Independent School News: June 2026 Week 4

Considering independent education? Find the best school for your child here. Otherwise, read on for the latest independent school news (June 2026).

Berkhamsted Pupils Get A Taste Of Forensic Science

Year 12 students at Berkhamsted recently investigated a mock murder scene as part of a forensic science workshop. Guided by a professional forensic consultant, the 30 students explored techniques such as fingerprint dusting and blood detection using blue light, as well as searching the ‘body’ and the crime scene for evidence. Having correctly identified the murderer, the students came away from the workshop with a solid understanding of forensic science and the different career options available within the field.

Discover Berkhamsted Schools Group: countryandtownhouse.com/schools/berkhamsted-schools-group

The recent annual Knight Frank Schools Triathlon, held this year at The Oratory School, raised over £82,000 for charity

Multi-School Charity Triathlon Raises Over £80,000

The recent annual Knight Frank Schools Triathlon, held at The Oratory School, raised over £82,000 for charity. Over 700 pupils from 27 pupils gathered at The Oratory for the sponsored run, swim and cycle, with local businesses and members of the wider school community also joining to show their support. The event was one of a national series of school triathlon events organised by youth charity Restless Development, one of a number of charities benefitting from the £82,000 raised.

Discover The Oratory School: countryandtownhouse.com/schools/the-oratory-school

Independent Head Of The Year For Moon Hall

Executive head of Moon Hall School, Michelle Catterson, has been awarded the title of Headteacher of the Year (Independent) at the Tes Schools Awards 2026. At the awards ceremony last week Catterson was commended as an individual with ‘exceptional educational expertise and national influence’. She said: ‘A leader is only as strong as the community they guide, and this recognition is a direct reflection of the passion, hard work and dedication of the staff, pupils and families at Moon Hall.’

Glenalmond College and Oxford’s Saïd Business School are collaborating on a new entrepreneurship programme

New Heads & New Partnerships

Glenalmond: A new entrepreneurship programme by Glenalmond College and Saïd Business School at the University of Oxford will see pupils develop the key skills they need to launch their own business. Open to Glenalmond pupils aged 14 to 17, the five-month course will include monthly online sessions led by Oxford Saïd and conclude with a full day of panels, presentations and awards at the business school.

Headington Oxford: Dr Stephen Burley has been announced as the new head of Headington School Oxford. Dr Burley, who is currently head of King’s High School, Warwick, will return to Headington in September 2027, having been the school’s head of English from 2013 to 2016. He succeeds Caroline Jordan after 16 years of headship and is ‘honoured and delighted’ to return to the school.

Bryanston: Through a major new partnership, Bryanston will be working with AFC Bournemouth to strengthen the club’s academy pathway, supporting talented young players in their journeys into elite football. As regional partner of the club, Bryanston will be providing expertise on how professional sport should be balanced with academic achievement and pastoral care to ensure the success and wellbeing of AFC Bournemouth’s emerging athletes.

Discover Bryanston: countryandtownhouse.com/schools/bryanston