Insight September 2025

Insight 2025 | Bancroft’s School

Insight 2025

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Insight 2025 | Bancroft’s School

Insight 2025

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Insight 2025 | Bancroft’s School

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.

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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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Insight 2025 | Bancroft’s School

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SENIOR SCHOOL

Results 2025 GCSE

A LEVEL

88% of results were graded 9-7 70% of results were graded 9-8 43% of results were graded 9

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

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Insight 2025 | Bancroft’s 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.

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Insight 2025 | Bancroft’s School

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.

DocSoc For those interested in medicine and healthcare.

Isaac Physics Club Advanced problem-solving for physics enthusiasts.

Competitive Coding Advanced programming and problem-solving challenges.

TechSoc Explore cutting-edge technology and coding.

Senior Robotics Society Hands-on experience in robotics and engineering.

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.

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.

Sustainable Fashion Society Combine creativity with sustainability in fashion.

Rock/Pop Band Practice A space for musicians to collaborate and perform.

Cryptic Crossword Club Sharpen your mind with challenging puzzles.

Barbers (Vocal Group) A vocal group specialising in close-harmony singing.

IdentiTEA Discussions on identity, diversity, and inclusion.

Girls’ Voices A choir specifically for female voices.

Drama Society Explore different aspects of drama and theatre.

Bancroft’s Big Band Play jazz, swing, and big band music.

Classical Films Watch and discuss cinematic classics.

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VEX Robotics Compete in national and international robotics competitions.

Sinfonia A high-level orchestral group.

New Views Playwriting Write and develop your own plays.

Figure Drawing Develop artistic skills in sketching the human form.

Junior Trading and Investment Society Learn the basics of trading and investing.

Design Drawing & Sketching Explore technical and creative drawing skills.

Psychology Club Explore the science behind human behaviour.

Bio-Dissect Club Hands-on dissection for biology enthusiasts.

Aspiring Authors Club A space for budding writers to hone their craft.

Junior Science Club Fun and interactive science experiments.

Insight 2025 | Bancroft’s School

PREP CLUBS Arduino Programming Learn to program microcontrollers for real-world applications.

Jigsaw Club Explore big ideas and build teamwork through puzzles and games.

Street Dance High-energy dance classes blending rhythm, movement and creativity.

GCSE Physics Olympiad Training Preparation for competitive physics challenges.

Lego Education / BricQ Motion Learn to design, build and problem-solve using Lego and basic engineering principles.

Colouring Club A calm space to relax, focus and enjoy creative expression.

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.

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.

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.

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.

“Pupils have access to a diverse range of co-curricular activities” ISI Inspection 2025 9

Insight 2025 | Bancroft’s School

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.

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Insight 2025 | Bancroft’s School

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.

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Insight 2025 | Bancroft’s School

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WHOLE SCHOOL

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.

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Insight 2025 | Bancroft’s School

SIXTH FORM

Where Are They Now?

80%

of students progressed to their first choice university

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continuing their studies at Cambridge and Oxford

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studying Medicine

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One of our cohort is now enjoying their degree apprenticeship with Ernst and Young 13

Insight 2025 | Bancroft’s School

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.

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Insight 2025 | Bancroft’s School

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.

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Insight 2025 | Bancroft’s School

SIXTH FORM SENIOR SCHOOL

Top UK Performer at Biology Olympiad

Kamila Joins Essex Rugby Kamila pulled on the Essex U16 shirt, and wore the captain’s armband with pride.

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.

She led the side against Hertfordshire in a hard-fought contest. A fantastic milestone for one of Bancroft’s rising rugby stars.

He was the UK team’s top scorer, a remarkable achievement after months of rigorous preparation beyond the A level curriculum.

SIXTH FORM

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.

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Insight 2025 | Bancroft’s School

Find out more

SENIOR SCHOOL

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Physica l Ac tivi ty Creativity

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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.

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Insight 2025 | Bancroft’s School

WHOLE SCHOOL

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 18

Insight 2025 | Bancroft’s School

PREP SCHOOL

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.

SIXTH FORM

Krishan Lifts his Way to Gold

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.

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.

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Insight 2025 | Bancroft’s School

SENIOR 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.

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Insight 2025 | Bancroft’s School

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Insight 2025 | Bancroft’s School

WHOLE SCHOOL

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.

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Insight 2025 | Bancroft’s School

SENIOR 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.

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Insight 2025 | Bancroft’s School

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.

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Insight 2025 | Bancroft’s School

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Insight 2025 Insight 2025 || Bancroft’s Bancroft’sSchool 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.

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Insight 2025 | Bancroft’s School

ALUMNI

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.

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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.

Insight 2025 | Bancroft’s School

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Insight 2025 | Bancroft’s School

SENIOR SCHOOL

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.

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Insight 2025 | Bancroft’s School

SENIOR SCHOOL

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.

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Insight 2025 | Bancroft’s School

Harry Potter Week

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An annual highlight

Insight 2025 | Bancroft’s School

SENIOR SCHOOL

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.

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Insight 2025 | Bancroft’s School

Life at the Prep

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Insight 2025 | Bancroft’s School

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.

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Insight 2025 | Bancroft’s School

PREP SCHOOL

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!

PREP SCHOOL

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.

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Insight 2025 | Bancroft’s School

PREP SCHOOL

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!

PREP SCHOOL

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.

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.

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Insight 2025 | Bancroft’s 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.

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Insight 2025 | Bancroft’s 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.

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Insight 2025 | Bancroft’s School

Admissions Deadlines Register for 7+ and 11+ entry in September by 1 December.

Full details of the admissions process are available on our website:

Contact Information Telephones: 020

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8505 4821 8505 4826 8506 6760 8506 6761 8506 6751

School Office Bursar’s Office Head’s Office Admissions Office Prep School

Email:

Address:

admissions@bancrofts.org office@bancrofts.org

611-627 High Road Woodford Green Essex IG8 0RF

Website: bancrofts.org

@bancroftsschool