Dukes Annual Review 25

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Founder’s Annual Review OF DU

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TOGETHER WE’RE EXTRAORDINARY

Front Cover: Elian’s British School of La Nucía, Spain

Contents

01 Welcome

02 Looking Back

8

Welcome to 2025

32

Our Highlights

76

New Additions

12

10 Years of Dukes

54

Student Showcase

78

Dukes Conference 2025

18

What does Dukes stand for?

58

Dukes Alumni

80

Dukes Awards 2025

59

Where are they now?

82

Dukes External Awards

22

Dukes UK & Ireland

62

Little Dukes

84

66

Safeguarding, Compliance & Inspections

Dukes Plus

74

International Students

24 26

Dukes Europe Meet the Family

03

Look at Dukes Now

What makes

Dukes Different?

2025 and Beyond

90

Dukes Villages

114

Adding Value

134

Quality of Teaching

92

Dukes by Numbers

116

The Dukes Difference

136

New Developments

94

Our People

118

Learning & Development

140

Marketing & Admissions

100

Heroes Behind the Crown

119

Dukes Plus

142

Dukes in the News

102

Community Co-ordinators

120

143

Dukes Hub

104

Insight

Dukes Young Leaders Award

144

Dates for your Diary

122

Dukes Club

145

Dukes Festival of the Arts

124

Dukes Foundation

128

Poetry Together

105

4

04 05

bob

106

Well-being

108

Sustainability

ANNUAL REVIEW 2025

5

01 WELCOME

6

WELCOME

8

Welcome to 2025

12

10 Years of Dukes

18

What does Dukes stand for?

22

Dukes UK & Ireland

24

Dukes Europe

26

Meet the Family

ANNUAL REVIEW 2025

7

2025: CELEBRATING A DECADE OF EXCELLENCE A 10th anniversary is a moment to reflect on the journey so far and to look ahead to the opportunities yet to come. In 2025, Dukes Education celebrates its first decade—a milestone that once felt like a distant dream.

Aatif Hassan Founder & Chairman

I am deeply moved and grateful to

families, and communities. This

Our second act of celebration is the

everyone who has contributed to

year, we will host the Dukes Festival

launch of the Dukes Foundation’s

Aatif Hassan founded Dukes Education

this extraordinary story. Together,

of the Arts at the Royal Festival

bold new initiative to become the

in 2015 and holds positions as Chairman

we’ve built something remarkable:

Hall, where over 950 students

largest provider of transformational

of Cavendish Education and trustee of St

a community driven by the purpose

from across the Dukes family will

bursaries in the UK. By supporting 500

James Independent Schools. He holds a

of enabling young people to lead

showcase their talent on an iconic

children from low-income families,

British Army officer commission and was

extraordinary lives through education.

stage. Highlights include a 750-voice

the Foundation will give young

massed choir, chamber ensembles,

people access to the opportunities,

awarded the Freedom of the City of London in 2019 for his contributions to education. He

To mark this significant anniversary,

soloists, and a full orchestra.

mentorship, and education that can

is also Chair of Dukes Foundation, trustee

we wanted to celebrate not ourselves,

It will be a truly unforgettable

transform their lives. This is more than

of the British Asian Trust and founding

but the people who make Dukes

celebration of creativity,

a goal—it’s a moral imperative for a

trustee of The Queen’s Reading Room.

what it is—our students, staff,

collaboration, and excellence.

group committed to leading with heart.

8

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© David Rose /Telegraph Media Group Holdings Limited 2025

ANNUAL REVIEW 2025

9

Three Priorities for the Next Decade As we look ahead, my vision for the next decade is focused on three core priorities: building an enduring brand, further developing our sustainable business model, and continuing to enhance the quality of education.

1. Building an Enduring Brand

2. Developing a Sustainable Business Model

3. Enhancing the Quality of Education

From the beginning, Dukes was

A Decade of Resilience

expansion across the continent,

by the quality of education we

and Innovation

with 10 settings joining our family,

deliver. Education is the ‘poetry’

conceived as more than a schools

Resilience has been the foundation

The quality of teaching remains

group - it was built to embody

of our growth. By implementing

the defining measure of our

a meaningful purpose. Over the

robust systems and processes,

success. At the heart of our

past decade, we have established

we have ensured that Dukes

approach is the delivery unit,

our brand as a trusted mark of

can adapt to challenges while

which unifies the sharing of

excellence, not only for our schools

continuing to thrive. Our ability

knowledge and drives higher

but also for the communities

to absorb external shocks (like

standards across all our schools.

we serve. Through professional

VAT legislation in the UK) and

By focusing on collaboration

development, cultural events, and

support families reflects our

and continuous improvement, we

staff awards, we embody ambition,

prudent, sustainable approach. As

strengthen the very aspects of

compassion, and quality. A strong

we expand across Europe, these

education that AI cannot replace:

brand is one that inspires trust, and

principles will remain central to our

the personal connections, the

I am proud that Dukes is recognised

strategy, ensuring that our growth

inspiration, and the transformative

for its integrity and impact.

is both responsible and enduring.

power of great teaching.

Looking Ahead

in Croatia, Czechia, Greece,

that animates the ‘plumbing’ of

As I reflect on the past decade,

Over the past ten years, Dukes

Portugal and Romania during

our organisation. In September,

I am filled with gratitude for the

has grown from an ambitious

2024. These appointments reflect

we are promoting Libby Nicholas

resilience, creativity, and dedication

vision into a trusted name in

our commitment to sustainable

to Group Education Director to

of everyone who has shaped

drive quality across all our schools

Dukes Education. I am equally

and colleges. Libby’s focus will be

excited about the road ahead. The

premium education. From Brexit

growth and operational excellence.

and the COVID-19 pandemic to global economic shocks and the

Innovation remains at the heart of

on sharing best practice, raising

challenges we face are real, but our

introduction of VAT on school

our strategy. From hybrid schools

standards, and ensuring that

commitment to delivering excellence

fees, the challenges have been

offering flexible learning models,

every student benefits from an

in education is unwavering. I look

significant. Yet, through it all,

to pioneering the use of AI in the

exceptional learning experience.

forward to the next chapter of

Dukes has not only endured

classroom, we are embracing

but thrived. This is a testament

opportunities to enhance teaching,

In an increasingly digital world, we

all our stakeholders for their

to our exceptional teams,

improve the workload for educators,

remain steadfast in our belief in

trust and belief in what we do.

whose expertise and dedication

and accelerate learning outcomes

the power of human connection.

continue to drive our success.

for students. Leading this charge

Great teaching - rooted in passion,

Together, we will continue to

this incredible journey and thank

is our AI taskforce, under the

knowledge, and care - creates

enable young people to lead

In 2024, we planned extensively

guidance of David Goodhew,

the transformative moments

extraordinary lives.

for the UK government’s VAT

ensuring Dukes remains at the

where children’s eyes light up with

legislation. Under Tim Fish’s

forefront of educational innovation.

understanding. This is something

leadership as CEO for the UK and Ireland, we have been able to

The Heart of What We Do

Method

We lead with heart We love learning We’re a team We do it well

Long-term An thinking extraordinary Flat structure life for our Pupil- children centric People who share a common -thread

where we will continue to invest our energy and resources.

to support families. Meanwhile,

While systems, processes, and

David Fitzgerald, our new CEO

policies provide the foundation for

for Europe, is spearheading our

our work, our purpose is defined

W elcome

Values

AI cannot replicate, and it is

absorb a proportion of these costs

10

Vision

Aatif Hassan Founder & Chairman

Scan to see...

Dukes Education highlights from the past two years

ANNUAL REVIEW 2025

11

2015

2016 Rochester

Building the

Arts College join Oxbridge Applications

Independent

as part of the ‘Dukes’ organisation,

College joins

US university application support is

the Dukes

is published

added to our consultancy offering

family

Summer Boarding Courses and Fine

2017

Cardiff Sixth Form

The Dukes Publications

Crown, our

College and Earlscliffe

series is launched: three

culture book,

join the Dukes family

market-leading titles on university admissions

It’s been 10 extraordinary years.

The dedication, teamwork, and commitment of the whole Dukes family has shaped countless lives and created lasting memories.

This milestone reflects our passion and perseverance. Here’s to celebrating the journey and embracing a future filled with growth,

MARCH 2015 Dukes Education formally launched

inspiration, and even greater achievements.

SEPTEMBER 2019

2019 APRIL 2019

2018

AUGUST 2019

JULY 2019

JUNE 2019

MAY 2019

Sancton Wood moves

Broomfield House

Heathside School,

A-List UK joins the

Active Education

The Lyceum

Nursery, Eaton Square, The Lyceum,

into new Bateman Street

School, Kew Montessori

Reflections

Dukes family

Group joins the

moves into

Sancton Wood, and Twickenham Park

building. Eaton Square Prep

and St Margarets

Nursery, and Bright

Dukes family

new building

Day Nursery join the Dukes family

moves into new building

Montessori join the

Beginnings join the

Dukes family

Dukes family

Knightsbridge School, Miss Daisy’s

SEPTEMBER 2019 The inaugural Dukes Schools Conference

OCTOBER 2019

NOVEMBER 2019

Hopes and Dreams Montessori Nursery

2020

JANUARY 2020

MARCH 2020

Radnor House

Bassett House,

School Twickenham

Orchard House, and

School joins the

joins the Dukes

Prospect House join

Dukes family

family

the Dukes family

2021

JANUARY 2021

FEBRUARY 2021

MARCH 2021

First Senior

The Career

Chiswick & Bedford Park

Hampton Court

Leaders’

Portal joins the

and St Andrew’s College

House joins the

Conference

Dukes family

join the Dukes family

Dukes family

CHRISTMAS 2019 The family, 1,000 people strong, sits down to Christmas dinner together

12

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DUKES TURNS

5

ANNUAL REVIEW 2025

13

2021

2022

JUNE 2021

SEPTEMBER 2021

SEPTEMBER 2021

NOVEMBER 2021

MARCH 2022

MARCH 2022

APRIL 2022

MAY 2022

Eaton House

Broomwood Hall Lower, Broomwood Hall

Dukes completes purchase of

Duchess of Cornwall

Devonshire House

Inaugural Dukes

InvestIN Education

Dukes Club

Schools join

Upper, Northcote Lodge, Northwood

Kneller Hall and announces that

attends Dukes Poetry

School joins the

sustainable

& JK Educate join

launches

the Dukes

Senior and The Kindergartens group

it will be the new home of an

Together event at Royal

Dukes family

careers week

the Dukes family

family

join the Dukes family

expanded Radnor House School

Geographical Society

JUNE 2022 The Pointer School in Blackheath joins the Dukes family

2023

JULY 2023

JUNE 2023

MAY 2023

APRIL 2023

FEBRUARY 2023

JANUARY 2023

SEPTEMBER 2022

Notting Hill Prep and

Colégio Júlio

International Sharing

The Institute of

Copperfield

The family, 2,500 strong,

CSFC opens new

The Acorn Nursery

Dinis, Porto, joins

School, Taguspark, Lisbon

Education, Dublin,

International

gathers at Wembley

campus in Cambridge,

join the Dukes family

the Dukes family

joins the Dukes family

joins the Dukes family

School, Verbier, joins

Stadium for the Dukes

and Eaton Square opens

the Dukes family

Education conference

new Sixth Form college

NOVEMBER 2022 United Lisbon International School joins Dukes as first international member

2024

2025

AUGUST 2023

NOVEMBER 2023

JANUARY 2024

MARCH 2024

MAY 2024

SEPTEMBER 2024

JANUARY 2025

JANUARY 2025

Her Majesty Queen

IEP Group joins

Pippa Pop-ins

Consilium joins

International

Verita International

The second Dukes conference

Colégio Luso

Camilla attends

the Dukes family

nursery schools and

the Dukes family

School of

School joins the

is held at Wembley Stadium,

Internacional de Braga

Poetry Together

Bruce College, Cork

Athens joins the

Dukes family

united under the theme

joins the Dukes family

Showcase

join the Dukes family

Dukes family

‘The Heart of Education’

DUKES TURNS

10

14

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ANNUAL REVIEW 2025

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Ten years ago, our story began with a question...

“What your sing?”

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makes heart Our story is remarkable, and it’s only just begun...

Scan to see... the Dukes journey over the last 10 years

ANNUAL REVIEW 2025

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WHAT DOES DUKES STAND FOR?

Leadership expands our

purpose & values

LEADERSHIP SE

R

P

NT

H-

VE

HIG

AD

Inspiring self-leadership, presence and collaboration in ourselves and our children.

E

R

U

R

E

&

FO

IN

V

IC

RM

NO

An innate sense of the greater good.

Facilitating the success of others.

E

AN

VA

CE

TION

Being the best in your own terms – fulfilling potential at an individual level.

Cultivating curiosity, fun and discovery – making education be more than just exam results.

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ANNUAL REVIEW 2025

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PURP OSE:

To empower our children to live an extraordinary life through education.

VALUES:

MISSION:

We lead with heart.

Leadership Service

We love learning.

High-performance

We’re a team.

Adventure & Innovation

We do it well.

VISION:

– Leader in Premium K12 and education services – Operating in Western economies – Thriving charitable Foundation offering transformational bursaries

Doing it well

– Thought leaders

So how will we measure whether it’s working?

– Best place to work in Education

Pupil numbers

Happiness

STRATEGIC PRIORITIES:

Do people love working

For how long?

Staff retention & satisfaction

Are our parents and

Compliance

Are we upholding rigorous

How many are coming to us?

How many are staying?

pupils reporting that

with us?

standards of care?

they are happy?

Quality of Education

Brand

Sustainable Business Model

Educational outcomes

Are our academic programmes delivering?

Financial stability

Are we looking healthy enough to ensure we can provide quality education for our children in the coming years?

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ANNUAL REVIEW 2025

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Dukes UK I REL AN D UNI T E D K I NGD OM

& Ireland

Tim Fish, Dukes UK & Ireland CEO

We started 2024 with Bruce College

westerly members. The geography

joining the Dukes family in late

does not preclude full involvement

January, meaning that the best

in all our activities and initiatives,

schools of their type in both Dublin

and our 6th Dukes Renaissance

- with the Institute of Education -

Scholars Symposium will take place

and Cork, Ireland’s second city and

in Dublin in late March 2025.

home to Bruce, are now our most The announcement by the new UK government in July 2024 that Value Added Tax (VAT) would be introduced on school fees from 1st January 2025 brought forward undeniably the single biggest challenge to private education in living memory. However, the independent sector has proved itself remarkably resilient to all types of threat over the years, most recently with Covid. Regrettably, small, individual schools are the ones most at risk in the current climate, and we are fortunate that the Dukes umbrella offers cover to our schools through scale and size. Of course, our families deserve the fullest of praise for their commitment and sacrifice to ensure continuity of education

CSFC’s sustained excellence over

children through shared global

for their children in our care. In turn,

many years is truly remarkable.

themes across our curricula. Dukes

we vow to do all we can to deliver an all-round offer of the highest quality.

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Education’s 10th year promises much, The coming year will see us focus on

and if we’ve learnt anything from

how we can maximise the power of

the previous nine - it will deliver...!

With prep school leavers’ destination

the collective through both the ‘village

senior school lists the envy of many,

strategy’ and wider access to our

With thanks for your much-

and GCSE, A-level and Irish Leaving

Dukes Plus activities across our UK

valued support.

Certificate results in 2024 leading the

portfolio, with greater collaboration

way, we aim to improve continuously

and improved opportunities for our

the academic outcomes for all.

pupils. As we work with our Dukes

Cardiff Sixth Form College (CSFC)

Europe colleagues, we will see

once again topped the A-level results

stimulating professional development

UK league table, closely followed

through teacher exchange, and

by its sister school in Cambridge.

exciting learning initiatives for

Tim Fish Dukes UK & Ireland CEO

ANNUAL REVIEW 2025

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CZ ECHIA

SW IT Z ERL AN D R OMAN IA CR OATIA

P ORT U GA L

SPA IN GREECE

Dukes Europe 2024 was a transformative year for the European division of Dukes, as we expanded from 10 schools in Spain and Portugal to a thriving family of 22 schools spanning Spain, Portugal, Greece, Czechia, Croatia, Romania and Switzerland.

This remarkable growth has unlocked new opportunities for collaboration on an unprecedented scale, enabling us to build strong networks both within and across countries. Collaboration will remain David Fitzgerald, Europe CEO

a cornerstone of our operations in Europe as we harness the benefits of our economies of scale, particularly in areas such as professional expertise, student engagement, and teacher exchange programmes. we firmly believe that our ability to

school. Alongside this, we have

premium, independent education

In tandem with our growing number

innovate and thrive hinges on the

worked to embed Dukes Education’s

provider across Europe. Together,

of schools, we have also expanded

quality of our people. I am thrilled

processes and values and identify

we are building on the outstanding

our European leadership structure.

with the outstanding leadership

opportunities for future growth. As

foundations laid by our UK colleagues

We now have a full complement

teams we have established across

we look to 2025, our priorities will

over the past decade and charting an

of Managing Directors overseeing

Europe and their dedication

include further embedding high-

ambitious course for the future.

operations in Spain, Portugal,

to delivering excellence.

quality teaching and learning,

and Central Europe, supported

24

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strengthening the Dukes approach

by a Director of People, Chief

The focus for 2024 has been

to safeguarding across all schools,

Financial Officer, and Directors of

threefold: welcoming our school

and investing in the development

Admissions and Marketing, Learning,

communities into the Dukes family,

of middle and senior leaders.

and Property. High-performing

building strong relationships, and

school support teams are based

gaining a deep understanding

This is a truly exciting time for Dukes

in Spain and Czechia. At Dukes,

of the unique contexts of each

as we strive to become the leading

David Fitzgerald Dukes Europe CEO

ANNUAL REVIEW 2025

25

Meet the Family

In numbers...

7

Founded in 2015, Dukes brings

nursery brands

together a carefully curated group of nurseries, schools, colleges,

19 14 9 prep schools

senior schools

all through schools

8

boarding schools

22

international schools

7

Dukes Plus services

IRE L A ND

education consultancies and student experience organisations.

Institute of Education

Our central teams are based in London and Madrid. From here,

U N I TED KI N G D O M

we serve our settings in the UK,

Bruce College

Ireland and Europe, providing

Prague Humanities Grammar School š.po

administrative support and training, whilst promoting high-performance,

Beehive

leadership, and well-being.

Square Primary School

Pupils 2019

Bambíno

American Academy in Prague American Academy CZE CHIA in Brno JK Education

2,565 SWI T Z E R L AN D

21,400

2025

Copperfield International School

American Academy in Zagreb

ROMANIA

C R OAT I A

Colegio Inglés English School of Asturias Verita International School Colegio Internacional de Valladolid

Colegio Inglés Zaragoza

Colégio Luso Internacional de Braga Colégio Júlio Dinis

Colegio Joyfe

P O RT UGA L

S PA IN Engage International School

United Lisbon International School International Sharing School

International 26

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International English School of Castellón

GR E E CE International School of Athens

Elian’s British School of La Nucía

ANNUAL REVIEW 2025

27

United Kingdom

Heathside School Hampstead Sancton Wood Nursery, Cambridge

Devonshire House School Hampstead Fine Arts College

Sancton Wood School, Cambridge

Institute of Education

Ireland

Hopes and Dreams Montessori Nursery School

St. Andrew’s College, Cambridge Cardiff Sixth Form College, Cambridge Campus

OLD STREET

Hopes and Dreams Montessori Nursery School ANGEL

Wales

Bruce College

Bassett House School

Miss Daisy’s Nursery

LOND ON

Cardiff Sixth Form College

Rochester Independent College

The Acorn Nursery Notting Hill Preparatory School

Earlscliffe Reflections Day Nursery & Forest School

Knightsbridge School

POOH CORNER

Hove Village Nurseries

Eaton House Belgravia School

Miss Daisy’s Nursery CHELSEA

Miss Daisy’s Nursery KNIGHTSBRIDGE

Riverside Nursery Schools KEW MONTESSORI

Pippa Pop-ins Kindergartens

Riverside Nursery Schools

MOUSE HOLE

ST MARGARETS MONTESSORI

Riverside Nursery Schools

Radnor House Prep

TWICKENHAM PARK

Nursery School Preparatory School

Kindergartens MOUSE HOUSE

Kneller Hall School

Broomwood Prep BOYS

Senior School Sixth Form College

Radnor House School

Kindergartens Riverside Nursery Schools

London Park School Sixth Kindergartens Eaton House THE MANOR GIRLS SCHOOL THE MANOR BOYS SCHOOL

Broomwood Prep GIRLS

London Park School Clapham

Prospect House School

*

BELGRAVIA

THE PARK

RICHMOND

Educational Setting:

Eaton Square Prep School Miss Daisy’s Nursery

BROOK GREEN

Broomfield House School

KE Y:

Dukes Education DUKES HOUSE, BUCKINGHAM GATE

Miss Daisy’s Nursery

Orchard House School

Riverside Nursery Schools

London Park School Mayfair

Pippa Pop-ins

Kindergartens

The Lyceum School

HYDE PARK

CRESCENT II

The Pointer School

Broomwood Pre-prep Kindergartens THE PARK

GROSVENOR HOUSE

Dukes Plus: Ultimate Activity Camps Summer Boarding Courses InvestIN Education

*

Opening soon

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Hampton Court House School

London ANNUAL REVIEW 2025

29

02 LOOKING BACK

30

L ooking B ack

32

Our Highlights

76

New Additions

54

Student Showcase

78

Dukes Conference 2025

58

Dukes Alumni

80

Dukes Awards 2025

59

Where are they now?

82

Dukes External Awards

62

Little Dukes

84

66

Safeguarding, Compliance & Inspections

Dukes Plus

74

International Students

ANNUAL REVIEW 2025

31

Pippa Pop-ins

Our Highlights: Little Dukes Hopes and Dreams

now thriving on Brighton’s seafront, 2024 saw the team and children deepen their ties to the local community. Bloomsbury on the Beach’s beach school flourished, keeping their stretch of the shore litter-free and having plenty of fun along the way. Meanwhile, the New Church Road setting sponsored Lagoon Fest in Hove, demonstrating how Hove Village Nurseries are truly making their mark.

schools, merged seamlessly into the

Pippa Pop-ins into the Little

group. The highlight of their year

Dukes family in January 2024.

so far has most definitely been the

These four well-established and

long-standing sports day in South

much-loved nursery schools,

Park where parents, children, and

recognised in West London for their

staff team alike enjoyed races,

traditional approach to Early Years

celebrations and a wonderful array

education and their long-standing

of home-cooked afternoon treats.

relationships with Dukes prep

Hove Village With a fourth Hove Village Nursery

We were delighted to welcome

Miss Daisy’s Nursery Schools Miss Daisy’s celebrated the festive season with two exciting events: a wonderful private visit to Hamleys on Regent Street and a fun-filled Christmas fair for all of their families at Chelsea Town Hall. The children visited Hamleys before the store opened so they could engage in festive games and activities. The Christmas fair was a magical event with lots of traditional

Hopes and Dreams Montessori

who might consider Hopes and

Nurseries teamed up with the Dukes

Dreams for their younger children.

Club for a family fun day brimming with learning and exploration—from bringing beloved stories to life to encountering exotic creatures.

It was a fantastic way to fully introduce the nursery’s nurturing environment to Dukes Club parents

“In September, Hopes and Dreams celebrated 27 years of serving children and families, nurturing a lifelong love of learning through Montessori.”

activities such as face painting, hook a duck, a snowball alley and of course, a visit from Santa!

Reflections The annual Reflections Summer Fun Day, held to celebrate and thank our wonderful children and families, was bigger and better this year. Parents were

The Kindergartens

encouraged to bring friends

There has been a big focus on the

This year has been a period

along, creating a welcoming,

outdoor areas at The Kindergartens

of exciting change at The

community-focused atmosphere.

over the past year. Several of the

Kindergartens with Natalie

The entire day revolved

nurseries have transformed their

Atkins taking up a new post as

around the fantastic learning

outdoor spaces to create calm,

Principal, two of the settings have

opportunities our garden offers—

inviting environments which greatly

completed their first full year of

providing children with hands-

enhance the children’s ability to

full time education with record

on experiences in exploration,

Among the many exciting events and

explore and engage with nature,

numbers of children attending

creativity, and discovery, and

celebrations held throughout the

this, coupled with a brand-new

and Park 11 achieved a 10/10

fostering deeper connections with

year, the Halloween fun day was one

Forest School lead, means that The

score from the daynurseries.co.uk

nature. It was a truly memorable

of the biggest hits. The children loved

Kindergartens are leading the way

awards and now ranks among

day that highlighted the joy and

exploring new things and had lots of

the top 30 nurseries in London.

growth our outdoor space inspires.

fun with creepy crawlies and pumpkins.

in sustainable outdoor education.

32

L ooking B ack

Riverside

ANNUAL REVIEW 2025

33

Broomwood

Our Highlights: Prep & Senior Bassett House At Bassett House, the focus has been on the importance of remembrance in the community.

The Broomwood Bear is a familiar

Staff at Broomwood are keen to

character who welcomes our

make new families and pupils

youngest children into school at the

welcome and they want every child

start of the year and accompanies

to feel cherished from the moment

them to community events,

they apply. The smallest children

festivals, and celebrations. This

get to know the bear in the build-up

year he made a guest appearance

to starting school. Every prospective

on the Dukes Education stand at

child for pre-school and Reception is

the Independent Schools Show,

sent a specially designed storybook

where he was a popular figure

about going to school Little

with adults and youngsters alike.

Bear goes to Broomwood which

“It was a great opportunity to showcase the school’s warmth and humour, whilst talking more seriously about its unique approach to education and its outstanding results.”

Pupils learned about the sacrifice made by the North Kensington community 100 years ago and explored the history of Kensington Memorial Park, which was offered as a public space in 1926. This space, which is used daily for breaks and lunchtimes by Bassett pupils,

features Broomwood classrooms and pupils. Children joining also receive a Broomwood Bear birthday card and teddy, as well as being invited to a Teddy Bear’s Picnic in advance of the first day.

was created to honour those who lost their lives during the Great War. To mark the occasion, each pupil

minute silence. This act of collective

community sacrifice. Taking part

and member of staff gathered

reflection served as a moving

in this tribute deepened Bassett

around the park’s memorial garden

reminder of the importance of

pupils’ understanding of their local

for the first time in Bassett’s history

Copperfield International School

remembrance and the legacy of

area, and the power of community.

launched its new Mountain

and observed a poignant two-

Copperfield

Leadership Programme (MLP), designed specifically for secondary students. The programme

Broomfield House

Perhaps the most noticeable recent

emphasises teamwork, resilience,

change has been the transformation

and leadership development

of a concrete car park into a

through a series of outdoor

wonderful outdoor learning space,

expeditions. Despite varying

now a peaceful, nature-filled area

weather conditions, students have

designed for all children to enjoy.

successfully completed challenging

Backed by research showing that

hikes to stunning alpine destinations

spending time in nature reduces

like Le Grammont and Rogneux.

stress and enhances mental wellbeing, this development project

The energy and enthusiasm

is part of a broader vision to

during these events have been

nurture well-rounded individuals

incredible, creating unforgettable

who understand the importance

experiences for everyone involved.

of sustainability. The transition

These weekend expeditions play

from concrete to nature is not

a key role in building lasting

skills, whilst building confidence

just about restoring wildlife; it

friendships among students and

and fostering a strong sense of camaraderie. This programme

Rewilding is transforming

of our sustainability strategy,

is also about creating a space

creating a supportive community.

Broomfield House School as part

which includes planting a tree in

that offers enriching educational

Through a series of expeditions and

marks a bold step forward in the

opportunities for our children.

challenges across the year, students

school’s commitment to experiential

will develop essential outdoor

learning and personal growth.

of a growing global movement to

the Scottish Highlands for every

restore biodiversity. We are proud

new pupil joining the school.

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“The sense of achievement, overcoming and sharing challenges with my friends has felt amazing especially when you are rewarded by a great view from the summits.”

ANNUAL REVIEW 2025

35

Eaton House Belgravia

Eaton Square Prep

Eaton House Belgravia has fast-

Early morning, targeted support

Eaton Square Prep celebrates the

tracked many changes in the last six

sessions have been introduced,

recognition they received during the

months, creating the ‘Eaton House

designed to support all children in

January 2024 ISI EQI inspection.

Belgravia Edge’, working closely with

achieving high attainment and to

The visiting inspection team found

parents and fitting the school even

challenge those who are gifted and

excellence across all areas of the

more to be a superhighway to 7+ and

talented across the curriculum. To

school, but the school was especially

8+ exams.

support pupils’ well-being, outdoor

proud to have been awarded the

play and games sessions have

highly coveted, but rarely given,

For children from age 2, compound

been extended and each class

Significant Strength for their

learning has been implemented in

participates in Outdoor Learning

inclusion practices. This recognition

an accumulative and responsible

every week. All these changes taken

highlighted the exceptional support

manner, alongside rich and

together ensure that the children’s

provided for a wide range of pupils,

meaningful learning experiences,

school experience is balanced,

including the more able, those with

building an even stronger foundation

broad and unrivalled.

English as an Additional Language,

for 7+ and 8+ examination success.

and children with additional needs.

Devonshire House The inspection team praised the Devonshire House School

amazing progress and development

spearheaded a gathering of young

made by these groups. This was

scientific minds, hosting a Year

evidenced by comprehensive data

7 Science Fair for participants

on each child, including senior

that pupils have made, and continue

be recognised as a shining example

from local state and independent

school offers and academic awards,

to make, from their individual starting

for other schools in this vital area.

schools. The event saw over 100

demonstrating the remarkable strides

points. Eaton Square Prep is proud to

pupils from 20 schools from the Hampstead area, with each pupil bringing their unique project and

Hampton Court House School

an eagerness to learn from one another. The event was sponsored by local favourite, Daunt Books,

two years after the garden was first

adding a layer of community

conceived. The garden is a shared

involvement in this inaugural event.

Eaton House The Manor

Students presented their projects,

In June, the Eaton House The Manor

vegetables, and pollinator-friendly

which ranged from perfecting

community gathered to celebrate

plants. Sustainable practice is

biscuit-dunking techniques to

30 glorious years of Eaton House

at the heart of its maintenance

proposing new sustainable energy

The Manor at St Luke’s church,

and much of the garden is

solutions, to other students, science

Battersea. Principal, Mrs Segrave,

crafted from reused materials.

teachers, and visiting parents. The

gave an inspirational speech,

variety of projects on display was

recalling what a privilege it had

The thriving garden is used

a testament to the creativity within

been to serve as a teacher at Eaton

for outdoor lessons and is

our local schools. Highlighting the

House The Manor for such a long

and were joined by two other ex-

maintained by a dedicated team

intersection of science and popular

time. A wonderful event featuring

Eaton House heads, Lucy Watts, the

of parents and teachers. The

culture, TikTok sensation and TV

hymns, music and poems followed,

former Headmistress of Eaton House

garden also serves as a quiet

personality Francis Bourgeois kindly

with thanks for all the blessings that

Belgravia and Philippa Cawthorne,

sanctuary for students accessing

supported the event, engaging

life at Eaton House offered.

former Headmistress of Eaton House

counselling services, offering

The Manor Pre-Prep and current

a tranquil space for reflection.

space for parents, children, and teachers, offering a mix of fruit,

with students, offering words of encouragement, and picking the

Dukes Chairman and Founder, Aatif

Head of Well-being for Eaton House

Additionally, it has become a

ultimate competition winners and

Hassan, gave the closing remarks.

Schools. This made it a celebration

haven for wildlife. This thriving

overseeing the separate team-

With Sarah Segrave, Sebastian

of Eaton House The Manor life, past

The Hampton Court House School’s

Level 5 School Garden Award, the

ecosystem reflects the school’s

based engineering challenge -

Hepher and Jeremy Edwards, all the

and present, and represented all the

Community Garden achieved

highest award-level possible. This

commitment to sustainability

railway bridge-building competition.

former EHTM Prep heads attended

generations of the schools’ success.

the Royal Horticultural Society’s

remarkable achievement comes just

and community well-being.

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ANNUAL REVIEW 2025

37

Heathside School Hampstead

London Park School Mayfair

Notting Hill Prep

This year, Heathside has thrived with

Hampstead in aid of the Royal Free

The NHP Foundation has proudly

two years. Meanwhile, our ‘20

remarkable academic achievements

Charity, the NHS charity partner

Brave London Park School Mayfair

supported 54 pupils with fully-

for 20’ challenge saw students

and creative endeavours.

of the Royal Free London NHS

Year 7 students took centre stage

funded bursaries over the last 15

raise an impressive £8,000 for

Students have truly flourished,

Foundation Trust. Selected by the

for a spine-chilling promenade-

years, transforming lives through

Radius, our impactful Community

and the school community has

children as the school’s charity of

style Haunted House performance

education. Currently, nine pupils

Partnerships Programme. Radius

grown stronger than ever.

the year, the Royal Free Charity is a

that left parents both wowed and

in Years 4 to 8 benefit from our

continues to strengthen ties with

cause close to the entire Heathside

wonderfully spooked. Set across

110% bursary programme.

local schools through initiatives

community’s heart, and the children

different areas of the school,

As the end of this fruitful year drew near, the school entered into

were proud to share the joy of

the festive spirit with Year 5 and

the season while giving back to

the Chamber Choir carol singing

such an important organisation.

outside the Royal Free Hospital in

During the inspection, the school

pride and celebration at London

community showcased the

Park School Clapham. The school

school’s nurturing and dynamic

achieved several significant

learning environment we have

milestones that highlight the

cultivated. The inspectors were

dedication and hard work of

particularly impressed with student

students, staff, and the entire

engagement, staff dedication

school community. A significant

and the schools’ culture. Notably,

Knightsbridge School

change was the relocation to the

the inspection concluded with no

new building. This move was a

recommendations for improvement,

This year, Knightsbridge invited Junior School students from Years 3 - 6 to explore the exciting world of the Senior School in a whole new way. Each participant received their Night at Knightsbridge Passport, stamped with pride as they journeyed through each activity, just like true adventurers.

monumental task but everyone

underscoring the exceptional

adapted quickly to the new

standards that had been achieved.

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Community Choir, STEM roadshows,

creepy spiders, and lurking

year, we launched an ambitious

and interschool competitions.

skeletons, the play wove together

fundraising drive that exceeded all

With these achievements as a

spooky tales that kept the audience

expectations. The Bursary Bonanza

foundation, we’re setting our sights

on edge.

raised a phenomenal £137,000,

even higher; expanding Radius and

far surpassing our £100,000

reaching our goal of supporting

target and funding five pupils for

15 bursary pupils by 2030.

remarkable was the enthusiastic

The last year has been one of

GCSE Art students attended an unforgettable time of their own – a workshop with shoe design icon, Jimmy Choo. Along with their families, the children attended an inspiring workshop at the London Fashion Academy in Mayfair.

After creating some incredible designs, students benefited from Mr Choo’s creative wisdom and learnt the fundamentals of shoe design. The event culminated in an inspiring talk about his professional career and notable designs, before signing one of his designs for Knightsbridge School.

transformed with eerie cobwebs,

What made this experience truly

London Park School Clapham

like the Notting Hill Children’s To mark NHP’s 20th anniversary last

participation of every student, regardless of their acting experience. Their ability to put on a remarkable show less than a term into their senior school journey, made both staff and parents immensely proud.

environment. In June, Ofsted inspectors were welcomed into the school, resulting in an ‘Outstanding’ rating in all areas - a remarkable achievement that is testament to the dedication and excellence demonstrated by students and staff.

“The school was excited to continue working together to provide an enriching and supportive environment for all students.”

Orchard House School In September, Orchard House

to put together an amazing Team

School and Chiswick and Bedford

Building day for students who spent

Park Prep came together to form

a day off site with their new peers.

the new Orchard House School. On

In small teams, the children worked

the first day, our pupils arrived in

together to overcome a number

their newly-designed red and navy

of different challenges, designed

uniforms, excited to see not only

to encourage communication and

their old classmates, but to meet

teamwork. The day was a great

new ones too. With the merger

success, allowing our staff and

came a full school refurbishment,

pupils to grow and strengthen the

and new state-of-the-art facilities.

OHS community.

The Parent’s Association helped

ANNUAL REVIEW 2025

39

Prospect House

Sancton Wood

The Lyceum

With pastoral care and well-being at

area. In addition to this, with the

Broadening the provision at The

the very heart of Prospect House’s

vast expanses of Putney Heath and

Lyceum has been the school’s focus

core values, it was a special week

Wimbledon Common just on the

in 2024, achieved by successfully

when Children’s Mental Health

doorstep, the children often venture

embedding STEAM within the school

Week was combined with the

here for both well-being walks and

curriculum and introducing AR and

highly anticipated annual ‘Book

outdoor learning lessons. Map

AI within the children’s lessons.

Week’, where life in and beyond the

reading, lighting fires, and scavenger

All the children now receive one

classroom got even more exciting.

hunts are just a few examples of

traditional computing lesson per

Dressed to express themselves, the

the ways in which the children

week and one topic-based STEAM

children wrote speeches, read and

develop their problem-solving,

lesson which has proved highly

walked with their ‘buddies’, engaged

communication skills and teamwork

popular and has helped provide

with a therapy dog, and made hot

whilst enjoying the fresh air and

them with the skills they may

chocolate and s’mores in The Hollow.

nature; a sure way of encouraging

require in their future careers.

Carrying out creative activities in

children to engage with a space that

The Hollow was certainly no one-off;

feels calm, inviting, and connected

The Lyceum held their very first

weekly Forest School sessions take

to the world around them.

STEAM fair in the autumn term

homemade rockets while the Year

where the children in Reception

5 and 6 children displayed their AR

showcased their coding and

presentations on book reviews

programming skills through

of their merge cubes.

place in this on-site outdoor learning

Radnor House Twickenham

Radnor House Prep In March, pupils of Radnor House Prep spent a very chilly night in the playground under cardboard dwellings they had created themselves. The pupils were aged 7 - 11 and, despite the cold, they all said it was one of the best events of the year.

“Over £3,000 was raised for the local charity, SPEAR, who support people experiencing homelessness in southwest London.”

In October, we held our annual Careers Day at the Senior School, providing older students with a unique opportunity to hear from professionals across various industries. This event is designed to help students explore potential career paths and identify those that might suit their interests and skills. An inspiring session hosted by career specialist and Dukes partner, InvestIN, set the tone of exploration and discovery.

Pupils in Years 7 to 9 undertake

of the Sixth Form students to make

an innovative, interdisciplinary

their mark beyond the classroom

mini-curriculum called

as thirteen students attended

Konnections, focused on creativity,

the Peter Jones Foundation

accountability and collaboration.

Awards Ceremony at The Pelligon,

In November, Year 7 pupils had a

Canary Wharf. The event was a

Careers Day is a key component

trip to Twickenham Stadium as

celebration of the Tycoon Enterprise

of Sancton Wood’s Post-

part of the programme where they

Competition and the launch of the

16 programme, which was

focussed on the impact the stadium

next round. Participating teams

recognised as a finalist in last

has on the local community.

write a business plan and acquire a

year’s Independent School of the

Konnections helps pupils to develop

good will loan of £3,000 from Peter

Year Awards. Careers Day plays

an appreciation of skills that are

Jones to start a business. Students

a crucial role in this programme,

transferable across the curriculum

compete nationally through a

bringing abstract concepts to

and encourages them to see

kick-starter style platform in a

life and potentially sparking

through the confines of classroom

controlled environment. One of our

walls, into our local community and

students courageously pitched her

beyond. A week later, it was the turn

initial idea to Peter Jones himself.

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“STEAM sits perfectly within The Lyceum’s new vision of providing an education for today, tomorrow and the future.”

Students could then choose from an impressive array of 24 different career talks, from animal behaviour to theoretical physics.

interest in future academic or professional pursuits.

The Pointer School Students starting back at Pointers in September were amazed to see the familiar figure of the Coldstream guard who stands in the entrance, springs to life and greets them to celebrate the launch of the redeveloped ground floor. The excitement didn’t stop there - with plenty of inspiring new things to see inside the building, from a table made of over 20,000 pencils to a telephone box that reads stories when pupils answer the phone.

It’s not all about the new, though: in the spirit of sustainability, important items from the school’s history have been given a new lease of life, from the antique toy planes that now zoom overhead in the school office to the old stained-glass door that stands proudly framed in the hallway. Even the classrooms have been upgraded, with custom-

technology with the Pointers vintage

made antique-style teaching

aesthetic. Who knew the first day

walls installed to blend the latest

back to school could be so exciting?!

ANNUAL REVIEW 2025

41

Cardiff Sixth Form College Cambridge

Our Highlights: College & Sixth Form Bruce College In the first year as part of the

points or higher. Overall results

UCC, and the Royal College of

Dukes family, Bruce College

were exceptional and well ahead

Surgeons. Students from the 2024

students achieved outstanding

of national average. Students are

cohort have also accepted places in

Leaving certificate results. Thirty-

now dispersed across all the top

Cambridge University, Kings College

nine students achieved perfect

universities in Ireland including

London, Dundee University, Queen

to near-perfect scores of 600

Trinity College, Queens university,

Mary, Ulster University and Teesside.

The first cohort of students

achievements; their A-level results

with Cambridge undergraduates

graduated from start-up college,

placed the college as third in the

and project work with university

CSFC Cambridge, this year. The

UK for A* grades. As the first group

academics. As they begin the next

college was launched in 2022 as

of students at the college, they

stage of education at universities

the first sister school of CSFC with

played a central role in founding

including Cambridge, Imperial,

the aim of bringing the Cardiff

our college culture and ethos, not

UCL, Toronto and Edinburgh they

academic excellence to Cambridge.

to mention helping us to create The

leave behind a strong legacy and

The college was opened with a

Cambridge Edge™ super-curricular

a rather unusual EPQ project

small cohort of students who have

programme of lectures, academic

creation, a nuclear fusor, hand-

gone on to incredible academic

department visits, mentoring

built by former student Cesare.

Cardiff Sixth Form College Cardiff Sixth Form College’s annual

Earlscliffe

Cultural Event celebrates the rich cultural diversity of the college and is the highlight of the school year. Music, dance, speeches and prizes all form part of the occasion.

The strong House system, which is core to the college’s identity, is also celebrated when the winning

Event embody the vibrant nature of

traditional music, Vaughan-Williams

house is named in the fiercely

the college and this year we were

and even Bruno Mars!

competitive annual House Cup

treated to Indian dance, Chinese

competition. There are performance opportunities aplenty at CSFC, which hosts two annual music recitals: an Eisteddfod festival and even an annual TEDx event.

The performances at the Cultural

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“For the second year running, Cardiff has been named as a finalist in the ISA Boarding School of the Year competition and the Independent Schools of the Year competition, for ‘International Student Experience’.

Our Cultural Event embodies exactly why this is.”

The Earlscliffe Basketball Academy continues to grow and excel. Players are competing in the national league with an impressive winning streak. University scholarship offers are now being received for the most ambitious of the squad. The Earlscliffe Basketball Academy provides a full training programme for both male and female players that adapts to the individual aims of the student. Some students are attending different team or skills sessions almost every day whilst others are mixing in occasionally only for some social fun.

ANNUAL REVIEW 2025

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Hampstead Fine Arts College

St Andrew’s College Beyond academics, 2024 marked

The Summer Exhibition in June

a transformative year for student

was the highlight of the year, with

happiness and well-being at

students and parents gathered to

St Andrew’s. We implemented

celebrate everyone’s achievements.

targeted initiatives to foster a

The College took over a local

supportive and engaging school

cinema to show the A-level students’

environment, prioritising mental

films on the big screen, followed by

health, inclusivity, and student

canapés and drinks with musical

voice. The results were evident

performances, in our flower-filled

in our significantly improved

courtyard, from students across

student retention rates, reflecting

all the year groups. An exhibition

higher levels of satisfaction and

of remarkable Photography,

belonging among our students.

Graphics and Fine Art pieces was These successes underscore

displayed throughout the College and prizes were awarded for

carpet fashion show of beautifully

academic and artistic excellence

creative and inventive clothing and

plus wider contributions to college

accessories made in our Fashion/

life. The finale of the afternoon

Textiles classes, modelled by

was the much-anticipated red-

students and some brave staff.

“All-in-all a fabulous party, a tremendous tribute to everyone’s hard work over the year and a great send-off for our leavers.”

St Andrews’ holistic approach In 2024, St Andrew’s celebrated an

teaching staff. Similarly, our A-level

to education, where academic

outstanding milestone in student

students achieved excellent grades,

excellence goes hand-in-hand

achievement and well-being. Our

paving the way for almost all of

with nurturing confident, resilient,

Foundation Programme recorded

them to secure places at their first-

and well-rounded individuals.

its highest-ever results, showcasing

choice universities - a testament to

the exceptional dedication of our

the high academic standards and

students and the commitment of our

personalised support we provide.

Rochester Independent College Northbank is an innovative

The Institute of Education

space that redefines student accommodation and expands

In addition to incredible results in

RIC’s boarding capacity to 180

the Leaving Certificate, the students

students. The new building has 47

at the Institute of Education, Dublin,

single, en-suite, study bedrooms,

continue to distinguish themselves.

communal spaces, and classrooms

The Institute of Education was

designed to enhance the student

one of the few schools selected to

experience. A standout feature is

represent the Ireland in the Oxford

The Gowers Visual Arts Centre,

and Cambridge schools’ debates,

named after a beloved RIC art

held in the prestigious universities.

teacher, which is dedicated to

Nare Paronyan and Lina Hassan

exploring A-level art subjects.

travelled on consecutive weekends

It’s been a momentous year for

celebratory berry cocktail, and an

The Northbank campus includes

to tackle compelling and complex

Rochester Independent College. In

impressive firework display which

a landscaped well-being garden

topics in the iconic and historic

June, the college celebrated its 40th

topped off the day. Over 600 guests

in the courtyard quadrangle,

halls of the universities. Not only

anniversary and former students,

came to celebrate 40 fantastic

promoting health and wellness.

do we foster powerful speakers

friends and fans of the college were

years of Rochester Independent

invited to celebrate this milestone

College, demonstrating the strength

Northbank marks a significant

Clodagh Creedon came third in The

event at a garden party at the Star

of the RIC community and the

milestone in RIC’s history,

Young Journalist of the Year Awards

Hill site. The afternoon entailed a

high esteem the college is held in.

underscoring the College’s

2024 for her feature piece I Want

dedication to educational

to Live and Die Sober. Over 10,000

variety of showcases, from a RIC

but powerful writers as 5th Year

rock band, the recent cohort’s

During the autumn term, RIC’s

excellence while preserving

students take part in the programme

array of artwork, to the signature

brand-new facility opened.

its historic environment.

ever year which is run by News

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Brands Ireland.

our Academic Highlights 2024

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ANNUAL REVIEW 2025

45

United Lisbon International School

Our Highlights: Europe Portugal

This year, United Lisbon

of Toronto. This milestone, and the

a special place in its history as

International School celebrated its

impressive university destinations,

pioneers of the IB program.

inaugural cohort of IB graduates, an

reflect the hard work and dedication

exceptional class of 47 students who

of both the graduates and the

United Lisbon has also welcomed

have now gone on to prestigious

incredible efforts of the staff and

its new Executive Director, Martin

universities worldwide, including the

faculty. It underscores the passion

Harris, who brings valuable

University of Pennsylvania, Duke

that the school has embodied

experience as an educator

University, Brown University, King’s

since its opening four years ago,

and leader from the UK. He

College London, and the University

with these graduates holding

aims to build upon the school’s excellent work while planning

Colégio Júlio Dinis

exciting developments for the future. Alongside this leadership newly-designed spaces are not only

transition, United Lisbon has

equipped with essential resources

opened a new building for

but also encourage a culture

secondary students and is set to

of engagement, creativity, and

further expand its campus with

collaboration among students.

additional sports fields, classrooms, and a new auditorium. These

Colégio Júlio Dinis is committed

enhancements promise to create

to fostering a vibrant learning

an even more enriching educational

environment that nurtures well-

environment for students, from

rounded individuals. By equipping

Early Years to Grade 12.

students with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in an ever-evolving world, they are prepared for future challenges.

CJD remains dedicated to its

Spain

In 2024, Colégio Júlio Dinis

century, the school has embraced

mission of excellence in education,

proudly celebrated its 90th

change, adopted innovative

ensuring that every student

anniversary, making it one of the

learning methods and enhanced

has the opportunity to reach

oldest educational institutions in

its facilities to transform students’

their full potential and make a

the natural world and highlighted the

educational experiences. The

positive impact in society.

importance of conservation.

the city of Porto. Over nearly a

Colegio Inglés English School of Asturias

The trip focuses on the practical skills such as first aid that prepare students for real-life, outdoor

International Sharing School

scenarios, instilling confidence

International Sharing School

featured representatives from

school is proud to have provided

students, and 150 students from

around 25 UK universities, including

such a valuable opportunity for

other international schools across

the Universities of Bath, Warwick,

students and their families.

Lisbon, took part in a university fair

Bristol, Birmingham and St Andrews.

and a sense of responsibility. Back at school, the students presented their business plans to a panel of ‘investors’ illustrating the project’s goal of blending education with

in October. In a series of insightful

practical experience.

workshops and sessions, they

The feedback from the students

covered crucial topics such as

and parents who attended was

how to write a personal statement,

overwhelmingly positive. They

In June, 40 Year 9 students and four

cultivate outdoor leadership skills while

how to choose a degree, tips on

left the event with fresh ideas,

members of staff from The English

challenging students to develop a

creating portfolios, and subject-

valuable insights, and clear

School of Asturias took part in an

business plan for an adventure tourism

specific sessions in different fields

goals for their future academic

exciting expedition to the Asturian

venture. The trip involved navigating

including engineering, business,

and professional journeys. It

mountains as part of the school’s

the hiking route, pitching tents at the

arts, psychology, humanities,

was an enriching experience

‘Asturian Adventures’ project. This

campsite and an evening nature walk,

and computer science. The fair

for everyone involved, and the

year-long initiative is designed to

deepening students’ appreciation for

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“The Asturian Adventures project exemplifies the school’s commitment to experiential learning, equipping students with valuable skills for their future.”

ANNUAL REVIEW 2025

47

Colegio Inglés Zaragoza

Engage International School

A significant achievement this

Engage School unveiled its new 4 Cs

re-imagining learning spaces to

year has been the outstanding

educational programme: Curiosity,

meet the needs of young learners

result of the National Association

Creativity, Critical Thinking, and

and support the development of

of British Schools in Spain (NABSS)

Communication. This forward-

21st-century skills. The environment

report, marking the school’s first

thinking initiative incorporates

plays a key role in inspiring pupils

official inspection of the British

active learning methodologies

and nurturing their growth and

Curriculum in Early Years. The

such as project-based learning,

creativity. Walls and floors have

evaluation not only highlights the

computational thinking, public

been redesigned, natural light floods

school’s commitment to maintaining

speaking, and global learning.

in and materials have been carefully

high standards akin to those of

chosen to reflect, and connect with,

prestigious British institutions but

As part of its strategic plan for

nature. Standout features include

also underscores its unique position

infrastructure improvement,

tree-like columns and beautifully-

as the only school in Aragon

Engage International School has

crafted wooden bleachers, creating

implementing this curriculum.

made a significant investment in

a harmonious and inspiring space

transforming its Early Years facilities,

where young learners can thrive.

Elian’s British School of La Nucía

The report praised the exceptional English proficiency of the students, showcasing their confidence and

the highly qualified and experienced

to the hard work and commitment

fluency from a young age. It also

In 2024, the school achieved a

staff, many of whom have been with

of the Early Years team. The positive

noted the enthusiastic engagement

remarkable milestone; they now

the school for many years, ensuring

relationships between staff and

of students in their classes,

host students of no fewer than 41

a consistent level of excellence. The

students were emphasised, with the

attributing this to the teachers’

different nationalities. In percentage

school has secured approval for

report simply stating, “Students are

dedication to fostering a love of

terms, more than 50% of the

four more years without the need

happy to be in school.”

learning. The report commended

student body is now international.

for further inspections, a testament

This incredible diversity is a testament to the strength of the community and the trust families place in the school. Most of new students join the school after

Colegio Internacional de Valladolid

recommendations from friends, at all stages, thanks to its bilingual education. Early Years and Primary

showcasing how families are truly the school’s greatest ambassadors.

follow the British Curriculum System. In the secondary years, the British methodology is combined

International English School of Castellón

with the national curriculum, allowing students to obtain a

them not just academically but also

double qualification at the end of

professionally, equipping them for

the stage: ESO + IGCSE. A bilingual

their next chapter in life. The original

Baccalaureate model, unique in

group was joined by new students

our community, is also provided.

during the secondary years and all of the students successfully

In addition, the school has been

completed their baccalaureate

recognised as a Google Reference

studies, excelling in both

School by Google for Education

A-levels and Spanish Certificate

in recognition of the effort of the

During this academic year the

moment was not only significant for

entire educational community to

school reached a special milestone

them as students but also deeply

list of the Best Schools 2024 of the

facilitate student learning and its

– the proud celebration of the

meaningful for the school to have

To celebrate this incredible journey,

is proud to have been included in

search platform Mi Cole. Vallalodid

work for academic innovation.

graduation of a group of students

seen them through their education

the students walked through the

the prestigious FORBES list of the

is the only school in Castilla y León

who have been at the school since

from Early Years through to Year

school’s main hall, cheered on and

100 best schools in Spain and in the

that offers real immersion in English

they were just one-year-old. This

13. Over these years, we prepared

waved goodbye by the entire school.

Colegio Internacional de Valladolid

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examinations.

ANNUAL REVIEW 2025

49

Colegio Joyfe

Consilium: American Academy in Prague young people to think creatively

In May, the school hosted an

and collaborate as a team to face

unforgettable production of

the issues related to life in space,

Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet

such as settlement construction,

by the talented freshmen. Through

sustainability, space engineering

their hard work and dedication,

and resource management.

the students transported their audience to fair Verona, where

The Colegio Joyfe students were

the timeless story of star-crossed

the only Spanish contingent in the

lovers unfolded with passion,

Grand Final of the competition,

tragedy, and romance.

demonstrating the level of excellence and dedication of the students and

The play was the culmination of

their teachers. Taking part in the final

weeks spent studying Romeo and

is the result of the students’ work in

Juliet in the classroom, where

the NASA Project, a subject unique

students delved into the text’s

to Colegio Joyfe, where students

themes, language, and characters.

have to put into practice scientific

They then worked together to

and mathematical knowledge and

adapt the play according to their own perspectives, bringing fresh

For the fourth consecutive year,

Design Competition (ISSDC) in Cape

social and marketing skills. All of

Colegio Joyfe students took part

Canaveral, Florida. The competition

this takes place in an atmosphere

interpretations and personal

appreciation for Shakespeare’s work

students brought to the stage. It

in the final of the international

is for students to design projects on

of collaboration and teamwork,

insights to the classic story. This

The performance was more than just

was a true testament to their love

competition for high school students

the colonisation and development

where the role of each person is

creative process allowed them to

a display of creativity; it showcased

for the arts and their desire to

of space settlements. It challenges

essential to achieve a common goal.

explore the play’s relevance to their

the perseverance, teamwork, and

bring a classic to life in a way that

own lives while developing a deeper

commitment to excellence that our

resonates with audiences today.

International Space Settlement

Consilium: American Academy in Zagreb

Rest of Europe

cuisines that tantalised taste buds to captivating traditions that educated and entertained, the

Consilium: American Academy in Brno

day was a true celebration of our

The inaugural Student Film Festival

by the students was impressive,

express themselves, think critically,

was held in June, showcasing the

from light-hearted comedies to

and collaborate in new ways.

creativity and collaboration of the

thought-provoking dramas, with

American Academy in Brno students.

beloved teacher cameos adding

Throughout the week-long project,

an extra layer of fun. Following the

students were challenged to write,

screenings, students participated

direct, and star in their own short

in an awards ceremony, where

films. This hands-on experience

they voted in categories including

allowed them to explore storytelling,

Best Director, Best Soundtrack

teamwork, and technical filmmaking

and Best Actor, adding an exciting

skills, all while enhancing their

element of peer recognition,

confidence and creativity.

fostering a sense of community and support among the students.

The festival concluded with a grand

This project not only developed

event—a red carpet welcome and

practical skills in film production

cinema-style screening of all the

but also encouraged students to

films. The range of topics explored

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international community.

The American Academy in Zagreb takes immense pride in the supportive environment that has been cultivated, where every member, from students to faculty, plays a crucial role. A special thanks goes to the incredible The American Academy in Zagreb

showcase of global cultures

Parent-Teacher Association (PTA),

uses every day as an opportunity

and community spirit. The event

whose collaboration and dedication

to celebrate the rich tapestry of

was a colourful display of the

were instrumental in bringing this

diversity that makes the school

various backgrounds represented

event to life. The community looks

community unique. This year

at our school, with students

forward to many more events in the

marked a significant milestone as

enthusiastically sharing their

future that honour the diversity,

the school hosted its inaugural

heritage from over 20 different

foster connections, and enrich the

International Day, a vibrant

countries. From mouth-watering

educational experience.

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Consilium: Bambíno Nurseries

Consilium: Beehive

Consilium: Square

International School of Athens

Diversity and multicultural

The International School of Athens

communication and collaboration

educational experiences are

(ISA), a longtime member of

skills, and an enduring appreciation

celebrated at Beehive. Students

UNESCO’s Associated Schools

for cultural differences.

enjoy learning about and celebrating

Network, has fostered a twinning

different holidays throughout the

programme with the Sukaina bint

year with the help of our diverse

Alhusain Girls School in Oman.

teaching staff and family community.

Supported by the Greek Ministry of

In the autumn, students learn about

Education, Grade 9 and 10 students

Diwali, Dušičky (a Czech day of

collaborated throughout the school

remembrance and celebration

Every year, ZŠ Square, is filled with

year on creative, educational

of those who have passed),

kindness and a spirit of giving.

activities designed to promote

Thanksgiving, and Halloween.

This year, students raised funds

the exchange of cultural heritage.

Bambíno Nurseries and

These trips are more than just an

at a Christmas market where they

Through this initiative, students

Kindergartens in Prague had many

opportunity to experience life in

The Halloween party is always

sold handmade crafts. The school

deepened their understanding of

highlights during the last school

the countryside - each adventure is

eagerly anticipated. Students

council then decided where the

cultural diversity, strengthened their

year, but none more special than

themed around a special subject.

and their families enjoy using

collected money would go. As

sense of international-mindedness,

their exciting ‘School in Nature’

The last two were magical woodland

their creativity to assemble

the students enjoy the relaxation

and formed meaningful cross-

trips. Twice a year, in both autumn

creatures and a beloved children’s

unique costumes for the costume

that comes with practising yoga,

cultural bonds. The programme has

and spring, children as young

book character. The children are

competition, which students take very

they wanted to share these

enriched participants with broader

as four embark on a delightful

given tasks connected with these

seriously. Spooky games, chilling

precious moments with children

global perspectives, improved

three-day adventure, living and

themes, working together toward a

music, and laughter fill the garden

undergoing treatment for cancer.

learning on a real working farm in

final goal, which is always rewarded

and warm up the chilly October night.

They contributed 35,000 CZK

the beautiful Moravian region of

in recognition of their hard work. The

to Malá Jóga, an organisation

Czechia. Being away from home,

children have fun while embracing

which supports specially trained

some for the first time, didn’t

teamwork and gaining hands-on

instructors to visit sick children

daunt the young explorers, who

experiences that make these trips

in their homes. The chairwoman

eagerly immersed themselves in

unforgettable. These adventures

of this project, who collaborates

farm life, learning about sheep,

are a treasured part of the Bambíno

with the Rehabilitation Clinic

cows, rabbits, and hens, as well

experience, fostering curiosity and

and the Hematology-Oncology

as discovering how all those busy

joy while introducing children to

Clinic of Motol University

little bees make their honey.

the beauty of the natural world.

Hospital, also visited the school to personally thank students for making this possible.

Consilium: Pražské humanitní gymnasium

Verita As part of the Verita 2.0 strategic

switching to GL Assessment,

plan for this year, six areas of

introducing workbooks and

growth have been identified:

Century Platform, transitioning

Teaching and Learning, Student

from 2 semesters to 3 terms and

Learning and Well-being,

having 3 term report cards and 2

Curriculum and Assessment,

progress report cards for parents

Community and Home Partnership,

and adding academic workshops

Premises and Facilities, Finance

for Math, English and Science after

and Resources. Changes that

school. In addition, uniform has

have been implemented include

been introduced for the first time in Verita and parents have been

dětí a mládeže (Czech Council of

Along with this flowerbed, an

invited to workshops about social

Children and Youth) which later

information banner about herbs,

and emotional learning in school.

sponsored the idea. The focus was

well-being, and their relationship

on the connection between mental

was created and the project has

Verita joined the Dukes family

health and well-being with the

an Instagram profile that is active

of schools during its 10th year

goal of educating as many people

and growing. The group posts

anniversary and an event was in

as possible through something

updates about the project, as well

November for parents, students

familiar to many people – plants

as information about herbs, well-

and staff to celebrate the

and herbs. Students discovered that

being, and helpful tips for improving

new partnership and the 10th

there is a long and deep connection

mental health. There are plans to

anniversary. Kindness remains

The school’s project on mental

between mental health and plants

expand the project by installing

at the heart of everything at

health started in January 2024.

and so it was decided to create a

another flowerbed in the school

Verita and the school was proud

Pražské humanitní gymnasium was

raised flowerbed to grow herbs that

garden to educate the students at

that the celebration event also

offered the opportunity to work on

improve and support mental health

our school.

raised funds for an education

the topic by the organisation Rada

and well-being.

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charity project in Romania.

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STUDENT SHOWCASE Yichen Zhao, Institute of Education

Frank Maher Classical Music Award Ai Lin Sun, Institute of Education, won the Frank Maher Classical Music award with tourde-force performances

Sourena Soroya, Rochester

of Beethoven and

Independent College

Rachmaninoff.

Kimmy Yan, Rochester Independent College

Maddie Whittaker, Hampstead Fine Arts College

Summer exhibition, Hampstead Fine Arts College

Amelija Morkunaite, Rochester Independent College

Paria Khademi Kalantari, Hampstead Fine Arts College

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Big Folkstone Sleep-out Earlscliffe Interact Club President,

Folkestone Sleep-out raising

Jayden and other Earlscliffe

over £7,500 for projects in the

students took part in the Big

local community.

Zihan He, Institute of Education, is a finalist in The National Gallery of Ireland’s AIB Portrait Prize exhibition

Press Pass Award Clodagh Creedon, Institute of Education, won the Press Pass Award, NewBrands Ireland’s

George Moore, Rochester

Carla Mularkey, Institute

Independent College

of Education

Transition Year program Features Writing category with her story I Want to Live and Die Sober.

Exceptional Results Cathy Lou, Cardiff Sixth Form College, achieved an astonishing 7 A*s in her A-levels including a phenomenal EPQ submission on the deleterious impacts of sleep deprivation.

Cathy was offered a full scholarship to the University of Hong King to read Medicine.

Kanat Saulebayev, Rochester Independent College

I am really happy with my results. It’s not about working hard, it’s about enjoying your lessons and I had really supportive teachers.

COP29 grapple with some of the most

Politics students from

pressing global environmental

Nathan Baker, Sancton Wood

Earlscliffe joined forces with

challenges. Tony Vaughan,

School, submitted his project on

students from local Harvey

Labour MP for Folkestone &

Hydroponics to TED-X and has

Grammar School to take

Hythe officially opened the

produced a vertical hydroponics

part in an immersive COP29

day with an insightful speech.

planting station in school to

simulation enabling them to

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Growing Green

A-Level Geography and

grow a variety of herbs.

ANNUAL REVIEW 2025

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DUKES ALUMNI

Notting Hill Prep

Mentoring at CSFC Cambridge

NHP supports two Alumni events each year, a 16th and 18th birthday, led by class reps and supported by the school. Former student Emmanuelle (NHP Bursary Award 2013-2015) went on to attend Rugby School and the University of Bristol and now works in Culture Marketing at Red Bull.

Dukes Connects Cardiff Sixth Form College alumni,

third year, fosters academic and

2024 saw the launch of the Dukes

now studying at prestigious

personal growth. This year has been

Connects alumni platform. Five

institutions including Cambridge

extra special as it is the first year

colleges are using the system, and

University and top London

that students who studied at CSFC

Rochester Independent College

universities, are actively giving back

Cambridge have come back to

and Hampstead Fine Arts College

to their alma mater. The thriving

mentor the current students –

plan to go live in 2025. We are

mentorship programme, now in its

a very special full-circle moment.

excited to be engaging with our alumni from across Dukes, building strong foundations for this network. Over time, the alumni association will become a platform for the exchange of ideas, creation

Where are they now?

of opportunities, mentoring and

Vasilisa Korganova

connecting with like-minded people who share a background in

Vasilisa joined Rochester

academic excellence.

Independent College from Moscow Central Arts School. Vasilisa produced a range of digital products through experimenting

Earlscliffe Alumni Week

with new ideas and developing her existing creative strengths. Vasilisa

Following the hugely successful

is now a prize-winning animator

alumni event held in October 2023,

who is currently exploring the fusion

Earlscliffe wanted to maintain

of traditional ink drawings with the

regular contact with the members

digital format of webcomics.

of their community who have now moved onto university and careers. In Alumni Week in May, the Earlscliffe team invited former students to an informal catch-up

Iulia and Irina Lambrino

in St Pancras, London. Not only did London-based alumni attend, but students travelled from across the country to spend time reminiscing and enjoying each other’s company.

Boys’ Alumni football match at the

was challenged by ex-students from

The highlight of the week was an

Folkestone Football Stadium. The

the previous 11 years. The final score

Earlscliffe students versus ‘Old

current Earlscliffe football squad

was 7-5 to the current students.

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Iulia and Irina Lambrino, both

International Relations and Politics.

former students at Earlscliffe, are

Former Earlscliffe Head Girl, Irina,

closely involved in the Rotoract

was made a Rotoract member at a

Club. Iulia is the current President of

recent club meeting and is now at

the Westminster International club

Goldsmiths, University of London

and is in her final year at Queen

studying a Bachelor of Arts degree.

Mary University of London studying

ANNUAL REVIEW 2025

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Where are they now?

Myles Ng Myles Ng attended Cardiff Sixth Form College from 2019-2021, where he studied Maths, Further Maths, Physics and Chemistry, and completed an EPQ on

Eve McMahon

Lily Cooke

cybersecurity. Myles recently completed the undergraduate

Former student from the Institute

exceptional talent and dedication

Lily, a former student at the

Mathematics Tripos at the

of Education, Eve McMahon,

to the sport. As a rising star

Institute of Education, made history

University of Cambridge, and is

proudly represented Ireland in

in competitive sailing, Eve’s

at Gangwon 2024 as Ireland’s first

now working towards a Master’s

Sailing at the 2024 Summer

remarkable journey exemplifies

athlete to compete in luge at the

degree in Astrophysics there.

Olympics, showcasing her

hard work, perseverance.

Winter Youth Olympic Games.

Ilva Gjuzi

Sara Byrne

A former student at St Andrew’s

In September, former Bruce College

College, Ilva now works in the Office

student and now professional

of the Albanian Prime Minister.

golfer, Sara Byrne, was the star of

After gaining outstanding A-level

the GB & IRL win in the Curtis Cup.

results, she studied Architecture at Cambridge University before returning to Albania and leading projects at the forefront of Albania’s development initiatives.

Gus Atkinson Former pupil at Broomwood Prep Boys (formerly Northcote Lodge), Gus

Kit Moore

Atkinson made his record-breaking

Radnor House student Kit Moore’s

University of Surrey. Recently,

interest in animals has come full

he returned to the shelter as

circle. As a student, he discovered

a qualified vet to perform an

his passion for veterinary medicine

operation himself, mirroring the

during a 2018 Make a Difference

moment that first sparked his

Day at school, when he joined

ambition. Kit hopes that other

a group of peers on a visit to

students will find similar inspiration

the Mayhew Animal Shelter

through hands-on learning,

and witnessed an operation.

demonstrating how a single day

This experience inspired him to

can be the beginning of a life-

study Veterinary Medicine at the

changing journey.

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cricket debut for England this summer.

Louise Shanahan

Bruno Hawkins

Louise Shanahan, a former Bruce

Bruno Hawkins, former student at

at the IDEAL conference in April

College student and Olympian,

Hampton Court House School, is

2024. His abstract has been

successfully defended her national

studying Medical Engineering at

accepted for publication by the

senior 800m indoor title, showcasing

UCL. Bruno presented his work on

BMJ interventional, and health

her determination and continuing

the integration of computer vision

technologies section.

her impressive track and field legacy.

on endoscopic spinal surgery

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Little Dukes continues

The Little Dukes brand has been consolidated across the

to provide high-quality,

shared among the brands and individual settings. The

innovative, industryleading childcare and had over 1,600 children in our care in 2024.

settings and best practice and learning continues to be consistent policies in place across the groups provide a common approach to care, ensuring that children receive high-quality early education with highly qualified educators. The common systems, Salesforce, Famly and bob that cover admissions, communication with parents and carers, and staff communications ensure that families and staff receive a high-quality experience when joining or on-boarding at a Little Dukes nursery.

The nursery admissions team works across the group and provides a swift and responsive service for potential new joiners.

Our People Despite the nationwide recruitment crisis in Early

Hazels, the week was highly successful and was followed

Years, we have welcomed over 260 new members of

by a weekend course in the grounds of Kneller Hall.

staff to Little Dukes settings in 2024. We have worked hard to establish and deliver the Little Dukes training

Participants’ feedback was incredibly positive:

modules this year and nearly 40 courses have been delivered in-house and over 500 participants from the

“I really appreciate the opportunity to have been on such

Nursery and School Early Years teams have attended.

an amazing course. I learnt a great deal and am now keen

Feedback on the modules has been hugely positive with

to continue my learning, put it into practice and watch the

participants feeling that the training was engaging,

children thrive in our forest school sessions.”

tailored and relevant to their own unique settings.

The second Little Dukes Leaders’ Development Day took place in May. Over 50 Early Years Headteachers and curriculum leads attended the event which was

“I really enjoyed the learning experience in the open environment and very excited to start this practice in my setting.”

“The course was well structured and engaging. The

themed around building a truly engaging and inspiring

practitioners supported me through the whole training

curriculum. Experts from across the industry shared

while practising and gaining strong practical and

their vision for pedagogical and focused learning areas

professional skills.”

(from Montessori and Reggia, through storytelling and STEM). It really was an inspiring day and participants left with some great ideas to reinvigorate their curriculum.

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The inaugural Little Dukes Forest School qualification

Scan to watch...

took place for educators from across Dukes nurseries

the Little Dukes Leader’s

and schools. Facilitated by external trainers Under the

Development Day film

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63

Little Learners Little Dukes Little Learners, our Early Years introduction to

are based not only on what children can do but also why

the Dukes Young Leaders Award, has been established in

they are doing it. This discovery of ‘why’ in each statement

all settings. This year, we worked closely with the team at

is effective when equipping children with skills for life

Famly to incorporate Little Dukes Little Learners into our

which then enable them to be successful and confident

nursery management app making it easier to link the Little

when they move on to school.

Learners’ dispositions with the daily learning experiences, creating a family and team-friendly approach. With

Naz Usman, Principal of Hopes and Dreams who has been

support from Dukes Sustainability Manager, Sally

leading on the project said,

Cornelius, this year we incorporated sustainability actions into each of our dispositions Feedback from parents has been very positive.

“The Little Dukes Little Learners curriculum and programme allows the children in our nurseries to progress through different stages (Starting My Journey, Building My Skills, Celebrating My Success) to celebrate their

“As parents receiving the Little Dukes Little Learners

success by building upon their existing skills as well as

report and seeing our 3-year-old helping other friends

learning new skills. The children are set objectives in

to zip their coats and helping them with gloves and hats

areas such as Humility, Courage, Happiness, Honour,

was so emotional, the best thing we received so far. This

Compassion and Curiosity, demonstrating service to

is definitely worth celebrating as it’s promoting humility,

others and their communities.

compassion and humanity. Thank you”.

Children are encouraged to achieve certain skills in Staff have responded very positively to this shared

developing self-awareness and practical skills which

curriculum element saying it feels “real and meaningful”.

nurture their personal interests and talents.”

Each disposition is unique and carries statements which

New Locations

Dukes Village

Riverside Richmond opened its doors in February 2024

The team at Miss Daisy’s has been building the Dukes

bringing a warm and welcoming Montessori nursery

Village concept with children from two Miss Daisy’s

school to the area. Its beautiful, serene design, sensitively

nurseries visiting their local Dukes school, Eaton Square

in keeping with the 114-year-old listed building has been

Prep, and enjoying a trial day at ‘big school. The children

a hit with parents and children alike, so much so that a

cooked, took part in an amazing science experiment

third classroom and additional garden space has been

wearing full lab coats and enjoyed the wonders of the

developed and opened for January 2025.

STEAM room.

Work has continued to develop the new Pippa Pop-ins

The team were delighted with the start to this academic

site in Holland Park. Set to open in September 2025, the

year and have implemented vertical learning across all of

waiting list is already filling up and the team are excited to

Miss Daisy’s Nursery Schools. Children are now in mixed-

get into their new home and start teaching

aged groups between two and four years old for part of the day, which has helped to build confidence for the

The Hopes and Dreams team are preparing for the

younger ones, and a sense of responsibility with the older

relocation of the Old Street nursery to The Lyceum School.

children in the same way that an older sibling would have.

The move will enable Hopes and Dreams to build on the

As a result, the children have settled well and the change

strengths of our all-through model from nursery to prep

is showing a positive effect on their readiness for school.

school. There has been huge demand for the new space and plenty of families confirmed to start in the new year.

High-Quality Food New Appointment

We continued to have a strong focus on providing nutritious and interesting menus for the children to enjoy.

Natalie Atkins was promoted to Principal of The

Emphasis is put on inspiring children to enjoy new food

Kindergartens Nursery Schools after more than a decade

and to learn about what they eat and where it comes

of experience in the group. Natalie has overseen two of

from. Our Little Dukes’ chefs attended a summer course

the nursery schools moving from term time to a year-

though the London Early Years Foundation focusing on

round model that better suits the families in the local

nutrition and innovation in Early Years mealtimes.

areas and is an exciting next step in the 30-year history of The Kindergartens. Crescent II and Mouse House SW18 nurseries continue to see waiting lists until 2026 with great word of mouth recommendations in the local communities.

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We are here,

Integrated into Dukes Schools & Colleges

so you can get there.

Dukes Plus has become a central feature in the offering to many of our own schools and

nationalities to summer residential programmes,

colleges over the last year. Examples include:

run out of several of our colleges.

Dukes Plus is a family of specialised consultancy services

schools, over 5 million users and has over 100 corporate

— Dukes Career School: Around 1,000 students from

and educational experience providers with the vision:

partners. 2024 has been a year of exciting developments

across Dukes completed this unique 21st-century

To empower young people to live a happy and

and excellent growth for Dukes Plus. More students have

skills focused programme, which culminated in

successful life. Made up of consultancy and experience

been reached and positively impacted than ever before.

assessment centres where students were challenged

provider organisations, Dukes Plus reaches over 1,500

— Summer Boarding Courses, welcoming 50+

and assessed across multiple key disciplines.

— 11+ tuition support for our prep schools.

— GCSE and A-level support for senior schools and colleges — University expert courses, on the key aptitude tests required for Oxbridge, Medicine and the US, for our schools and colleges.

Consultancy

Experience Providers

A-List

InvestIN

US University specialist. Providing specialist

World class immersive experiences in London. The

support to international students since 2005.

first UCAS accredited summer school. 15 industries,

The Medic Portal

50,000+ students attended. Aged 15-18 years.

The ‘Get into Medicine’ experts with millions of users.

Summer Boarding Courses

Trusted by over 50% of the Top 100 UK Schools.

The UK’s number one multi-campus summer

The Lawyer Portal Get into Law. Award-winning resources. In official partnership with the Law Society of England and Wales.

Dukes Tutoring Bespoke private tutoring from 5+. Hand-picked tutors and proven results. 97.4% 11+ success rate.

school at premier locations including Eton College, Oxford and Cambridge for students aged 6-17 years. 150+ nationalities attended.

Ultimate Activity Camps Outstanding activity holiday childcare at renowned independent schools for children aged 4-14 years.

Used by 17,000+ children each year.

Oxbridge Applications Established in 1999, the unequivocal leader in

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CONSULTANCY

EXPERIENCE PROVIDERS

Oxbridge admissions. 20% of all applicants use OA.

ANNUAL REVIEW 2025

67

Consultancy

Dukesplus.com

Dukes Tutoring, formerly known as JK Educate,

projects. The team led 11+ and 13+ talks and individual

has continued to successfully provide individual,

mock interviews, supported groups with entrance

The platform, launched in 2023, provides clients with a one-

personalised tuition to students in EYFS, KS1, KS2,

exam preparation, as well as providing specialist

stop-shop, high-quality, premium suite of education services,

KS3, GCSE, A-level and IB, as well as those seeking

teaching in a range of subjects from Latin, computer

focused on the education journey outside the classroom for

entrance exam support. Client feedback has shown

science, business studies, sociology and maths.

children and young people from 4-18 years.

that additional services such as individual assessments,

The site houses unique e-learning pathways - for example,

mock exams, workshops and interview preparation

In 2025, Dukes Tutoring is looking forward to

have been extremely beneficial and well received.

continuing working in partnership with Dukes

aspiring medical students can work their way through a series of online modules building the key learnings needed

Scan to visit...

from start to finish on their application journey.

the new Dukes Plus platform

schools and providing expert support to help This year, Dukes Tutoring is proud to have worked with

all students to achieve their potential.

several Dukes schools, providing bespoke tailor-made

— Students successfully sat for 4+, 7+ 10+, 11+, 13+ and 16+ entrance exams — Global reach increased to include families in China, India, Canada, USA, Thailand and Europe as well as the UK — Outstanding progress was made by 30 GCSE students who began tutoring with grades of 5 and 6 and achieved a grade 7, 8 or 9 in their final exams

14,000+ hours

98%

of 11+ students were offered places at one or more of their

of tuition to

chosen independent schools

500+

students

Trust Pilot rating

with home-schooling, using their subject

of GCSE and A-level

100%

12

knowledge and mentoring skills to integrate

students who received

who began tutoring

the student successfully back into school

tutoring support achieved

with grades C and

or exceeded their predicted

B achieved a grade

grades in 2023 - 2024

A or A* at A-level

— Hand-picked tutors supported a Year 9 student

What our clients say:

A-level students

JK provides an incredible bespoke service for all things 11+…the service has been exceptional.”

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International expansion

Integrated consultancy

Moving forward, our vision of creating unique

The three Higher Education consultancies (A-List,

educational opportunities for children aged 4-18

Oxbridge Applications, The Careers Portal) have

years old will increasingly be taken out to the

been integrated behind the scenes to create a more

international arena. This can be reflected through

resilient operation driven by premium product,

our brands successfully establishing enhanced

customer retention, lead generation and world-class

I highly recommend JK Educate to any parent

connections with well over 500 international

conversion. The Consultancy division will also be

seeking exceptional support for their child’s

educational consultants and schools.

joined by Dukes Tutoring.

academic development.”

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We entrusted JK with our child’s GCSE preparation for two years, and we couldn’t be more pleased with the results. We’ve just received the GCSE results, and our child has truly excelled.”

ANNUAL REVIEW 2025

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Students who used support programmes from Oxbridge

A-List Education, which supports student’s applications to

Applications for the most recent application cycle had

the top universities in the US, has had a transformational

triple the offer rate of average applicants for their course.

year. Its new website has more than doubled visits compared to 2023, and e-commerce now allows for

Schools also saw the impact of using Oxbridge

direct website purchases. Product innovation has led

Applications: University College School in Hampstead had

to the creation of new products including one-day

its third-best year ever for Oxbridge acceptances following

courses, essay masterclasses and interview workshops.

a year of support, and Tonbridge and Wellington had exceptional years, with 24 and 22 offers respectively.

Acceptance rates continue to be industry-leading, with

New school clients included Claremont FC, Royal Russell,

around 70% of clients receiving offers for their first-choice

North London Collegiate and the Mulberry Academy Trust.

university. In total, A-List had nearly 300 acceptances, with all eight Ivy Leagues represented, including half

Feedback for OA from customers continues to be

of MIT’s UK student offers and a third of Stanford’s.

exceptional; the residential interview prep weekend in November was a particular success in terms of positive

The majority of A-List students improve their

feedback from parents and applicants.

SAT scores by 200 points or more, versus competitor average of 55 points:

+300

The Lawyer Portal helps aspiring lawyers achieve

The Medic Portal is the most recognised resource for

their ambitions. An award-winning platform,

supporting applicants to study medicine. It has taught over

its partners include law firms Clifford Chance,

50,000 students and worked with over 100 schools this

Milbank and RPC, as well as The University of Law

year, including Eton, City of London and Haberdashers’.

and The Law Society of England & Wales.

The Medic Portal’s recommend rate is over 90%.

Leading medical schools continue to work with The Medic Portal to source applicants for their courses

+200

from our audience: among them the universities of Swansea, Buckingham and Worcester.

In 2024 The Medic Portal became the first Dukes Plus brand to embed an AI-powered chatbot into its website.

The bot is designed to provide customer support and guide on product suitability; adoption by customers

+55 US national average

has been positive and usage continues to grow.

A-List average

A-List top 25% Scan to try... the Medic Portal chatbot

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Experience Providers

In 2024, InvestIN delivered transformative summer experiences to nearly 2,400 students from over 80 countries, supported by 240 industry professionals across more than 80 venues in London. This marked another successful year, with participant feedback averaging 8.5/10 and 100% of students in the final wave of programmes stating they would recommend InvestIN to a friend.

This year, InvestIN expanded its global footprint through an international roadshow, visiting around 30 countries and holding close to 750 meetings with schools worldwide.

These efforts significantly increased international student participation and strengthened global partnerships.

A landmark achievement for 2024 was InvestIN’s accreditation, enabling students to gain a Level 3 Award in Work Experience, equivalent to eight UCAS points. This made InvestIN the world’s first summer school where students could earn UCAS points for work experience and receive a formal qualification.

InvestIN also continued to develop the Dukes

This year, Ultimate Activity Camps implemented innovation and expansion across its programmes, with the successful trial of a new four-day Performance Academy, a bespoke programme at the prestigious Dragon School, Oxford, and our technology-based programme expanded to seven new locations, with the addition of our innovative online game-building workshops for children aged 8-14 years.

Collaboration with Summer Boarding Courses has been strengthened to provide a wider range of day camp experiences for visiting international students.

Amid this expansion, Ultimate Activity Camps proudly completed 18 Ofsted inspections, all of which met the required standards - an achievement unmatched by any other school holiday camp provider.

In addition to this, UAC has been working hard to raise funds for Helen & Douglas House Children’s Hospice with a charity staff skydive, sponsored art activities, clothing donations, bake sales and parent contributions.

Their new all-electric van is helping slice emissions along with a new 100% green-energy tariff, which is contributing to their target of becoming a net-zero company.

Careers School, providing a comprehensive careers curriculum for students in Years 10–12. This programme equipped students with essential skills and knowledge to prepare them for their future careers.

Looking Ahead InvestIN will build on the achievements of 2024 by continuing its focus on international growth, enhancing student experiences, and further expanding the Dukes Careers School to provide exceptional careerfocused opportunities for students worldwide.

2024 has been an extraordinary year for SBC, as

Exceptional staff and delivery

they continue to set the benchmark for excellence in

To deliver world-class programmes, over 300 temporary

summer education.

staff members were recruited and trained over the summer, who delivered inspiring programmes to students.

Global reach

Over 100 returning staff members were welcomed back,

This year SBC welcomed over 2,500 students to

reflecting the strong connections and dedication within

programmes from an impressive 105+ countries

the SBC team.

worldwide. It was particularly exciting to include the first students from East Timor, Afghanistan, and Sudan,

Excursions

further enhancing the diverse and vibrant international

This year, SBC organised over 150 excursions to some of

community and taking SBC to 155 nationalities

the UK’s most popular destinations, including London,

represented to date.

Oxford, Thorpe Park, and Legoland, providing students with unforgettable cultural and recreational experiences,

Empowering futures through scholarships

enriching their time.

SBC supported 43 talented students with fully-funded or partial scholarships, enabling them to participate in SBC’s world-class courses. This initiative reflects the unwavering commitment to making outstanding education accessible to students from all backgrounds.

Seven years at the top For the seventh consecutive year, EL Gazette has honoured SBC as the UK’s number-one multi-campus summer school. This recognition underscores our

Looking ahead to 2025, UAC are excited to introduce their multi-activity and survival-based camps at six new independent schools (including some Dukes schools), plus a further rollout of the performance and technology-based camps. UAC is also looking forward to trialling a new Ultimate Cookery programme during the summer of 2025.

continued dedication to providing an unparalleled educational experience.

Pioneering new programmes Building on the strong partnership with the Dragon School in Oxford, SBC successfully launched an exciting new programme for young learners aged 8-12 years.

614

£8,000+ raised for charity

as maths, history, science, English, and art. It received

86,177

16,392

outstanding feedback from students and parents,

summer staff members

child days provided

bookings made

This programme emphasises English learning through interactive, hands-on activities in core subjects such

showcasing the demand for innovative, engaging educational experiences.

46

locations used

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INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS 95

nationalities across the Dukes family

with students coming from all over the world

international students in our colleges

Jonathan Cuff Managing Director, Colleges

106

new international day students

Jenny Seed

Janine Funsch

Scott Giles Group Sales & Marketing Director

Russian-speaking markets & Eastern Europe

UK-based

Henrietta Lightwood

There are

849

Team structure for international student recruitment

Andrew Wood

Natalia Volchugova

Ireland

Switzerland

Asia & Europe

David Ball

Hannah Leggett

Vickie Li

Svetlana Osipova

China & SE Asia

Florence Chow

Tony Blignaut Jasmine Nie

MENAT West Africa

LATAM

Eden Zhang

Yasmin Lestari

Zack Abdulhamid

CSFC CARDIFF

ST ANDREW’S COLLEGE

90.6%

31%

A*-A grades

A*-A grades, pass

A*-A

EARLSCLIFFE

Top UK Universities Students gained places at top UK universities

including King’s College, London, UCL and the Universities of Exeter, Newcastle, and Reading

Summer courses recruitment SBC

InvestIN

rate 93%. Students gained places at top universities including

CSFC CAMBRIDGE

Six students gained at

Universities of Bath,

least five A*grades and one

Bristol, Edinburgh

achieved six A*s

and LSE

92%

of students earned places at Russell Group Universities

HAMPSTEAD FINE ARTS COLLEGE

Record numbers

Sharon Ehimwenma

Matthew McLarty

of students accepted at top art schools including the Slade, Central St Martins, and Chelsea

42%

ROCHESTER INDEPENDENT COLLEGE

Gianluca Polidori

Callum Wiltshire

Musab Angudi

Richard Lawless

Shu Han Chang

Willow Herold

57%

International Agents

A*-B grades. Students

Two special events were held in June at the new Dukes

gained places at

House. We welcomed UK education consultants, and

top UK universities

international consultants representing international families,

at the G5 Universities of

including Universities of

to visit our new home and meet senior leaders. The guests

Oxford, Cambridge, LSE,

Manchester and York

heard short talks from Heads and Principals about their

Imperial College and UCL

schools and the Dukes Plus team about the education services they provide.

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NEW ADDITIONS

12

The Dukes family continued to grow in 2024.

The Dukes family grew in 2024 with new settings joining from Croatia, Czechia, Greece, Ireland, Portugal, Romania, and the UK.

new family members in 2024

Pippa Pop-ins Nursery Schools

Czechia and Croatia

International School of Athens

Athens, Greece

Verita

Colégio Luso Internacional de Braga

Bruce College Cork, Ireland

Pippa Pop-ins, a group of four

One of the best-known schools in

Founded in 2012, Consilium is an

The International School of Athens

Founded in 1982, Verita serves

Established in 1999, Colégio Luso

London nursery schools, joined

the Munster region, Bruce College is

education group operating seven

(ISA) joined the Dukes family in June.

600 children from Kindergarten

Internacional de Braga (CLIB) now

the Dukes family in January.

a co-educational school founded in

schools and services across Czechia

ISA serves 700 students and is the

to grade 12 in three locations in

serves over 370 students aged 3

Established in 1992, it provides

1990. The college joined the Dukes

and Croatia, with 250 staff serving

only international school in Greece

Bucharest. The school focuses on

to 18, providing a balanced, high-

a values-based approach and

family in February and provides

over 1,500 students. Its portfolio

to be an IB Continuum World School

inquiry, emotional intelligence,

quality education for the Portuguese

a nurturing yet academically

senior cycle tuition and exam

includes three American Academies, a

offering the three IB programmes,

and self-mastery—values that align

and international community. CLIB

challenging environment. The

preparation courses in 26 Leaving

local curriculum school, three bilingual

covering Kindergarten to grade 12.

closely with Dukes. Verita fosters

nurtures curiosity, fosters academic

partnership ensures continuity of

Certificate subjects to over 270 full-

nursery/junior schools, an educational

ISA is known for its sense of family

a joyful learning culture that

excellence, and builds a community

the top-level care and education

time students and many thousands

consultancy. Consilium joined the

and is the school is dedicated to

celebrates hard work and inspires

grounded in respect, service, and

Pippa Pop-ins is renowned for.

of part time students annually.

Dukes family in March.

fostering a love of learning, self-

extraordinary outcomes.

intercultural understanding.

Fulham, London

Consilium

Bucharest, Romania

Braga, Portugal

discipline and self-knowledge.

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Thank you to all those who made the Dukes Conference such a special day.

Scan to watch... highlights of the Dukes Conference

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I N N O VAT I O N & A D V E N T U R E

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The Dukes Annual

Award Four Well-being Initiative Adam Anstey BROOMFIELD HOUSE SCHOOL

Award Five Marketing Initiative of the Year Georgie Maughan & Penny Dash

Award Six Customer Experience Lauren Huntley CENTRAL HR SUPPORT

EATON HOUSE BELGRAVIA

2025

Award Seven

Award Eight

Sustainability

Staff Member of the Year Little Dukes

Iona Jennings & Lucy Garrard

Lauren Knight

EATON SQUARE PREP SCHOOL

RIVERSIDE & REFLECTIONS NURSERY SCHOOLS

Award Ten Staff Member of the Year Colleges Ellen Crozier ROCHESTER INDEPENDENT COLLEGE

Award Thirteen Yvonne O’Toole, Head Prefect

Rachel Watson, Overall Setting of the Year

Service Above and Beyond Mike Stanley THE LYCEUM

Award One

Award Two

Innovative Educational Practices

Pastoral Care

Ambreen Baig & Jamie Whiteside

DEVONSHIRE HOUSE

HYBRID SCHOOL LPS MAYFAIR

PREP SCHOOL

Ruby Hughes

Award Three Charitable/Community Alex Cooper RADNOR HOUSE TWICKENHAM Camp Dragon SBC

Award Fifteen Overall Setting of the Year Pippa Pop-ins Nursery Schools

Award Eleven Staff Member of the Year Dukes Plus Luke Hayward ULTIMATE ACTIVITY CAMPS

Award Nine Staff Member of the Year Schools Nicolas Laridan THE POINTER SCHOOL

Award Twelve New Staff Member George Barry SANCTON WOOD SCHOOL

Award Fourteen Sustained Excellence Cardiff Sixth Form College

Award Sixteen Head Prefect

Lauren Huntley, Customer Experience

Yvonne O’Toole

Scan to see...

THE INSTITUTE OF EDUCATION

photos of our incredible 2025 award winners

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Dukes External Awards Schools BROOMFIELD HOUSE

HEATHSIDE SCHOOL HAMPSTEAD

NOTTING HILL PREP

Colleges

Little Dukes

CARDIFF SIXTH FORM COLLEGE

MISS DAISY’S NURSERY SCHOOLS

— FINALIST, Tatler Schools Awards, Best Prep School — Re-accredited, Advanced Thinking School and remains the only one in the Primary category ORCHARD HOUSE

— Listed in Spear’s Top 15 UK Prep

— WINNER, British Council

Schools, Spear’s Schools Index — Listed in 100 leading private schools globally

of the Year — WINNER, ISA National Debate

PROSPECT HOUSE — WINNER, inclusive SEN

BROOMWOOD

— WINNER, ISA Boarding School

International School Award

provision, Education Choices Magazine Awards KNIGHTSBRIDGE SCHOOL

— HIGHLY COMMENDED,

— Independent Schools of the

Competition – KS4–5 Category — WINNER, ISA National Art

Passionate about Sport,

Year Awards – Independent School

Muddy Stilettos

of the Year for International

Competition – KS5 Drawing

Student Experience

Category

— WINNER, Best All Rounder, Education Choices Magazine Awards

RADNOR HOUSE TWICKENHAM EARLSCLIFFE

— Accredited Thinking

— WINNER, Well-being

School Status

Initiative, Kent Mental Health Well-being Awards

SANCTON WOOD — WINNER, Independent School

— SHORTLISTED, Independent

of the Year – Well-being EATON HOUSE BELGRAVIA — SHORTLISTED, Independent Schools of the Year EATON HOUSE THE MANOR — SHORTLISTED, Independent Schools of the Year HAMPTON COURT HOUSE — SHORTLISTED, Independent School of the Year — RHS Level 5 Award for School Community Garden

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Schools of the Year — WINNER, Great for Community, Best of Best Preps Awards, The Week Independent Schools Guide — SHORTLISTED for London Independent Schools of the Year

by Independent School Parent.

THE LYCEUM — SHORTLISTED, Independent Schools of the Year

— Sunday Times Parent Power Schools Guide, Independent School of the Year for Academic

Dukes Inter School Events

Excellence, Wales

— Dukes Chess

— HIGHLY COMMENDED, most Creative Learning through Play category, Muddy Stilettos Awards 2024

Championship: The Pointer School’s boys’ team

EUROPE

— FINALIST in the Education Choice Awards 2024 for Diversity and Inclusion in Sport

COLEGIO JOYFE WINNER of Professionalisation of an admissions department

— SHORTLISTED for the Chelsea Award by Sloane Square Magazine/Cadogan in Community Collaboration category

for improving recruitment

HIGH-PERFORMANCE

— Dukes Swimming Gala, Winner: Eaton Square Prep — Dukes Athletics, Winner: Orchard House School — Dukes Netball

and conversion, Club

Tournament, Winner:

Excelencia en Gestión.

Orchard House School

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Safeguarding, Compliance & Inspections

Inspections A total of five schools, 16 nurseries have had successful, formal ISI and Ofsted inspections over the last academic year with two newly acquired nurseries also having good Ofsted outcomes prior to joining Dukes Education during 2024.

Radnor Prep School had a successful Ofsted routine inspection as a new school.

Name Change Approvals

5

3

have had successful,

had successful

formal ISI and Ofsted

material change

inspections.

inspections.

schools

schools

18

nurseries had successful Ofsted

Eaton Square Senior and Northwood Senior school

inspections prior to joining Dukes

received Ofsted approval for their name change

Education, had successful,

to London Park School Mayfair and London Park

formal Ofsted inspections.

School Sixth Form.

Chiswick and Bedford Park School became part of Orchard House School after successful material change approval.

DSL Development Day This year’s DSL development day was

Guidance and support A total of 123 days of formal support has been provided from the Dukes Central team which has included live inspection support, health and safety audits, SCR / HR records administration, staff training workshops, telephone advice, and compliance support visits.

held in May for safeguarding staff from all sectors of the Dukes family. Sessions were led by external speakers, including leading safeguarding lawyers and a former victim of sexual abuse, each giving a unique perspective from their experiences. The event was well received and positive feedback was given by staff from the schools, colleges and Dukes Plus organisations attending.

In addition, new, robust safeguarding audits and health and safety support and compliance visits have been undertaken across Little Dukes nurseries.

Minibus licensing Blue Flag Transport Consultancy Ltd and Dukes Central team have continued to provide support to ensure legal regulatory compliance with our PSV minibus operations.

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Safer Recruitment Training This year, Dukes has delivered Safer Recruitment

Key pillars of safeguarding

Consortium training for 72 staff from colleges, schools, nurseries and Dukes Plus. This face-to-face, high-level safer recruitment training is in addition to the online training also delivered.

1

2

3

there is an opportunity to reflect on trends from the

Consistent, robust policies and procedures

past year and how this will then inform the provision

— Delivered by regularly

Effective use of technology to track data and assess trends includes

Consistent and continuous monitoring and review

Including:

— Weekly safeguarding reports

Annual Safeguarding Reviews A successful programme of annual safeguarding reviews of Dukes organisations ran through the year. All schools and colleges hold an Annual Safeguarding Review with their governors, in which

going forward.

trained staff, monitored and reviewed by Governors,

UKVI Dukes Plus The Dukes Plus Safeguarding Advisory Board, made up of key staff in Dukes to advise Dukes Plus companies’ leadership and safeguarding staff, has been active to help companies prioritise safeguarding across their businesses. All companies hold an Annual Safeguarding Review with board members and the board’s safeguarding advisor is on hand to support with training, policy development and live safeguarding issues throughout the year.

Senior Leadership

The Immigration Team has now completed two full

Teams and Designated

seasons. The team, made up of an immigration

Safeguarding Leads.

to Safeguarding Governor/ — SCR Tracker for safer recruitment — CPOMS – timely reporting

manager, student immigration officers and

and actioning of any

authorising officer for all licenses, is supported

concerns or allegations

by an external legal advisor.

including low-level concerns

Managing Director — Termly safeguarding report to the Governors — On-site safeguarding and compliance audits at all settings — Annual safeguarding

— 909 international students are sponsored across

reviews at settings to review

Dukes schools and colleges

effectiveness

— All Basic Compliance Assessments have been

— External advice and guidance

successful

sought in line

— Eaton House school was inspected by UKVI (Home

with KCSIE guidance

Office) in June and successfully passed with no

— Annual DSL Development/

concerns raised by the UKVI team

training days

— Currently Dukes 11 schools and colleges hold UKVI student sponsorship licences across seven licences — We are currently working with colleges and schools on five new licences — 653 CAS were issued this year, a 9.5% increase

Cluster Groups Additional cluster groups were established this year, including a group of the nurses employed in schools and colleges. These join established groups for Designated Safeguarding Leads in schools and Heads

Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility

The Dukes Board are responsible as Safeguarding Governors and take ultimate responsibility for safeguarding

of Boarding modelling the sharing of good practice already in place for colleges.

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03

LOOK AT DUKES NOW

88

L ook at D ukes now

90

Dukes Villages

104

Insight

92

Dukes by Numbers

105

bob

94

Our People

106

Well-being

100

Heroes Behind the Crown

108

Sustainability

102

Community Co-ordinators

ANNUAL REVIEW 2025

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Hampstead AGES 2-13

Devonshire House School

Bassett House School

AGES 2-13

AGES 2-11

Miss Daisy’s Nursery

The Acorn Nursery Notting Hill Preparatory School

London Park School Mayfair

Pippa Pop-ins AGES 2-5

AGES 4-13

Kindergartens POOH CORNER • AGES 2-5

AGES 3-16

Hopes and Dreams Montessori Nursery School Hampstead Heathside School CITY ROAD • AGES 0-5 Fine Arts College Hampstead Bassett House School Hopes and Dreams AGESAGES 2-13 13-18 AGES 2-11 The Lyceum School Montessori Nursery School Miss Daisy’s Nursery AGES 4-11 The Acorn Nursery Devonshire House School OLD STREET • AGES 0-5 HYDE PARK • AGES 2-5 AGES 2-13

Dukes Education DUKES HOUSE, BUCKINGHAM GATE

Eaton Square Prep School • AGES 2-11 Miss Daisy’s Nursery

BROOK GREEN • AGES 2-5

Miss Daisy’s Nursery CHELSEA • AGES 2-5

AGES 2-5

Miss Daisy’s Nursery

AGES 2-13

Pippa Pop-ins AGES 2-5

BELGRAVIA • AGES 2-5

KNIGHTSBRIDGE • AGES 2-5

OLD STREET • AGES 0-5

Devonshire House School

Eaton House Belgravia School • AGES 2-8

Miss Daisy’s Nursery

Dukes North Hopes and Dreams London Village Montessori Nursery School AGES 13-18

AGES 2-11

AGES 11-16

Knightsbridge School

Hampstead Fine Arts College

Heathside School Hampstead

HYDE PARK • AGES 2-5

AGES 2-5

London Park School Sixth • AGES 15-18

Hopes and Dream The Lyceum School Montessori Nursery Schoo Dukes Education AGES 13-18

Knightsbridge School

Kindergartens

Pippa Pop-ins

Hopes and Dreams London Park Hampstead Montessori Nursery School School Mayfair ANGEL •Fine AGES Arts 0-5 College AGES 11-18

AGES 4-11 BUCKINGHAM GATE OFFICE OLD STREET • AGES 0-

AGES 3-16

POOH CORNER • AGES 2-5

Hopes and Dreams Eaton House Montessori Nursery School Belgravia School • AGES 3-11

AGES 2-5

Dukes Central London Village

Broomfield House School Riverside Nursery Schools

AGES 3-11

The Acorn Nursery

Dukes Kindergartens Villages

CRESCENT II • AGES 0-5

Dukes deliberately creates clusters of nurseries and schools in ‘village settings’ to ensure that families can enjoy an allthrough education within the same area.

AGES 2-5

RICHMOND • AGES 0-5

Riverside Nursery Schools Broomfield

House School ST MARGARETS MONTESSORI • AGES 2-5 AGES 3-11 Radnor House Riverside Prep • AGES 2-11 Nursery Schools

Riverside Nursery Schools * Kneller Hall School ST MARGARETS MONTESSORI • AGES 0-5

AGES 11-18

Broomfield House School

TWICKENHAM GROSVENOR PARK • AGES 0-5

Radnor House Riverside Schools 2-11 Prep • AGESNursery Kneller Hall School Radnor House KEW MONTESSORI • Riverside AGES 11-18 Riverside Prospect School •Nursery AGES 11-18Schools AGES 0-5 ST MARGARETS MONTESSORI • AGES 0-5 Nursery Schools House School RIVERSIDE, GROSVENOR Riverside AGES 3-11 HOUSE • AGES 0-5 Riverside Nursery Schools Riverside Nursery TWICKENHAM Schools Nursery Schools GROSVENOR PARK • AGES 0-5 TWICKENHAM GREEN MONTESSORI TWICKENHAM PARK Radnor House AGES 0-5 AGES 0-5 Prep • AGES 2-11 * Kneller Hall School Radnor House AGES 11-18 Riverside School • AGES 11-18 Nursery Schools Riverside RIVERSIDE, HOLLY ROAD Riverside Nursery Schools Nursery Schools AGES 0-5 Hampton Court TWICKENHAM GREEN MONTESSORI TWICKENHAM PARK House School AGES 0-5 AGES 0-5

Senior schools & colleges Preparatory schools

AGES 2-18

Radnor House School • AGES 11-18

Sixth Form College BELGRAVIA • AGES 2-5

Dukes Clapham Village

Pippa Pop-ins

AGES 3-11

Riverside Nursery Schools

Eaton Square Preparatory School Prep School • AGES 2-11 Senior School Miss Daisy’s Nursery

KNIGHTSBRIDGE • AGES 2-5

TWICKENHAM PARK • AGES 0-5

KEW MONTESSORI • AGES 0-5

Eaton Square Prep School • AGES The 2-11 Lyceum School K EY: Miss Daisy’s MissNursery Daisy’s Nursery AGES 4-11 HYDE PARK •BELGRAVIA AGES 2-5 • AGES 2-5 Educational Setting: London Park SchoolNursery Sixth • School AGES 15-18

Miss Daisy’s Nursery

Riverside Nursery Schools

*

Nurseries

Miss Daisy’s Nursery Notting HillKNIGHTSBRIDGE • AGES 2-5 School Miss Preparatory Daisy’s Nursery

Orchard House School

Riverside Nursery Schools

BOYS • AGES 8-13

AGES 2-11

Dukes AGES 4-13 BROOK GREEN • AGES 2-5 South-West AGES 3-11 Miss Daisy’s Nursery CHELSEA • AGES 2-5 London Village

KEW MONTESSORI • AGES 2-5

Broomwood Prep

Bassett House School

AGES 3-11

AGES 3-11

Prospect ouse School

CITY ROAD • AGES 0-5

Orchard House School

AGES 2-5

London Park School Sixth • AGES 15-18

Broomwood Prep BOYS • AGES 8-13

Kindergartens

MOUSE HOUSE • AGES 2-5 Kindergartens CRESCENT II • AGES 0-5

Kindergartens

AGES 2-5

Broomwood Prep BOYS • AGES 8-13

THE PARK • AGES 2-5

London Park School, Kindergartens Clapham • AGES 11-18 Eaton House MOUSE HOLE

Kindergartens

MOUSE HOUSE • AGES 2-5

Kindergartens CRESCENT II • AGES 0-5 Prospect House School Broomwood Prep AGES 3-11

BOYS • AGES 8-13

Kindergartens Riverside Nursery Schools

London Park School, Clapham • AGES 11-18

CRESCENT II • AGES 0-5

THE MANOR GIRLS SCHOOL • AGES 2-11 THE MANOR BOYS SCHOOL • AGES 2-13

Broomwood Prep GIRLS • AGES 8-13

London Park School, Clapham • AGES 11-16 Broomwood Pre-prep AGES 3-7

Kindergartens THE PARK • AGES 2-5

RIVERSIDE, HOLLY ROAD AGES 0-5 * Opening soon

Hampton Court House School AGES 2-18

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ANNUAL REVIEW 2025

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DUKES BY NUMBERS 62 81

4,250

21,400

~25%

of all Oxbridge applicants use

4,000+ 3,000+ hours of admissions

98%

our services or resources

test preparation

receiving offers from them all

All 8

#1 ranked

94%

Ivy League schools extended offers

Dukes brands

Dukes settings

Staff

colleagues attended

2% 3%

4,342

summer school provider

of students were accepted to at least

one of their 11+ choices, with many

of students would

to Dukes Consultancy students

recommend to a friend

1 million+ 87%

86,177

Pupils

Dukes staff by numbers

1,900

mock interviews and

12%

users each year access

of customers received

The Lawyer Portal’s law

one or more offer

child days provided

guides and resources

members of Dukes Club

Dukes ‘The Heart of Education’ conference

10,945 ~1,000 resources viewed on the

children attended Poetry

Dukes Club website

Together celebration event

Cardiff Sixth Form College A-level results

92

90.6%

A*-A

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83%

Nurseries

4,250 employees

Schools & Colleges Dukes Plus Central Team

HIGH-PERFORMANCE

ANNUAL REVIEW 2025

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Aatif Hassan Founder & Chairman

David Fitzgerald Europe CEO

Tim Fish UK/IRE CEO

Mike Giffin CFO

OUR PEOPLE

Business Development Team

Will Bedford Director

Dr Glenn Hawkins Director

Raj Prasad Director

Education Advisory Board

Jon Pickles Director

Tim Moss General Counsel

Hannah Boddy Legal Counsel

Executive Support

Board of Directors UK Board

Europe Board Jenny Aviss Senior Advisor and Governor

Mike Giffin CFO

Tim Fish UK CEO

Professor Mark Bailey Managing Director

David Fitzgerald Europe CEO

Juan Casteres Finance Director Europe

Libby Nicholas Managing Director

David Goodhew Managing Director

Liza Humphrey Marketing & Admissions Director

Matthew Tompkins Managing Director, Portugal

Jonathan Cuff Managing Director, Colleges

Chris Eversden Managing Director, Spain

Philippe Grosskot Managing Director, Central Europe

Dukes Senior Leaders

Gareth Collier Executive Director HPL

Geoff Marston Group Compliance Director

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Sally Cornelius Sustainability Manager

Rik McShane Director, Little Dukes

Isaac Dossa Glen Fendley Richard Fletcher Divisional Finance Chief Executive Director of Director Dukes Foundation Performance

Catherine Robertson Divisional Finance Director

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Enrico Golia IT Director

Vivienne Melville EA to the Chairman

Charlotte Pereira PA to the UK Board

Higinia Lopez EA to the Europe Board

Central Teams

Mike Giffin Chief Financial Officer Damian Quinn Group Property Director

Neil Roskilly Senior Advisor and Governor

Claire Little Director of People

FINANCE & IT Scott Giles Group Sales & Marketing Director

Pam Mundy Senior Advisor and Governor

Rob Humphreys Suzie Longstaff Divisional Finance Principal of Director London Park Schools

Chris Skulte Marcelle Stewart Dr Ricardo Tracey Whittington Finance Director, Director of Tavares Finance Director, Dukes Plus People Director, Dukes Plus Little Dukes

HIGH-PERFORMANCE

HR COMPLIANCE & LEARNING AND DEVELOPMENT

Marcelle Stewart Director of People

Katherine Almeida Group Financial Controller

Isaac Dossa Divisional Finance Director

Rob Humphreys Finance Director, Colleges

Catherine Robertson Divisional Finance Director

Chris Skulte Finance Director, Dukes Plus

Tracey Whittington Finance Director, Little Dukes

Hannah Simons Group Finance Manager

Nicola Bradley Group Head of Tax

Gerrad Gole IT Engineer

Enrico Golia IT Director

Kevin Chung Head of IT, Outer London Schools

Ronak Mehta IT Technical Project Manager

Peter Holl Head of IT Colleges and Cyber Security

Thomas Earl IT & Data Manager

Richard Fletcher Director of Performance

Olivia Campbell L&D Project Manager

Lauren Huntley HR Manager

Stacey Smith HR Manager

Geoff Marston Group Compliance Director

Paul Ludlow Compliance Director Colleges

Lee Tattum UKVI Manager

ANNUAL REVIEW 2025

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Central Teams

Education Leaders Little Dukes & Schools

SALES & MARKETING

Scott Giles Group Sales & Marketing Director

ESTATES

Anna Aston Director of Communications

Connie Cooper-Berkhout Marketing & Events Co-ordinator

Eliza Cumming-Cove Marketing & Admissions Director (mat leave)

Thea Phillips Marketing & Admissions Director (mat cover)

Janine Funsch Business Development Director

Alex Goddard Media Production Manager

Chris Hennessy Director of Digital

Andrew Kingston Senior Digital Marketing Manager

Benedetta Mancusi Social Media and SEO Content Manager

Louis Scott Digital Marketing and E-commerce Manager

Henrietta Lightwood Global Director of Marketing & Student Recruitment

Ben Murray Marketing & Admissions Director, Little Dukes

Matthew McLarty International Recruitment Manager

Hannah Parkinson Head of Alumni Relations and Partner Events

Annika Yerushalmy Marketing & Admissions Director

Laura Skinner Project Director, Dukes Brand

Natalia Volchugova Associate Director, International Student Recruitment

Neil Cartwright Regional Head of Property

Michael Watts Regional Head of Property

Francesca Hadden Receptionist

Stephen Crowe Office Manager, Dukes House

Damian Quinn Group Property Director

Sally Cornelius Sustainability Manager

EUROPE

Ignacio López Property Director, Iberia

Jose Azcue Director of Learning, Iberia

Ana Miranda Finance Director, Portugal

David Fitzgerald Europe CEO

Rik McShane Director, Little Dukes

Nazish (Naz) Usman Principal, Hopes and Dreams Nursery

Zanna Clarke Principal, Miss Daisy’s Nursery

Rachel Watson Principal, Pippa Pop-ins Nursery Schools

Jo Allen Principal Reflections Nursery, Interim Principal Riverside Nurseries, and Director of Education Little Dukes

Natalie Atkins Principal, The Kindergartens

Adam Anstey Head, Broomfield House School

Henry Keighley-Elstub Head, Devonshire House School

Chris Woodward Head, Bassett House School

Michael Hodge Principal, Broomwood Schools

Louisa McCafferty Head, Broomwood Girls

Caron MacKay Head, Broomwood Pre-Prep

Sarah Segrave Principal, Eaton House Schools

Ross Montague Head, Eaton House Belgravia

David Wingfield Head, Eaton House Boys

Claire Fildes Head, Eaton House Girls

Sebastian Hepher Principal, Eaton Square Schools

Patricia Watt Head, Eaton Square Prep

Suzie Longstaff Principal, London Park Schools

Susan Brooks Head, London Park School, Clapham

Dr Adrian Rainbow Head, London Park School, Mayfair

Magoo Giles Principal, Knightsbridge School

Shona Colaço Head, Knightsbridge School

Sara Williams-Ryan Head, Heathside School Hampstead

Amy Cavilla Principal, Radnor House School

Stephen Carrington Head, Radnor House School

Stephanie Piper Head, Radnor House Prep School

Katherine Vintiner Principal, Hampton Court House School

Maxine Shaw Head, Notting Hill Preparatory School

Henrietta Adams Head, Orchard House School

Kelly Gray Head, Prospect House School

Mike Stanley Head, The Lyceum School

Charlotte Crookes Head, The Pointer School

Georgina Stanley Principal, Hove Village Nurseries

Richard Settle Principal, Sancton Wood School

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ANNUAL REVIEW 2025

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Sixth Forms & Colleges

Dukes Plus

Tom Arrand Principal, CSFC Cardiff

Dr Julian Davies Principal, CSFC Cambridge

Mark Love Head, Earlscliffe

Dr Ricardo Tavares Director, Dukes Plus

Shameer Thobhani Co-Founder & Director, InvestIN Education

Hitesh Chowdhry Co-Founder & Director, InvestIN Education

Candida Cave Principal, Hampstead Fine Arts College

Emmy Schwieters Head, Hampstead Fine Arts College

Alistair Brownlow Principal, Rochester Independent College

Katie Krais Partnerships Director, Dukes Plus

Will Finlayson Director, Summer Boarding Courses

Luke Hayward Managing Director, Ultimate Activity Camps

Wayne Marshall Principal, St Andrew’s College, Cambridge

Yvonne O’Toole Principal, Institute of Education, Dublin

Micheál Landers Principal, Bruce College, Cork

Ryan Edwards Experiences Director

Alison Bissell Director, Dukes Plus Consultancy

Tania Virdie Managing Director, JK Educate

Marco Carvalho Director, Colégio Júlio Dinis, Porto

Sofia Chamusca Director, Colégio Júlio Dinis, Porto

Helena Pina Vaz Head, Colégio Luso Internacional de Braga

Carlien Shelley Principal, International Sharing School, Lisbon

Martin Harris Executive Director, United Lisbon International School

Clive Smith Langridge Interim Head, ESA

David Russell Head, Castellón

Carolina López Sanchez Head, Engage

Esther Fernándz Director, Colegio Joyfe

Juan José Fernández Director, Colegio Joyfe

James Batten Head, La Nucia

Sylvia Pineda Picado Head, Valladolid

Javier Palacios Interim Head, Zaragoza

Grant Ferguson Director, Copperfield International

Portugal

Spain

Central Europe

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Pavel Novák Head, American Academy in Brno

Lenka Titerova Head, American Academy in Prague

Carly McCann Head, American Academy in Zagreb

Magda Nedvědová Head, Bambíno

Šárka Ochmanová Head, Beehive School and Square

Hana Neužilová Head, Pražské Humanitní Gymnázium

Dr. Christina Tsibiridi Head, International School of Athens

Lila Vasilescu Head, Verita

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ANNUAL REVIEW 2025

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HEROES BEHIND THE CROWN

In every successful organisation there will be a team of people working behind the scenes; these are the people out of the limelight, the ones that work diligently, quietly and with humility, sometimes without wider recognition.

As well as the many finalists and winners of Dukes Awards, there are many unsung heroes in the Dukes Family that colleagues want to recognise and thank. The Dukes Heroes Behind the Crown Awards are given to these extraordinary people.

In December, we were delighted to welcome

“There are many unsung heroes in the Dukes Family that colleagues want to recognise and thank.”

Aatif Hassan Founder and Chairman of Dukes Education

staff from across the UK and Ireland to our second Heroes Behind the Crown dinner, the first to be held at Dukes House. It was an opportunity to celebrate these people, the

Aatif Hassan, Tim Fish and Director of People,

ones who always go the extra mile, who clean

Claire Little, gave opening speeches to thank

up when everyone else has gone home, who

our Heroes for the positive impact they have on

notice the shy child on their own and make

colleagues, parents and children throughout the

them laugh, the ones who keep schools open

Dukes family. The winners were presented with a

in freezing weather, or serve fresh, tasty food

certificate and a brochure of commendation has

day in day out. The four Dukes values remind us

been made in their honour. We know that there

why we do what we do every day: We lead with

are many people within the organisation who are

Heart, We love learning, We are a team, We do

deserving of this recognition and look forward to

it well. Our Heroes Behind the Crown are the

celebrating with them too in the future. European

embodiment of these values.

colleagues will also be recognised during 2025.

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SERVICE

ANNUAL REVIEW 2025

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Community Coordinators

2024 highlights

Who are the Community Coordinators?

— Primary English Teach Meet - 20 English teachers collaborate on the theme, ‘alone

PRIMARY

SECONDARY

we can do so little, together we can do Being part of the Dukes family means we can come

so much’, to really draw on the sense of

together to share ideas, expertise and support

community and promote the use of the hub

each other. One way we do this is through our

— Primary Maths - 10 teachers got together to

Community Coordinators whose role is critical to

discuss the gender gap in maths. Guest speaker

the success of the Dukes Hub, to lead engagement

Dr Valentina Tonei from the University of

through Teach Meets and support forums across

Southampton presented data and findings on

key subjects. Coordinators now cover various

gender gaps in attainment and choice, focusing on

disciplines in both primary and secondary education

the underlying determinants and potential solutions

and are now in place across many subjects.

Each Community Coordinator received training on the Dukes Hub and now serves as a point of contact for best practices and peer support. The

— 10 office administrators met to discuss best practice in holding open days — 30 SEND teachers participated in a Development Day

coordinators hosted the first round of Teach Meets

— Meet ups were also held for Primary PSHE,

in November, aiming to foster a stronger sense of

Secondary English, Secondary Maths,

community and cross-institutional collaboration.

Secondary Biology and Secondary Physics

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HIGH-PERFORMANCE

SUBJECT

COORDINATORS

SUBJECT

COORDINATORS

English

James Gillick, Lauren Carver Williams

English

Chris Firth

PE

Jack Hallas

Physics

Gareth Jenkins

Science/STEM

Emilia Angelilo

PE

Edward Payne

Maths

Donal O’Sullivan

Maths

Stephanie Richards

PSHE

Russell Friese

Biology

Matthew Sison

SEND

Kerry Nicols

PSHE

Mark Young

Art & Design

Sabrina Tabuchi

SEND

Esther Haworth

Computing

Dee Edwards

French

Nadège Gandemer

Librarian

Nicole Ferreira

Photography

Michael Daks

ANNUAL REVIEW 2025

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1,700 copies distributed to Dukes settings and education agents around the world.

During 2024, ‘bob’, a cloud-based HR database, has been integrated into all UK settings. In total, 2,926 members of staff have logged into bob.

Employee engagement and communications bob is now established as the primary source of staff information in Dukes. Shoutouts on bob’s homepage keep staff up to date with news and updates from individual settings and from Dukes. This year, a regular

Insight

Based upon serious journals such as the Harvard Business Review, the Dukes Education Insight journal is our opportunity to be thought-leaders in the education sector.

Articles are written by members of staff from across the group and printed copies are sent to all Dukes settings and education agents around the world.

Editor, Tim Fish, sets a theme for each issue and this

Quote of the Week post has staff from any Dukes setting

personal and job-related information.

wise, funny or profound words

Personal details such as a change of

to inspire colleagues across

address can be updated easily using

the group and the half-termly

the self-service functionality.

Dukes staff newsletter is

160

published there.

articles written to date

Writers wanted!

If you would like to contribute to the Insight journal in 2025, please get in touch: marketing@dukeseducation.com

Connect & Collaborate The group directory and organisation charts mean that it is easy to contact

Invaluable staff benefits

keeping up to date with training, reading updated

Details of how to action tasks will be published on Scan to read...

archived in the British Library.

the latest copy of Insight

I N N O VAT I O N & A D V E N T U R E

finding common interests.

via bob, for example,

updating personal data.

Hub and Dukes website. Previous editions are now

option to list hobbies in your profile, employees can even break the ice by

premium, intelligent and progressive organisation.

You can view past copies by visiting the Dukes

other people around Dukes. With the

Staff can receive tasks

staff policies and

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Employees can take control of their

can share a favourite quote -

high-quality publication helps position Dukes as a

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Self-service

been established. A member of

The Employee Assistance Programme is available to all staff in the Dukes Family.

It is a totally confidential and professional lifemanagement service.

One-stop-shop bob provided quick access to workrelated systems, including PayCircle, Dukes Hub & Dukes Club.

the Dukes Hub.

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WELL-BEING The L&D team has placed significant emphasis on mental health, with workshops like Address Your Stress and Raising Resilience.

These sessions have been well-received, with an average

transformative course is tailored for primary and

effectiveness score of 9.5/10, and provide practical

secondary classroom teachers, seeking to cultivate a

strategies to support staff in managing stress and

positive and supportive learning environment for both

fostering resilience. Additionally, the Suicide First Aid

them and their students. The programme is designed

Youth Lite online course has been particularly impactful in

to enhance classroom well-being through innovative

equipping staff with crisis intervention skills.

approaches rooted in positive psychology principles creating an environment where everyone can thrive.

This year, a pilot programme, Positive Psychology: Thriving Classrooms has been launched. The

Health assured Employee Assistance Programme The Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) is available

Four-week self-help programmes

to all staff and provides a confidential telephone service with trained counsellors available 24/7, 365 days a year. The telephone calls are 100% confidential and can support staff in dealing with personal and

Mini health checks

professional problems that could be affecting home or work life, health or general well-being.

In addition, Health Assured also offers a virtual library

Interactive health assessment providing tailor-made dietary tips and fitness plans

of well-being articles, self-help guides, and assessment tools, including: Fitness and lifestyle advice, such as detoxing methods

Financial well-being articles

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SUSTAINABILITY

Waste management

Flourish model

The ambition to be ‘zero to landfill’ by 2030, and

This year, a number of settings began to examine

compliance with the UK government’s new Simpler

the principles of the Flourish model and how nature

Recycling legislation coming into effect in March

inspired learning environments can be created within

2025, have both driven the focus on better waste

school buildings that mimic nature and create a more

In 2024, Dukes Education furthered its commitment

management. Along with reviewing the waste supply

sensory and natural approach to teaching.

to being a responsible organisation and reducing its

a circular economy approach, we are engaging all our

carbon footprint to carbon net zero by 2050.

chain, improved bin labelling and taking steps towards stakeholders in this process.

A Dukes Education recycling hub has been created which enables our communities to share and reuse materials and furniture. There are also local examples of recycling and reusing activities taking place across

Key actions:

Journey to Net Zero

the group, from swapping unwanted uniform and

— Employment of a full-time Group

We completed our third year of carbon foot

reuse of materials within art and creative lessons

printing for Greenhouse Gas Protocol’s Scope 1

and projects.

Sustainability Manager — Development of a clear strategy and plan for the group — Working towards making sustainability a whole-school approach

books, to pupil-led community litter picks and the

and Scope 2 with Planet Mark. For 2023/2024,

Creating a sustainable workforce

we have worked with a carbon management provider to plot Scopes 1 and 2 and have also begun the data collection processes and supply chain management for Scope 3.

Water efficiency Water efficiency is also under review and a target to reduce usage by 5% by 2027 has been set. This will be achieved by understanding the settings’ current

Embedding a greener infrastructure

measurement and use and then creating a central portal for improved water management. Technology such as water sensors, flush controls, improved pipe

Central to reducing the group’s carbon

lagging and water harvesting opportunities will be

footprint has been switching the UK-based

used where possible.

organisation to a green energy tariff which

enabled managers to better measure, monitor and manage energy consumption resulting in

Scope 1 and 2* = 3417.8 tCO2e

Scope 1 and 2* = 2726.5 tCO2e

Scope 1 and 2* = 2,227 tCO2e

efficiencies. In addition, it has prompted

joined the National Education Nature Park initiative,

raising awareness of energy consumption

carbon literacy. A Sustainability Foundations e-learning module has been created and will be undertaken by all UK-based staff by February 2025. Aiming to inform and inspire, the short module is intended to ensure that all staff have a general understanding of what sustainability means to Dukes. This is supported by the network of Sustainability Champions that operates across 97% of the Dukes settings, and the Sustainability

Habitat creation Dukes is committed to becoming nature positive and

approach of communities with many schools

is ensuring that all staff have an understanding of

resources, learning and networking.

the reduction of consumption and improved positive changes in the behaviour and

Key to the success of the Dukes sustainability plan

Community Hub, which provides a shared space for

was completed by switching 247 electricity and gas meters in August 2024. This has

CASE STUDY: London Park School Mayfair has engaged with Clare Bowman, a leading expert on biophilia in education to create a sustainable design code for schools, and to monitor and measure the impact of nature within classrooms on learning and achievement.

21/22

22/23

23/24

*Market based scope 1 and 2 Independently validated

part of the Department of Education’s Sustainability and Climate Action Strategy. This involves mapping outdoor spaces, monitoring contributions to

through energy switch off days and pupil

biodiversity through student-led activities. Outdoor

energy monitor roles.

learning time for students has continued to grow through, forest schools, gardening clubs, nature-based activities as well as work within community gardens and local parks and allotments.

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In 2024:

Sharing the story All settings have a dedicated sustainability webpage and

56

aim to regularly post sustainability-related stories. This is supported with internal communications, workshops

settings achieved

and events that incorporate sustainability into school

an internationally

agendas. A Dukes-wide resource calendar enables all to

recognised Eco

recognise significant national and global environmental and social awareness days throughout the school year and these are celebrated at schools through assembles, lessons and out-of-school activities.

37

settings have achieved Transport for London STARS awards

10

Schools Green

settings received

Flag award

other eco awards

Embedding sustainability into the curriculum and culture

Dukes Sustainability Week 2024 involved a range of activities across settings including; an assembly for students that highlighted the sustainability pledges made

Engagement of students is critical to the success

by a range of sports organisations, clubs and players,

of the Dukes sustainability strategy. This is being

and the whole Dukes community was encouraged to

achieved through the Dukes Difference, those parts

make a sustainability pledge. Through our ambition to

of the Dukes Education offering that set it apart

collaborate, we are working with the wider Dukes group

from other school groups, such as the Dukes Young

to develop our common threads, learn and share and

Leaders Award and the range of sustainability

have a global impact through our communities.

focused activities, clubs and initiatives.

Currently...

External collaboration and partnerships

82%

42%

an Eco Club or

student Eco Champion

committee

or prefect

of settings have

Dukes Education has joined the UN Global Compact network and the Group Sustainability Manager has

of settings have a

engaged throughout the year with the Department of Education’s Sustainability Group, other independent

Throughout the autumn term we have consulted

school groups and a range of sustainability working

internally and externally to understand different

groups across a variety of sectors. This engagement

educational approaches to sustainability and

is to ensure that Dukes is fully equipped with the

sustainable thinking within the curriculum. Through

latest insights and knowledge, resources, and legal

the group, we embrace the principles of Forest School,

requirements and further demonstrate our commitment

the Harmony Project, UNSDG’s framework and the UN

to the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Model Nations and this year we will share best practice in the drive to further develop sustainable thinking into the curriculum.

As a result of this consultation, we recognise the growing importance of green skills and are striving to ensure that students are equipped with these for the future. Beginning in Early Years with a connection to nature, this develops into the ability to share and

Goals for 2025 — Hold student-led activities and Earth Summit — Review purchasing and operational requirements including stationery, electronic devices, catering and transport in order to build a more sustainable supply chain that will ensure compliance, avoid corporate risk and help to build our growing sustainable mindset — Ensure all settings have robust sustainability

debate environmental and social issues by KS3 and

plans incorporating operational (decarbonisation)

4, as well the ability to design and create innovative

and engagement (educational) initiatives

technological solutions.

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04

WHAT MAKES DUKES DIFFERENT?

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W hat makes D ukes D ifferent ?

114

Adding Value

116

The Dukes Difference

118

Learning & Development

119

Dukes Plus

120

Dukes Young Leaders Award

122

Dukes Club

124

Dukes Foundation

128

Poetry Together

ANNUAL REVIEW 2025

113

Adding Value Thought-leadership

Well-being

L&D

Mental health training

Leadership programmes

and EAP support

and education conferences

Dukes Hub

Articles contributed by

Knowledge base and

teachers and school leaders

learning portal

Renaissance scholars symposium

Interschool chess tournament

Chairman for the day

Giving back

Dukes Careers School

Dukes Young Leaders programme

Dukes careers school

for staff

+

+

+

+

+

+

+

for pupils

+

+

Education Quality Frameworks Peer learning and evaluation

+

+

Enrichment talks & interschool events

Student sustainability champions

+

Interschool sports clinics and competitions

Alumni mentorship programme

+

+

+

Dukes Festival of the Arts

Poetry workshops

Celebrating Excellence Sharing Best Practice

Annual awards

Dukes Club talks

Dukes Community

Dukes debating festival

TED-X events

Sustainable careers week

Coordinators, subject champion network

Scan to watch... highlights of Dukes Education’s cricket event with Sir Andrew Strauss

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W hat makes D ukes D ifferent ?

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The Dukes Difference Together we’re extraordinary.

Members of the Dukes Education family of schools and educators are brought together by a common purpose: to give children the foundations for an extraordinary life.

— University Prep — Career Experiences — Summer Schools — Tutoring

Why are we part of Dukes Education?

Parents ask why schools join Dukes Education, and what it means for their child’s daily experience. The answer

Social impact through giving

Nurturing leadership, inspiring change

Exclusive opportunities for families

Extraordinary experiences for our community

is simple: by being part of a network of over 50 schools across the UK and Europe, we benefit from shared expertise, innovation, and good practice.

Dukes also ensures our financial stability and provides ongoing capital investment, allowing us to enhance our facilities continually and offer exceptional learning opportunities for each child.

Plus...

Unparalleled learning and development opportunities for staff

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W hat makes D ukes D ifferent ?

ANNUAL REVIEW 2025

117

Learning & Development Dukes Plus works increasingly closely with Dukes schools and colleges to support students at all stages of their education and in many different ways.

2024

in review: Number of courses increased by

50% 54

In 2024, as well as holding events in the UK, Dukes Plus delivered talks

e-learning courses on Dukes Hub

to the parents at Dukes schools in Portugal for the first time. In partnership with Hampstead Fine

Relevance and facilitation scores both averaged over

9/10 this year

Dukes Careers School and Consultancy at Cardiff Sixth Form College Dukes Plus offers a range of consultancy and experiences to Cardiff Sixth Form students throughout the academic year that includes ‘Aspiring to Oxbridge’ parent talk, US Universities parent talk, The Lawyer Portal Mock Trial experience for students and admissions test courses as well as consultations and mock interviews. All Year 10 and 12 students are enrolled in the Dukes Careers School.

Arts College, Dukes Plus launched

“As our fantastic students have shown, the support we receive

their first ever art competition for

from Dukes Plus goes a long way to help them navigate the

children from ages 4 to 16.

complexities of applying to leading universities in the UK and

The Dukes L&D programme expanded to offer 150 courses for the 2024-

the USA.” Tom Arrand, Principal, Cardiff Sixth Form College.

2025 academic year, covering essential areas such as leadership, teaching practices, pastoral care and operational skills.

11+ Tuition Support at Devonshire House School

300

The Foundations of Leadership Workshop, the bedrock of the Dukes culture At Devonshire House School, the Dukes Tutoring

of leadership has now been attended by a total of 500 participants.

team worked on interview preparation for 11+ and

participants attended Foundations of Leadership

provided feedback reports for each child.

“Dukes Tutoring delivered lots of fantastic tips and advice to our pupils as they prepared for their senior school interviews. With

Forest School Certification training facilitation rated

expert guidance on tackling tough questions and presenting their

10/10

best self, children completed the sessions ready to make a lasting impression.” Henry Keighley-Elstubb, Head, Devonshire House School

11+ Advice for Parents at Heathside School Hampstead

Teaching Assistants rated their Development Day

9/10

for relevance and usefulness

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W hat makes D ukes D ifferent ?

Supporting parents through the senior school applications is a vital part of Dukes Plus service. At Heathside, Dukes Tutoring held a talk Scan to read...

Scan to hear from...

for parents of Year 5 children, providing insight into the process, and

the Learning &

the Devonshire House

reiterating the Head’s point that the best school for any child is where

Development brochure

School Head

they will be happy and where they will reach their full potential.

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As every good student of Latin knows, “Dukes” derives from the Latin verb “ducere” – “to lead”.

Leading with heart Our approach focuses on leadership not just of others but of self, involving high performance, innovation and adventure. We want our students to lead with their hearts and embrace service. This is why the Dukes Young Leaders’ Award seeks to instil the dispositions of humility, honour, courage and compassion. As we look around the world today, whatever our differences, we can all agree that if more people had those dispositions – especially those in leadership positions – the world would be a better place.

This year it has been wonderful to see children of all ages throwing themselves whole-heartedly into the DYLA: a true education is about so much more than what happens in the classroom. It is about experiences gained and life lessons learned at the most formative time in our lives.

We celebrate the achievements of all our Young Leaders this year and, although it is all about the experiences not the qualifications, we especially congratulate the following pupils: Eaton Square Senior: Platinum Award (33) Diamond (5) Crown (3) Radnor House: Platinum Award (15) Rochester Independent College: Gold Award (13) Hampton Court House: Silver Award (18)

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Dukes Club was created to bring together Dukes Education’s extraordinary community of families, staff and alumni and use the power of the collective to offer elevated, unique experiences and expert

Adventurers in training as a Bear Grylls instructor guides campers through the art of knot-tying

advice in areas that matter to them the most.

We know how important family time is, so we wanted to create special opportunities for families to learn new things and experience magical moments together.

Events This summer, 60 campers spent quality time in

As well as providing exciting experiences for our families,

the great outdoors of Kneller Hall, learning how to

Dukes Club supports extraordinary co-curricular

survive in the wilderness from the Bear Grylls Survival

experiences for our schools to extend to their students. This

Academy instructors. Inspired by Bear Grylls, we

year students were given the opportunity to attend Poetry

learned skills utilised by inspirational adventurers;

Together. Here they received engaging and inspirational

we built shelters, applied camouflage, prepared for a bear attack and much more. Families left having

Young explorers’ faces shimmer through the kaleidoscope during their magical Science Museum sleepover

Immersed in a 3D adventure, students don their glasses and explore cinematic wonders at the Science Museum

Support and advice

Plans for 2025

workshops from top poets and had the chance to perform

Dukes Club also aims to provide our members with

Dukes Club has plans to extend our co-curricular offering to

in the prestigious Great Hall of Central Hall Westminster.

support and advice on real-time issues that impact

schools with our first ever Dukes Championships in the home

their children and families. Last year we offered

of champions, the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. Budding

learnt lifesaving skills and made lasting memories.

a neurodiversity series of webinars with leading

sports stars will compete against other schools in the group

In October, 90 Dukes Club members spent the night

expert Sarah Warley and marked Mental Health

in a range of sports at this inspirational venue with families

at a VIP sleepover at London’s Science Museum.

week with Julie Wilkinson offering a sustainable,

able to come along and enjoy the festivities of the day.

We explored the museum after dark and slept

life-skills training workshop to help combat issues

amongst its wonders in the medicine gallery and

with friendships, anger, anxiety, and stress.

took part in demonstrations and activities.

Dukes Club is for every member of the Dukes family.

We are always open to feedback and suggestions.

We also commission articles written just for

If you would like to share this with us, please contact

Dukes Club also collaborated with schools to

our members with recommendations of the

laura.skinner@dukeseducation.com.

deliver events to our members, whilst providing the

best things to see and do when they’re looking

opportunity to showcase the school to new audiences.

for things to keep them entertained.

At Broomwood school, children were invited to join the Broomwood Bear Hunt, a morning of fun where Scan to join the club...

children were able to create masterpieces in the art studio, discover slime in the lab, bake biscuits and play garden games. The event wrapped-up with a picnic, story time and meeting Broomwood Bear in his lair.

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Families shared joyful moments with the Broomwood Bear

SERVICE

Scan to watch...

You are warmly invited to join our

the Dukes Club’s Night

extraordinary community and

at the Science Museum

enjoy its exciting benefits

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I felt proud and also humbled to be chosen, as I think the work of the Dukes Foundation will transform some children’s lives. I hope that I can add to Youth Board discussions and be mindful. This is a great experience for me too and I will always remember how much my life was changed by an educational decision and how privileged I have been to have the support of my parents and school.”

– Isla, Year 10, Sancton Wood School

In October 2024, we announced that Dukes Foundation is embarking on a ground-breaking initiative to become the largest provider of transformational bursaries in the UK.

Grant making After a rigorous selection process, the Dukes Foundation supports charitable or voluntary organisations that work to advance the Foundation’s overall mission and strategic goals with commitments to: Mental Health, Education, Our Planet and Children’s Healthcare.

Sadly, children from low-income backgrounds are

The Foundation’s leadership: Aatif Hassan, Founder

statistically less likely to do well at school and advance

and Chairman of Dukes Education, Dukes Foundation’s

into further education, affecting their career opportunities

CEO, Glen Fendley and Dukes Foundation’s Managing

and life chances. The educational gap is widening. At

Director, David Goodhew, all experienced the

present, persistently disadvantaged pupils are predicted

transformative power of independent education and

to leave school, on average, 22.9 months behind their

want to share this opportunity with other young people.

most affluent peers. Research from PISA, the globally recognised educational benchmarking project, shows

The team is in the process of devising funding

that pupils from disadvantaged backgrounds who

mechanisms, meeting with pipeline sources and

attend ‘advantaged’ schools, gain an educational

identifying potential donors, some of whom will

dividend equal to around 31 months of schooling.

come from the Dukes parent body, who know firsthand the value of an independent education.

Through our shared commitment to leading with heart, the Foundation will leverage Dukes Education’s position as the

A Heads’ Advisory Board will lead an on-boarding and

UK’s leading premium education group, its expertise and

monitoring programme to ensure the transition for these

drive, to close the educational attainment gap. Our aim

children into our schools will be smooth and that they

is to support 500 children from low-income backgrounds

PAPYRUS

The Bridge

are fully supported. In recognition of the importance of

Suicide is the biggest killer of young people in the UK. The

For 29 years, The Bridge has worked to prevent and reduce

by enabling them to access the extraordinary

student voice, a Youth Advisory Board has been formed

national charity PAPYRUS Prevention of Young Suicide

homelessness in Leicestershire. Their vision is resilient,

opportunities Dukes schools and colleges offer.

made up of students aged 11-18, representing 12 Dukes

believes many of those suicides are preventable. The

compassionate communities where people thrive in safe,

settings who will provide guidance on the issues that

charity aims to reduce the number of young people who

secure homes. They address the root causes of homelessness

matter to them most and hold us accountable in our work.

Education serves as a powerful catalyst to break the

take their own lives by breaking down the stigma around

and family breakdown, with award-winning mediators

cycle of unequal opportunities, empower individuals

suicide and equipping people with the skills to recognise

supporting young people aged 11–19 and their families facing

and create socially diverse environments in our

and respond to suicidal behaviour. PAPYRUS offers a

home or relationship issues. Over the past two years, 100%

settings where everyone can benefit from being part

confidential helpline service - HOPELINE 247 and provides

of Talk2Sort clients reported that The Bridge prevented or

suicide prevention projects in communities across the UK.

overcame their homelessness.

papyrus-uk.org

thebridge-eastmidlands.org.uk

of a deeper and wider talent pool. We hope that these

Scan to find out...

young people go on to be the leaders of tomorrow and

what a bursary means to a

make an impact on social mobility in the future.

student at The Pointer School

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Foundation and Dukes Education The Dukes Foundation supports Poetry Together, founded by Gyles Brandreth, run by Dukes Education and supported by Her Majesty Queen Camilla. The initiative promotes intergenerational connection through the joy of poetry. Younger and older communities get together all over the country with wonderful outcomes and stories of connection.

Dukes Foundation is backing the Dukes Festival of Arts in Celebration of Dukes Education’s 10th anniversary. The festival will showcase talent from over 950 students across our schools and colleges at the Royal Festival Hall. As well as creating an extraordinary experience for students, any proceeds from the evening will go to the Dukes Foundation.

Impact in 2024

The Mix

Embrace Badjao

The Mix is the UK’s leading support service for young

The Badjao are an indigenous tribe living above the

people, and the Foundation’s grant helped raise awareness

shoreline in Davao, Philippines. The Badjao live in

of their offerings nationwide. The Mix engaged diverse

extreme poverty marginalised by Philippine society and

young people in creating materials distributed to 200

they receive minimal support from their government.

schools and youth centres to promote well-being, reduce

They have no running water or sanitation and

stigma, and help secondary students make positive choices

Badjao children receive very little education and as a

while providing access to crisis and counselling support.

result do not attempt to break the cycle of poverty.

Video content created by young people offered self-care

Many Badjao children are forced to beg, increasing

tips and encouraged help-seeking behaviour, which can be

society’s negative view of the tribe. Embrace Badjao

shared on digital platforms, during school assemblies, and

was founded with the aim of helping Badjao children

in classroom discussions to spark meaningful conversations.

access education that is too often denied to them.

themix.org.uk

embracebadjao.com

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London Youth

Rwanda Action

London Youth is a charity on a mission to champion

As part of its VISION 2050, the government of Rwanda set

and strengthen London’s youth organisations and

the target of achieving equal access to quality education,

empower young people with the opportunities and

and job opportunities for all its citizens. In pursuit of

skills they need to succeed, particularly in areas

this, and with the support of the Duke’s Foundation,

of high deprivation. With support from the Dukes

Rwanda Action is trialling a framework for inclusion in

Foundation, their Good for Girls programme is

Rusizi District. They are providing training for parents

helping to transform the mental health landscape

of children with disabilities and appointing and training

for young women by reducing the need for specialist

Special Needs Education Coordinators in each of the

referrals through proactive, early intervention.

eighteen sectors of the district. They are also creating one School of Excellence for Special Needs and Inclusive

In 2024, the programme engaged over 144 girls

Education in each of the sectors. It is their aim to halve

and young women from Black, Asian, and/or

the number of children with disabilities not attending

ethnic minority communities. Over 100 young girls

school within three years. Having seen the suffering

benefited from weekly sports, arts, and movement

and isolation resulting from the misunderstanding

activities, while others developed their leadership

of disability, and from the stigma attached to it, it is

skills through youth-led social action projects

heartening to see the wholehearted enthusiasm with

centred on mindfulness and mental health. 44

which the local community is embracing this initiative.

young women were trained to become peer mentors, sharing their skills with their youth organisations to uplift others and 29 youth practitioners gained new skills through workshops to support young women’s mental health across the capital.

Scan to learn more... about the Dukes Foundation

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Poetry Together was founded by Gyles Brandreth, is run by Dukes Education, funded

by Dukes Foundation and wonderfully supported

by Her Majesty the Queen Camilla.

It aims to connect younger and older generations

Poetry Together launch

through the joy of poetry. 2024 has been the initiative’s biggest year yet.

Poetry Together held a special event at Central Hall Westminster in November where 1,000 people, young

“There is a lot of research on the benefits to young and old by reciting poetry but marry that with the value of intergenerational connection and it’s really quite special.”

– Gyles Brandreth

and old, joined together to celebrate all things poetry.

Guests enjoyed workshops and performances from top poets such as former Children’s Laureate, Joseph Coelho, Steven Camden aka polarbear and Laura Mucha. The Poetry Society and the Forward Arts Foundation joined us to offer interactive activities.

Guests representing Dukes schools, state schools, grandparents and older communities were also given the opportunity to perform in the Great Hall. This iconic stage has been shared with incredible speakers such as Martin Luther King, Mahatma Gandhi and the Prince of Wales in the past.

Attendees left feeling inspired and motivated, with a reinvigorated love of poetry. One school commented that “it was the best school trip ever”, and another wrote that “it was wonderful to bear witness to the enthusiasm for and love of poetry by so many people of all ages.”

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Performance for Her Majesty The Queen

Focus on friendship Avi said, “It’s been the best day. Queen Camilla was so

The theme of this year’s Poetry Together competition

warm and welcoming, and the biscuits were really good.”

is ‘friendship’ and younger and older communities are getting together all over the country to share their

Colin and Avi met last year when Avi’s School,

poems over tea and cake, with incredible outcomes.

Buckingham Primary School, took part in the Poetry Together Project. His class wrote their own poems based

We have people writing to tell us their stories of

on last year’s theme of ‘happiness’ and connected with

connection all the time: we were told of an ex-teacher

their local care home, Clarendon House Care Home,

with dementia whose ‘spark was reignited’ when the

where Colin was staying at the time. Here, they shared

children came to visit their care home, a young boy

their poems at a Poetry Together tea party. Their

from a school for early childhood trauma who bonded

Support of literacy is particularly prevalent following

local ITV news station came to cover their inspirational

with his newly adoptive grandfather through the poetry

a recent report by the National Literacy Trust which

story. As winners, Colin and Avi were also invited to

competition, even neighbours connecting. Many go on

noted a decline in children reading for pleasure

ITV’s This Morning to perform their poems live on air.

to continue their relationships, we’re told of ‘profound

at home. Jonathan Douglas, the charity’s Chief

Runners up received £250 worth of book vouchers.

meaningful connections’. The poem a lady created with

Executive commented, “the futures of a generation

a pupil meant so much to her, that her family wrote to

are at risk”. Promoting the benefits of literacy is

tell us that her granddaughter read it at her funeral.

a cause The Queen, Gyles, Dukes Education and

Recently, 120 children visited a community living home

Dukes Foundation share and will continue to address

and the organiser commented, ‘what struck me was

though initiatives such as Poetry Together.

Avi's poem (8 at the time of writing):

watching both residents and children arrive quietly Happiness is one of a kind

but leave smiling and laughing. Hearing my residents

Happiness is easy to find

excitedly chatting afterwards reinforced how valuable intergenerational activities are’.

With your loved ones or when you're having a good time

Happiness is scattered everywhere winners Colin Hinton, 92, and Avi Goel, 9, at Buckingham Palace to hear their Poetry Together winning poems.

Studies have shown that learning poetry by heart improves performance academically at school, improving concentration, and even supporting better sleep.

For older people, evidence shows that learning poetry by

You should always know happiness is deep inside

The Queen received 2024’s Poetry Together competition

Benefits of poetry

heart can give you a happier and more successful life.

It improves the ability to communicate and strengthen relationships, improves memory, increases brain capacity

Like atoms flying in the air

and can help keep dementia at bay. It’s amazing stuff really. Learning poetry together changes lives!

Happiness can make your life better

They were introduced by Gyles Brandreth and

Happiness brings people together

Poetry Together adds a further dimension - the

joined by Chairman and Founder, Aatif Hassan.

Even if you feel sad and lonely

well-documented benefit of younger and older

Her Majesty talked with Colin and Avi about their Poetry Together experience before listening to them perform their poems. Colin commented, “I was struck by how gracious

generations working together. Gyles said, “There

Just look deep inside your heart

is something quite special about people from two

Happiness is always looking for somewhere new to start

ends of the generational spectrum, connecting and having a chat over a cup of tea. It is a wonderful

Queen Camilla was, she made sure everyone felt special.”

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way to being communities closer together.”

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05

2025 AND BEYOND

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2 0 2 5 and beyond

134

Quality of Teaching

136

New Developments

140

Marketing & Admissions

142

Dukes in the News

143

Dukes Hub

144

Dates for your Diary

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Dukes Festival of the Arts

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QUALITY OF TEACHING Educational initiatives and strategies are in place across Dukes to share good practice and to improve the quality of education in our schools.

Collaboration

Sustainability

DSL Training

Staff communities have been

Education has a pivotal role

Every school has a Designated

created on the new Dukes Hub

in embedding a mindset that

Safeguarding Lead, and

to share good practice. The Hub

understands the inter-connectivity

this year we have created

is an online resource for all staff

between human society and

forums where they can share

providing access to training and

the negative impacts it creates

experiences and resources and

a forum for sharing resources.

on the environment, and that

introduced wide-ranging Dukes

Experienced educators are heading

innovates and takes action to

training for DSLs. These have

up new Key Stage 2 and Key

address that. By providing and

included updates from sector

Stages 3 and 4 Teaching and

pooling curriculum resources and

leaders on evolving guidance,

Learning Forums. Resources for the

advice for our schools, which can

and group work on anonymised

Dukes Young Leaders Award and

be used at different age groups,

case studies to develop good

advice for teachers managing the

we will embed knowledge and

practice when handling complex,

programme are collected and freely

understanding about sustainability

sensitive and fast-moving

available to Dukes staff on the Hub.

in staff and students.

incidents involving children.

Upskilling Teaching Assistants

Deputy Heads Conference

Teacher career progression

A pilot training scheme for Teaching

Building on the first Deputy Heads

We continue to look at ways in

Assistants ran in 2024 to help

Conference held in January 2024,

which we can further develop

enhance teaching and learning

a second such event will be held

learning and teaching within

skills. A Development Day for all

in early 2025 with particular

our schools, including how we

Teaching Assistants was held in

attention on topics such as EDI,

can tighten our framework

March providing them with skills

self-care, data management,

for Career Progression

and knowledge to enhance their

assessment, and separate

throughout Dukes, by exploring

ability to support students. Bringing

sessions for prep and senior

initiatives such as sabbaticals,

Teaching Assistants together

deputies. The conference will

secondments to European

for the first time, they were able

also explore the use of podcasts

schools, and bespoke teacher

to discuss and share ideas and

and online forums to maintain

training that enrich our staff’s

create a support network.

engagement post-event.

experience and expertise.

Dukes Young Leaders Award

Global curriculum

AI

School Educational Quality Review The main approach to driving improvement is through

the skills of senior leaders, to showcase the specialist

the School Educational Quality Review (SEQR) visits to

knowledge of staff, and to improve the quality of

schools. These ‘critical friend’ reviews focus on a particular

education in all our schools and colleges.

aspect of a school’s education, identified by the school itself. SEQR visits can range from a full mock-inspection

We are increasing the frequency of our ‘critical friend’

at some schools, or a close look at pastoral systems in

visits to each school and college to once every two years:

Since September 2024, all settings

Heads and Principals are working

An AI Strategy Group, led by

another, to targeting the content and quality of STEAM

either to make an inspection-style visit to help schools

have a programme of co-curricular

together to identify what elements

a Dukes MD, is focusing on

education at another.

prepare for a forthcoming inspection or to help the school

activities and curriculum to develop

of a global curriculum for the 21st

developing policy, curriculum,

in its focus on one specialist aspect of provision.

leadership, service and a sense

century should be common threads

as well as tools and training for

of adventure among our pupils,

within Dukes schools - in the UK and

teachers to ensure a cohesive

All Dukes settings have been subject to an SEQR and are revisited every two years at least. They present an

In 2024 there were ten SEQR visits, involving 29 different

which can be accredited as part of

abroad - in the future, with a view

and impactful integration of AI

excellent opportunity to share good practice, to develop

people representing 22 separate Dukes settings.

the Dukes Young Leaders Award.

to piloting schemes in 2025-26.

across our educational offerings.

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New Developments CapEx projects continue across the Dukes estate. Despite some headwinds with local planning permission, new developments continue at pace.

major projects were completed in 2024

RIC

OHS Nursery

£70m+ total CapEx in the year RIC

Completed in 2024 Broomfield House

Hampton Court House

Radnor House Twickenham

Creation of new library and

General refurbishment.

Improvement to school entrance.

Hove Village Nurseries

Radnor House Prep

Broomwood Girls Prep

Refurbishment of New Church

Upgrading external sports pitch.

Creation of new classrooms

Road Nursery.

outdoor play space.

Sancton Wood School

and library.

Institute of Education Colégio Júlio Dinis

58 Buckingham Gate

Expansion of teaching facilities.

The Lyceum School

Expansion of teaching space and sports facilities.

Refurbishment of nursery.

International Sharing School

Creation of new nursery space.

Expanded sports facilities.

The Pointer School

Copperfield International School

London Park School Clapham

Creation of new art and

New school opened.

science labs.

General refurbishment.

Riverside Nursery Schools

Notting Hill Prep

New nursery in Richmond.

Devonshire House

Refurbishment to create new

General refurbishment.

classrooms and offices.

Eaton House Belgravia

Orchard House

Refurbishment with

Creation of STEAM centre

United Lisbon

technology focus.

and library.

International School

Eaton House The Manor

Pippa Pop-ins

Creation of Well-being Hub,

Construction of new nursery.

drama space and SEN rooms.

Engage International School

Rochester Independent College New boarding house.

Expansion - new teaching block.

Refurbishment of existing facilities.

58 Buckingham Gate Prospect House

Dukes Education office and

Early Years refurbishment.

training centre.

Early Years refurbishment.

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OHS Nursery

Princedale Road

58 Buckingham Gate

Kneller Hall

RIC

Ongoing major CapEx projects: Cardiff Sixth Form College

1

Kneller Hall Flagship new senior school in Twickenham.

2

Cardiff Sixth Form College New campus and accommodation for CSFC students.

Due for completion in 2025 Broomfield House

Notting Hill Prep

Refurbishment including

Playground refurbishment.

stage, flooring and technology upgrade and playground

Orchard House

improvements.

General refurbishment.

Broomwood Girls Prep

Pippa Pop-ins

New classrooms.

Completion of new Princedale Road nursery.

Eaton House Belgravia Prospect House

Re-roofing works.

General refurbishment.

Hampton Court House

3

United Lisbon

Structural repairs, Early Years

Radnor House School

International School

and science lab upgrade.

Renovations to the

New sporting and performing arts facilities.

external facade.

Hove Village Nurseries General refurbishment at Hove

The Lyceum School

Library and New Church Road.

New STEAM space.

Kindergarten Nurseries New Mallinson Road nursery.

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Launched new partner portal for international B2B

Marketing & Admissions Highlights 2024 Developed the Dukes Difference

Created Dukes House branding

Updated branding and design

Ran digital marketing campaigns in-house

Launched new websites

Grew our social media reach

Launched new features on DukesPlus.com

Rolled out parent survey tool

Hosted multiple Agent events at Dukes House

Held Alumni events and Cambridge Uni mentoring days

Attended dozens of international exhibitions

Generated PR coverage

DIGITAL INNOVATION

BRAND BUILDING Salesforce optimised

Thought-leadership publications

I am so grateful for the professional development opportunities we have thanks to Dukes Education. What I loved about the ALP and MLP is that you don’t even realise how much you learn thanks to the great masterclass format. Everyone is here to share knowledge and experience and you always leave these afternoons with a notebook full of fresh ideas!

And being able to apply this learning to obtain an official diploma from The University of Buckingham is the icing on the cake (the best kind!)

ENGAGING EVENTS

Increased quality of video content

Exhibited at the Independent Schools Show

Attended British Embassy Event in Lisbon

MARKETING L&D Laura Martinez, Marketing Manager at Devonshire House School

Marketing and admissions Leadership Programme

Recruited and trained new staff

Instrumental in planning and delivering the Dukes Conference and annual awards

Innovated internal communication and culture

44

83% Growth in international enrolments

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83% average mystery shopping scores

2 0 2 5 and beyond

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GROWTH & RESULTS

Excellent Net Promoter Score

HIGH-PERFORMANCE

Planned and organised Celebrated Heroes Dukes Education’s Behind The Crown Festival of the Arts

Held biggest ever Poetry Together event

Ran overnight Dukes Club events

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Dukes in the News Teen builds his own nuclear fusion reactor at college as part of his A* grade in his A-levels.

Dukes Hub The boom in home schooling Seizing a growing market opportunity, education providers have enhanced their offerings. In central London, not far from the Ritz hotel, is the London Park School Mayfair, which is participating in an educational experiment by its owner Dukes Education.

“When you bring people together who share a common purpose and set of principles, extraordinary things really do happen.”

– Aatif Hassan

The new Dukes Hub combines the core pillars of Dukes L&D - Courses and Communities. With its intuitive search capabilities, navigating through resources and courses is both efficient and user-friendly.

Through the Courses section, the Hub acts as the central portal for accessing, booking, and certificating training opportunities.

Tapping into the wealth of knowledge across our network, the Communities section of the Hub leverages the expertise held in the Dukes family. It enables collaboration through forums and allows communities to form and share ideas.

Our nurseries, schools, colleges and the Dukes Plus organisation can share best practices and collaborate beyond face-to-face interactions. Through its library of assets, users can search for what they need as well as share materials with colleagues. The Hub will be the store of the best educational material and content across the group.

Labour’s VAT raid is lazy politics, says private school kingpin.

Aatif Hassan, the investor who founded Dukes Education, claims Keir Starmer’s policy will drive inequality.

Scan to watch...

Aatif’s interview with BBC World News

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Dates for your Diary Spring February

March

— 4th February: Dukes Festival of

— 14th March: Senior Leaders’

the Arts at the Royal Festival Hall — 6th February: Deputy Heads’ Conference — 13th - 21st February: Half term

Development Day — ExCom meetings — 22nd - 23rd March: The Renaissance Scholars’ Symposium at the Institute

Summer

of Education

April

May

June

The special event was hosted by a friend of Dukes,

— Annual Safeguarding Reviews

— 1st - 2nd May: ExCom meetings

— 2nd - 6th June: Dukes Sustainability

broadcaster and author, Gyles Brandreth. Guests enjoyed

— 27th March - 30th April: Easter holidays

— 2nd May: Little Dukes Leaders’ Day — 14th May: DSL Development Day — 21st May: Sustainability Champions’ Day — 26th - 30th May: Half term

Week

— 11th June: Bursars and Finance Managers’ Development Day

— 20th June: ExCom meetings

On 4th February, 950

December

— 3rd July - 3rd September:

— 20th - 31st October:

— 5th December: Dukes festive

Half term

dinner and annual awards — 11th December - 6th January:

— Governors’ meetings

November

Christmas holidays

by West End stars as part of their repertoire.

students performed in the

The night hosted the finals of the first Dukes Young

iconic Royal Festival Hall as

David Goodhew and Head of Basset House School, Chris

part of the Dukes Festival

drew on their musical expertise to crown the winner.

of Arts. This showcased

October

LAMS course

Franklin medley and Musical Medley, accompanied

— 5th - 13th June: Governors’ meetings

September

— Deadline to apply for 2025

A massed choir of 750 students performed an Aretha

Development Day

Development Day

Summer holidays

solo instrumentalists, monologues and an orchestra.

— 3rd June: Little Dukes DSL

— 20th June: Senior Leaders’

Autumn

acts and a range of ensembles from chamber choirs,

Musician of the Year Award. Judges, Managing Director, Woodward were accompanied by external judges and

The evening also featured an art exhibition in a further

talent from across the

display of artistic talent from across the group.

family, to a sellout audience

The Royal Festival Hall is home to London’s Philharmonic

in celebration of Dukes

truly memorable experience to all who took part.

Education’s 10th anniversary.

to the good work of the Dukes Foundation.

Orchestra. Performing on such a stage offered a Proceeds from the Dukes Festival of Arts will go

— Senior Leaders’ Development Day — Deadline to apply for 2025 SLP course — ExCom meeting

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2 0 2 5 and beyond

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highlights of the Dukes

a selection of photos from this

Festival of the Arts

prestigious event

ANNUAL REVIEW 2025

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