Empowering Growth

Why staying on at prep school until Year 8 can have far reaching benefits

Broomwood recently hosted a senior school event, where parents of younger children could talk to staff from over sixty different schools. The offering was wide, with visitors representing some of the best schools in the UK, from London day schools, with single-sex and co-ed options, to full and flexible boarding schools. It’s the time of year when we begin to discuss the different pathways our children might take and, inevitably, this often leads to the debate: is it better to leave prep school at 11+ or 13+? Louisa McCafferty, Head of Broomwood Girls, says that the answer very much depends on the individual: “Some children are ready to move at eleven. This can work well, especially if the main intake of the school they are considering is in Year 7. That said, there are advantages to staying on for the final two years and we work with families to make sure we do what is right for each child. The extended period provides pupils with the chance to grow in a nurturing environment, while accessing the facilities, resources and specialist teaching akin to a senior school. The setting fosters not just academic excellence, but personal development, equipping them with the skills and confidence needed for their next education steps.”

Michael Hodge, Principal and Head of Broomwood Boys, agrees, explaining that one of the defining features of the Broomwood approach is the separate teaching of boys and girls from Year 3 onwards: “We believe in every child and by creating an environment where our pupils can learn in single-sex classrooms, we tailor our educational methods to the needs of each individual. At the same time, boys and girls still come together for collaborative sessions, providing a platform for them to work together on challenging topics, promoting teamwork, integrity and respect for diverse perspectives. We ensure children are comfortable and confident in both single-sex and co-educational settings, an essential skill for their future academic and social interactions.” many, this flexibility was crucial, providing them with time to evaluate their child’s readiness for the transition.

The latest parent survey at Broomwood found that those with children who had stayed on for additional years were convinced of the benefits. Children developed in confidence and maturity, particularly as they were given the opportunity to take on leadership responsibilities. Being in a smaller, more nurturing environment meant they could find their voices and develop skills in various contexts, whether through sports, clubs or class projects. Staying to Year 8 allowed families to make informed decisions regarding their child’s future. For

Whatever they decide, Broomwood children consistently achieve outstanding academic results in 11+ and 13+ exams and are awarded scholarships across the curriculum. Senior school staff often remark on how wellprepared and grounded they are upon arrival. For those who do stay, the final years are not just an extension of education, they are a pivotal time for personal growth, seeing young people through a delicate stage of development and ensuring they are not only equipped for the next academic challenge, but also ready to thrive in whatever environment they encounter in the future.

VICTORIA DAVIES JONES Head of Marketing and Admissions www.broomwood.com

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