Laura Sutherland speaks to some of the capital?s top preps? heads about the benefits of a single-sex learning
?The fact that it used to be a library just adds to the magic,? Suzy Dixon smiles, exuding excitement about Francis Holland Junior School?s new base. ?That means it?s always been a place of learning.?
And the headteacher has good reason to be delighted, as this September, the all-girls? prep will reopen in a spectacular Victorian Grade II-listed building just off the King?s Road.
Adaptable learning
St Philip’s pupils playing hide and seek in the garden.
Currently the Hampshire School and a spacious public library once upon a time, the 20,000 sq ft Manresa Road site is ideal for the next phase in the school?s vision: not only will there be extra space to accommodate two-form entry, there?s also a wealth of new facilities, from more external space for outdoor learning, a vast library (naturally) and a science laboratory to dedicated art and music rooms, as well as a much larger, L-shaped hall, offering adaptable space for special events and school productions. ?It just needs a touch of prep-school fun,? Dixon adds, explaining that artists with children?s interiors? experience are working to bring out the wonder of the building?s period features with playful decorative flourishes, such as colourful staircase spindles, clouds on ceilings and gold-trimmed fan lights to bring sunlit sparkle to the halls.
Providing variety
Francis Holland Preparatory School, Sports i...