As we settle into the rhythm of a new year, I often find myself reflecting on what truly makes St Bernard’s Preparatory School such a special place to learn and lead.

In my conversations with prospective parents, I often speak about our mission to offer children the "best start to their education." But what does that look like in practice? To me, it isn’t just about league tables or test scores – though we certainly have plenty to celebrate in that regard. It is about the buzzing, vibrant community that fills our corridors every day.

When you walk through our doors, you will find warmth, purpose, and a wonderfully busy school full of curious minds, laughter, and learning. That is what makes me proud and why I wanted to share a few reasons why I am bursting with pride for our children, our staff, and the incredible milestones we have achieved together.

More Than a Ranking

You may have seen that we were ranked as the 7^th Best Prep School in England by The Sunday Times Parent Power guide. While accolades like this are wonderful validation, what makes me proudest is how we achieved it. 

This year our children achieved exceptional outcomes, including an outstanding 88% 11+ pass rate and results consistently well above the national average.

But what matters most to me is how those results are achieved. We are not and never will be an exam factory. We believe in stretching children academically while holding them firmly in a nurturing, inclusive environment. We teach to the top, support where needed, and ensure no child is ever pigeonholed or left behind.                                                                            

When I look at our Year 6 leavers, I don’t just see academic success. I see courteous, articulate, confident young people who are ready not just for the next school and test papers, but for the wider world, as evidenced by the numerous Grammar & Independent school places offered to them.

Confidence in All Its Forms

One of the foundations of our daily life here is developing character, and this year our children have truly outdone themselves.

I was absolutely delighted to see our 100% pass rate in LAMDA exams maintained, with an exceptional 100% of pupils achieving a Distinction. Seeing children perform with such confidence at The Hexagon and in venues as grand as the Royal Albert Hall, never fails to move me. I have the privilege of directing our drama productions myself, and even our youngest pupils amaze me with their courage and commitment.

Sport plays an equally important role in school life, confirmed by our recent School Games Gold Award. From championship-winning teams to pupils progressing into professional academies, our children learn teamwork, resilience and sportsmanship in the truest sense.  Our children are encouraged to try, to play, and to support one another.

The Heart of the School: Our People

Schools are built on people, and I am incredibly fortunate to lead a team of long-standing staff members who provide the stability and consistency that is so rare in education today. Our Senior Leadership Team alone brings a combined 74 years of experience at St Bernard’s Preparatory School, a depth of knowledge and continuity that allows us to know our children, our families and our community exceptionally well. Stability matters. Relationships matter. When teachers truly know their children, learning flourishes.

They know every child by name, they know what makes them tick, and they are the reason we hold the National Wellbeing Award. They understand a happy child is a learning child, and they work tirelessly to ensure our nurturing ethos remains the bedrock of everything we do.

Every child’s work is celebrated. Every voice matters. Every child is recognised as an individual.

A Family, Not Just a School

Whether we are celebrating our Catholic faith or embracing the rich diversity of all the faiths in our community, the spirit of St Bernard’s remains constant: we are a family.

Children greet visitors with confidence and good manners. Older children look out for younger ones.  As someone who has grown with this school and whose own children were educated here, I care deeply about preserving what makes St Bernard’s Prep special, while always looking forward. 

Looking Ahead

If you are a current parent, thank you for the trust you place in us every day. It is a privilege to educate your children.

If you are exploring schools for your child that combines academic excellence with genuine care, I would be delighted to welcome you to our upcoming Open Days on Friday, February 27^th or Saturday, 7^th March and see St Bernard’s Prep in action. 

Come and let our children take you on a tour – they are, after all, our best ambassadors.

Mrs Asha Verma
Headteacher