With internal exams behind them, our Year 8 boys are fully immersed in an exciting and enriching Leavers’ Programme designed to celebrate their time in Prep School and act as a launchpad for the exciting journey ahead.
This exciting and varied programme supports the boys’ transition to Upper School while encouraging them to explore future career paths, develop essential life skills and refine their ‘Future Skills’ — including teamwork, negotiation, leadership and reflective thinking.
The programme launched this week with a visit to Box End Waterpark, where the boys kicked off their entrepreneurial project. The day began with an inspiring talk on entrepreneurship by the founders of Box End, setting the stage for the boys’ challenge: “What’s the next step for Box End?” Over the coming weeks, they will work in teams to develop proposals for new attractions or services that could enhance the site’s appeal and generate revenue. After the talk, the boys explored the park and participated in its many activities — all in the name of research!
Another highlight of the week was the return of the much-loved ‘Come Dine with Me’ evenings. Each class was tasked with creating a themed dining experience, complete with a three-course meal and entertainment for their guests (parents and teachers). Guests enjoyed Greek, Jamaican and Roman Empire-themed evenings, with Italian and Under the Sea-themed evenings following in the coming weeks. The boys demonstrated incredible originality, creativity, superb skills and hospitality. Their attention to every detail has been amazing!
Over the coming weeks, the boys can look forward to:
- Career talks from industry professionals and our school’s careers team
- Life Skills, Sex and Relationships, and First Aid workshops
- Q&A sessions with Upper School boys, who will share their insights into the next stage of school life
- Taster Science sessions in the Upper School
- The grand finale of their entrepreneurial project, where they will present their innovative proposals
- PGL Trip and fun day
- Reflection and appreciation sessions, and a celebration assembly
Mrs Loader, in charge of the Leavers’ Programme, explained, “This time of year is always so special for our Year 8 boys as they prepare to leave the Prep School and move up to the Upper School. We believe filling these final weeks with meaningful memories and uplifting experiences is important, ensuring they leave with confidence, joy and a strong sense of accomplishment. These activities extend far beyond academics—they remind the boys that school is not only about achieving good grades but also about growing into well-rounded, thoughtful individuals. We hope they enjoy every moment and carry these experiences with them as they move up.”
