Sherfield Senior Brochure

Sherfield.

A brighter school.

The Senior Journey.

YEARS 9-11.

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Invigorated by a forwardthinking culture of kindness, courage and respect, pupils gain a zest for learning.

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Welcome to Sherfield.

A place to shine.

Whether you are joining our school for the first time or progressing from our Prep Phase, entering senior education marks an exciting and important moment. It heralds the beginning of a significant period of growth – academically, personally and socially – and brings new responsibilities, challenges and opportunities for development.

We want to see every pupil thrive during this period. We encourage them to aspire to the highest standards in their studies, to participate fully in our broad cocurricular programme, and to grow as confident, kind and capable young people.

As pupils advance through the Senior Phase, they are granted increasing independence and the opportunity to shape their own paths. With this autonomy comes responsibility. We expect all pupils

to demonstrate courage, kindness and respect, to contribute positively to the Sherfield community, and to work to the best of their abilities.

Along the way, they can rely on the support and guidance of our dedicated staff. Pupil wellbeing is central to our ethos at Sherfield, and through a combination of small tutor groups and specialist pastoral support, we ensure individuals are cared for, closely monitored and empowered to succeed.

We encourage our pupils to embrace every opportunity, to challenge themselves, and to take pride in their achievements both great and small. We would be delighted to support your child at this pivotal time in their education and to ensure they maximise the opportunities that await them in the years ahead.

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A brighter school.

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Bringing together history, community and an educational ethos to create a brighter school.

Sherfield’s rich heritage dates back as far as the late twelfth century, when the manor was originally granted to William Fitz Aldelin by King Henry II. Centuries later, in 1897, after many changes in ownership and extensive redevelopment, the Sherfield Manor we know today emerged.

The site served as a military hospital during the Second World War before being transformed into an independent girls’ boarding school in 1947. In 2004, the Sherfield name was adopted and we became the co-educational school that thrives today.

Sherfield has always maintained a forward-thinking learning culture that is designed to invigorate and energise our pupils. They are supported within a school environment that nurtures, inspires and challenges. They are connected by a spirit of togetherness that comes from being part of the Sherfield community.

Our aim is for pupils not just to enjoy their time at Sherfield, but to ensure it prepares them to lead enriched lives that have a lasting, positive impact in their own communities and in the world.

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At Sherfield School, we create a learning environment that nurtures, inspires, and challenges, preparing every pupil for life in a global society. We aim to provide not only academic excellence but also personal growth, ensuring that every child develops the skills, resilience, and confidence to thrive now and in the future.

OUR VISION.

OUR MISSION.

Our Mission, Vision, and Values.

Our students are encouraged to create a positive impact, inspiring change and contributing to a better future. We equip them to become thoughtful, capable, and compassionate individuals who make meaningful contributions to their communities and beyond.

By placing these values at the centre of life at Sherfield, we ensure the growth and development of our pupils is about more than academics alone. It means they are prepared to flourish as wellrounded, responsible, and caring individuals, ready to navigate the opportunities and challenges of a rapidly changing world.

At Sherfield, we are courageous.

At Sherfield, we are kind.

We encourage pupils to act with integrity, face challenges bravely, and make principled choices. Courage at Sherfield extends to leadership, innovation, and standing up for what is right.

ACT WITH EMPATHY

We celebrate individuality and foster an environment where every pupil feels empowered to contribute. Diverse perspectives are welcomed, creating a community rich in ideas, collaboration, and understanding.

DO THE RIGHT THING

VALUE EVERY VOICE

At Sherfield, we are respectful.

At Sherfield, we are committed to bringing the words of our Mission, Vision and Values alive within our school. We see them as a guide to everyday interactions, a rulebook for decision-making, and a philosophy for engaging with others.

Kindness underpins our community. Pupils are inspired to show empathy, support one another, and engage with others thoughtfully, cultivating a compassionate and inclusive environment.

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Lasting friendships are forged among pupils as they progress together on their educational journey.

Your springboard to educational success.

We love Year 9.

In Year 9, pupils are beginning to build important momentum in their education. Milestones such as GCSEs, which might once have seemed a long way off, are now coming into sharper view.

At Sherfield, we know the significance of this point in every pupil’s school career, and we also know how to support them in navigating their way through the learning challenges and pathway choices that lie ahead.

We encourage our pupils to aim high and we provide every individual with the support they need on their journey from GCSEs and Sixth Form to university success. From Year 9 onwards, we also help them gain a clear view of the broad career options available to them, providing inspiration through our Futures Programme, and ensuring they are aligned to the right academic path.

At every step, Sherfield pupils are guided with personalised support from our nurturing teaching staff and strengthened by the close support of their friends.

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BOARDING OPTIONS

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Full Weekly Flexi Occasional

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SPORTS

Football / Rugby / Hockey / Netball Cricket / Athletics / Swimming / Tennis / Golf / Modern Pentathlon 12

GCSE Results 2025

15% of all GCSE grades awarded were at the very highest level of grade 9

over a third of GCSEs graded

Sixth Form Results

9-8

more than half achieving grades

9-7

63% of all grades were awarded at A* to B or equivalent

three-year average of

three-year average of

A* grades

A*–B grades

20% 66% 13

Encouraged to aim high and supported to succeed.

Academic Life and Curriculum.

Our academic programme has been carefully designed so that every pupil develops the knowledge, skills and confidence to thrive in the classroom, the exam room and beyond.

In Year 9, all pupils follow a broad and balanced curriculum that reflects the same ethos and high standards established in our Senior Prep School. They explore a wide range of subjects and are also offered the opportunity to undertake the Higher Project Qualification (HPQ), which provides a platform to extend their academic profile, pursue individual interests, and refine research and criticalthinking skills.

A key focus of Year 9 is careers education and guidance, with dedicated lessons and workshops introducing pupils to a range of academic and vocational pathways.

Ultimately, we ensure parents and pupils are fully informed and supported so that decision-making aligns with individual strengths, aspirations, and future goals.

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We offer a wide range of flexible GCSE options, with pupils typically selecting between six and eleven subjects. This creates a personalised curriculum reflecting individual interests, career ambitions, and co-curricular commitments, with each pupil challenged appropriately and supported to reach their full potential.

This approach leads to outstanding outcomes. In 2025, 15% of all GCSE grades were awarded at Grade 9. At A level, the vast majority of students secured places at their first-choice universities, having also demonstrated exceptional personal development and leadership throughout their time at Sherfield.

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Teaching staff at Sherfield are skilled at knowing how to bring out the best in every individual.

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A broad mix of co-curricular opportunities provide pupils with chances to extend their creative, sporting, academic and personal skills.

Embracing challenges, exploring passions and building character.

Co-curricular.

With an extensive co-curricular programme, Sherfield pupils have almost unlimited opportunities to explore their interests, challenge themselves and develop new talents. Encouraged at every step, we support them in becoming confident, well-rounded individuals, ensuring their time here is both inspiring and transformative.

Our sports provision is exceptional, encompassing everything from football and tennis to strength and conditioning sessions in our state-of-the-art gym. Alongside this, pupils can join a diverse selection of academic and creative clubs, including Drama, Reading, Warhammer and specialist groups that support preparation for Medicine and other competitive university pathways.

As an accredited Duke of Edinburgh Centre, the programme forms a key part of our Friday afternoon enrichment curriculum. All pupils in Year 9 are supported to complete their Bronze Award, while in Years 10 and 12 pupils have the opportunity to progress to the Silver and Gold Awards. These experiences are invaluable in developing lifelong skills of independence, teamwork and resilience.

Pupils have the chance to participate in a wide variety of subject-based activities and experiences, including Geography fieldwork expeditions, theatre visits in English and Drama, and Business-focused trips. Recently, students also had the life-changing experience of volunteering in Zanzibar, working alongside local schoolchildren. In addition, Year 9 pupils have the exciting opportunity to spend twelve weeks at our sister school, HIF in Switzerland, studying alongside peers from across the EIM school group.

Our recently launched Combined Cadet Force (CCF), established in partnership with a local school, also offers pupils a new and exciting way to develop leadership, teamwork and self-discipline through practical, hands-on challenges that complement the broader Sherfield experience.

Our student leadership team includes School Prefects, Tour Ambassadors, members of the Green Team, and Senior House Captains. Working within three key portfolios – Academic, Wellbeing and Global Citizenship, and Community and Student Voice – these pupils are driving meaningful initiatives that make a real difference across the school.

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Known as individuals but thriving together.

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At Sherfield, pupils know they are in a place where they can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

With the benefit of small groups, tutors can take the time to understand each child’s strengths, aspirations, and challenges, providing regular check-ins and tailored guidance. This personalised approach means pupils are supported through day-to-day experiences and major transitions, helping them to build confidence, resilience, and independence.

The pastoral team is always available to provide additional guidance and care. They are supported by the Deputy Heads of Phase, the school nurses and

counsellor, and our dedicated SEND Team, which works closely with pupils, families, and staff to provide tailored support for learning differences or additional needs, ensuring every pupil can reach their full potential.

At Sherfield, we aim to foster a culture of care and respect throughout the school. Pupils are encouraged to look out for one another, contribute positively to the community, and develop the skills to manage challenges constructively. This holistic approach not only helps pupils to succeed in the classroom, but also enables them to grow into thoughtful, confident, and resilient young adults.

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An inspirational blend of historic character and contemporary design.

Facilities and environment.

Sherfield’s unique learning environment brings together the charm of a historic campus with modern, purpose-built facilities to give pupils the best of both worlds.

Our buildings are set within extensive grounds, providing safe green spaces that are perfect for outdoor learning, sport and recreation. Moreover, they provide an important connection to nature that is invaluable for our pupils’ wellbeing.

Inside, our classrooms support innovative teaching and learning across all subjects. Pupils benefit from access to the latest digital resources, interactive learning tools and specialised facilities in areas such as science, computing, music and the performing arts.

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For sports and fitness, we are equipped with a variety of highquality facilities on-site, from indoor courts and outdoor pitches to a modern gym, all of which enable pupils to develop their talents, teamwork and resilience across a range of disciplines.

Ultimately, all of Sherfield’s facilities are designed to enhance every aspect of school life, providing a vibrant, well-resourced environment in which every pupil can thrive, explore their passions, and achieve their full potential.

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A backdrop of green fields and Grade II listed architecture provides pupils with a unique space to learn and grow.

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All Sherfield pupils are given the academic and pastoral support they need to guide their educational journey.

Understanding individuals and setting them on the right course.

Pathways & Preparation for the Future.

The transition to senior school and Year 9 is a significant step for pupils. It marks the beginning of a phase of academic and personal growth where future directions will be shaped by decisions, experiences and achievements.

At Sherfield, our goal is to guide every pupil at a personal level to ensure the pathways they follow are aligned to their individual characteristics and ambitions, enabling them to unlock their potential to the fullest.

At an academic level, pupils follow carefully structured GCSE pathways, with flexible subject options that ensure studies are tailored to reflect an individual’s strengths, aspirations, and co-curricular commitments.

Post GCSEs, pupils progress to A-Level study, guided by expert staff and supported by our Head of Sixth Form, with a view to accessing their first-choice university or taking the first steps on their career pathway.

Careers-based learning is continuous at Sherfield, and our progressive programme of experience, exploration and guidance is a feature from Reception through to Year 13. From Year 9, pupils explore both academic and vocational options, supported by workshops, consultations, and information events.

In Year 11, pupils follow the Futures Programme, a comprehensive careers and financial education initiative designed to prepare them for life beyond Sherfield. Here, pupils perfect their CV writing and interview skills, learn practical lessons about payslips, taxes, and insurance, and benefit from insights shared by alumni through guest speaker sessions, providing a real-world perspective on career pathways and personal finance.

Through these combined academic, co-curricular, and careers experiences, pupils leave Sherfield as confident, capable, and well-prepared young adults, ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

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Independence, Responsibility and Flourishing at Sherfield.

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Fostering Independence and Responsibility.

Broad Experiences and Personal Growth.

From Year 9 onwards, pupils are encouraged to take ownership of their learning and personal development. The curriculum promotes critical thinking, problem-solving, and self-directed learning, preparing pupils for the challenges of further education and life beyond school. In the Sixth Form, students enjoy increased freedoms and responsibilities, managing their time effectively and making informed choices about academic and personal development.

Sherfield offers a rich tapestry of experiences that extend learning beyond the classroom.

Pupils engage in a wide range of co-curricular activities – including sports, music, drama, leadership roles, and expeditions – that help them discover and nurture their passions. These opportunities also foster resilience, teamwork and confidence, ensuring that every pupil flourishes both inside and outside the classroom.

A true education extends beyond academic achievement alone – it encompasses the development of independent, confident and self-motivated learners. At Sherfield, we work hard to bring these additional dimensions to our pupils’ education, complementing the core values of Courage, Kindness, and Respect, which shape every aspect of school life.

Preparation for the Future.

Inclusive yet ambitious Culture.

Flourishing of the Individual.

Careers guidance begins in the Senior School and continues through the Sixth Form, supporting pupils as they explore pathways to university, apprenticeships, or other future opportunities. This includes personalised advice, work experience opportunities, and guidance for competitive applications, ensuring pupils are fully prepared for the next stage of their journey.

Sherfield celebrates diversity and fosters a sense of belonging for all pupils. The school’s inclusive ethos is reflected in a community that values respect, encourages responsibility, and supports pupils in taking on leadership roles, whether as prefects, house captains, or project leaders, so that each individual can make a meaningful contribution.

Every pupil at Sherfield is recognised as an individual with unique talents and potential.

Through personalised support, enrichment opportunities and a nurturing environment, pupils are encouraged to discover their strengths, embrace challenges, and achieve their full potential, academically, socially, and personally.

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Taking the spirit of Sherfield into the world.

Alumni Success and Careers Guidance.

At Sherfield, we are committed to preparing pupils not just for exams, but for life beyond school.

Our comprehensive careers guidance and Sixth Form support ensure that every pupil can make informed decisions about their future, whether that be university, apprenticeships, or other pathways.

Our alumni go on to achieve remarkable success, securing places at top universities across the UK and internationally.

Recent leavers have studied a wide range of courses, from History at King’s College London and Biomedical Sciences at the University of Southampton to Computer Science and AI at Swansea University and Graphic Design at the University of the Arts London. Many have also progressed to competitive courses such as Medicine at Oxbridge, demonstrating the effectiveness of our personalised guidance.

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At Sherfield, careers education begins in Year 9, guiding pupils through GCSE and vocational choices, and continues through Sixth Form with tailored support for university applications, work experience and real-world skills.

Alumni frequently return as guest speakers, inspiring current students and sharing insights into their own journeys.

With expert guidance, encouragement and a supportive environment, Sherfield pupils leave ready to pursue their ambitions with confidence, make informed choices, and thrive in the next stage of their lives.

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Sherfield provides pupils with strong foundations and clear focus, enabling them to take their next steps with confidence.

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Meeting the many needs of our diverse pupils.

Pupils are brought together through a culture of inclusivity while also being given opportunities to expand their horizons and perspectives.

Boarding, Transport, and International Opportunities.

Sherfield’s inclusive environment welcomes pupils from a wide range of backgrounds, with a mixture of day pupils and boarders.

Our state-of-the-art boarding house provides comfortable, modern accommodation for students throughout the Senior School phase. Flexible options are available to suit individual needs, including flexi-boarding, weekly boarding and full boarding, ensuring that pupils and families can choose the arrangement that works best for them.

For our day pupils, transport is organised annually along routes designed to meet demand.

Families are encouraged to indicate their interest in a place on a transport route at the point of application, helping us to provide efficient and convenient travel options for all pupils.

Sherfield also embraces a global perspective, with opportunities for pupils to engage in international learning experiences. These include cultural and volunteering trips abroad, allowing pupils to broaden their horizons, experience different learning environments, and develop an understanding of life in a global society.

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Our Address.

Sherfield School Reading Road Sherfield-on-Loddon Hook, Hampshire RG27 0HU

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GETTING HERE.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION.

Sherfield School is conveniently located on the A33 between Reading and Basingstoke, just outside the village of Sherfieldon-Loddon. The school is approximately 50 miles southwest of London, easily accessible via the M3 (Junction 6) and M4 (Junction 11), and is well-served by major airports, including Heathrow and Gatwick.

Term Dates: Sherfield follows a traditional academic calendar, with Autumn, Spring, and Summer Terms.

Specific dates are available on the school’s website.

TRANSPORT OPTIONS. The school operates six dedicated bus routes to and from Sherfield each day, with buses arriving at school by 8:25 am and departing at 5:45 pm. These routes cover various areas in Hampshire and neighbouring counties, providing convenient access for day pupils.

For boarders, Sherfield offers a shuttle service to and from Basingstoke railway station, which provides direct trains to London Waterloo every 15 minutes, with a journey time of approximately 47 minutes. This service allows students to enjoy the school’s countryside location during the week and the city at weekends.

Uniform: The school has a detailed uniform policy, which includes guidelines on summer and winter attire.

All items of school uniform and equipment must be clearly and securely named. Specific uniform requirements can be found in the school’s uniform list.

Wrap-Around Care: Sherfield offers wrap-around care to support working parents, providing supervision and activities outside of standard school hours.

Details of this service are available upon request.

TYPICAL CLASS SIZES. Sherfield maintains small class sizes to ensure individual attention and a personalised learning experience.

For more detailed information or to plan your visit, please refer to the school’s official website or contact the admissions team directly. www.sherfieldschool.co.uk

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All the measures we have in place are designed to ensure new pupils find their feet at Sherfield as quickly possible.

At Sherfield, we aim to make the admissions process straightforward and welcoming.

Admissions.

From initial enquiries to a pupil’s first day, our dedicated admissions team guides families every step of the way, providing clear information and support to ensure a smooth transition.

We welcome pupils from a wide range of backgrounds, and our approach is designed to help families make informed decisions that best suit their child’s needs and aspirations. Open days, individual visits, and taster experiences allow prospective pupils and their families to experience Sherfield first-hand, meet staff and students, and gain a true sense of our community and ethos.

Choosing Sherfield means giving your child access to a supportive, ambitious, and inspiring educational environment.

From small tutor groups and personalised pastoral care to a rich co-curricular programme and excellent academic guidance, our pupils benefit from a holistic education that prepares them for both immediate success and longterm achievement.

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Visit our School.

Choosing the right school for your child is a significant decision, and we are here to support you every step of the way. We offer a range of opportunities for you to experience our vibrant community and discover what makes us unique.

We invite you to explore Sherfield School through our various visit options: Open Events We hold Open Events for Early Years, Junior, Senior, and Sixth Form. Specific dates are available on the school’s website. This is an excellent opportunity to tour the school, meet our Senior Leadership Team, and see our facilities in action.

Private Tours If you cannot attend an Open Event, we would be delighted to arrange a personal tour tailored to your interests.

Taster Days Experience a day in the life of a Sherfield student. Taster days allow prospective pupils to participate in classes and activities, giving them a firsthand look at our educational environment.

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Take your next step with Sherfield School.

Request a prospectus.

Contact Admissions.

Register your interest.

To learn more about Sherfield School, request our interactive digital prospectus by filling out the enquiry form on our website. sherfieldschool.co.uk

Our Admissions Team is here to assist you with any questions or to schedule your visit:

Begin your journey with Sherfield by completing our Register Your Interest form.

This is the first step in our admissions process and allows us to provide you with tailored information and updates.

Phone: +44 (0) 1256 884 816 Mobile: +44 (0) 7593 185 675 Email: admissions@ sherfieldschool.co.uk

We look forward to welcoming you to Sherfield School and sharing how we can be part of your child’s educational journey.

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Bright futures start here.

From Nursery to Sixth Form, Sherfield School offers an inspiring education that nurtures curiosity, confidence and character.

Our pupils flourish academically and personally within a warm, inclusive community, set in 76 acres of beautiful Hampshire countryside.

Book your personal tour today or join one of our upcoming Open Events.

Sherfield School Hook, Hampshire, RG27 0HU +44 (0)1256 884 800 admissions@sherfieldschool.co.uk sherfieldschool.co.uk