successful future.

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Pupils learn how to react to difficult situations and display a sense of fairness when competing in sport and in house competitions.

ISI INSPECTION REPORT Excellent in All Areas

Bold and resilient, we are not afraid of a challenge

WE ARE Kind

Kindness is not just encouraged at Ashfold — it is expected. It shapes how we treat one another, how we learn together, and how we support every member of our community. Pastoral care is at the heart of school life, and every child knows that they are valued, respected and cared for.

From day-to-day interactions in the classroom and on the playground to the way we welcome new pupils and support our friends, kindness is woven into the fabric of Ashfold life. We look out for one another, celebrate each other’s strengths and step in to support those in need.

We actively teach empathy, good manners and emotional intelligence — helping children develop a strong moral compass and an understanding of the impact their words and actions can have. Respect, humility and compassion are nurtured through conversation, example and reflection.

Through our charity partnerships, community service and regular assemblies, children grow in awareness of the world beyond themselves. They learn to show gratitude, to be generous with their time and spirit, and to stand up for others when it matters most.

GOOD SCHOOLS GUIDE “

Extremely nurturinglike one, big warm hug.

Generous and considerate, we support one another

WE ARE Change Makers

By the time they move on to senior schools, Ashfold children are equipped with the character, confidence and skills they need to navigate the world beyond — and to contribute meaningfully to it.

In their final years, pupils take on leadership roles and become role models for younger children, setting an example through their actions, attitudes and kindness. They learn to lead with integrity, to listen, to collaborate and to stand up for what matters.

Many choose to board, further strengthening their independence and social awareness as they build friendships that often last a lifetime.

When they leave Ashfold, our pupils do so with a deep sense of pride in who they are and what they’ve achieved — not just ready for the next step in their education, but prepared to make a difference in whatever path they choose to follow.

WE ARE Ashfold

I hope these pages have given you a sense of the aspiring, nurturing community that lies at the heart of Ashfold.

As parents with our own children at the school, my wife Sophie and I believe — wholeheartedly — that a child’s school days should be among the happiest of their lives. We will encourage your child to dare to dream and support them every step of the way as they work towards those dreams.

I warmly invite you to visit and experience for yourself how your child can grow and thrive here, in their own unique way. It would be a privilege to see the chapter they write in the Ashfold story.

Come and visit us — a warm Ashfold welcome awaits.

Mike Rickner | Head