The May Week 1 2025 Education Roundup

All the latest UK news from schools in the past weeks can be read below. Alternatively, find the best school for your child here.

Alumna Honoured With National Innovation Award

Bedford Girls’ School has honoured alumna Dr Dupé Burgess (née Odunsi, DAHS 2003) with a commemorative plaque, recognising her recent Women in Innovation Award from Innovate UK.

Founder of Bloomful, a virtual platform for gynaecological health, Dr Burgess was celebrated for her pioneering work improving women’s healthcare. The ceremony, held on 28th April, was attended by Dr Burgess, her father, Innovate UK’s Hazel Biggs, Headmistress Gemma Gibson and Year 6 pupils. 

The plaque, now displayed at the Sixth Form House, serves as daily inspiration. Dr Burgess’s career journey—from medicine to entrepreneurship—reflects a commitment to reshaping healthcare for women.

Bryanston Prep Appoints Dominic Floyd As New Head

Bryanston Prep is set to embrace new leadership as Dominic Floyd takes the helm from January 2026, following an extensive recruitment process that highlighted his exceptional credentials for the role.

With over eight years steering Mount Kelly Prep, Floyd brings a wealth of leadership acumen to Bryanston. His impressive educational journey spans prestigious institutions including Hazlegrove, Ashdown House, Westminster Under School, and Cothill, where he developed his distinctive approach to academic and pastoral excellence.

A University of London graduate with geography qualifications, Floyd’s connection to Bryanston runs deep – one of his three children is an Old Bryanstonian and his youngest will join the senior school in Year 10.

‘I’m tremendously honoured to accept this position,’ remarked Floyd. ‘Having been a Bryanston parent, I’ve witnessed firsthand the school’s remarkable ethos and global standing.’ Floyd and his wife Maria, an accomplished artist, will relocate to the campus, where they look forward to becoming integral members of the Bryanston community.

No Fee Rise At Tudor Hall School For 2025-26

Tudor Hall School has confirmed that fees will remain unchanged for the 2025-26 academic year, defying a broader trend of rising costs across the independent education sector. Despite ongoing economic pressures – including new tax measures, the removal of Business Rate Relief, and increased National Insurance costs – the governors are committed to maintaining affordability. The school previously absorbed part of the VAT increase and continues to cut costs without compromising educational or pastoral standards. 

Full details of the fees and further information can be found on the school website here.

Brighton College Prep School Shortlisted for Prestigious TES Award

Brighton College Prep School has secured a coveted spot on the shortlist for ‘Prep School of the Year’ at the forthcoming Tes Awards, widely regarded as education’s premier recognition programme.

The nomination acknowledges the institution’s commitment to delivering world-class learning experiences through exceptional teaching talent and state-of-the-art facilities. Already distinguished as The Sunday Times School of the Decade, the prep school has built its reputation on fostering curiosity, confidence and kindness – values that consistently yield remarkable academic outcomes.

‘This recognition beautifully reflects our community’s dedication,’ noted Headmaster Ant Falkus. ‘Seeing our teachers’ and pupils’ extraordinary efforts acknowledged in this way is tremendously gratifying.’

The winners will be revealed during a prestigious ceremony in London on 20 June. Meanwhile, prospective families can experience the school’s distinctive approach firsthand at their upcoming Open Morning on 10 May, with registration available through their website.

Portsmouth High School Sixth Formers Raise Over £13k For The Lily Foundation

Portsmouth High School‘s dedicated Head Girl team has raised a remarkable £13,248 for The Lily Foundation, supporting vital research into mitochondrial disease following a year-long campaign.

The fundraising efforts honoured Otto, son of alumna Millie Hunter (Class of 2013), who tragically lost his life to this genetic condition that prevents cells from producing sufficient energy, leading to organ malfunction.

‘Supporting Millie and preserving Otto’s legacy gave every event deeper significance,’ remarked Katie, Head Girl. ‘We’re immensely proud to raise awareness for families affected by this devastating illness.’

The sixth formers orchestrated numerous events, including their signature Charity Week – a 30-year tradition featuring talent showcases and the annual netball fixture against Portsmouth Grammar School boys – culminating in a spectacular student-choreographed Fashion Show.

The funds will specifically support The Lily Foundation’s Precision Diagnostic Project, helping families receive genetic diagnoses that can inform future pregnancy planning – a particularly meaningful outcome as Millie and her partner prepare to welcome Otto’s baby brother.

Hazlegrove Pupils Cycle Over 130 Miles For Charity

Four intrepid Hazlegrove Prep pupils have conceived and undertaken a mammoth 130-mile cycling challenge from Cornwall to Somerset, raising funds for the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance.

Freddie, Louis, Hambo and Ed devised the ambitious route – including formidable hills across three consecutive days – entirely during playground conversations, surprising parents with their determination.

‘The boys’ initiative embodies our school values perfectly,’ noted Headmaster Mr Benbow of the fundraising effort for the vital emergency service, which relies on donations for 95% of its £3,500-per-mission operations.

The youngsters’ fathers joined training sessions while mothers coordinated food stops between overnight stays. The punishing final day will see them conquer the Blackdown Hills on ‘legs that will feel each climb like an alpine col.’ The school community has rallied behind this pupil-led initiative that has demonstrated remarkable dedication.

Exceptional Success For Benenden Scientists

Benenden‘s Science Faculty celebrates extraordinary pupil accomplishments this Spring, with Olivia (Six Two) making school history by qualifying for the International Biology Olympiad in the Philippines as one of Britain’s top four young biologists.

Further international recognition came as Melanie (Six One) and Nicole (Fifth) secured finalist positions in the European Nuclear Competition, earning them places at the prestigious Bologna showdown.

Meanwhile, Namsai (Six Two) received the coveted gold CREST certificate—one of the highest pre-university science accolades—for her groundbreaking project exploring pH effects on the Maillard Reaction. The British Science Association particularly praised her ‘high-level understanding’ and ‘creativity in method adaptation’.

These achievements crowned a term brimming with practical experimentation across all year groups, from astronomical observations to anatomical dissections, reflecting the school’s commitment to immersive scientific education.

Trinity School To Extend Co-Educational Provision To All Years

Trinity School has unveiled plans to extend its co-educational provision beyond the Sixth Form to encompass all year groups, welcoming its first mixed intake for Years 6 and 7 in September 2027, with full implementation by 2031.

The John Whitgift Foundation-established institution, which has operated from its 27-acre Shirley Park campus since 1965, introduced girls to its Sixth Form in 2011—a successful initiative now being expanded school-wide.

‘This exciting new chapter builds upon our commitment to nurturing outstanding young people within an inclusive learning environment,’ explained Headmaster Alasdair Kennedy. ‘The greater the range of perspectives students encounter, the better their development outcomes.’

The transition enjoys unanimous backing from governors and the Foundation, which will fund substantial campus improvements whilst maintaining Trinity’s ethos of academic excellence and strong pastoral care.

Assembly Hall Undergoes Revolutionary Redesign at RHS

The Royal Hospital School has commenced an ambitious overhaul of its Assembly Hall as part of the forward-thinking RHS 2033: Capital Investment Programme, coinciding with the school’s centenary at Holbrook. This cornerstone venue, traditionally which hosts everything from examinations to theatrical productions, will undergo a total modernisation.

The transformation encompasses a complete aesthetic refresh, innovative retractable seating for 800 attendees, and a redesigned stage with professional-grade audio-visual capabilities. 

Headmaster Irfan Latif emphasised that this strategic investment ‘will create an environment where pupils develop essential skills that shape their futures with confidence.’ The renovation, which began in March, is scheduled for completion by October 2025.

Francis Holland to Host ‘Recode the Curriculum’ Women in Tech Event

Francis Holland School, Regent’s Park, is set to host Recode the Curriculum: A Women in Tech Event on Fashion and Beauty on Wednesday 7th May 2025. 

The event will feature leading innovators including Stasa Stankovic (OvartiX), Dr Alex Box (V-Metics Beauty), Simone Oloman (NIFT), Bianca Rangecroft (Whering), and Louise Laing (Phygen/PhygitalTwin). After an opening talk, students will take part in five dynamic, hands-on workshops exploring cutting-edge tech shaping the fashion and beauty industries. 

Taunton School Becomes Official Pentathlon GB Hub

Taunton School has secured prestigious status as one of the UK’s few official Pentathlon GB Training and Development Hubs, recognising its outstanding sporting facilities and specialist coaching expertise.

The designation acknowledges the school’s remarkable success in nurturing pentathlon talent, with numerous pupils competing at national level across the discipline’s five challenges: fencing, swimming, obstacle racing, laser-shooting and running. Beyond serving its own pupils, the hub will offer community access through training sessions, taster events and holiday camps

‘This recognition places us at the forefront of developing this dynamic multi-sport discipline,’ remarked Beth Mottram, Head of Pentathlon. ‘It beautifully complements our commitment to holistic education and sporting excellence.’

Taunton School Student Receives Prestigious Engineering Scholarship

Taunton School‘s Nathan has secured the coveted Arkwright Engineering Scholarship, triumphing over 1,500 applicants nationwide to join a select group of recipients. The Year 11 pupil, who arrived at Taunton on a Design Technology scholarship in Year 9, impressed selectors with his exceptional engineering aptitude and boundless enthusiasm.

‘Beyond his remarkable talent, Nathan’s willingness to mentor younger pupils truly sets him apart,’ noted Andrew Mason, Head of Design & Technology. ‘He practically lives in our workshop, constantly expanding the possibilities of student engineering.’

Nathan has significantly contributed to the school’s Greenpower racing team, applying sophisticated 3D modelling techniques to the electric car challenge. The prestigious two-year scholarship pairs recipients with industry mentors throughout sixth form, nurturing Britain’s future engineering leaders.

St Edmund’s College Pupil Secures Prestigious Engineering Scholarship

St Edmund’s College celebrates as Pippa Webster also secured an Arkwright Engineering Scholarship, triumphing in a fiercely competitive field of applicants.

Webster distinguished herself as the sole St Edmund’s pupil to reach the interview stage before clinching this prestigious recognition, widely regarded as the UK’s premier engineering scholarship.

‘This achievement reflects not only Pippa’s exceptional talent and determination but also the outstanding mentorship she received,’ remarked Headmaster Matthew Mostyn, particularly acknowledging teacher Anne Marie Healy’s guidance.

The scholarship delivers industry mentorship, practical work experience and project support—invaluable assets as Webster develops her engineering career.

Cheltenham College Launches International School In Northern Italy

Cheltenham College has announced the launch of Cheltenham Lombardy, a new co-educational British boarding school in Varese, Northern Italy, opening in partnership with Edumaax. Set in the picturesque Lakes region, the school will cater to pupils aged 13–18, offering a British curriculum just 30 minutes from Milan airport.

Edumaax is led by Old Cheltonian, His Highness Tunku Yaacob Khyra. Nicola Huggett, Head of Cheltenham College, expressed excitement about sharing the school’s values internationally. Founding Head Steven Geraghty highlighted the unique opportunity to create a world-class international school in an exceptional setting. Cheltenham Lombardy marks a bold new chapter abroad.

Bromley High School Launches Initiative To Educate Girls About Complexities Of Women’s Health

Bromley High School GDST has unveiled a trailblazing programme addressing the critical gap in women’s health education, equipping pupils with essential knowledge traditionally overlooked in conventional schooling.

The comprehensive initiative spans multiple subjects beyond Biology, structured around three fundamental pillars: building confident female identity, promoting holistic wellness, and preparing girls for lifelong physiological changes from puberty through menopause.

Distinctive features include a dedicated Women’s Health Society exploring topics from cervical screening to endometriosis, specialised physical training aligned with hormonal cycles, and Sixth Form mentoring for younger pupils navigating body confidence challenges.

‘Traditional education often neglects women’s health complexities,’ explains Lindsay Garlick, the programme’s architect. ‘We’re determined to reverse this trend.’

Headmistress Emily Codling emphasises the broader vision: ‘Beyond personal health management, we’re cultivating tomorrow’s healthcare pioneers who will revolutionise women’s medical provision.’