Monkton Combe School in Bath and All Hallows Preparatory School near Shepton Mallet have announced that they will merge.
“There is already a strong relationship between our two successful schools,” said Chris Wheeler, Principal of Monkton. “Not only are we close geographically, but we share pupil-centred educational success supported by a kind and caring culture.
“Students at both schools already thrive in a school community which is inspiring, inquiring and instills a confident humility. This merger will strengthen that expertise and further position us as leaders in providing an outstanding education.
“Many leading independent schools are creating groups of schools so they can work together more closely. As part of the Rugby Group, Monkton has observed the benefits such a move is bringing to schools such as Malvern College and Rugby School and has been equally ambitious and thoughtful in doing the same.
“The merger allows us to take full advantage of shared resources, facilities and expertise. We believe it will bring clear educational, financial and spiritual benefits, including enhancing the advantages of moving schools at 13, underpinning the long-term sustainability of both schools and strengthening our living Christian faith.”
At Monkton, 83.5% of students achieved A* to B at A Level last summer, with up to 8% of pupils gaining Oxbridge entrance and 50% securing places at Russell Group Universities. In 2016 the Independent Schools Inspectorate rated the school as excellent, the highest available grade, in all areas.
“This merger allows us to take full advantage of shared resources, facilities and expertise, helping All Hallows flourish and grow whilst ensuring each child has the same individual attention they need,” added Dr Trevor Richards, Headmaster at All Hallows.
Governance across both schools will be unified, but each school will retain its own leadership and management, teaching and support staff, as well as uniform and site.
“The Governing Bodies at both of our schools have been carefully considering a move such as this for a number of years. We both wanted to choose a partner who is a good fit, and we could not be more delighted to have found this in All Hallows,” said Prof Helen Langton, Chair of the Monkton Combe School Governing Body.
“By joining with a leading senior school, we will be able to share best practice, support educational innovation and build a deeper understanding of how children journey through their whole school career. Pupils gain real benefit from interacting with each other and we value that this collaboration with Monkton will bring real benefits to all of our students,” said Melanie Eyles, Chair of the All Hallows Prep School Governing Body.
Founded in 1868, Monkton offers an education for nearly 700 pupils across prep and senior schools. Focusing on every child’s individual strengths, Monkton develops academic excellence built on exceptional pastoral care and a living Christian ethos.
All Hallows, located near Frome, is a leading day and boarding prep school for boys and girls aged 3 to 13 and currently has 275 pupils.
The next Open Morning for Monkton Senior School, located in Monkton Combe near Bath, Somerset, will be 21 May 2022, 10am-12pm.
The next Open Morning for All Hallows Preparatory School, located near Frome, Somerset, will be Saturday 30 April and Monday 2 May 2022 (prior booking essential).
To find out more about the merger, click here