ISSUE 5 MICHAELMAS 2025
the
Three Arches Withamians’ Newsletter
Welcome from the Headmaster You may have read all sorts of alarming stories in the national media about the challenges facing independent schools since the introduction of VAT on school fees last January. I am pleased to report that Witham is weathering the storm remarkably well. Our pupil numbers remain healthy, and interest from prospective families is extremely strong. We do not take this position for granted; all the staff here are working tirelessly to ensure Witham remains the very best prep school in the Midlands — and beyond. We are proud to remain independent: a stand-alone prep school able to offer genuinely unbiased advice to our families and to make decisions that directly benefit our pupils, rather than being guided by a distant senior school board. A personal highlight of my week comes at three o’clock every
Thursday afternoon, when I read a story to our youngest pupils in Reception. It never fails to put a smile on my face and brighten even the bleakest of days. It is a joy to work in such beautiful surroundings and alongside such brilliant children and staff. Witham is a very special school, and it is a privilege to be at its helm. Times are undoubtedly turbulent for the sector as a whole, but Witham remains an oasis of joy, learning and opportunity — and a community of which we can all be immensely proud. I wish you all a very Happy Christmas.
William Austen Headmaster
Save the Date Witham Hall School Charity Easter Egg Hunt. Saturday 21st March 2026 Our Witham Hall Charity Easter Egg Hunt returns again this coming spring. It will take place on Saturday, 21st March from 10-12pm. This event is open to the public and proceeds will support The Willoughby Foundation. For enquiries, please email community@withamhall.com.