#AcademicExcellence S T E A M P a g e 12 .
#IndividualChallenge M U S IC P a g e 13 .
#CreativeandCollaborative P R E P D R A M A P a g e 14 .
#HappyandHealthy W E L L B E I N G P a g e 17.
#UnforgettableExperiences M A N O R H O U S E T R A D I T IO N S P a g e 18 . ISSUE 8
Summer 2026 @ManorHseSchool
manorhousesch
@manorhouseschool_Bookham www.manorhouseschool.org
CONTENTS
6
9
20 16 15
2-3
HEAD’S MESSAGE NURSERY AND KINDERGARTEN
1 2-3
RECEPTION
4
YEAR 1
5
YEAR 2
6
YEAR 3
7
YEAR 4
8
YEAR 5
9
YEAR 6
10
CO-CURRICULAR
11
STEAM
12
PREP SCHOOL MUSIC
13
PREP SCHOOL DRAMA
14
PREP SCHOOL PRODUCTION
15
PREP SCHOOL SPORT
16
WELLBEING AT MANOR HOUSE SCHOOL
17
MANOR HOUSE TRADITIONS
18
HOUSE COMPETITIONS
19
EFFINGHAM SCHOOLS TRUST
20
THE FRIENDS OF MANOR HOUSE SCHOOL
21
WELCOME
HEAD’S MESSAGE As we reach the end of the 2026 school year, it is a moment to reflect on a year defined by change, growth and a deep sense of pride in all that Manor House Prep School represents. This has been a year of overcoming challenges and embracing new opportunities, while cherishing the traditions and values that lie at the heart of our School. We have been working with purpose to reshape and strengthen the Prep School, ensuring that we continue to offer an exceptional Prep education for children in the local area. By making the most of our outstanding facilities at Manor House, alongside those available across our partner schools, we are now able to provide a broader range of opportunities that allow every child to discover and develop their talents. Highlights from this wonderful year include: •
•
Equestrian Success: Prep pupils have particularly enjoyed lessons at the Equestrian Centre, learning how to ride alongside pony care and management.
•
Community Traditions: Our beautiful Christmas Service at St Martin’s Church in Dorking brought our families together for a special time of reflection.
•
The Arts: The Prep School production of Peter Pan was utterly delightful—full of energy, enthusiasm, and charm.
As we close this chapter, we do so with enormous pride in our Prep pupils, staff, and families. While change shapes our future, the spirit of Manor House—built on kindness, ambition, opportunity, and community—will always endure as we look forward to the future.
Ms Fantham, Headteacher
MS FANTHAM HEADTEACHER
Sporting Excellence: We celebrated excellent individual achievements in Athletics and Netball, while focusing heavily on participation, confidence, and active lifestyles for all pupils.
We wish our Senior Head Girl, Deputy Head Girl and Senior Prefects well in their roles at St Teresa’s. #futureleaders
Head and Deputy He ad Girl, Alexandra H and Isa belle E
Maria Senior Prefect Team:
B, Rozalia O, Anna B,
Mrs Redward, Head of Prep
Alexa C, Isabelle W
MANOR HOUSE LIFE | 1
NURSERY AND KINDERGARTEN
NURSERY AND KINDERGARTEN This year at Manor House School Nursery, Upper Nursery, and Kindergarten has been a happy and enriching journey, filled with curiosity, creativity, and growing independence. From the very beginning, the children settled into Nursery life, forming friendships and developing confidence as they explored their surroundings through play and gentle guidance. The Autumn Term focused on helping the children feel secure and comfortable in their new routines. Seasonal activities and outdoor exploration were central to learning, with Forest School sessions allowing Kindergarten children to experience the changing natural environment. As the term progressed, excitement grew in the lead-up to Christmas. Creative activities filled the nursery, and the Nativity production was a true highlight, with the children performing confidently alongside older pupils before enjoying festive celebrations and a visit from Father Christmas.
Spring brought new opportunities for discovery outdoors. The children enjoyed planting, observing wildlife, and exploring natural processes. Kindergarten children were particularly engaged in learning about growth and life cycles, culminating in much-loved Easter celebrations shared with Lower Prep. This year also marked the introduction of the Upper Nursery room, providing older nursery children with additional challenge and independence. The transition has been a very positive step for the setting.
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NURSERY AND KINDERGARTEN
World Book Day was celebrated with great enthusiasm, as the children dressed as favourite characters and enjoyed a week of story-inspired activities, including a special visit from a children’s book illustrator. The Summer Term was a time to celebrate achievement. Sports Day was filled with excitement and pride, and the Kindergarten Graduation Ceremony marked an important milestone as the children prepared for their next chapter.
Family involvement continued to be an important part of Nursery life, with joyful celebrations for Mother’s Day and Father’s Day. Visits and experiences beyond the classroom, including meeting local firefighters during the People Who Help Us topic, created lasting memories. Throughout the year, the children also enjoyed a range of co-curricular activities, from Sports to Swimming, supporting their physical development and growing confidence. It has been a wonderful year, and we are incredibly proud of all the children and the progress they have made. We look forward to seeing them continue to flourish. MS LUKE DIRECTOR OF NURSERY EDUCATION MANOR HOUSE LIFE | 3
LOWER PREP
RECEPTION Reception has had such a fantastic year! They have worked so hard and made excellent progress in reading, writing and mathematics. Lessons are taught through a topic-based curriculum that covers our seven areas of learning. In the Autumn Term, the children explored what makes them marvellous through our topic Marvellous Me, where they understood that they were all fabulously unique. They learnt about different jobs they might have when they get older and loved meeting Police Officer Euan, who came in to talk to the children about his role in the Police Force. Reception also explored woodland animals and the changes of the seasons through the topic Nuts About Autumn. They were also lucky enough to join their Cranmore friends on a trip to the British Wildlife Centre in Lingfield. In the Spring Term, the topic was Cold as Ice. The children discovered polar regions and the animals that lived there. They learnt about the first Arctic explorers and what life is like in the Arctic. The children even went on a mission to space, where their classroom was turned into a space centre. They learnt about the first men to visit the Moon in 1969, along with making their own papier-mâché planets. They also visited Winchester Science Centre with Year 5 to see the planets for themselves at the planetarium. This was followed by a fantastic Reception assembly to share their new knowledge with the School and their parents. To celebrate Easter, Manor House School and Cranmore came together to go on an Easter egg hunt in the grounds of Manor House School. During the Summer Term, the children explored traditional tales such as The Gingerbread Man and The Elves and the Shoemaker, where they acted out the stories and performed using their puppet theatre. Finally, they went on safari to Kenya. The children packed their suitcases, boarded an aeroplane and headed to the savannah. They even saw the animals for themselves at Chessington World of Adventures. MRS ARGENT RECEPTION TEACHER
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LOWER PREP
YEAR 1 Year 1 have enjoyed a truly phenomenal year, filled with curiosity, creativity and memorable experiences that brought learning vividly to life.
During the Spring Term, the classroom
A highlight of the Autumn Term was an engaging Toys from the Past workshop led by the Chertsey Toy Museum. Exploring playground games and historical toys provided a wonderfully hands-on way to compare past and present, with the children unanimously deciding that modern toys had the edge.
(including real chainmail), and discovered
The Christmas Nativity was a particularly special moment. The children shared the emotions and values of the Christmas story with great sensitivity and joy, delivering outstanding singing and acting that moved many in the audience.
Our thanks go to the Friends of Manor
Throughout the year, imagination was sparked by mysterious messages arriving through a Magic Portal. Year 1 embarked on an exciting quest, solving problems and inventing creative machines along the way. Their ingenuity and enthusiasm were truly marvellous, highlighting just how much they enjoy learning.
thoughtful discussions about different
became a castle, culminating in a visit to Tonbridge Castle. The children enjoyed fascinating history, enjoyed dressing up that aiming a trebuchet is trickier than it looks. Their subsequent assembly proudly shared this learning with families. The Summer Term brought further outdoor opportunities, with the new astro area used for building, investigating and den-making. House School for funding these valuable experiences. Learning about rainforests and Caribbean life captivated the class, prompting climates, animals and schooling. Overall, it has been a year full of excitement, enrichment and joy, making it truly memorable for all. MRS DAVIES YEAR 1 TEACHER
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LOWER PREP
YEAR 2 Year 2 have had a busy and happy year, filled with fun, creative and exciting learning experiences. In the Autumn Term, Key Stages 1 and 2 went to a magical production of Philip Pullman’s The Firework-Maker’s Daughter at the Polka Theatre. Our entertaining nativity, The Grumpy Donkey, reminded us of the values of kindness and love at the heart of Christmas. The wonderful narration, acting and singing made us all very proud! During the Spring Term, Year 2 were lucky enough to travel back in time to 1666, when they participated in a theatre workshop, helping them to appreciate how the Great Fire of London changed the course of history. A fantastic day was had by all on a joint Year 2 and Year 3 minibeast safari and trail at Painshill Park at the start of the Summer Term. Through exploration and games, the children developed their understanding of food chains, species survival and microhabitats around the park. Our text-based learning in English throughout the year has once again proved popular, and the carefully chosen books have greatly inspired the class in reading and writing, whilst developing cross-curricular links with Science, Art and DT. Year 2 have enjoyed weekly Swimming, Forest School in the Manor House Dell, and Performing Arts with their specialist teachers. They have also loved the co-curricular clubs for example Clay Club, Science, Dance, Construction, Cooking and Yoga. It has been a wonderful year full of discovery and joy, and it has been a delight to see the children’s confidence and love of learning grow. MRS RICKERD AND MRS HASTINGS YEAR 2 TEACHERS
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UPPER PREP SCHOOL
YEAR 3 Year 3 have enjoyed a wonderfully successful year as they made the transition into Upper Prep. The girls embraced greater independence, confidently managing new timetables and enjoying lessons with specialist teachers in French, PE, Computing, Music and Drama.
In Music, the girls shone in music recitals, in the Carol Service in Dorking, and as part of the Peter Pan production. In Sport, they showed great progress in Swimming, Netball and Cricket, demonstrating confidence, teamwork and excellent sportsmanship.
Our three cross-curricular topics provided a rich focus for learning. We began with the Iron Age, inspired by The Stone Age Boy, before exploring the Celts and Romans, including research on Roman gods and goddesses and drawing Boudicca from Dio Cassius’ account. In our final topic, India, The Elephant’s Friend sparked particularly impressive creative writing, with adventure stories featuring magical animal companions.
Year 3 have truly blossomed into confident, curious learners. They have built strong friendships, embraced challenges and approached every opportunity with enthusiasm. We are incredibly proud of all they have achieved this year. MRS HORROCKS YEAR 3 TEACHER
Science was a highlight this year. The girls loved working in the Senior Laboratory with Mrs Hoath, especially during our Rocks and Fossils and Magnets and Forces units. Science Week added further excitement, while STEM Club offered extra challenges for many. Trips enriched learning throughout the year. A visit to the Polka Theatre to see The Firework Maker’s Daughter was a festive highlight. At Gatton Park, the girls took part in an immersive Stone Age Day, examining artefacts, building shelters, creating cave art and even making string from nettles. Our residential combined a classroom sleepover with a visit to Butser Ancient Farm, where the girls made daub, crafted mosaics and jewellery, and took part in an archaeological dig. It was an experience that strengthened friendships and resilience.
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UPPER PREP SCHOOL
YEAR 4 Our girls in Year 4 all have enquiring minds, and they have certainly relished using them this year. They have enjoyed plenty of learning opportunities in all their subjects. They were challenged to explain new Maths strategies to each other; after all, if you can explain the place value structure to two decimal places to your learning partner, then you have clearly understood it. In Humanities, whilst studying the similarities and differences between the two localities of Guildford and Portsmouth, they sampled the delights of train travel to Portsmouth, seeing the Mary Rose and the Spinnaker Tower. They decided that using the train for a school trip is much more environmentally friendly. During their Science lessons, they designed and carried out investigations to prove their ‘big question’. It is safe to say that the chocolate-melting experiment, linked to their work on the states of matter, was particularly enjoyed by all. A definite highlight was the deep dive into the Tudors in the Spring Term. The girls were fascinated by the dynamics of this complicated royal family. They explored the reasons why Henry VIII married so many wives, and they even got to see the
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paintings of Hans Holbein at the National Portrait Gallery in London. Another trip by train! The girls became authors, as each wrote her own book based on an animation they had watched. The quality of their written language demonstrates how skilled they have become in using well-chosen fronted adverbials, impactful adjectives and varied conjunctions. The books were reviewed by their peers and then read to Year 5 pupils with great pride. Year 4 have embraced so many of our core School values, with ‘a love of learning’ being their top-rated one. Happy children learn, and that is exactly what the class of 2025–26 did! MRS DARLINGTON YEAR 4 TEACHER
UPPER PREP SCHOOL
YEAR 5 Year 5 has been a year of enjoyment, growth and discovery, marked by curiosity, confidence and a genuine love of learning. Pupils embraced every opportunity with warmth and enthusiasm, developing both as learners and as a close-knit, supportive year group. The year began with a residential visit to Sayers Croft in Ewhurst, where new friendships formed and independence flourished. Activities such as bouldering, orienteering and the much-loved stream walk encouraged teamwork, resilience and confidence, setting a strong foundation for the year ahead. Back at school, pupils approached learning with maturity and motivation. Creativity shone in English through the writing of original Ancient Greek myths, while Science lessons came alive in the laboratories through hands-on experimentation. Humanities captured pupils’ curiosity, with the study of Ancient Greece culminating in imaginative presentations, debates and even a democratic vote. They explored Victorian Britain too, enriched by a visit to The Spike in Guildford.
Reading encouraged empathy and reflection through the study of Journey to Jo’burg, supported by thoughtful discussions that deepened pupils’ understanding of history and social justice. Weekly Spanish and French lessons were enjoyed by all, while Sport and fixtures allowed pupils to represent the School with determination and teamwork. Beyond the classroom, Year 5 performed with confidence in House Arts, the Carol Service, Rock and Pop, and the Prep Production of Peter Pan. A highlight was the Year 5 assembly on Perseus and Medusa, which showcased storytelling skills and growing stage confidence. As the year draws to a close, Year 5 can look back on a chapter defined by ambition, independence and kindness. A year that has prepared them well for the next stage of their journey. MRS MCMILLAN YEAR 5 TEACHER MANOR HOUSE LIFE | 9
UPPER PREP SCHOOL
YEAR 6 Exciting. Caring. Surprising. Action-packed. If you were trying to sum up Year 6 in one word, “quiet” definitely wouldn’t make the shortlist. It’s been a year of energy, enthusiasm and a calendar that never really seemed to have a day off.
the best possible way. There were plenty of moments of “I’m not sure I can do this” followed very quickly by “actually, I just did!”, along with lots of laughter and a fair bit of muddy determination.
Right from the start, the girls stepped into their role as the oldest in the Prep School and made it very much their own. Whether as Form Captains, Wellbeing Ambassadors or Food Ambassadors, they led with confidence (and occasionally strong opinions about lunch). They’ve looked out for younger pupils, set a great example and quietly become the people everyone else watches and learns from.
Back at school, the stage was calling. Performing at Dorking Halls was a real moment to shine, and this year’s Prep Production of Peter Pan gave many of the girls the chance to take on lead roles. From learning lines to bringing characters to life, it was a brilliant mix of hard work and creativity, with a final performance that didn’t disappoint.
Of course, there’s been plenty happening beyond the classroom too. One moment we were travelling back in time at Henley Fort, where the girls fully embraced life as WW2 air wardens, throwing themselves into the experience with impressive enthusiasm. The next, we were back in the present day, building independence on two wheels during Bikeability (and proving that road awareness and balance can go hand in hand). Then there were the more… competitive moments. Duck racing along the River Tillingbourne turned out to be far more serious business than anyone expected, with cheers, strategy and a surprising attachment to small plastic ducks all playing a part. The residential trip to PGL on the Isle of Wight was, as always, a highlight. Climbing, abseiling and kayaking on the Solent pushed everyone out of their comfort zones in
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Somewhere in between all of this, there has even been time for learning. Skills have grown, independence has flourished, and the girls have taken more ownership of their work, all while managing a schedule that might make most adults feel a little tired just reading about it. Looking back, it’s hard to believe just how much has been packed into one year. Year 6 has been full of new experiences, big moments, small victories and plenty of laughter along the way. MRS HOLMES YEAR 6 TEACHER
CO-CURRICULAR
CO-CURRICULAR Co-curricular life at Manor House School continues to flourish, offering pupils an exceptional range of opportunities beyond the classroom. With an extensive programme of activities available throughout the week, there is truly something to inspire every child. Our diverse provision encompasses sport, music, performing arts, art, academic enrichment, practical skills and wellbeing, enabling pupils to discover new interests, develop existing talents and build confidence in a supportive environment. The performing arts enjoyed another highly successful year, with the Prep Production of Peter Pan bringing together girls from Years 3 to 6 in a memorable celebration of creativity and teamwork. Musical talent also shone brightly through a variety of performances, including the Rock and Pop Concert at Leatherhead Theatre and our much-loved Christmas Carol Service. Pupils have embraced a wide range of enrichment opportunities, from Ski Club and equestrian lessons to an expanding programme of wellbeing activities such as yoga, mindfulness and creative crafts. These experiences reflect the evolving interests of our pupils while encouraging balance, resilience and personal growth. Together, these opportunities inspire every pupil to explore, participate and thrive. By developing new skills, pursuing their passions and creating lasting memories, our pupils gain experiences that will remain with them long after they leave Manor House. MRS TAUBER ASSISTANT HEAD
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STEAM
STEAM Where Curiosity Meets Creativity: Introducing Manor House’s New STEAM Centre The exciting development of a new STEAM Centre at Manor House School marks a significant step forward in providing every pupil with a truly dynamic, future focused education. This inspiring, purpose-built space will bring together Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts and Mathematics, creating an environment where curiosity is ignited, creativity is celebrated and a love of learning is nurtured from the very start. In an ever-changing world, the importance of STEAM subjects has never been greater. Through this approach, children develop essential skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, collaboration and innovation; equipping them not only for future careers, but for life itself. At Manor House, we are committed to ensuring that every child is confident, adaptable and ready to thrive in the modern world. Pupils will particularly benefit from the opportunity to learn in specialist science rooms designed to inspire curiosity and confidence. These dedicated laboratories provide an exciting, hands-on environment where children can experiment, investigate and deepen their understanding through practical enquiry. Working in such spaces allows pupils to think like scientists; developing precision, resilience and independence as they test ideas and explore solutions. Experiencing science in an authentic laboratory setting from an early age helps children to see themselves as capable, confident learners, sparking ambition and opening doors to future possibilities. By bringing subjects together and encouraging pupils to apply their learning in meaningful, real-world contexts, the new STEAM Centre will empower Manor House children to become imaginative, forward-thinking individuals ready to embrace challenges, seize opportunities and shape the world around them with confidence and curiosity. MRS REDWARD HEAD OF PREP
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PREP MUSIC
PREP MUSIC Music in the Prep School this year has focused on building confidence, curiosity and enjoyment, while developing pupils’ musical understanding and performance skills. In Lower Prep (Reception–Year 2), pupils explored Music through singing, movement and listening. Lessons introduced rhythm and beat, early notation, and physical responses to music through engaging, practical activities. A highlight was the Mother’s Day performance, where pupils sang a special version of Isn’t She Lovely, adapted to Mummy Is Lovely, capturing both their musical progress and the joy of sharing music with others. The Lower Prep Choir also enjoyed a varied repertoire, including Reach for the Stars and We Are the World, helping pupils develop confidence and ensemble skills. In Upper Prep (Years 3–6), pupils continued to broaden their musical knowledge and independence. Autumn and Spring Prep Recitals showcased solo and group performances, giving pupils valuable performance opportunities. Year 6 singers took part in the Surrey Schools Joint Choir event at Dorking Halls, rehearsing and performing alongside pupils from other schools in an inspiring, large-scale choral setting. Upper Prep lessons covered recorder and keyboard skills, reading notation, songwriting, and exploring music from different cultures, including Chinese music. A standout event was the Rock and Pop concert at Leatherhead Theatre, where Prep pupils performed alongside Senior School musicians on a professional stage, supported by full sound and lighting. For many, this was their first theatre performance experience and a memorable boost to confidence and teamwork. Throughout the year, pupils took part in choirs, bands and instrumental performances, including a piano recital for pupils from Year 3 upwards, ensuring Music remained a vibrant and inclusive part of Prep School life. MS TAYLOR HEAD OF MUSIC MANOR HOUSE LIFE | 13
PREP DRAMA
PREP DRAMA Across Manor House School, Drama enjoyed a vibrant and inspiring year, with pupils from Nursery to Year 6 embracing opportunities to explore stories, characters and imaginative worlds. Our youngest performers, from Reception to Year 2, developed their confidence through drama games, improvisation and storytelling. Whether becoming woodland creatures, daring explorers or beloved storybook characters, they discovered that Drama was a place where creativity flourished and every voice was valued. These early experiences helped pupils build confidence, communication skills and a willingness to share their ideas with others. As pupils moved through the Prep School, their dramatic skills grew in depth and sophistication. Through scripted performances, character development, collaborative projects and creative exploration, they learned to work together, think critically and express themselves with increasing assurance. Drama provided a unique platform for developing not only performance skills but also essential life skills such as empathy, resilience, self-discipline and effective communication. Throughout the year, the Drama Department was alive with curiosity, collaboration and creative energy. From rehearsing scenes and experimenting with props to bringing new characters to life on stage, pupils embraced every opportunity with enthusiasm and imagination. They demonstrated creativity, commitment and a growing confidence in their abilities, both as performers and as collaborators. Most importantly, pupils were encouraged to take risks, find their voices and experience the joy and magic of storytelling. It was a year filled with artistic discovery, personal growth and memorable performances, and we were immensely proud of all that they achieved. MR EDMEADES HEAD OF DRAMA
LAMDA A fantastic set of LAMDA examination results from Year 1 through to Year 6. All pupils worked incredibly hard and should be extremely proud of achieving such an excellent set of results. Junior Results 57 pupils entered
• 53 Distinctions
• 4 High Merits
These results are a true testament to the dedication, commitment and talent shown by all the students throughout the year. MRS HAMER LAMDA TEACHER
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PREP SCHOOL DRAMA
PREP SCHOOL PRODUCTION “ Pe t e r Pa n” This year’s Prep Production transported audiences to the magical world of Peter Pan, as pupils brought Neverland to life with charm, energy and imagination. From daring adventures with pirates to encounters with mischievous Lost Boys and a spirited Tinker Bell, the cast captivated with expressive performances and vibrant costumes. Full of humour, confidence and heart, the production was a joyful celebration of storytelling and creativity. MR EDMEADES HEAD OF DRAMA
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PREP SPORT
PREP SPORT This year has been a busy and rewarding one for Prep Sport at Manor House School, with a strong focus on participation, confidence and team spirit across all year groups. Swimming has been a particular highlight. Year 3 and 4 pupils enjoyed weekly Swimming lessons at St Teresa’s throughout the year, leading to a noticeable improvement in both confidence and technique. Kindergarten pupils continued their weekly sessions at Cranmore, while Reception to Year 2 swam regularly at St Teresa’s. The impact of this consistent provision has been extremely positive, and we are excited to expand Swimming opportunities to all Prep year groups next year. All pupils in Years 3–6 have had the opportunity to represent Manor House School competitively in a range of sports. These fixtures provide an excellent platform for pupils to put their skills into practice, while learning the importance of teamwork, resilience and sportsmanship. Inter-House Sport has also been a key feature of the year, with pupils coming together to compete in Netball, Football and Cross Country. These events have been full of energy and enthusiasm, with Endeavour winning the Prep Football competition and Victory taking the honours in Prep Netball. Overall, it has been a year of growth and enjoyment, with pupils embracing every opportunity to develop their skills and represent the school with pride. MRS TAUBER HEAR OF PE
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WELLBEING
CELEBRATING WELLBEING AT MANOR HOUSE SCHOOL At Manor House School, wellbeing is central to School life. We believe that pupils who feel safe, valued, and supported are best placed to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Wellbeing is embedded in our daily practice, with a focus on developing the whole child. Pupils are encouraged to build confidence, self-awareness, and resilience, equipping them to navigate challenges both in school and beyond. Staff wellbeing is also prioritised, with events such as wellbeing breakfasts recognising the importance of supporting our whole community. The year began with a Wellbeing Logo Competition, inviting pupils to reflect on what wellbeing means to them. The winning design by Bella H (Year 8) captured themes of positivity, kindness, and community.
In October, we marked World Mental Health Day, with pupils and staff wearing yellow to raise awareness and demonstrate support. In February, our Wellbeing Ambassadors led Children’s Mental Health Week, featuring activities such as badge-making, biscuitdecorating, Just Dance sessions, and a popular ‘comfy mufti’ day, ending with hot chocolate served by FOMHS. Prep pupils also enjoyed a Film Night, with over 60 students watching Madagascar in a relaxed, sociable setting. It was an opportunity to unwind and strengthen friendships. Pupils took part in the London Mini Marathon for Schools, promoting resilience and a strong sense of achievement. Following Senior examinations, a dedicated wellbeing afternoon offered workshops including creative crafts, games, relaxation, and outdoor activities, allowing pupils to recharge and connect. By prioritising wellbeing, we aim to support pupils in becoming confident, balanced, and capable young people, ready for life beyond Manor House School. MRS TAUBER ASSISTANT HEAD
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MANOR HOUSE SCHOOL TRADITIONS
MANOR HOUSE TRADITIONS Throughout the year, our shared traditions have brought the Manor House School community together, creating moments of reflection, celebration and connection. Founders’ Day remains a cornerstone of the school calendar, giving us the opportunity to remember Lilian Wheeler and Elizabeth Green and to reflect on the story and spirit of the School. Celebrated with a special assembly, brought to life through Drama, and complemented by the much-loved iced buns enjoyed at breaktime, it is a moment that connects generations past and present. The Carol Service and Nativity captured the warmth and meaning of the festive period, while the ever-popular Staff Panto filled the hall with laughter.
Music and performance continued to play an important role through Rock and Pop events and both Prep and Senior productions, showcasing pupils’ confidence, creativity and commitment. The Summer Term brought opportunities for creativity and fun, with Theme Week offering a fitting end to the academic year through imaginative activities, shared experiences and celebrations beyond the classroom. Across the year, generosity and care for others were reflected in our continued support of the Dorking Food Bank and Queen Mother’s Clothing Guild, as well as in quieter traditions that bring everyday joy for example sweetie bags, decorated doors at Christmas, and shared moments that make our School feel like home. Together, these traditions define the character of Manor House School and create memories that will be treasured long after the year has passed. MRS REDWARD HEAD OF PREP
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HOUSE COMPETITIONS
HOUSE COMPETITIONS House spirit has been alive and thriving throughout the year, with pupils embracing every opportunity to represent their Houses with pride, enthusiasm and determination.
House spirit has been alive and thriving throughout the year, with pupils embracing every opportunity to represent their Houses with pride, enthusiasm and determination. From creative challenges and House Arts activities to sporting events and fundraising initiatives, children across the Prep School have enjoyed coming together to support their teams and celebrate one another’s successes. Whether performing, competing, creating or cheering from the sidelines, every pupil has played an important part in making House events such a special feature of school life. On the sports field, House competitions have encouraged teamwork, resilience and healthy competition, while a range of academic and creative challenges have allowed pupils to showcase their talents and develop new skills.
generosity that are at the heart of the Prep School community, with pupils working together to support worthwhile causes throughout the year. Most importantly, House competitions have provided opportunities for children of all ages to build friendships, develop confidence and experience the joy of being part of something bigger than themselves. It has been another wonderful year of House pride, participation and community spirit, perfectly reflecting the values of Manor House Prep. MRS SMITH HEAD OF VICTORY HOUSE
Our charitable events have also demonstrated the kindness and
MANOR HOUSE LIFE | 19
EFFINGHAM SCHOOLS TRUST
EFFINGHAM SCHOOLS TRUST COLLABORATION Working together lies at the heart of the Effingham Schools Trust, and our close collaboration with St Teresa’s and Cranmore brings real richness to School life. Throughout the year, pupils of all ages have enjoyed a wide range of shared experiences that broaden horizons, spark new interests and build lasting friendships. From Early Years onwards, children benefit from opportunities to learn and play together through activities such as pizza making, Easter egg hunts and joined Forest School sessions, where they explore the outdoors, develop confidence and build teamwork skills. Sport also plays an important role, with events such as the Swimming Gala and Aquathon bringing pupils together in a spirit of friendly competition. Inter-school PE lessons have been equally popular, encouraging collaboration and healthy participation across the Trust. The arts provide further opportunities for pupils to connect and be inspired, with shared theatre trips giving children the chance to experience live performances and enjoy memorable cultural experiences together. Whether through sport, the arts, outdoor learning or academic challenge, our partnership celebrates community, teamwork and the shared belief that we achieve more when we learn together. MS FANTHAM HEAD TEACHER
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FOMHS
FOMHS AND THE COMMUNITY Over the past year, the Friends of Manor House School (FOMHS) have continued to bring our community together through a range of much-loved events and initiatives. We began by thanking Cat Burns as she stepped down as Chair, leaving behind a strong and enthusiastic committee that has continued to thrive thanks to our dedicated volunteers. Their commitment to Manor House School has been at the heart of everything we do. The Christmas Fayre was a joyful highlight, with special thanks to Mrs Macfarlane for her excellent organisation. In February, a cosy ‘Hot Chocolate’ sale raised nearly £100 and gave the girls a chance to enjoy time together. Our first ‘Someone Special’ sale for Mother’s Day in March was warmly received, followed by a successful Father’s Day sale in June. The Prep Disco was a lively success, led by our fantastic volunteers and DJ Clive, who also helped make the Family Fun Day in June such a memorable occasion, with families enjoying activities and even camping overnight. It was also a pleasure to strengthen links across the trust. Attending a FOST Coffee Morning and taking part in the St Teresa’s Summer Festival, where our strawberries proved very popular, highlighting a growing sense of community, with a record Manor House School turnout. Behind the scenes, the Second-Hand Uniform Shop has remained a vital source of support and fundraising. We are extremely grateful to our volunteers and to Mrs Lawes, who took on its management. Thanks to fundraising efforts, FOMHS provided Easter Eggs for every Prep pupil and contributed £20,000 towards the new Forest School site, benefiting pupils for years to come. Above all, this has been a year of community spirit and generosity. We are so grateful for the continued support of families and volunteers as we continue to enrich the Manor House School experience for all. MRS STACE CHAIR FOMHS friends@manorhouseschool.org MANOR HOUSE LIFE | 21
Manor House School, Manor House Lane, Little Bookham, Surrey KT23 4EN | www.manorhouseschool.org admin@manorhouseschool.org | Admin Tel: 01372 458538 admissions@manorhouseschool.org | Admissions Tel: 01372 457077
A SELECTIVE INDEPENDENT DAY SCHOOL FOR GIRLS AGED 4-11 WITH CO-EDUCATIONAL NURSERY AND LOWER PREP @ManorHseSchool
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