Continuing our Derbyshire school visits, our final stop in the county took us to S. Anselm’s Preparatory School in Bakewell.
A huge thank you to Caroline Hamilton, Nicky Webster and Peter Cook, Head, for welcoming us so warmly and giving up so much of their time.
A prep school in the Peak District
S. Anselm’s is a co-educational prep school for children aged 3 to 13, set in the heart of the Peak District. It has a wonderfully grounded feel, with the surrounding countryside playing a natural part in school life. As a result, outdoor learning, sport and adventure sit very comfortably alongside academics, music, art, creativity and innovation.
What really stood out
What really stood out was the strong sense of community. This is a school where children are encouraged to be themselves, to try new things and to make the most of the many opportunities around them.
In addition, the pupils we met were polite, respectful and engaging, which always says a great deal about the tone of a school.
There is also a real energy to S. Anselm’s. From project-based learning and creative use of technology, to music, sport, art and outdoor adventure, pupils are clearly encouraged to be curious, involved and enthusiastic. The Peak District setting gives the school something very special, with a sense of space, freedom and fresh air that feels central to the children’s experience.
Boarding at S. Anselm’s
We also enjoyed hearing more about boarding at S. Anselm’s. With flexi, weekly and full boarding available, as well as supervised prep, weekend activities and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the surrounding countryside, boarding felt happy, busy and nurturing. There was a lovely balance of structure, independence and fun.
Finally, it was lovely to hear about the school’s next chapter, including the arrival of new Head Teacher Hannah Cunningham and the sense of optimism for the future.
A thoroughly enjoyable visit, and a very happy way to end this round of our school visits in Derbyshire.
