As we reach the end of another successful examination period for our current Prep 6 pupils, it is a chance to look back and reflect on the journey each of our oldest pupils has taken. Entry to the Upper Juniors marked the continuation, for many, of a journey that began at just three or four years of age. For some, the journey began a little later when they joined in the Infants or Lower Juniors, while for a few it started only just over twelve months ago. For all, however, it has been a period of enormous growth and progress.

Firstly, there has been huge academic improvement and achievement, that goes without saying.

Our pupils have taken examinations for senior schools quite literally all over the UK. Each school tests different skills and ways of working, and our Prep 6 pupils adapt impressively, showing real resilience as they tackle each new set of exam papers. Their ability and skills are regularly rewarded with Year 7 scholarship places for academic excellence, Music, Sport and Drama, alongside a wealth of offers from numerous schools. What an achievement at only ten or eleven years of age.

By far the biggest and most noticeable change and one of the aspects senior schools most frequently compliment Lady Barn pupils on reveals itself during the interview process. Our Prep 6 students shine. They glow. They demonstrate confidence, resilience, determination, ambition and positive energy. They have so much to talk about, drawn from their daily experiences in the Upper Juniors: positions of responsibility, opportunities to represent the school, supporting younger pupils, engaging in competitions, clubs and lessons, and even showing teachers how to use technology! They have grown, both literally and metaphorically.

Our Prep 6 pupils prepare for interviews through mock interviews carried out by staff from other departments, and one phrase we consistently hear begins with, “I can’t believe that…”. Teachers who knew the pupils in the Infants or Early Years are quite literally astounded by the individual growth and achievement of our Prep 6 pupils. Parents, too, are often surprised and experience an overwhelming sense of pride when they hear their own children speaking eloquently and enthusiastically about their current school and their hopes for the future.

The Upper Juniors is such an exciting part of the Lady Barn journey, and we know that whichever school your child chooses for their senior school adventures will be delighted to welcome a Lady Barner into their Year 7 and beyond. Well done, Prep 6, wherever you decide to continue your journey, you will keep showing resilience, determination and kindness. We are so proud of you all.

Miss Stapley

Prep 6 Teacher