The Study Prep, Wimbledon

Vicky, it’s a very exciting time to be joining The Study Prep’s community, can you tell us what attracted you to the school?

From my first visit to The Study, the strong sense of community was evident. What really struck me most was the enthusiasm, happiness and pride that the girls show towards their school. They are confident, articulate and full of joy and fun – that’s a winning combination for early years and primary education!

There is a lot going on in terms of development at The Study and change can you tell us a little more?

It is an exciting time to join The Study. Our new development at the Wilberforce Road site of six bright, airy classrooms, a new library, visitor reception space and stunning performing arts hall is nearing completion and we are excited to ‘move in’ later this term. The completion of the building project will further enhance the learning environment for the girls and whilst the performing arts are already a strength of the school, the new facilities will create an enhanced space for both the girls and audiences in future performances.

What are you looking forward to most in your new role at The Study?

Everything! Being part of the special Study community and, of course, getting to know all the girls.

What is your vision for the future and what changes will you put in place/what is your vision and ethos for the school?

The ethos of the school is very closely aligned to my own and this was what first attracted me to apply for the headship role. The ethos and values of the school will remain, whilst we continue to evaluate other areas of the school and curriculum, so that we can continue to develop and improve. The initial focus this term is on the much awaited completion and future use of the new building at Wilberforce House.
I strongly believe that the foundations that are placed, cemented and built upon in the Early Years are vital for a child’s success, in all areas – emotionally, personally, physically and academically. At The Study, the well-being of the girls is the number one priority. Happy children learn best and the confidence built during the children’s time at The Study ensures the girls move onto their senior schools with confidence, a strong sense of self and their own voice.
Despite the school being non-selective on entry in Reception, the children make fantastic progress and gain entry into top selective senior schools, often with scholarships. All children do not develop on the same trajectory and this individuality is embraced through a broad and exciting curriculum, supported by a wealth of trips, workshops and events and an extensive extra-curricular programme of over 40 clubs for the girls to choose from. Individual talents and interests are harnessed and developed and this can be seen by the impressive scholarships achieved each year, in all subjects – art, drama, sport, music and academia.

What do you feel is the single most important aspect of your role as head?

That’s such a hard question to answer, it’s such a varied role, which is an aspect of the job I love – no two days are the same. My role is very much to have an oversight of the whole school, leading, enabling and supporting the fantastic team and school community to ensure that the children are at the heart of any decision making.

The Study Preparatory School, Wimbledon
admissions@thestudyprep.co.uk
020 8947 6969