Every parent knows that choosing a school for their child is one of the

most important decisions they will ever make – consequently, it can

also be among the most daunting. In our indispensable guide, leading

local schools reveal why they deserve to be top of the class

E D U C AT I O N SO

S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 4 239

When you’re looking for the right school,

there is so much more to consider than

just the league table results. Of course, a

high standard of academic achievement

and expectation is essential, as the

grades your child earns at school could

set the scene for their future career.

However, school life is a full and varied

experience with so much to offer in terms

of your child’s social, emotional and

physical development that the whole

ethos of the establishment

must be taken into

account.

Impressive sports and

educational facilities will

play a part, as will the range of leisure

and extracurricular activities on offer. The

school’s approach to learning, discipline

and pastoral care is also important, as

fi nding the ‘right fi t’ for your child could

have a far-reaching infl uence on their

academic, social and ultimately,

professional life.

In the following pages, top schools from

across the area talk about the ways in

which they’re helping to shape the next

generation. We meet the head teachers,

parents and students to fi nd out what’s

special about their school and why you

should consider entrusting your child’s

precious school days to their care.

SO TW_SEPTEMBER14_Education_Intro/Cover.indd 2 22/08/2014 16:19

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Bethany Nurturing Enlightenment

Since 1866

Every as potential. Not every school realises it. Upcoming Open Days: 2 __ c L 9 10am-1pm

1 October 20 9am-11.30am 7 February ""'1l 10am-1pm 28 April 20 r 9am-11.30am

"'- ! ,."' 01580 211273 or registrar@bethanyschool.org.uk www.bethanyschool.org.uk Goudhurst, Kent. TN171LB

S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 4 241

E D U C AT I O N SO

TYPE: Independent Prep School

COST PER TERM (DAY): £2,700-3,600

WEB: www.bricklehurst.co.uk

TEL: 01580 200 448

HEAD: Mrs Christine Flowers

STUDENT: Olivia Johnson (age 9)

WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE SUBJECT?

History; I have loved learning about the Battle of

Hastings and the Egyptians. We were lucky enough

to visit Battle Abbey, where we re-enacted the battle

wearing our helmets and using our swords and

shields that we had made in class. This year we also

completed our first project – it was all about the

Ancient Egyptians and the River Nile. We did lots of

research in class and for our homework.

TELL US ABOUT THE AFTERSCHOOL ACTIVITIES

AVAILABLE

We have lots to choose from. We can do Dance,

Gymnastics, Hockey, Netball, Rounders, Football,

Rugby, Athletics, Tennis, Art classes, Board Games

and Swimming. This summer I joined the Cricket Club

for the first time and loved it.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE MOST ABOUT YOUR SCHOOL?

I love the teachers. Although we work very hard,

they all make the lessons lots of fun, which helps us

to learn. Bricklehurst has the most beautiful garden

and I love playing in the orchard in the summer. It’s

a very friendly school and everyone looks after each

other. We are also very lucky to go on some amazing

school trips; we get to visit the museums in London,

castles and last year the whole school went to see

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. In Years 5 and 6

we have our residential trip and next year we will be

visiting the Isle of Wight.

WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO DO WHEN YOU LEAVE?

I would like to be a teacher when I grow up.

I love all the teachers at Bricklehurst and

would like to help other children to enjoy

going to school and learn like my teachers

have helped me.

Bricklehurst Manor SchoolB A R D O W N R O A D , S T O N E G A T E , W A D H U R S T , E A S T S U S S E X T N 5 7 E L

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-EASTBOURNE

COLLEGE

time to

{excel} {think} {create} {discover} {perform}

Visit our SIXTH FORM OPEN EVENING • Thursday ll September 2014 • 6.00pm - 8.00pm

For further information and to book on line

www.EastbourneCollegeSixthForm.co. uk The Birley Centre. Eastbourne College. Carlisle Road. Eastbourne, East Sussex BN21 4EF

T: 01323 452323 • E: admissions@eastboume-college.co.uk

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S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 4 245

TYPE: Boarding and Day School for Girls

COST PER TERM (DAY): £5,156 - £6526

COST PER TERM (BOARDING): £7,789 - £9,817

WEB: www.cobhamhall.com

PHONE: +44(0)1474 823371

HEAD: Mr P Mitchell BSc

PARENT: Dr K O’Neill-Byrne

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THIS SCHOOL FOR

YOUR CHILDREN?

Primarily because of the values and ethos of

worldwide school association Round Square

International, which permeate the school, and because

of the internationalism of the school community. The

values of Round Square resonate with our own family

values and we were clear from our first Open Day that

the school was in the business of building strong

global citizens who would make a positive contribution

to a world that sorely needs it.

DO YOU FEEL THEY ARE RECEIVING A

WELL-ROUNDED EXPERIENCE?

Absolutely. They are stretched in every way possible,

from the academic to the social and all points in

between, and we can actually see them developing

as a direct result of their experiences at and

through Cobham.

HOW HAVE AFTERSCHOOL ACTIVITIES HELPED

ENHANCE THEIR TIME THERE?

To a great extent. Our older daughter had not even

played netball before coming to Cobham Hall, yet

discovered an aptitude for it while here and this

allowed her to take part in a sports tour to South

Africa in Year 9. Our younger daughter has been able

to do all of the Skill and Physical areas for her Duke of

Edinburgh Bronze award through the afterschool

activities. Also, on a practical note, since I work

fulltime as a doctor in the NHS and my husband is a

nurse, it would be impossible for us to collect the girls

at 4.30pm, but because of the wide range of activities,

they more often than not have a reason to stay at

school anyway and we can pick them up afterwards.

AS A PARENT, WHAT DO YOU LIKE MOST ABOUT

THE SCHOOL?

Without a doubt it is the support shown by each and

every member of the school staff, both teaching and

non-teaching, to all the girls in their care. It’s going to

sound cheesy to say this, but I have witnessed

numerous times over the past six years the way in

which teachers seem to love the girls rather than

simply tolerate them. As parents, we could

never imagine the girls to be in a place where

they would be more understood and supported than

they are here. We feel able to say this, particularly as

the two daughters we currently have at Cobham Hall

are very different. One is highly socially-skilled, while

the other really struggles socially at times; yet the

school makes each of them feel that they are special

and valued and, as a result, our socially-constrained

daughter is growing steadily in confidence. Nothing is

ever too much trouble for the staff and they make

themselves accessible to parents instantly when asked

to do so. The academic support received is also

outstanding; teachers make themselves available in all

breaks to support girls and our older daughter got

results in her GCSEs far beyond what we had dared to

hope. Whatever is in a student upon entering Cobham

Hall will certainly be discovered and nurtured during

her years there.

COBHAM HALL SchoolC O B H A M H A L L , C O B H A M , K E N T D A 1 2 3 B L U K

E D U C AT I O N SO

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SO E D U C AT I O N

Positioned on the East Surrey and North

West Kent border near Sevenoaks, Combe

Bank School is the perfect environment for

children to achieve academic excellence whilst

developing their individual characters, abilities and

interests. Our incredibly talented teaching staff

are second to none and, coupled with small class

numbers, ensure our children have a carefully

tailored educational programme.

We are an independent prep and senior school

and take children from 3yrs to 18yrs. This is a very

exciting time for our school as from September

2014 we will become co-educational, introducing

boys into Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 and our

sixth form. From September 2015 boys will be

introduced into Year 7 of the senior school. We are

also introducing wraparound care in the prep

school from September 2014, so families can

take advantage of our extended opening hours

where children will be supervised from 7am to

7pm fi ve days a week.

Both our Prep and Senior schools are housed in

elegant and stunning Grade I and Grade II listed

buildings, with 26 acres of beautiful grounds and a

state-of-the-art Sports Centre.

At Combe Bank School we are committed

to providing:

■ Academic excellence supported

by excellent teaching

■ Small classes and personal attention

■ Outstanding pastoral care

■ Values based on Christian principles

and respect for others

■ First-class facilities in a superb setting,

including outstanding sporting facilities

We offer a wide variety of extracurricular activities

throughout the week and regularly get involved

with outside professionals coming into school to

teach and inspire our pupils. For example, this year

a team of artists from the Royal Academy of Art

joined us for a day to engage our own talented

artists and those in other schools. Our distinguished

community choral society became a Gospel Choir

for the summer season. The well-known singer,

conductor and instrumentalist Ken Burton (a panel

judge of BBC 2’s Sing While You Work) led all the

rehearsals, which culminated in a major

performance at the Stag Theatre in June this year.

246 S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 4

“ACHIEVEMENT BEYOND EXPECTATION”Combe Bank School in Sevenoaks becomes co-educational from September 2014. Excellent Exam results in 2014. With 100% passing at A Level and 97% GCSE success with 5 or more A*-C grades.

SO TW_SEPTEMBER14_Education_CombeBank.indd 2 22/08/2014 11:01

E D U C AT I O N SO

S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 4 247

KEY DATES

For further details on any of

the listed events please

contact our Registrar on

01959 567 166 or email

registrar@combebank.co.uk

AUTUMN OPEN MORNINGS

Saturday October 11 2014

10am – 12 noon

Tuesday October 14 2014

10am – 12 noon

SIXTH FORM OPEN

EVENING

November 6 2014 – 7pm

11+ ENTRANCE EXAM

November 11 2014

13+ ENTRANCE EXAM

December 4 2014

SIXTH FORM

SCHOLARSHIP EXAM

December 4 2014

11+ SCHOLARSHIPS

Art – November 24 2014

Music – November 25 2014

Sport – November 26 2014

ACADEMIC SCHOLARSHIP

Interviews

November 28 2014

Please contact our Registrar,

Francesca Wade, for further

details about admissions at

registrar@combebank.co.uk

Combe Bank School

Sevenoaks Kent

TN14 6AE

01959 567 166

www.combebank.co.uk

enquiries@combebank.co.uk

Jane Abbotts, Headmistress commented: “There are very few independent schools offering

tailored teaching, outstanding sporting facilities and extensive extracurricular

programmes that can match Combe Bank. Now we are becoming co-educational in

September, it is no wonder we have never been so busy recruiting new pupils!”

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rcgistrar({V,dcpskcnt.org 01580 712179 wvvw. dcpskent. org

couJb l H ORN 1 C R.\ NBROOK 1 K1 N r I T I\ 17 3N P

S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 4 249

TYPE: Day and Flexible Boarding Preparatory School

for Boys and Girls aged 3-13

COST PER TERM (DAY): £3,325 (Reception)/£5,165

(Upper School)

COST PER TERM (BOARDING): £40.75 per night

WEB: www.dcpskent.org

TWITTER: @DPS_Cranbrook

TEL: 01580 712 179

HEAD: Mr Paul David

TELL US ABOUT THE HISTORY AND ETHOS OF THE SCHOOL

Evacuated from London to Cranbrook in 1939, the

school is one of two preparatory schools administered

as a charitable trust by a Board of Governors, the

other being Dulwich College Preparatory School in

London. Now in our 75th anniversary year, we are

celebrating all that has been achieved since those

humble early days in the orchards of Cranbrook at the

outbreak of World War Two. Throughout the school

there is a twofold purpose: to enable the children to

learn as much as possible according to their individual

abilities, and to be happy and confident in an

environment of learning.

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE MOST NOTABLE FEATURES?

Our school is set in 50 acres of countryside in the heart

of the Weald of Kent, surrounded by farmland. We offer

nursery, pre-prep and preparatory education for

children from the ages of three to 13. The school is

divided into three sections – Nash House, Little Stream

and Upper School – which work together to make a

stronger, more vibrant whole. Four brand new light,

bright classrooms have been rebuilt for Nash House

(Early Years), featuring outdoor learning areas under a

retractable canopy. Sports facilities include a fully

equipped Sports Hall, AstroTurf, two swimming pools,

tennis courts and a 400m athletics track. Children in

Years 7 and 8 are all issued with an iPad, which is a great

tool for both independent and group study, and for

collaboration between children and staff. The school

offers a broad programme of Outdoor Education, from

innovative forest school activities to overnight camps

and a challenging five-day trip to Snowdonia in Year 8.

FROM WHAT SORT OF CATCHMENT AREA DO YOU

ATTRACT PUPILS?

The majority of children live in Cranbrook and the

surrounding villages. Morning minibuses draw children

from Tunbridge Wells, Ashford and Maidstone areas.

The option of part-boarding is highly popular and adds

flexibility for parents.

HOW MUCH OPPORTUNITY IS THERE FOR PARENTS TO

GET INVOLVED IN SCHOOL LIFE?

We are lucky at Dulwich to have a fantastically

supportive parent body called ‘The Friends’. They do

an enormous amount to benefit the pupils by running

whole school events such as Christmas Fairs and

Summer Festivals. Last term they organised a Grand

75th Anniversary Ball with over 400 guests, which was

a wonderful launch to our anniversary year. There is a

real feeling of community within the school as a result

of their involvement. Parents in Nash House and Little

Stream are invited regularly to craft days, outings and

assemblies and Form showings give the children a

chance to show parents what they have been learning.

WHAT ABOUT EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES?

There is a vast array of clubs and activities for all

ages, both at lunchtime and after school. There are

music groups for all levels, including a school

orchestra, jazz band, choirs and recorder groups. Arts

Week in the Autumn Term will culminate in a 75th

Anniversary Gala Concert with songs, poetry and

music performed by the children at the Assembly Hall

in Tunbridge Wells. Drama Club is very popular and

each year group produces a play or revue. Sports

Clubs cater for all levels and ages in most of the major

sports; Triathlon Club is proving particularly popular in

Upper School. Art, Sewing, Gardening, Cookery,

Newspaper and Eco Clubs are some of the other

options on offer.

GIVE US A FEW WORDS THAT BEST SUM UP THE SCHOOL

Space to breathe, time to grow.

Dulwich Preparatory SchoolC O U R S E H O R N , C R A N B R O O K , K E N T T N 1 7 3 N P

E D U C AT I O N SO

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Independent education for girls and boys aged 3 - 18 • Boarding available from I I

Exceptional academic results from broad-ability intake • First-rate ISI inspection report in 20 I 3

Small classes • Award-winning music • Fantastic range of extra-curricular activities

Preparatory School listed in The Sunday Times Top I 00 Prep Schools • Extensive sports facilities

Academic, Music, Sports and All-rounder scholarships available at I I I 13/ 16

Organ scholarships offered at 13/ 16 and Chorister scholarships at age 8

S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 4 251

TYPE: Independent School for boys

and girls aged 3 – 18

COST PER TERM (DAY): Pre Preparatory £3020,

Preparatory £3875 (Forms L1/1) £4400 (Forms

2/3/4), Senior £5680

COST PER TERM (BOARDING): Preparatory £6425

(Forms 3/4). Senior £9225

WEB: www.kings-rochester.co.uk

PHONE: 01634 888 555

HEAD: Mr Jeremy Walker

STUDENT: Charlie Medhurst

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE SUBJECT?

I am currently studying A-Levels in English, Geography,

History and RS, but Geography is probably my favorite

subject. Last year I took part in a World Challenge

expedition to Ladakh in Northern India and it was

unbelievable to trek in the Himalayas. I enjoyed

studying the physical geography of the area, but

Geography is unique in providing an insight into how

society, the economy and environment combine to

bring about change and this is vital in a complex and

rapidly changing world.

TELL US ABOUT THE AFTERSCHOOL ACTIVITIES

ON OFFER

The options available are many and varied. I have been

involved in Drama since the Pre-Preparatory School,

when I was picked to play the Emperor in The

Emperor’s New Clothes (fortunately I did not have to

perform naked) and I have enjoyed General Knowledge

and Debating. Sporting clubs have always been

popular. I have represented the school first team at

Cricket, Hockey and Rugby and I have just returned

from an Old Boys cricket tour to Yorkshire. Chess, Choir

and Orchestra are popular activities, while many enjoy

the opportunities available in the CCF (Combined Cadet

Force). School does not end at 4.10pm; there are always

things available to be doing.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE MOST ABOUT YOUR SCHOOL?

It isn’t just for your 14 years of education and its focus

isn’t just grades. You will be nurtured and developed

even after you have left. Its age and eye to tradition

teaches you how to be part of something bigger and

how to look beyond yourself. For this reason, I

particularly enjoy chapel in Rochester Cathedral.

WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO DO WHEN YOU LEAVE?

University applications are the current focus, but first

of all I would like to take a gap year to Australia and

parts of South East Asia. I enjoy travelling and this is

partly down to the opportunities given at school.

School trips to Barbados, Germany, Iceland, India, Italy

and Russia have encouraged my desire to see more of

the world, and then it will be back to another three

years in education, hopefully studying Geography.

King’s RochesterS A T I S H O U S E , B O L E Y H I L L , R O C H E S T E R , K E N T M E 1 1 T E

E D U C AT I O N SO

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SO E D U C AT I O N

252 S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 4

TYPE: Independent Day and Boarding for Girls 3-18

COST PER TERM (DAY): £5,975

COST PER TERM (BOARDING): £9,633

WEB: www.kent-college.co.uk

TEL: 01892 822 006

HEAD: Mrs Sally-Anne Huang

TELL US ABOUT THE BACKGROUND OF YOUR SCHOOL

AND HOW YOU FIRST GOT INVOLVED

I applied for the headship of KC back in 2007 because

it was committed to boarding and to girls’ education

– which were my two main drivers. Since then I’ve

come to realise that it’s also the Methodist ethos of

the school that suits me. We are relaxed and happy to

let people be themselves (including the head), but we

also want to produce young adults with a sense of

responsibility and the ambition to lead purposeful

lives. I’m immensely proud of that combination.

WHAT HAVE BEEN SOME OF THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES

YOU’VE FACED?

Most heads know that the challenges people see –

pupil discipline, results – are nothing in comparison to

the behind the scenes issues people don’t see.

Confidential, personal issues with both staff and pupils

are the painful times when you have to be strongest.

However, accompanying a group of sixth formers to

our sister school in Nepal and camping in a paddy field

with no running water or toilets was a very positive

challenge. That definitely broke down any barriers

between head and pupils!

HOW DO YOU MANAGE PARENTS’ EXPECTATIONS?

This is all about relationships. If you can take the

time to get to know pupils and their families well –

and give them the time to know you personally

– then it’s easy to understand their perspective

and to have useful conversations, based on trust,

when there are challenges. Although there is the

stereotype of fee-paying parents wanting straight

A*s and Oxbridge because they have ‘bought’ it,

my own experience is that most parents just want

you to know their child and to be honest with them

at all times. That’s fair enough.

Kent College PemburyO L D C H U R C H R O A D , P E M B U R Y , T U N B R I D G E W E L L S , K E N T T N 2 4 A X

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S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 4 253

E D U C AT I O N SO

TYPE: Independent, co-educational

prep school for ages 2¾ - 13+,

day and flexi-boarding

COST PER TERM (DAY): £2,450 – £5,070

WEB: www.marlboroughhouseschool.co.uk

TEL: 01580 753 555

HEAD: Mr Martyn Ward

ABOUT THE SCHOOL

Marlborough House School is set in 34 acres of grounds

with extensive sports pitches, orchard, ponds and

woodland. The school boasts superb sports facilities

including an astroturf pitch, indoor sports hall, netball

and tennis courts, shooting range, outdoor swimming

pool and dance hall. The newly extended and refurbished

Pre-Prep was opened last year.

Happy, confident children are keen to learn, to push

themselves and to achieve more. That is our belief at

Marlborough House and one which we know is shared by

parents. It is our job not only to help your child to achieve

academically but also to become a well-rounded,

enthusiastic and self-confident individual.

Academic achievement is, of course, at

the heart of our work and year on year Marlborough

House children have been hugely successful in securing

places at leading senior schools. Our pupils leave with

lasting friendships, happy memories and more

importantly, a love of life and learning.

MARTYN WARD, HEADMASTER

“There is no getting away from the fact that educating

children in the private sector is a significant financial

commitment for many. And yet against the backdrop of the

deepest, longest recession for a hundred years, the sector

has remained largely buoyant. There are flickering signs of

life but the economic conditions out there are very tough.

Parents who have chosen to educate their children

privately don’t need me to remind them of the sacrifices

that many of them make in order to fund this. So, the

question then is, why do parents make these sacrifices?

“The answer, I believe, is that private education is the

best investment you can ever make; it is something that will

pay dividends to your children throughout their lives. In

educating your child at a private school you are providing

them with opportunities and experiences that are

significantly better than ‘good enough’. Excellent results

should be taken as read, but it is the round development of

the child that is so important: personal happiness,

wellbeing, the confidence to face the challenges of the

future as responsible, confident, compassionate leaders are

paramount in a child’s education.

“Schools like us make substantial investments to offer

facilities and surroundings that enthuse and stimulate

our children, but what you really pay for in an

independent school is the people. At Marlborough House

that means employing and developing the very best

teachers and then giving them the freedom to take on a

bit more, to inspire, to excite, to challenge,

to create a bit of magic.

“Given the sacrifices that so many parents make, they

are right to expect all of these things from an

independent education. Parents are right to expect

value for money. ‘Good enough’ for your children should

not be good enough.

I would like to invite you to come and see for yourself

what Marlborough House can offer your child.”

Marlborough House School H I G H S T R E E T , H A W K H U R S T , K E N T T N 1 8 4 P Y

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RosE HILL ScHooL ROYAL TUNBRIDGE WELLS

Independent Co-education from 3-13

Coniston Avenue, Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN4 9SY Telephone: 01892 525591

Email: admissions@rosehillschool co.uk wwwrosc.-hillschool.co.uk ® ,.

S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 4 255

TYPE: Independent prep school

COST PER TERM (DAY): £1,820-£4,275

COST PER TERM (BOARDING): N/A

WEB: www.rosehillschool.co.uk

TEL: 01892 525 591

HEAD: David Westcombe

WHAT’S YOUR APPROACH TO EDUCATION?

I believe it is the children’s personal development,

through the sporting, creative, social and spiritual

opportunities Rose Hill provides, which underpins their

academic success and enables them to move

successfully and happily through their secondary

education and beyond.

TALK US THROUGH THE NOTABLE FACILITIES?

Last year we opened a new £2.1m teaching facility,

including a 95sq m science laboratory, six teaching

classrooms, two ICT suites, a learning skills suite and a

medical room for the school nurse. We also have a

fantastic creative arts centre including a 220 seat

theatre, an astroturf and a sports hall in 18 acres of

land in the heart of Tunbridge Wells.

WHY MIGHT A PARENT CHOOSE YOUR SCHOOL OVER

ANOTHER?

Rose Hill is friendly and open and relatively small with

just over 300 pupils across the Pre-Prep and Prep

departments. Its size allows each child to be known

and valued.

WHAT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF AT YOUR SCHOOL?

In December 2013 Rose Hill was awarded ‘excellent in all

areas’ by the ISI (Independent Schools Inspectorate).

Inspectors commented that ‘parents expressed their

overwhelming satisfaction with the education and care

the school provides for their children’

We are thrilled with the results as an excellent grading

across the board is extremely hard to achieve and is a

tribute to the hard work of the staff and pupils and the

strong support of parents. I am very proud of the

school. The staff and pupils all work incredibly hard to

make it a happy place to learn and develop.

Rose Hill School

C O N I S T O N A V E N U E , T U N B R I D G E W E L L S , K E N T , T N 4 9 S Y

E D U C AT I O N SO

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-

An independent day school for boys and girls aged 2-13

For more information, please contact Clare Harrison: admissions@theprep.org.uk

01732 762336 www.theprep.org.uk

Call us on 0 1323 733203 or email admissions@standrewsprep.co.uk

www.VisitStAndrewsPrep.co.uk

SEVENOAKS PREPARATORY SCHOOL

S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 4 257

E D U C AT I O N SO

TYPE: Preparatory School

COST PER TERM (DAY): From £1,437 (Fulltime

Kindergarten including EYEE) to £4,000 (Years 7 & 8)

WEB: www.skippershill.com

TEL: 01825 830 234

HEAD: Mr Tim Lewis

STUDENT: Verity Mack (age 12)

WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE SUBJECT?

Biology because I find it very interesting being able to

know how living things work. I also enjoy English

because it’s fun and I love writing, as well as Drama

and Sport, especially hockey.

TELL US ABOUT THE AFTERSCHOOL ACTIVITIES

There’s a widespread selection of options available in

both winter and summer. The afterschool activities I’m

involved in are Gym, Athletics, Cricket and French

conversation. I would love to do more, but I don’t have

enough time!

WHAT DO YOU LIKE MOST ABOUT YOUR SCHOOL?

The friendliness between the pupils and teachers is

amazing and the spirit of the school, which is about

graciousness, kindness and trying your best at

everything.

WHEN YOU LEAVE, WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO DO?

I would like to be a psychiatrist because I think it

would be interesting to help people get through their

problems and to understand how their brains work.

Skippers Hill ManorF I V E A S H E S , M A Y F I E L D , E A S T S U S S E X T N 2 0 6 H R

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Educating mind, body, heart & soul

'Excellent Academic Achievement'

'Excellent Pastoral Care'

'Excellent spiritual, moral, social and cultural

development'

Inspectorate Report 2012

_....__ __ ;_

S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 4 259

TYPE: Catholic Independent Boarding

and Day School for girls aged 11-18

COST PER TERM (DAY): £6,250

COST PER TERM (BOARDING): £10,000

WEB: www.mayfieldgirls.org

TEL: 01435 874 600

HEAD: Miss Antonia Beary MA MPhil

PGCE (Cantab)

TELL US ABOUT THE BACKGROUND OF YOUR SCHOOL

AND HOW YOU FIRST GOT INVOLVED

A visionary American, the venerable Cornelia Connelly,

founded St Leonards-Mayfield 150 years ago. Mayfield

is now one of Britain’s leading Catholic girls’ schools. I

became Headmistress in 2008.

HOW ABOUT THE ETHOS BEHIND YOUR APPROACH

AS HEAD?

I am passionate about girls’ education. I want our girls

to challenge the boundaries of what a ‘successful’

woman can achieve. At Mayfield we accept each girl

for who she is. While we will stretch her academically

to attain the best exam results, we also want to give

her the time, space, spiritual and emotional support

she needs to flourish. Most importantly, we nurture

creativity – not just in art, but in every subject.

We aim to inspire a love of learning, a sense

of perspective and an independence of

mind. Our most popular A Level subjects

are Maths and Chemistry and many of

our girls go on to study sciences and

engineering at university.

WHAT HAVE BEEN SOME OF THE BIGGEST

CHALLENGES YOU’VE FACED?

People often have preconceived and erroneous ideas

about single sex girls’ schools and convent schools in

particular. While our values may be traditional, they

are also forward looking. We are educating young

women to make a difference – they can’t do that if we

wrap them in cotton wool. Girls and boys learn in

different ways and one size does not fit all. While co-ed

schools can work for some, many girls are more

successful personally and academically in a single

sex environment. It is also our responsibility to ensure

that the education we provide is excellent value for

money. Any surplus is reinvested into school facilities

and teaching resources.

HAVE YOU NOTICED CHANGES IN THE CLASSROOM

OVER THE YEARS?

The pressure on students, especially girls, to be

brilliant at everything is almost intolerable nowadays.

If a girl is capable of straight A*s then we will make

sure she achieves this. On the other hand, not

everyone’s talents are academic and there is more to

life than just passing exams. A good education

provides a wide variety of opportunities, both inside

and outside the classroom.

HOW DO YOU MANAGE PARENTS’ EXPECTATIONS?

Parents naturally want the best teaching, facilities and

resources for their daughters and we take pride in

providing them. One of our particular strengths is our

‘Value Added’ – helping girls who have traditionally

underperformed to fulfil their potential and surpass their

expectations. While our exam results are excellent, we are

careful to avoid the pitfalls of academic hot-housing. We

place great emphasis on nurturing well-rounded young

women who can handle pressure and have a balanced

and robust approach to life.

WHAT IS YOUR VIEW ON PASTORAL CARE?

Pastoral care is at the heart of everything we do. We have

an extensive support network including our lay chaplain,

housemistresses and health centre, not forgetting the

kitchen staff – food is very important at Mayfield! The

girls are immensely supportive of each other and there is

a real sense of community. As a school founded on strong

Catholic principles, we place great importance on spiritual

and emotional development. Community service is

fundamental. Approximately one fifth of our students

come from overseas, giving the girls an opportunity to

live and work with friends from a variety of different

cultures – an ideal preparation for taking up future roles

on a global stage.

St Leonards-MayfieldT H E O L D P A L A C E , M A Y F I E L D , E A S T S U S S E X T N 2 0 6 P H

E D U C AT I O N SO

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S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 4 261

COST PER TERM (DAY): £4,925-6,435

COST PER TERM (BOARDING):

Flexible boarding available from three

nights per week to full.

Three nights: £1,630-1,820 in addition

to day fees

WEB: www.svs.org.uk

TEL: 01622 845 200

HEAD: Bruce Grindlay

PARENT: Mrs Grabowska

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE SUTTON VALENCE

SCHOOL FOR YOUR CHILDREN?

Unlike many other schools we

considered, SVS seemed to adapt to

its students (rather than adapting its

students to the school) to build their

confidence and unlock their latent

academic and broader life skills.

Whatever their performance at 11,

whether in Maths or on the rugby

pitch, the evident ethos was to help

them deliver their potential. From the

Headmaster to the student who

showed us around, all those we met

reinforced this impression. Our one

hesitation was the distance from Tunbridge Wells.

We could have taken advantage of the school’s

flexible boarding arrangements. If they had stayed

for three nights or more, the children would have

had their own room, been able to take advantage of

supervised prep and had full use of the school’s

facilities in the evenings. However, for us, the

journey (lift to Paddock Wood, train and then SVS

bus from Headcorn) works very well. This takes

45 minutes.

DO YOU FEEL THEY ARE RECEIVING A WELL-ROUNDED

EXPERIENCE?

Absolutely. As well as the academic education –

which delivers excellent results across a full

spectrum of abilities – there is every opportunity and

encouragement for the students to become involved

in a very dynamic and wide-ranging co-curricular

line-up. The culture of participation is instilled from

day one and each student is encouraged to find his

or her niche. The pastoral approach has also been

very effective in working both with the students and

with us as parents.

HOW HAVE AFTERSCHOOL ACTIVITIES HELPED ENHANCE

THEIR TIME THERE?

The array of opportunities has been impressive and

has included a wide variety of Music groups (from

chamber choir to brass band), Drama events (from

Macbeth to We Will Rock You), Sports (from rugby to

archery), Debating, an energetic Combined Cadet

Force, a programme of outside speakers, the Duke of

Edinburgh awards and caring for the elderly at a local

home. These have provided valuable experiences of

leadership, self-challenge, working in teams, inspiring

and caring for others and much more.

AS A PARENT, WHAT DO YOU LIKE MOST ABOUT

THE SCHOOL?

In the end, it is the whole package: a sense that the

school understands our children as individuals and, as

an institution, has the necessary financial strength,

cultural values and, most importantly, a coherent and

effective leadership, dedicated teaching staff of a very

high standard and strong governance support to foster

our children’s development into self-confident adults

who can achieve their best in life.

SUTTON VALENCE SCHOOLN O R T H S T R E E T , S U T T O N V A L E N C E , M A I D S T O N E , K E N T M E 1 7 3 H L

E D U C AT I O N SO

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SO F E AT U R E

262 S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 4

TYPE: Co-educational day and boarding school for

girls and boys aged 3 to 18 years

COST PER TERM (DAY): £2289 - £6018

COST PER TERM (BOARDING): £5966 - £9365

WEB: www.stedmunds.org.uk

EMAIL: admissions@stedmunds.org.uk

TEL: 01227 475 601

HEAD: Mrs Louise Moelwyn-Hughes

St Edmund’s School Canterbury understands and

upholds the values of both stability and change.

The Head, Louise Moelwyn-Hughes, explains: “The

school’s core values remain constant in that at the

heart of all that we do remains a tradition of academic

excellence, a respect for the individual, a belief in

meritocracy and a commitment to ensuring that our

young men and women leave St Edmund’s not only

with the exam grades they will require for university

and employment, but with the interpersonal skills and

qualities they will need to lead happy, fulfilling and

successful lives.

Government statisticians increasingly know the price

– or at least the UCAS tariff score – of every

conceivable qualification, but they do not always

recognise the value of a high quality, all round

education.

“At St Edmund’s, we are confident that pupils have

been well taught to excel in GCSE and A level, but we

are equally sure that important benefits of a St

Edmund’s education are the intangibles, the values

and inner strengths, that underpin adult life.

“In many ways, St Edmund’s, although

true to its traditional roots, is a changing school, with

the recent upgrading of classroom, boarding and

House facilities,

and the creation of a new astro pitch, Medical Centre

and Sixth Form Centre very much enjoyed by our

pupils and staff. So too has the curriculum seen

change in the last two years with Arabic, economics,

Greek and government and politics being added to the

wide range of subjects on offer to our pupils.

“St Edmund’s welcomes new pupils and their families

to come along and experience our excellent classroom

teaching, our outstanding extracurricular provision

and our lively and vibrant charitable and service

programmes.”

St Edmund’s SchoolS T T H O M A S H I L L , C A N T E R B U R Y , K E N T C T 2 8 H U

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E D U C AT I O N SO

TYPE: Prep, Co-educational, Day

COST PER TERM (DAY): £3315 per term (Years 3 - 6),

£2990 per term (Reception, Years 1 & 2),

£1625 per term (Pre-Reception)

& £1300 per term (Kindergarten)

WEB: www.meadschool.info

EMAIL ADDRESS: office@themeadschool.co.uk

TEL: 01892 525 837

HEAD: Mrs Angela Culley

TELL US ABOUT THE BACKGROUND OF YOUR SCHOOL

AND HOW YOU FIRST GOT INVOLVED

The aim of The Mead was always to provide a first-class

education at a more affordable price. We started in 1987

under the current management and the passion for this

and the school’s ethos gets stronger each year. Our

recent inspection report with no fewer than 46

rankings of ‘Excellent’ was thrilling and completely

recognised our values.

HOW ABOUT THE ETHOS BEHIND YOUR APPROACH

AS HEAD?

Every child is unique and deserves to be treated as such.

A child who is happy and secure in school, where each

day is exciting and the curriculum is creative, stretching

and well planned, will become an independent, lifelong

learner and reach their potential, whatever that may be.

WHAT WAS YOUR MAIN INSPIRATION FOR

BECOMING A HEAD?

I did not enjoy my own prep school years and

certainly did not reach my potential until adulthood.

I am passionate that the children entrusted to The

Mead’s care have a totally different experience.

HAVE YOU NOTICED CHANGES IN THE CLASSROOM

OVER THE YEARS?

The curriculum is more creative, the days fuller, the

expectations and pressure enormous, but the

children are just as wonderful.

HAS THE EMERGENCE OF SOCIAL MEDIA CHANGED

THE WAY YOUR SCHOOL OPERATES?

Inevitably! Information is at the press of a key and

it is very easy to whistle off an email and expect an

immediate reply. There is little time for reflection

and thought, which can be a shame. Generally the

pace of life is much quicker and more transparent.

HOW DO YOU BALANCE RUNNING A SCHOOL AND

RUNNING A BUSINESS?

I have a wonderful business team and we work incredibly

closely together. They completely and totally appreciate

the machinations and values of a school.

WHAT DO YOU DO WHEN YOU’RE NOT WORKING?

I wonder how I find time to work! Spending time with

friends and family, being a besotted grandmother,

gardening, cycling, reading, swimming, knitting and

sewing and relaxing on the gorgeous island of Alderney!

HOW DO YOU MANAGE PARENTS’ EXPECTATIONS?

Through constant two-way communication, both

formal i.e. school policies, information and regular

reports, and non-formal i.e. one-to-one discussions,

meetings or email. We operate an open-door policy

and no question or worry is too small. Each child is

respected and treated as an individual.

WHAT IS YOUR APPROACH TO PASTORAL CARE?

To ensure every child feels cherished and that the

whole school community works and lives within the

ethos of The Mead.

The Mead School1 6 F R A N T R O A D , T U N B R I D G E W E L L S , K E N T T N 2 5 S N ( 2 0 0 M F R O M T H E P A N T I L E S )

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lt's not too late! • Not sure that you have made the right choice of course? • School sixth form is not for you? • Missed out on a university place?

We offer a wide range of courses at all levels; places are still available on some of these. Come along to our Information Evening to see if there is something to suit you.

Information Evening Wednesday 22nd October 4.30 - 7 .30pm

Brook Street Ton bridge TN92PW

westkentcollege

Kingstanding Way Tunbridge Wells TN2 3UP

@westkentcollege

0845 207 8220 I """"""·""estkent.ac.uk Part of the Hadlow Group

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266 S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 4

SO E D U C AT I O N

TYPE: Independent Catholic Boarding

and Day School for girls

COST PER TERM (DAY): £6,160-6,715

COST PER TERM (BOARDING): £9,850-10,725

WEB: www.woldinghamschool.co.uk

PHONE: 01883 654 206 (Registrar)

HEAD: Jayne Triffitt

STUDENTS: Tilly Morgan (age 12, Year 7)

and Holly Castle (age 14, Year 9)

WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE SUBJECT?

Tilly: I love learning in general and usually

get high marks and there are so many interesting

facts to learn in History. My teachers are all very

kind and approachable, helpful and supportive –

I wasn’t expecting such kindness when I started here.

Although I’m only about to go up to Year 8,

I’m also really excited to start Politics in Year 9.

Holly: I am passionate about Sport and I like

Science too. I have recently been accepted

as a county netball and hockey player for Surrey.

It’s helped my confidence levels, especially in English,

Maths and Science, which are all subjects I was

keen to improve on and I’ve become a lot more

focused in my studies.

TELL US ABOUT THE AFTERSCHOOL ACTIVITIES

AVAILABLE

Tilly: I enjoy all of the ones I do, but my favourite is

swimming and I love debating. I also like gym and

Saturday Active – which we do on Saturday mornings

and includes anything from trampolining and artistic

roller-skating to jewellery-making.

Holly: We are lucky to have so many extra-curricular

options to choose from. I think there are around 80

different activities and my favourites are sports – I

currently do nine activities. The good thing is that

there are new ones on offer most terms, so you can

stick with your preferred ones and still have the

chance to try something new.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE MOST ABOUT YOUR SCHOOL?

Tilly: I just love being at school and learning. I have

made really good friends, including older girls, which

has made me more confident and outgoing and it feels

like a huge family – there’s always someone to talk to. I

wasn’t sure what to expect, coming from a co-ed prep

school, but I do feel comfortable and happy in a single

sex environment. I think the best thing this year has

been the House Festival, when everyone in each House

had to dress up and sing and dance in the style of a

female icon we were given. I love that the Houses

encourage different age groups to mix. I am also

amazed by the grounds – they seemed so big when I

first arrived and we even have our own station, but I’ve

got used to it now.

Holly: I chose Woldingham to improve academically

and I really like the fact that I’ve had the opportunity

to become more independent and more focused. I live

locally but decided to board from Year 8, as I prefer

the routine of boarding and the study sessions – study

is really important to me. The bonding between

woldingham schoolM A R D E N P A R K , W O L D I N G H A M , S U R R E Y C R 3 7 L R

“I am passionate about Sport and I

like Science too. I have recently been

accepted as a county netball and

hockey player for Surrey”

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S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 4 267

E D U C AT I O N SO

“I have made really good friends,

including older girls, which has

made me more confident and

outgoing and it feels like

a huge family”

us all is that much stronger – we can have

deeper discussions about topical issues,

apprehensions, or air anything we want and

I enjoy breaking down stereotype ideas.

It all makes for a more relaxing relationship

and there’s always time to be yourself.

I like the integration we have here between

day girls and boarders and all our House

events and sports tours are with a mix of

year groups. I also like the varying styles

of teaching around the school – it’s helped

make me a more adaptive learner.

WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO DO WHEN YOU LEAVE?

Tilly: I’m not entirely sure, but probably something

to do with politics.

Holly: At the moment I’m thinking of Marine

Biology, but I’m still not sure.

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E D U C AT I O N SO

S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 4 269

Classroom days might seem like a distant memory, but it’s never too late to revisit your education. If you’ve been inspired by the many options on offer for young people today, why not take the plunge

and try that course you’ve always fancied? You certainly won’t be alone...

BACK TO SCHOOL

For some time now,

university has not

been the sole

preserve of college-

leavers – last year, around a

quarter of the UK’s

full-time undergraduate

students were aged over 21

and recent figures have

shown that more than

5,000 over-50s have taken

out student loans.

But if you don’t have the

time, funds or inclination to

take a full-time degree in an academic

subject, there are countless other ways to

indulge your interests, expand your

horizons and improve your skills. From

enhancing your employability to simply

having a bit of fun, there’s an adult

education programme to cater for just

about every interest and need. And if

you’ve got enduring memories of stern

teachers and disruptive fellow students,

be prepared for a pleasant surprise

– with adult education, everyone is

there because they want to be and

are eager to learn!

For those looking to take vocational

qualifications or embark on an

undergraduate or postgraduate degree,

or any other kind of higher education,

many local campuses offer part-time

options – these will take longer than the

full-time programme, but often provide

classes in the evenings, at weekends or

one day per week, making it easier for

working people to fit study

into their schedule. There are

also numerous distance

learning institutions, including

Open University, which offer

the chance to study at home

in your own time and submit

work via post, email or the

internet, often with the aid of

residential elements or

regular meet-ups for students

and tutors.

If you’re not looking for

higher education but would

like to improve upon, or resume, subjects

you studied at school, there are also

opportunities to take GCSEs in a variety

of subjects or simply improve core skills

such as English and maths.

Got a holiday coming up or fancy

moving abroad? Language courses are a

really enjoyable way to pick up a useful

new skill and gain an insight into other

cultures, all in the company of like-

minded adults.

Even if you’re not looking to gain a

qualification, you can still get a great

sense of satisfaction from taking courses

simply for fun. Joining an evening class is

a fantastic way to meet new people

and brighten up those winter nights.

Plus, having new skills can create

fresh opportunities and increase

self-confidence.

Indulge your creative side by taking

an art course – local colleges offer

everything from the study of art history

and antiques, to painting, drawing,

sculpture and photography. Crafts are

big news too, with courses on offer

in baking, silversmithing, embroidery,

floristry, woodwork, pottery and

much more.

Why not warm yourself up this

winter with a health or fitness course? You

can boogie on down with Zumba or tone up

in a more sedate fashion with yoga –

alternatively, why not train to be a fitness

instructor, or give yourself peace of mind

with self defence lessons?

You could master the many arts of

computing, pick up some beauty tips, reach

out with sign language, learn the vital skill of

first aid, get a buzz from bee keeping, push

yourself forward with assertiveness classes or

open up a whole new world by learning coastal

navigation – the possibilities are endless.

SO TW_SEPTEMBER14_Education_Adult Education.indd 2 21/08/2014 17:04

SO F E AT U R E

2 M A R C H 2 0 1 4

As term time begins for another school year, we turn our attention to the many benefi ts of buying a property near a local school. Whether it’s the convenience, security or facilities that catch your eye, there are plenty of reasons to snap up that dream home with your child’s education in mind

SCHOOL’S IN FOR HOMEBUYERS

270 S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 4

SO P R O P E R T Y

ST JAMES’ ROAD, TUNBRIDGE WELLS• Guide Price: £1.495million

• A beautifully refurbished Victorian town house close to the town centre

• 3 reception rooms, 7 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, gardens with terrace,

garage, off-road parking• Ideally located for St James’ Primary School

HAWKHURST • Guide Price: £1.395million

• Occupying a delightful setting on the edge of Hawkhurst

• 3 reception rooms, 6 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, attractive gardens

and grounds, outbuildings, swimming pool• Ideally located for Cranbrook School

ARUNDEL ROAD, TUNBRIDGE WELLS

• Guide Price: £749,950• Substantial detached Victorian

townhouse in the heart of the ‘Village’ area• 2 reception rooms, 5 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, courtyard garden

• Ideally located forClaremont Primary School

A s the old one-liner goes, the three most important things to look for when buying a home are location, location

and location. When deciding where you’d like

to put down your roots, you investigate many

aspects of the community you’ve set your

sights on. Buyers check into a neighborhood’s

quality of life, demographic, convenience of the

commute and availability of shopping.

Buyers gravitate towards a home with a

view, a house on a quiet street or a place close

to nature. Most buyers avoid a home on a

busy street, near railroad tracks, in view of a

cemetery or close to the town’s commercial

district. What about buying a house near a

school? Is it an advantage or a disadvantage?

It all depends on your viewpoint.

As with most areas of life, there are two ways

to look at the situation. Deciding whether to

buy a home in proximity to a school will depend

on you and your position in life. Your age,

family status, personal preferences and noise

tolerance levels will all play a part in forming

your conclusion.

BUYERS WITH CHILDRENBuyers with school-age children will likely

view living in close proximity to a school as a

positive. There are some towns with excellent

school systems that actually charge a premium

for homes in the vicinity of the school. It is

super convenient to have your child attend a

school that’s a stone’s throw away from your

front door; no carpools, frantic calls about

forgotten lunches or searching for parking for

PTA meetings. However, keep in mind that your

kids will grow up eventually. Before you know

it, you will still be living next to a school, but

now it will be someone else’s kids who attend.

ADVANTAGES TO LIVING NEAR A SCHOOLEven after your kids move on, there still may

be some plus points to living alongside a

school. School zones are generally considered

safer locations as they are closely monitored

by the police. Residents have easy access to

school facilities, such as track and fi elds and

sometimes even the school library. Remember

that school is only in session for roughly half

the days of the year, so the disruption to your

life may be minimised, especially if you are at

work during school hours. Another potential

benefi t is the employment opportunities

the school presents, particularly if you are

interested in babysitting or childcare.

tunwells@knightfrank.com

01892 515 035

Knight Frank Tunbridge Wells.

SO TW_SEPTEMBER14_Property_KnightFrank_Schools.indd 2 22/08/2014 16:42

F E AT U R E SO

M A R C H 2 0 1 4 3S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 4 271

P R O P E R T Y SO

BAYHALL ROAD, TUNBRIDGE WELLS

• Guide Price: £525,000• A beautifully presented

Victorian town house• 2 reception rooms, 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, courtyard garden

• Ideally located for St Peter’s Primary School

PARK ROAD, TUNBRIDGE WELLS• Guide Price: £1million

• A spacious detached family home within a mile of the station

• 4 reception rooms, 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, double garage,

landscaped garden• Ideally located for grammar schools and Bennett Memorial

GOUDHURST• Guide Price: £1.75million

• Attractive farmhouse on the market for only the second time in 40 years

• 5 reception rooms, 6 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, outbuildings,

wonderful gardens, swimming pool, orchard, pond, paddock

• Ideally located for Cranbrook School

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

SO TW_SEPTEMBER14_Property_KnightFrank_Schools.indd 3 22/08/2014 16:43

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Pipe a rose, create jewellery, fine dine, sketch with confidence, create with stained glass, upcycle a chair, arrange a bouquet ...

Courses start from only £25

For more information visit kentadulteducation.co.uk your local centre or cal l 0845 606 5606

Kent Aduh Education is part o f Commllllty Leaming and Sl<ills

Bringing learning to life

OOG

S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 4 273

Have you ever wanted to have a go, but were

worried about how much it will cost, or whether

you can fit it in? It’s time to shake off the dusty old

image of evening classes and have a new look at

what’s on offer. Kent Adult Education is moving with

the times, so you’ll find a range of courses designed to

fit around you and your lifestyle. There’s no need to

worry about having to commit to long, expensive

courses; they now have a huge range of short courses,

suitable for all budgets.

A great example of how Kent Adult Education is

helping people like you is with their increasingly

popular Experience Courses. Introduced just over two

years ago, these courses allow students to try a range

of media on one course. For example, if you’re

interested in Art, you can try the ‘Art Experience

Course’, where over five weeks you’ll be introduced to

pencil, charcoal, pastels (oil or chalk), watercolour

and acrylics. And with courses starting from only £70,

they’re perfect for those looking for something new.

Due to popular demand, this year Kent Adult

Education has increased the number of Experience

Courses on offer. You can now choose from:

■ Art

■ Jewellery

■ Pottery

■ Sewing

■ Sugarcraft

■ Textiles

To find out more go to www.kentadulteducation.co.uk

where you can find over 3,500 courses to choose from.

Alternatively phone their Student Services Team on

0845 606 5606.

Moving With the TimesK E N T A D U L T E D U C A T I O N B U I L D S O N T H E S U C C E S S O F I T S ‘ E X P E R I E N C E S ’

E D U C AT I O N SO

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MidKent College M E D W A Y R O A D , G I L L I N G H A M , K E N T M E 7 1 F N

Apprentice Charlie Croucher with Ricky Munro of Marshams car dealership

Young people eager to learn valuable job skills while

earning money at the same time are being urged to

consider an apprenticeship at MidKent College. As

one of the top training providers in the country, the

College is approved by the Skills Funding Agency to

offer both apprenticeships and advanced

apprenticeships – perfect to help school leavers

climb the career ladder.

Young people aged 16-18 are eligible to become an

apprentice and have access to priority funding. This

means their employers will pay them a wage while all

other training costs will be covered. Over-19s are still

eligible to carry out an apprenticeship, but in this case

their employer will be required to contribute to the cost.

Charlie Croucher, 18, is one of thousands of young

people to have reaped the benefits of an

apprenticeship after deciding the academic route

of sixth form followed by university was not for him.

The Maidstone resident spent a day a week learning

motor vehicle repair skills at MidKent College and

recently purchased his first car, which he maintained

with help from his new colleagues at the Marshams

car dealership.

“On-the-job training makes a big difference

because there’s a lot more variety and

it helps you learn things more quickly,”

says Charlie. “I didn’t like school one

bit so I knew I was going

to leave and go to MidKent College as

soon as I could.”

Charlie’s manager Ricky Munro – who

began his own career as an apprentice

– contacted the College last year for

help in appointing a student to follow

in his footsteps from MidKent

College JobShop

“We received a lot of support and

assistance with selecting the right

apprentice to join our team, and we are

really pleased with how well Charlie is

doing,” he says. “We had reservations

as to the quality of applicants at first,

but our fears proved unfounded and

the entire process has exceeded

our expectations.”

MidKent College offers

apprenticeships in a wide range of

subject areas including Catering,

Customer Service, Hairdressing, Health

and Social Care, Plumbing, Vehicle

Fitting and many more. Meanwhile, the

College also offers traineeships for

young people who want to work but

who require extra help to gain an

apprenticeship or job, with the

initiative helping them develop the

skills and experience most employers

are looking for.

Jordan Jennings, 18, from Gillingham,

spent eight weeks gaining valuable job

skills through the MidKent College

JopShop traineeship programmeh

before progressing onto an

apprenticeship with Strood-based PJS

Direct, which supplies equipment to the

beauty industry.

“My traineeship helped me learn how

to speak to customers and made me a

lot more employable,” he says. “The

courses I attended at the College were

very helpful too. I’m really enjoying my

apprenticeship; the work is varied and

it’s much better than being at school.”

PJS owner Paul Matthes says:

“Jordan’s personality and confidence

shone through when I was interviewing

for his role, and you could tell he had

benefited from being in a work

environment. He’s doing really well and

I notice improvements in him all the

time. He’s a fast learner and can think

on his feet, which is important in the

workplace.”

Visit www.midkent.ac.uk/courses/

apprenticeships or call 01634 383 118

for more information. Alternatively email

apprenticeships@midkent.ac.ukPJS owner Paul Matthes (left) with apprentice Jordan Jennings

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