Developing independent, curious, and passionate learners
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Tatler Schools Guide:
‘This might be one of the oldest boys’ preps in England, but continuous upgrades of both facilities and curriculum have kept it bang-up-to-date. One thing that hasn’t changed is the desire to ‘aim high’. This translation of the school’s historic motto ‘Alta Peto’ also manifests itself as an impressive record of places won to the top publics in the country. Life here is ‘full-on and high-speed’, but parents insist it doesn’t come at the expense of their ‘boys enjoying just being boys.’
The Good Schools Guide:
‘Time has not stood still at Shrewsbury House: the best traditions have been maintained but this is very much a school looking forward, not back. The boys have a genuine sense of pride and are articulate, polite and confident. What appeared to be incomprehensible – that parents living in Fulham would bus their sons to Surbiton and back each day – makes complete sense now. It could be a growing trend.’
Muddy Stilettos:
‘The excellent facilities, strong sports offering and good academic results were noted as a huge draw by one parent. While another praised the excellent sport and music programmes, the wide range of clubs on offer and the school’s inclusive approach to make sure all boys were given opportunities and not just those with talent or aptitude. The school’s excellent relationship with senior schools was also seen as a great thing. And, of course, the fact the boys are happy.’
Talk Education:
‘Alta Peto (Aim High) is an apt motto for this Surrey prep school, one of the oldest in the country. Academic results are top-notch, but boys don’t just have an opportunity to shine in the classroom – there is something here for the actor, the artist, the sportsman and the musician. The aspirational mindset encompasses moral values too, with good manners and kindness instilled in every pupil. Head Joanna Hubbard says the secondary schools she’s in touch with tell her they can always identify a Shrewsbury House boy as ‘they are charismatic and sparky, determined to make the very most of school life.’
EXECUTIVE HEAD’S WELCOME
Welcome to the magic of Shrewsbury House!
We cultivate curiosity and nurture young minds, taking pupils on a journey into dynamic and fearless learning. Our aim is to develop independent, curious and passionate learners to succeed in a changing world.
We recognise that the ability to adapt and innovate is key to success. Our curriculum is designed to go beyond textbooks, encouraging pupils to explore, question and think critically.
Our core values are lived out by each member of our community – we respect each other, demonstrate compassion and aspire to embody our school motto ‘Alta Peto’.
The school values really stand out and they instil them every day, Of course, the results and the entry into senior school is fantastic but what I love is the conversations I can have with the Year 8 boys. You feel as though you are speaking to young confident men, and I know that is the work the school has put in. They stand by the values each day. They encourage each child in their abilities. They take time to know each child.”
ISI Inspection 2021:
‘Pupils of all ages and abilities achieve exceptionally high levels of knowledge, skills and understanding. They develop skills over time in a wide range of subjects. Pupils’ rapid development of higher-order thinking skills is helped by the open-ended questioning in lessons by staff.’
I just wanted to say thank you so much for hosting lunch today. It was really insightful and reflective of how you want to engage with families. The school really feels like it has a hugely positive vibe and moving forward with real momentum currently. We look forward to continuing this journey with you.”
ACADEMIC
Our progressive and exploratory curriculum is designed to inspire academic growth and uncover each pupil’s true passions. Intellectual curiosity drives our approach, fostering tenacity and lifelong learning habits that equip our boys for future success.
One of the jewels in our crown is the ‘Discovery Programme’ for Years 7 and 8 which offers learning experiences beyond the regular curriculum. The Seminar Series, featuring guest speakers from diverse backgrounds, enhances public speaking, effective questioning and critical thinking skills. Enrichment opportunities provide hands-on, educational and fun experiences. Highlights include STEAM Day, Science Week, Greek Day, the Townsend Warner History Competition, Maths 4s, SPARX Maths, Accelerated Reader and the ISEB Independent Project Qualification (IPQ).
24 scholarships +1 exhibition at 14 different senior schools
offers from 43 different schools at pre-test
of pupils gained places at one or more
Senior boys (Years 7 and 8), rave about the Discovery Programme, delivered on Friday afternoons. ‘It gives the teachers the chance to share their passions’ explained one.
‘It is incredible’ said another. Photography, battle strategies, ancient Greece, German, exploratory science (the discovery of DNA) and ‘Maths in the World’ have all featured.”
The Good Schools Guide
SPORTS FOR ALL
Our goal is to provide a fun, inclusive, competitive programme while offering all our pupils the opportunity to sample a wide variety of sports and activities.
From the powerful scrums of rugby to the thrilling goals in football, and the engaging cricket matches, our boys showcased their talents and passion across a wide range of sports. This year also saw amazing performances in swimming, basketball, rowing, hockey, and golf, along with the endurance and spirit of our athletics and cross-country teams. Tennis matches were fiercely contested, flag football introduced a new level of excitement and pickleball quickly became a pupil favourite.
We were also proud to highlight the resurfacing of our 4G Astro All-Weather Surface and to have cheered on our boys in national rugby fixtures at Rosslyn Park. Additionally, we were at the forefront of player safety in sports, having been chosen to trial cutting-edge IMG mouthguards designed to measure and analyse head impacts during sports activities. This exceptionally new technology underscores our commitment to the wellbeing of our pupils.
I went to watch him and was blown away by the team spirit, camaraderie and sheer joy shown by the Year 4 boys. Something quite unique to SHS I think and so well done to all the teachers at SHS who bring out such wonderful attributes in the boys.”
Tours
Italy Ski Trip
South Africa Sports Tour
St Lucia Sports Tour
SHS Sports Family Day
Other highlights
Athlete Development Programme
Introduction to American Football
First Cycling Race (MTB)
Sporting Role Model Visits
Charity Run
SHA Fun Football Tournament
Parents’ Sports Dinner with James Toseland
New Rowing Programme
PE Tracking
Sports Leadership with the lower school
Co-ed Opportunity – Masterclass with the local girls’ prep school
213 lessons per week
13 concert ‘performances’
5
Music scholars
85
boys have taken an ABRSM exam, 100% pass rate, 69% Merit or Distinction
MUSIC
Our music department thrives on nurturing talent and igniting a love for music in every pupil.
Beyond the school gates, our musicians have ventured to prestigious venues such as Epsom College, Westminster Abbey, Harrow School, and even out into the community for heart-warming carol singing sessions.
Music soirée
Year 3 Music taster sessions
Enormous thanks for organising what was a truly wonderful afternoon at Harrow yesterday. It was a real privilege for the boys to enjoy a lesson with the Harrow choir, and I was so proud of the way all the SHS boys rose to the challenge. Listening to them sing together during evensong was a beautiful and moving experience. Events such as this are so enriching for the boys, and it’s wonderful for us as parents to have the opportunity to be involved. Looking forward to Paris!”
Year group concerts
368 pieces of work displayed at Art Exhibition and two scholarship portfolios
12 members at Advanced Art Club
31 hours of observational drawing
CREATIVE ARTS
The creative arts at Shrewsbury House are central to our curriculum, fostering imagination, innovation and self-expression.
Through Art, Design & Technology (DT), and Drama, we offer diverse opportunities for pupils to explore their creative talents and develop new skills, preparing them for future success.
Just to say what a lovely evening it was yesterday, and how impressive all the art and DT exhibits were. Our son was delighted to have his photograph included – especially on its own easel!”
Design & Technology room is well equipped and exciting. Boys learn to operate age-appropriate machines which are also used for purposes outside lessons – head’s commendations are engraved on reclaimed wood using the laser cutter rather than simply being printed on paper.”
The Good Schools Guide
Royal Academy Art submissions
2 21
1
competition winners
Whilst all schools must have ‘levels’ of sports and drama and art, SHS have managed this well such that each child, whatever their skill, feel as if they are succeeding and are championed in role.”
Art scholars
DT scholar
1 Drama scholar
TRIPS, TOURS AND RESIDENTIALS
We believe that learning extends beyond the classroom, and our extensive programme of trips, tours and residentials provides our boys with unforgettable experiences and unique educational opportunities.
Throughout the year, our pupils have ventured near and far, exploring a variety of destinations that enrich their academic journey and personal growth.
Our ski trip to Italy was a thrilling highlight, offering boys the chance to develop their skills on the slopes while forging lasting friendships. The South Africa rugby tour was another standout event, combining sportsmanship with cultural exploration.
Activities Week saw all year groups embarking on trips or residentials:
Year 8 The Ardèche
Year 7 Normandy
Year 6 Land & Wave, Dorset
Year 5 Kingswood, Kent
Year 4 Windmill Hill, East Sussex
Year 3 Bocketts Farm, Surrey
We have a commitment to providing a well-rounded education that inspires curiosity, adventure, and a deeper understanding of the world.
We wanted to write to thank you for the amazing experience you have given the boys in South Africa. Our son had a fantastic time and was full of incredible stories that will make life-long memories for him. The way you facilitated the trip and packed in so much couldn’t have been better.”
Our son returned home exhausted, but with a huge smile on his face, having had a brilliant week with all his peers. He loved the variety of outdoor activities, spending quality time with his close friends and making new friends with boys he hadn’t previously known well. The highlights were the giant swing and abseiling –his only wish was they could have been higher! ”
HALL OF FAME
A selection of outstanding achievements from our pupils over the last academic year.
Gethin
Gethin’s gymnastics career over the last six years has been nothing short of elite, culminating in his performance at the 31st European Championships in Bulgaria. His first international challenge was in 2021, earning bronze with Great Britain in Pesaro, Italy, followed by another bronze in Baku, Azerbaijan in 2022. He leaves Shrewsbury House as an English, British, and European Champion.
Craig
Craig’s natural talent was evident by age 4, and combined with his boundless energy, it led him to football. Starting with West Side, he spent a year with Fulham FC. In May 2023, he joined QPR’s academy. Training thrice weekly and playing matches on Sundays, his game knowledge is encyclopaedic, and his shots are unstoppable.
Jack
Jack has always loved being in the water and spends as much free time as possible swimming. His dedication to training with his swimming club has led to numerous race successes, countless medals, and smashing personal bests. A recent highlight was excelling in backstroke at the IAPS National Swimming Finals.
Hugo is an accomplished pianist and cellist. At school he has performed solos and contributed to ensembles, playing works by Chopin and Tchaikovsky, and notably Bach’s Prelude in G on the organ at the Carol Service at Epsom College. At Junior Guildhall, he excels as Principal Cellist, giving recitals and playing in a string quartet.
Luca
Luca started playing tennis at 3 and has had notable experiences including training with Jofre Porta in Mallorca and competing in the Smrikva Bowl. He has won 2 Nationals and is ranked Number 2 in the UK. Now part of the LTA Player Pathway programme, Luca plays 14 hours weekly. He recently excelled in the Scottish Open and County Cup. Other than tennis he loves playing football, rugby, cricket and pool, in fact anything that involves a ball!
Nicholas
A talented tennis player, Nicholas is ecstatic to now be training at the Rafa Nadal Academy in Mallorca, where he has stepped into the competitive realm of European tennis. “I am profoundly thankful to Shrewsbury House for instilling in me the value of diligence in both academics and sport, and for inspiring me to relentlessly pursue excellence.”
Max
Max capped an exceptional swimming season with gold medals at the house gala, Victor Ludorum and the Pincus Cup. Outside school, he clinched 10 gold medals at the Portsmouth End-of-Season meet and contributed to relay victories with Kingston Royals and Wimbledon Dolphins. Now ranked Number 1 county-wide in several events, Max is excited to swim at the London Aquatics Centre this year.
CO-CURRICULAR PROGRAMME
Our extensive selection of clubs and activities ranges from academic clubs and Prep Club to arts, music, sports and engaging pursuits like chess and cookery. The co-curricular programme not only enriches the educational experience but also ignites new passions and fosters lasting friendships.
PUPIL VOICE
Pupil Voice gives our boys the chance to share their ideas and influence how things are run. It reflects our commitment to nurturing independent and responsible learners.
Our School Council and Eco Committee provide vital platforms for boys to express their ideas, influence school policies and drive positive change. Through these bodies, pupils engage in meaningful discussions, develop leadership skills and contribute to creating a supportive and sustainable school environment.
Year 3 share some of the highlights of their first year at SHS:
When I first started, I didn’t know as many musical instruments. I only knew one and that was the recorder. Then the Music Department organised a band and that’s where I found the cello!”
Clubs are very fun. My two favourites have been Touch Typing and Football!”
The teachers have been very kind, patient and supportive.”
The library is amazing! There are lots of books and computers to do Accelerated Reader where you record the books you read.”
The teachers work so hard to make amazing stuff like trips and residentials possible.”
I have enjoyed making new friends and playing sports, including football and rugby.”
My favourite room is the DT room because we use laser cutters, iPads and scroll saws!”
I love playing football on the All-Weather Surface with my friends.”
COMPASSIONATE COMMITMENT
Our community has demonstrated remarkable compassion through various charitable efforts, community events and environmental stewardship, supporting both local and global communities. This commitment reflects our school’s core values and inspires us to continue making a positive difference in the world.
We sent shoes to children in Laos, providing much-needed footwear and support. Our fundraising for Make-a-Wish brought hope and joy to children facing critical illnesses. Dr Liu’s marathon run for Whizz Kidz showcased his dedication to helping young people with disabilities gain mobility and independence. Our book donations to the Children’s Book Project helped promote literacy and a love of reading among children in need. Pupils too have a keen interest in supporting others;
one pupil collected unwanted pens to take to Magunje School, a rural school in Zimbabwe. Another pupil collected unwanted glasses for The Lions Club, enabling people in developing countries to receive much needed spectacles.
We also actively engaged in community events, including singing at a local care home and hosting a history talk. The Eco Committee’s efforts underscore our dedication to environmental stewardship and they collected empty crisp packets
and repurposed them into blankets for the homeless. We also organised a sponsored run and opened our facilities for community use, further reinforcing our compassionate commitment.
We look outwards into the community, making links with local schools and supporting charities. The boys themselves often initiate fundraising and the School Council is active in suggesting new initiatives for the school and the local area.
SHREWSBURY HOUSE OLD BOYS
How did your time at Shrewsbury House prepare you for your current school? “Academically, I have felt like I have hit the ground running. This has given me time to make new friends. SHS encouraged us to give everything a go and I think that has been a useful mindset to follow, not just when you start a new school, but for life.”
What did you enjoy most at SHS? “ There is honestly so much to choose from, and I don’t know where to start! I loved my time at SHS. I made friends that I know will be in my life forever, and the teachers were so good at teaching you and ensuring you had fun at the same time.”
How did your time at Shrewsbury House prepare you for your current school? “The thoroughness of Shrewsbury House’s academic teaching gave me a head start at St John’s School and I felt confident in lessons straightaway.”
What did you enjoy most at SHS? “The residential trips were amazing, especially the Normandy and The Ardèche trips in Years 7 and 8. They were so much fun and opened my eyes to many different activities that I hadn’t even heard of before.”
How did your time at Shrewsbury House prepare you for your current school? “You immediately think it would be academically but SHS moulded me into the young man I am now, through pushing me to be my best. Furthermore, I learnt how to be a confident individual and display myself with the highest conduct.”
What did you enjoy most at SHS? “I enjoyed lessons so much, they were engaging and creative with teachers having so much passion for their subjects.”
How did your time at Shrewsbury House prepare you for your current school? “Academically it set me up to be ahead of my other peers, this allowed me to spend more time being social and making friends rather than worrying about my lessons.”
What did you enjoy most at SHS? “I enjoyed lots of things at Shrewsbury House, especially the end of year trips which were spectacularly planned.”
Luke Cranleigh School
Thomas St John’s School
Reuben St John’s School
Victor Eton College
How did your time at Shrewsbury House prepare you for your current school? “I found that the skills that I learned, such as how to study effectively, sports and leadership, have been readily transferable. We had helpful talks about moving to our respective next schools after we had finished our Year 8 exams and the advice given has been invaluable.”
What did you enjoy most at SHS? “I enjoyed all of my time, but in particular being stretched by inspirational teachers and making good friends, with whom I am still regularly in touch. I enjoyed the IPQ and Post CE programme in particular, especially the trip to The Ardèche.”
How did your time at Shrewsbury House prepare you for your current school? “There is a similar friendly sporty culture at SHS and Epsom so I felt at home straight away. You are ready because SHS boys are well prepared and very good at making new friends. You will recognise lots of people at your new school from sports fixtures you have played at SHS so you will feel part of your new school very quickly.”
What did you enjoy most at SHS? “The trips to St Lucia and France were the highlight. I loved breaktime on the All-Weather Surface and playing football with my friends.”
How did your time at Shrewsbury House prepare you for your current school? “ On the academic side, I felt that SHS was almost perfect, teaching at the right level so we would not feel overwhelmed at our new schools. Also, the other aspects of SHS life, such as the variety of clubs, talks and workshops, are similar to life at secondary schools.”
What did you enjoy most at SHS? “The Discovery Programme lessons we had each week for a double period were very fun as they allowed us the opportunity to learn things beyond the standard curriculum.”
How did your time at Shrewsbury House prepare you for your current school? “The wide variety of activities offered as part of the Discovery Programme in Years 7 and 8 showed me the vast opportunities available in the world. At Tonbridge, we are similarly encouraged to take part in lots of activities, pursue our passions and follow our dreams.”
What did you enjoy most at SHS? “Shrewsbury House has some exceptional sports pitches and play zones. The SHS Sports Ground was recently refurbished before I left and the new Pavilion really helps to show how modern the sports grounds are.”
How did your time at Shrewsbury House prepare you for your current school? “I loved all of the sport and activities especially the trips. My first year has been far easier as the subjects we did at Shrewsbury House were covered in my first year at Wellington. My advice is be flexible and friendly to all of your peers when you join your new school.”
What did you enjoy most at SHS? “The ski trip was fab and all of the sports.”
Luke Hampton School
Tom Epsom College
Charlie Wellington College
Joe Tonbridge School
JJ King’s College School
YEAR 8 LEAVERS’ DESTINATIONS
Congratulations to our Year 8 boys who have gained places at the following schools:
BRIGHTON COLLEGE
CHARTERHOUSE SCHOOL
CRANLEIGH SCHOOL
CRANMORE SCHOOL
DULWICH COLLEGE
EPSOM COLLEGE
EWELL CASTLE SCHOOL
HAMPTON SCHOOL
HARROW SCHOOL
HOLYPORT COLLEGE
KING’S COLLEGE SCHOOL
RADLEY COLLEGE
REED’S SCHOOL
RGS, GUILDFORD
RUGBY SCHOOL
SHERBORNE SCHOOL
ST JAMES BOYS’ SCHOOL
ST JOHN’S SCHOOL
TONBRIDGE SCHOOL
TRINITY SCHOOL
WELLINGTON COLLEGE
WHITGIFT SCHOOL
WINCHESTER COLLEGE
SCHOOL
SHERBORNE SCHOOL
Weymouth
Bournemouth
CANFORD
Coventry
Rugby
RUGBY SCHOOL
Northampton
Milton
Keynes
MAGDALEN COLLEGE
RADLEY COLLEGE
KINGSTON GRAMMAR
HAMPTON SCHOOL
ST JAMES BOYS’ SCHOOL HOLYPORT COLLEGE
BRADFIELD COLLEGE
WELLINGTON COLLEGE
ETON COLLEGE
CLAREMONT SCHOOL
RGS, GUILDFORD CHARTERHOUSE SCHOOL
Southampton
HALLIFORD SCHOOL
HARROW SCHOOL
Wembley
ST PAUL’S SCHOOL
KING’S COLLEGE SCHOOL
WESTMINSTER SCHOOL
DULWICH COLLEGE
TRINITY SCHOOL
REED’S SCHOOL WHITGIFT SCHOOL
EPSOM COLLEGE
EWELL CASTLE SCHOOL
TONBRIDGE SCHOOL
KENT COLLEGE
CRANLEIGH SCHOOL
CRANMORE SCHOOL
WINCHESTER COLLEGE
LANCING COLLEGE
Worthing
CITY OF LONDON FREEMEN’S SCHOOL
BOX HILL SCHOOL
ST JOHN’S SCHOOL
HURST
EASTBOURNE COLLEGE
BRIGHTON COLLEGE
Map showing many of the schools our boys receive offers from. More detailed information can be found here:
