A leading independent prep school in Somerset, offering excellence in education for 2-13 year olds
On a glorious Monday evening, the U13 Tennis Squad enjoyed a superb 5-1 victory over Sherborne Prep, playing on both hard and astro courts.
It was a dominant display, with excellent tennis showcased throughout.
Congratulations to the team – Sholto, James, Jesse, Will, Luca, Reggie, Daisy, Willoughby, Saba and Evie – on a fantastic performance.
What does good leadership look like?
Are you an introvert or an extrovert?
What are your natural skills and abilities?
These are all questions Chris Wheeler, Principal at Monkton Combe School, addressed as he led an energetic leadership session for all pupils in Years 6 to 8.
Mr Wheeler used the DISC human behaviour model to outline four key personality types, encouraging the children to consider which one they most identified with.
“Understanding yourself can provide an important foundation for personal growth and help you forge successful working relationships,” Mr Wheeler explained.
“Of course, all traits are equally valuable, and any good team will have people with different skill sets and perspectives.”
Mr Wheeler is about to start a new role as Headmaster at Canford, so met Will and James who will also join the school in Year 9 in September.
An inspiring start to the week.
The 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day provided the perfect opportunity for us to explore what life was like in Britain during the war, especially for women and children, and how people celebrated when World War II ended in Europe.
Congratulations to Esme whose artwork has made the finals of a major, global competition.
The ‘Global Canvas’ children’s art competition is an annual event run by the David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation, to encourage creativity from young people.
Well done Esme!
You can view artwork from the 2025 finalists and winners here.
The children in Years 3 to 8 were delighted to meet bestselling children’s author, Abi Elphinstone who gave an uplifting and positive talk that covered creative writing, dealing with rejection, dyslexia, resilience, travel … and so much more.
Abi spoke about her new books: Ember Spark & The Thunder of Dragons and Ember Spark & The Frost Phoenix. A new series that tells the action-filled story of Rusty Fizzbang, vet to magical beasts, who needs an apprentice. Ember Spark, looking for adventure, is his newest recruit, together with an unlikely friend called Arno. But keeping magical beasts a secret isn’t an easy task, especially with arch-villain, Jasper Hornswoggle, hot on their heels!
It was interesting for the children to hear where Abi’s ideas come from. “My ideas can come from anywhere” she said, “from shower gel bottles to my adventures in Mongolia”.
Abi also inspired the children to look for their own stories, and shared top tips on creating the perfect title, and nailing that opening line.
“What a rewarding afternoon,” said Mrs Bryne Head of English.
“It was an event that championed the joy of reading and writing, while encouraging children to be curious, courageous and kind. What could be more important?”
Huge congratulations to Mr Salaman our Sports Graduate who ran the Rhodes Marathon in under three and a half hours to finish in 32nd place overall, and 1st in the U25 age category.
At the same time, he raised £1,200 for the Ducks and Drakes Cancer Trust.
Well done James. Impressive stuff.
Following a rigorous eight-week trial, we are delighted to confirm that Zach in Year 5 has been selected to join the prestigious Exeter City Football Academy.
The academy has a growing reputation for producing talented footballers as they strive to see as many of their young players as possible go on to become professional sportsman.
Clearly, talent runs in the family as Zach’s father was himself a professional footballer who played for Manchester City, among others.
Speaking of the news Mr Sheldon Director of Sport said, “Zach is a talented sportsman with great speed, agility and spatial awareness.
“He always listens well to coaches and works incredibly hard to implement suggestions.
“This attitude and skill level could take Zach a long way in the future.”
On this glorious spring day, the children made their way from school to St Martin’s Church in North Perrott, for our traditional Easter Service.
Father Riley warmly welcomed everyone, and gave an address that set a reflective tone. Prayers and readings, shared by the Headmaster, pupils, and staff, brought further significance and depth to the gathering.
A real highlight was the performance of sections from St Matthew Passion by our Senior Choir and the Staff/Parent Choir and as the service came to close, the school community joined in an rousing rendition of Thine Be the Glory by G.F. Handel.
A thoughtful way to end a busy term.
This week we are bidding a very fond farewell to a much-loved member of the Perrott Hill team.
During his 15 years as Deputy Head, Will Silk (pictured left) has certainly made his mark. Whether through his young farmer activities, his book clubs, his legendary marmalade making, his debating competitions or his inspiring lessons, Mr Silk has positively impacted hundreds of children.
We are sad to see him go, but wish him all the very best as he heads to Cornwall to take up the role of Assistant Head at Truro Prep School.
Taking up the reigns is Andy Finch who has been appointed Deputy Head and Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL), following a rigorous selection process.
Mr Finch has been a valued member of Perrott Hill for the past fourteen years holding several senior leadership positions including Head of Boarding, Compliance Co-ordinator and most recently, Director of Studies. Prior to joining us, he was part of the Extended Leadership Team at Felsted Preparatory School.
In his new role, Mr Finch will oversee the holistic personal development and educational experience of all pupils. This will involve close collaboration with the Heads of Section and Heads of Department to ensure the highest standards of pastoral care and academic excellence across the school.
Year 2’s Rona is taking on a huge challenge this May – cycling an impressive 100km to support two charities: The Back Up Trust and The Bat Conservation Trust.
The Back Up Trust was chosen by Rona because an ex Perrott Hill member has sadly suffered an illness leaving him paralysed from the waist down and in need of a wheelchair. The Back Up Trust are the only charity that help children with spinal cord injuries.
With training already in full swing, Rona is showing great determination to cover 16km (10 miles) a day.
Her efforts have already raised a whopping £1,200 through her JustGiving page, and she’s loving all the messages of support.
Let’s cheer her on as she powers toward her goal 🚴
