As we reach the end of this extraordinary school year, and indeed the final chapter in the story of Edenhurst Preparatory School, it is difficult to find words that fully capture what this community has meant to so many people over the past sixty-five years.
There is, of course, sadness as we prepare to say goodbye to a place that has been at the centre of so many childhoods, friendships, achievements and family memories. Alongside that sadness, however, is an immense sense of gratitude. How fortunate we have all been to have played a part in the Edenhurst story.
Although I have only had the privilege of being part of that story since joining as Headteacher in September 2022, it has been one of the greatest honours of my career so far. From the moment I arrived, it was clear that Edenhurst was far more than a school. It was, and always will be, a community built on relationships: a place where children are known as individuals, where kindness matters, and where confidence, character and ambition are nurtured every single day. A home from home.
Over the past few years, I have witnessed first-hand the ‘Edenhurst Edge’ that so many speak about. It is evident in our pupils’ warmth, resilience, humour and willingness to embrace every opportunity. It can be seen in the dedication of our staff, the steadfast support of our families, and the strong sense of belonging that has always defined this school.
Perhaps it is fitting that this final half-term has reflected all that Edenhurst does best: learning, laughter, creativity, friendship and a determination to make the most of every moment.
We began the term with a workshop from Circus Sensible, filling the school with laughter and plenty of newly acquired circus skills. It was a pleasure to see our pupils embracing new challenges with such good humour. Soon afterwards, our youngest pupils delighted family and friends with their production of Croak, performing and singing with a genuine sense of enjoyment. Watching them grow in self-belief and take such pride in their achievements has been immensely rewarding, and it was heartening to see the encouragement they offered one another throughout.
Pupils from Prep 3 to Prep 6 then took to the stage alongside staff in our production of Ali Baba and the Bongo Bandits at the Crown Wharf Theatre. It was an evening of pure fun, with lines delivered with great gusto, songs enthusiastically belted out and a wonderfully witty script that kept the audience laughing out loud from beginning to end. The commitment shown by both pupils and staff was evident throughout as they embraced every moment, and the production was a real celebration of the power of teamwork. We are, however, still trying to establish the identities of the two particularly brave individuals who spent the evening inside Humphrey the camel!
Our community also marked World Environment Day, taking time to reflect on the importance of caring for the world around us and considering the contribution each of us can make. It provided an opportunity for pupils to think about their responsibilities as global citizens and the lasting impact of small, everyday actions.
One of the most talked about trips of the term was undoubtedly our whole-school trip to Drayton Manor, generously funded by the EPTA. The day was filled with excitement as we all bravely clambered onto a variety of rides and created memories that will stay with us for years to come.
We were delighted to welcome former pupils, parents and staff back to school for our alumni event on Saturday 20th June. Bringing together generations of the Edenhurst family, it was a lovely occasion to reconnect, share memories and celebrate the enduring connections that make our school so distinctive. It was particularly enjoyable to see guests browsing the collection of photographs and memorabilia on display, each item prompting stories and fond recollections of school days gone by. Among the many treasures was a rather lovely Edenhurst boater hat, which attracted considerable attention and proved a particular favourite. A selection of these items have now found a new home at the Brampton Museum.
As the term progressed, our Celebration of Learning event gave families the opportunity to share in the impressive progress and accomplishments of our pupils. It was a reflection of the perseverance and positive attitudes shown throughout the year. This was followed by an excellent Sports Day and family picnic. Whether competing on the track or cheering from the sidelines, pupils demonstrated the spirit of support and respect for others that we value so highly at Edenhurst.
The annual Awards Ceremony and Speech Day held particular significance this year as we celebrated not only the successes of our pupils both in and out of the classroom, but also sixty-five years of Edenhurst history. It offered a chance to reflect on the generations of children, families and staff who have shaped our school and contributed to the values, traditions and culture that continue to define Edenhurst today.
Following Speech Day, our Prep 6 pupils hosted their much-anticipated EPIC stalls. Their organisation and business initiative were evident throughout and contributed greatly to the atmosphere of the evening…..darts, football, ice lollies, bracelets, tombola, water pistols, lemonade stand, chocolate covered strawberries, pick ‘n’ mix….I am pleased to share that they have raised just over £600 which will be shared with the three local charities that we have supported this year: Dougie Mac, People’s Pantry and Cats Protection. The festivities continued with a community disco and games hosted by Party Roo, accompanied by ice cream and pizza. A perfect end to a perfect day!
Our Prep 6 Leavers’ Assembly reminded us of the many ways in which our oldest pupils have enriched school life during their time at Edenhurst. They leave us with much to be proud of and every reason to feel optimistic about the future. We wish them every success as they begin the next stage of their educational journey and look forward to hearing of all they go on to achieve. Meanwhile, the parent and teacher rounders match provided one final opportunity for friendly, good-natured competition while continuing a much-loved Edenhurst tradition. It was a fitting conclusion to a busy and rewarding year. And yes, Prep 6 beat us hands down!
As I reflect on all of these moments, I am reminded that the true measure of a school is not found in its buildings, but in the people who pass through them and the lives they help shape. Edenhurst will endure in the friendships formed here, in the confidence discovered on a stage or sports field, in the encouragement of teachers, in school trips and assemblies, in hard-won achievements, and in the countless acts of kindness that have defined generations of pupils.
There is a line from Winnie-the-Pooh that feels particularly apt at this moment:
“How lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.”
That sentiment captures much of what so many of us feel as we reach the end of this chapter.
To all of the staff, past and present, thank you for the dedication, care, humour and professionalism you have brought to Edenhurst over the years. You have shaped generations of young people and helped create a school of which we can all be proud.
To our families, thank you for your trust, support and partnership. Your belief in the school has sustained and strengthened this community for decades.
And to every pupil who has ever walked through the doors of Edenhurst, take with you the friendships you have made, the values you have learned and the confidence to embrace whatever comes next. The experiences you shared here will remain part of you, just as you will always remain part of the Edenhurst story.
Finally, thank you to the Edenhurst community for allowing me to be part of this story. I will always feel privileged that our paths crossed, and I will carry the spirit of Edenhurst with me for years to come.
With heartfelt gratitude,
Mrs Emma Mousley
Headteacher
Categories: School Blogs
