A recent visit to Farringtons & Stratford House by the editor of the 'Independent Schools of the UK' guide, prompted him to say, 'Perhaps the school motto should become, 'Yes, I can', since there is an almost tangible dedication amongst teachers to finding the very best in every girl and building on it.' Despite an 89% pass rate at A level in 1996 and with 91% of all girls in Year 11 having gained at least 5 A*-C grade GCSEs, headmistress, Barbara Stock, says 'We are NOT an academic hothouse, but we ARE highly successful in finding and strengthening each girl's abilities, so that she achieves her best academically, in public examinations, sport, drama and music. We promise to keep our classes small and our tuition very personal.'
The editor's final comments, 'Good facilities, a caring staff, a lively spirit. There is a very special atmosphere in this school which left me totally captivated.'
We were pleased, but not surprised at his words.
Farringtons & Stratford House occupies an early twentieth century purpose-built main school building, set in 25 acres of park. A broad curriculum covers both the traditional subjects and the modern, including Business Studies, information technology, textiles, CDT and a range of vocational courses. In 1995 a purpose-built technology centre was added to the impressive range of facilities already offered by the school. Teaching is backed up with support and guidance from careers staff. Science teaching from well-equipped laboratories is one of the school's strengths.
Extra-curricular activities include the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, Young Enterprise, all sports, fencing and drama, but the activity of which the school is particularly proud is singing. The school choir regularly leads services in the school's own chapel and takes part in both international exchanges and national events, singing for example in the Royal Festival Hall and in Westminster Abbey. Sport features strongly, inspired by the excellently equipped new Sports Hall. But what distinguishes the school is the warmth and caring environment nurtured, particularly in the boarding houses, to ensure that each girl quickly feels a part of a new extended family.
