Insight 2025
A Note from the Head
A warm welcome to Bancroft’s. We are a long-established 7-18 independent school with an excellent reputation for academic success within a holistic and nurturing educational framework.
As an inclusive, cosmopolitan community, we hold the highest aspirations for every young person who joins us.
At home on a magnificent greenfield site in Woodford since 1889, but still connected to inner London by the Central Line and our own bus network, we remain committed to welcoming girls and boys from a wide range of backgrounds to enjoy an excellent education as members of our warm, vibrant and supportive Bancroft’s School community.
We are proudly devoted to scholarship and intellectual inquiry, and we believe that each child will truly flourish by combining academic endeavour with enthusiastic engagement in the wide range of co-curricular opportunities that we provide, while being supported and nurtured by our first-class pastoral care.
Our aim is for all Bancroftians to enjoy and make the most of their time at school, while developing the independence of mind and lasting confidence that will empower them to thrive in their future studies and adult lives.
WHOLE SCHOOL
Awards and Recognition
The new school year has begun with Bancroft’s winning national recognition. We are proud to have been named a winner of the Alice Rose Award for Innovation in Education at this year’s Talk Education Awards. The award celebrates schools where children feel nurtured, supported and free to grow.
Bancroft’s has also been named a finalist for London Independent School of the Year at the 2025 Independent Schools of the Year Awards. Only six schools across the capital have been shortlisted. In addition, we are one of three finalists in the Pastoral Care Champion Award 2025, run by School House Magazine, which highlights schools where wellbeing is central to daily life.
To be recognised across innovation, academic life and pastoral care reflects the strength of our community and the values that underpin it. These achievements are a source of pride as we look ahead to the announcements still to come later this year.
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Results 2025
GCSE
88% of results were graded 9-7
70% of results were graded 9-8
43% of results were graded 9 A LEVEL
93% of results were graded A*-B
75% of results were graded A*-A
40% of results were graded A*
One of the top performing schools in the UK
SENIOR SCHOOL
Our Sports Village
Wonderful West Grove
Alongside our onsite amenities, such as the multipurpose sports hall, swimming pool, and playing fields, we also utilise our impressive West Grove complex. Here, pupils play rugby, football, cricket, athletics, tennis, and benefit from a newly equipped strength and conditioning gym.
For hockey, we partner with Old Loughtonians Hockey Club, ensuring that our athletes have access to top-tier training and competition environments across all sports.
A Flavour of Clubs This Term...
At Bancroft’s, pupils get stuck into all sorts of activities, from robotics and coding to music, sport, debating and design. Some dive deeper into their academic interests. Others discover something completely new.
With over 200 clubs and societies, there’s something for everyone.
Here’s a small taste of what’s on offer:
SENIOR CLUBS
Model United Nations Debate global issues and develop diplomacy skills.
Isaac Physics Club Advanced problem-solving for physics enthusiasts.
TechSoc Explore cutting-edge technology and coding.
Headline Hustlers A student-run journalism and media club.
Geoguesser Society Test geographical knowledge in an interactive way.
Finance Society Learn about investing, stocks, and financial literacy.
Market Minds Discuss economic trends and market movements.
Economix Explore economic concepts beyond the classroom.
Sustainable Fashion Society Combine creativity with sustainability in fashion.
Cryptic Crossword Club Sharpen your mind with challenging puzzles.
IdentiTEA Discussions on identity, diversity, and inclusion.
Drama Society Explore different aspects of drama and theatre.
Classical Films Watch and discuss cinematic classics.
New Views Playwriting Write and develop your own plays.
Junior Trading and Investment Society Learn the basics of trading and investing.
Psychology Club Explore the science behind human behaviour.
Aspiring Authors Club A space for budding writers to hone their craft.
DocSoc For those interested in medicine and healthcare.
Competitive Coding Advanced programming and problem-solving challenges.
Senior Robotics Society Hands-on experience in robotics and engineering.
VEX Robotics Compete in national and international robotics competitions.
Film Soc Watch, discuss, and analyse films.
Micro:bit Coders Coding and programming using Micro:bit.
Animation Club Learn how to create animations and bring ideas to life.
Creative Content Club Explore digital media creation.
Rock/Pop Band Practice A space for musicians to collaborate and perform.
Barbers (Vocal Group) A vocal group specialising in close-harmony singing.
Girls’ Voices A choir specifically for female voices.
Bancroft’s Big Band Play jazz, swing, and big band music.
Sinfonia A high-level orchestral group.
Figure Drawing Develop artistic skills in sketching the human form.
Design Drawing & Sketching Explore technical and creative drawing skills.
Bio-Dissect Club Hands-on dissection for biology enthusiasts.
Junior Science Club Fun and interactive science experiments.
Arduino Programming Learn to program microcontrollers for real-world applications.
GCSE Physics Olympiad Training Preparation for competitive physics challenges.
GCSE Chemistry Revision Support for chemistry students wanting to excel.
A Level Biology Revision Deep dive into advanced biology topics.
Weightlifting Club Strength training and fitness improvement.
5-a-side Football Fast-paced and exciting small-team football.
Senior Basketball Competitive training and matches.
Removes Indoor Cricket Cricket training in an indoor setting.
Swimming Club Improve swimming techniques and stamina.
Badminton Club Senior Squad Advanced badminton training.
L4th-U6th Fitness Suite Open gym sessions for fitness and conditioning.
Warhammer Club A mix of strategy, creativity, and model painting.
Board Games Club Play and strategise in a relaxed setting.
Sustainability Society Engage in environmental initiatives.
Christian Union Discussions and activities around faith.
Hindu & Sikh Society A cultural and religious society for students.
Jigsaw Club Explore big ideas and build teamwork through puzzles and games.
Lego Education / BricQ Motion Learn to design, build and problem-solve using Lego and basic engineering principles.
Girls’ Football for All Develop skills, fitness and confidence in a fun, inclusive environment.
Swim Squad Build strength, stamina and technique in the pool.
Chess Club Learn strategy, tactics and critical thinking through friendly competition.
PE Skills Improve coordination, balance and agility through structured sports activities.
Calligraphy Club Develop fine motor skills and artistic flair through beautiful handwriting.
Business Enterprise Budding entrepreneurs learn about money, marketing and teamwork.
Quiz Club Spark curiosity and quick thinking with fun general knowledge challenges.
Yoga Calm the mind and stretch the body with childfriendly yoga sessions.
Rugby Build resilience, teamwork and game understanding.
Optional Swim A chance for pupils not in the squad to gain confidence in the water.
Cubs (over 8s) Join a community of young adventurers with a focus on life skills and service.
Nature Film Club Learn about the natural world through engaging film sessions.
Curve Stitching Explore maths through creative, threadbased geometric designs.
Street Dance High-energy dance classes blending rhythm, movement and creativity.
Colouring Club A calm space to relax, focus and enjoy creative expression.
Run For Fun Get outside, get active, and enjoy movement at your own pace.
BSL Club (British Sign Language) Learn the basics of signing in a friendly, supportive group.
Tap for Beginners & Improvers Step into rhythm with tap routines tailored to all levels.
Film Club Watch and talk about age-appropriate films that spark discussion.
Zentangles A mindful drawing activity that blends pattern, focus and creativity.
Lego Club Build, invent and collaborate with peers using Lego.
Football for All Fun, skills-based sessions open to all abilities.
Girls’ Rugby for All An exciting opportunity for girls to get stuck into rugby.
“Pupils have access to a diverse range of co-curricular activities”
ISI Inspection 2025
SENIOR SCHOOL
A Night to Remember
Our annual concert at Drapers’ Hall is always a highlight, and this year was no exception.
Pupils from across the school performed an exciting mix of music, from classical and choral pieces to pop and rock.
Standout moments included a moving Nessun Dorma, an electric guitar solo of Purple Rain, and the haunting Danse Macabre.
It was a memorable evening in a beautiful setting, celebrating the depth and diversity of music at Bancroft’s.
ADMISSIONS
Music Award
Talented musicians joining at 11+ can now apply for the Drapers’ Music Award. Music Awards begin in September of the entry year and encompass complimentary music lessons.
Award holders will have the privilege of performing at regular award holders’ concerts and participating in enriching activities such as masterclasses covering various instruments, composition, music technology, and conducting.
Bancroft’s
Bus Routes
Bancroft’s bus service, run in partnership with Zeelo, has become a trusted travel option for families along routes through Epping, Mile End and Goodmayes.
Pupils from Year 4 to Upper Sixth benefit from flexible passes and a safe, reliable journey.
SIXTH FORM
Where Are They Now?
of students progressed to their first choice university 80% continuing their studies at Cambridge and Oxford 10 studying Medicine
8
One of our cohort is now enjoying their degree apprenticeship with Ernst and Young
Adventures for All
Our trips programme plays a key role in enriching our pupils’ lives, broadening their horizons socially, culturally, and emotionally through new experiences and adventures.
We offer trips for all budgets, from local curriculumlinked outings at no extra cost, to international experiences further afield. Annual trips include language exchanges to Spain, France and Germany, a History trip to the Battlefields, and UK-based sports tours. Pupils also take part in Duke of Edinburgh expeditions, CCF camps and European ski trips.
Our sports tours continue to thrive, with recent destinations including Barcelona, Argentina and South Africa, along with the first ever Bancroft’s football and golf tours.
For older pupils, there are life-changing opportunities to volunteer abroad. Last summer saw a memorable trip to Peru, followed by a successful volunteering experience in Morocco earlier this year.
SENIOR SCHOOL
Singing at the Royal Opera House
Congratulations to Caren, who has just completed a run of Carmen in the Children’s Chorus at the Royal Opera House.
This prestigious opportunity follows a rigorous audition process, and we’re proud to see one of our young musicians stepping onto such a renowned stage.
SIXTH FORM
Writing to the Top
A huge well done to Apollonia, winner of the King’s College London A Level Spanish Writing Competition.
Her essay - “What would happen if Christopher Columbus were a woman?”was chosen from entries across the country.
An impressive achievement and a moment of real pride for our languages department.
Top UK Performer at Biology Olympiad
Recent leaver, Aryan, represented the UK at the International Biology Olympiad in the Philippines this summer. He placed 40th out of nearly 300 global competitors earning a silver medal. He was the UK team’s top scorer, a remarkable achievement after months of rigorous preparation beyond the A level curriculum.
Kamila Joins Essex Rugby
Kamila pulled on the Essex U16 shirt, and wore the captain’s armband with pride.
She led the side against Hertfordshire in a hard-fought contest. A fantastic milestone for one of Bancroft’s rising rugby stars.
Introducing Psychology
We strongly believe in responding to our pupils’ academic aspirations.
After students expressed their interest in Psychology A Level, we made it happen - appointing an outstanding Head of Psychology, with students now enjoying this new subject since September 2024.
SIXTH FORM
SENIOR SCHOOL
SIXTH FORM
a t i v i t y
Futures Community
Three Years of BeingBancroft’s
Now in its third year, our BeingBancroft’s educational framework continues to shape a more connected and purposeful school experience.
By drawing together academic and co-curricular learning, it supports pupils in thinking independently, making links across subjects and approaching ideas with greater depth.
A Different Perspective
Bringing external speakers to Bancroft’s is vital for broadening our pupils’ perspectives and enriching their education across all year groups. This year we’ve welcomed several inspirational visitors, including Old Bancroftians sharing their stories:
Simon Singh: Renowned science author, physicist and BAFTA-winning documentarian
Alex Yan (OB): Cambridge Mathematics graduate offering invaluable university insights
Joyce Efia Harmer: Author of How Far We’ve Come, on her journey to being published
Dr Rioghnach Sachs (OB): Sharing her expertise on the ancient Greek poet Sappho
WHOLE SCHOOL
SIXTH FORM
Krishan Lifts his Way to Gold
Huge congratulations to Krishan (Upper Sixth) for taking 1st place at the English Weightlifting National Championships in the 89kg Under 17 category. He lifted an impressive 96kg in the Clean and Jerk and 73kg in the Snatch, securing the gold medal.
A phenomenal achievement.
Prep Girls Crowned Chess Champions
Bancroft’s Prep School’s Under 11 girls’ team has reclaimed their title as national champions at the English Chess Federation’s U11 Finals.
Over two demanding days Zoe, Mary, and Ishta delivered a commanding performance, winning every match across nine rounds and dropping just a single game in the process. They competed against top schools from across the country, many with longestablished chess traditions.
This marks Bancroft’s second national title in three years, reinforcing the school’s growing presence on the competitive chess circuit.
For Mary, the success did not stop there. At the British Chess Championships in Liverpool she claimed three national titles, winning the Classical, Rapidplay and Blitz Girls’
Championships, as well as placing joint third overall in the Classical against boys and girls combined. Just weeks earlier she triumphed at the Under-10 Girls’ Southern Gigafinal at Sandown Park, earning her place in October’s national Terafinal at Blenheim Palace.
The majority of teams competing in the U11 finals were from girls-only schools, making this achievement particularly special for a co-educational school team who truly held their own at every stage. It has been a remarkable summer for Bancroft’s chess, and Mary’s achievements underline the progress and promise of the game at the school.
‘This is your Five Minute Call’
From powerful plays like Captain Corelli’s Mandolin to crowd favourites like We Will Rock You, our stage never stays still.
Past hits include Oliver!, Bugsy Malone, Crazy for You and School of Rock - bold, brilliant, and full of life.
Next up: Bye Bye Birdie, a sharp and spirited musical set to take the stage this spring. At Bancroft’s, every pupil has the chance to step into the spotlight.
Science Fair 2025
This year’s Science Fair welcomed pupils from 16 local schools, alongside our own Prep.
Lower Sixth students ran hands-on displays and experiments, sharing their enthusiasm and ideas.
The hall was packed with curiosity, questions, and plenty of fizz and pops.
A brilliant community event and a real highlight of the term.
WHOLE SCHOOL
Arkwright Scholarship Success
A Record-Breaking Year for Engineering
For the first time in Bancroft’s history, three pupils, Esha, Anjali and Luke, have been awarded the prestigious Arkwright Engineering Scholarship in the same year.
This national award recognises future leaders in engineering. Applicants undergo a rigorous selection process including a problem-solving exam and an interview with industry experts.
We are enormously proud of their success.
SENIOR SCHOOL
University and Careers Fair 2025
This year’s University and Careers Fair brought together over 60 universities, employers, and training providers under one roof.
Held in the Sports Hall, the event welcomed more than 260 visiting pupils from eight partner schools, alongside Bancroft’s own Year 11, Lower Sixth, and incoming Sixth Form families.
From medical schools to media firms, the fair offered pupils a valuable chance to explore future pathways, ask questions, and gain insight into life beyond school.
SENIOR SCHOOL
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WHOLE SCHOOL
Outstanding ISI Reports
In February 2025, Bancroft’s received its latest routine inspection, which took place within the new Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) framework.
We are proud to say that Bancroft’s Senior and Prep Schools have been found fully compliant with all regulatory standards. Every area was met - from the quality of education and leadership, to safeguarding, wellbeing, and pupils’ wider development. This outcome reflects our commitment to creating a happy, ambitious and inclusive environment where every child can thrive.
The report recognises our high academic standards, excellent pastoral care, and wide-ranging co-curricular opportunities.
From Bancroft’s to the Big Screen
We were proud to welcome back three Old Bancroftians for a special screening of Mr Burton, a new film co-written and produced by BAFTA and Emmy winner Josh Hyams.
The film tells the story of a young Richard Burton and the teacher who helped shape his future, a powerful reflection on the influence of education.
After the screening, a Q&A with Josh, Vicki Delow (television producer), and Sarah Camlett (talent agent) offered a fascinating glimpse into the world of film and television, and how their time at Bancroft’s helped spark those careers.
An inspiring evening that highlighted the impact of great teaching and the paths our alumni go on to take.
ALUMNI
WHOLE SCHOOL
BeingBancroft’s Festival
In the final week of the year, the whole school steps away from the usual timetable to take part in our BeingBancroft’s festival. It’s a week packed with activities, community service, new experiences, exploring London, and it all wraps up with a music festival that has been known to sell out in just a few hours.
House Performing Arts
House Performing Arts remains a cornerstone event at Bancroft’s year after year.
Speaking just a single line can spark a transformation in a pupil’s confidence, which carries through their entire school journey.
While the final performance always impresses, it’s during rehearsals where you really see these pupils grow. Yes, it might look chaotic from the outside, but isn’t that just part of the creative process?
The skills they gain through art and performance, whether on stage or behind the scenes, extend far beyond their school years, enriching many aspects of their future lives.
Heritage Day
Heritage Day has become a much-loved fixture in the Bancroft’s calendar. Each year, pupils and staff come together to share and celebrate the many cultures that make up our school.
The Hall was full of energy, colourful outfits, homecooked food from dozens of different countries, and a playlist that got people dancing. Pupils stepped up with confidence, whether walking the catwalk, serving food, or simply cheering each other on.
SENIOR SCHOOL
Harry Potter Week An annual
New Starts and Big Adventures
We understand that starting Senior School is a big step, so we ensure new joiners feel confident and connected from the outset.
Early in their first term, we take them to Hindleap Warren for a weekend of adventure, tackling obstacle courses, building shelters and rock climbing. Evenings by the campfire, complete with marshmallows, provide the perfect mix of fun and reflection, setting the tone for a positive transition and new friendships.
Life at the Prep
At Bancroft’s Prep, we believe that everyone has the right to be happy, a value at the heart of everything we do.
Our simple ‘3½ School Rules’ shape a kind, respectful, and thoughtful community.
From the classroom to the playground, pupils are encouraged to be curious, considerate, and confident.
It’s a joyful place where big learning begins with small, meaningful values.
Prep Space Week
Prep pupils were over the moon during a stellar Space Week, with every subject taking on a cosmic twist.
From recreating Saturn’s rings in PE to investigating Moon craters in Science, learning was truly out of this world. A pop-up planetarium stole the show, giving pupils a close-up look at the universe.
Even the library joined in with themed books and a space-inspired sale. A brilliant week of crosscurricular discovery and imagination!
Music and Munch
Our Music and Munch lunchtime concerts offer a relaxed setting for pupils to perform solo, often for the very first time.
Parents are invited to enjoy the music (and a bite to eat) while watching their children grow in confidence. These informal moments play a big role in nurturing stage presence and self-belief. It’s a joyful celebration of progress, potential, and courage.
PREP SCHOOL
PREP SCHOOL
Mathematical
Milestones
It was a proud moment for our Prep 2 (Year 6) pupils as they rounded off this year’s Primary Maths Challenge with outstanding success: 8 silver and 11 bronze medals awarded in the prestigious Bonus Round!
Earlier in the year, 28 pupils earned their way into this final national stage after impressing in the initial round back in November. To reach this level of the competition is an achievement in itself. Winning medals places them among the top young mathematicians in the country.
Business Brains at Work - Trading Card Triumph
Our Prep Business Enterprise Club hit the jackpot with their Bancroft’s staff trading cards, selling 700 packs in just 30 minutes!
Pupils led every step, from design to production, learning realworld skills in teamwork, finance, and marketing. Over £2500 was raised for school improvements, with plans for future sales already in motion.
A brilliant blend of creativity, enterprise, and community spirit.
PREP SCHOOL
PREP SCHOOL
Happy Holi
Our Prep pupils were bursting with colour and laughter as they marked Holi in spectacular style.
Rainbow powder filled the air in a joyful celebration of unity, culture, and fun. The event also raised funds for Khalsa Aid, blending festive spirit with meaningful action.
PREP SCHOOL
Thinking Ahead?
Throughout the year, we host a range of open events for families exploring entry at 7+, 11+ or 16+.
Whether it's a Prep Head’s Tour, a School in Action morning or our Sixth Form Open Evening, these events offer the chance to take a closer look at our school.
It’s the perfect opportunity to plan ahead for your child or even just want to see what makes Bancroft’s so special.
Scan the QR code to explore our upcoming events.
We’d love to see you again.
