A new beginning at Lockers Park

Lockers Park prep school marks the start of a new chapter in its 140-year history by opening a new pre-preparatory school

Posted by Stephanie Broad | November 09, 2015 | Facilities & buildings

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Surrounded by 23 acres of woodland in Boxmoor on the outskirts of Hemel Hempstead in Hertfordshire, Lockers Park is a day and boarding prep school for boys aged five to 13. Founded in 1874, it’s one of the oldest purpose-built prep schools in the country and this year has seen it open its own purpose-built pre-prep. The new addition will expand the school’s early years provision and will welcome both boys and girls from reception age through to year two.

The pre-prep was opened by the high sheriff of Hertfordshire and Lockers Park old boy Jonathan Trower, who unveiled a commemorative plaque. “Returning to Lockers Park brings back many happy memories,” said Jonathan. “I was honoured to have been invited to come and help celebrate this important event.”

Pupils, staff and guests released hundreds of biodegradable balloons in Lockers Park school colours in recognition of the occasion.

Headmaster Christopher Wilson said: “We are delighted to launch our Lockers Park Pre-Preparatory School officially; today marks a new beginning for the pupils, staff and governors. We anticipate this exciting addition will further cement Lockers Park’s standing as a unique educational establishment in the county.

“Being purpose-designed means we have created a wonderful, light space that allows us to offer an outstanding education with an innovative curriculum and fantastic extracurricular activities – all within the ethos of Lockers Park, which is rooted in nurturing individuality and self-confidence for each and every child. Our preparatory school remains firmly committed to a boys-only education, continuing the school’s longstanding tradition of preparing boys for the best of British public and independent schools.”

“The new pre-preparatory opens up our unique and invaluable education opportunity to a wider group of parents” - Chris Lister

The pre-prep at Lockers Park opened its doors at the start of the autumn term on 3 September and the children are settling in well and making the most of their new space.

Lockers Park’s chair of governors Chris Lister added: “Governors and staff made a big commitment in creating this new venture to bring in a new chapter for the school and the local community. The new pre-preparatory opens up our unique and invaluable education opportunity to a wider group of parents. And being here today to participate in the celebrations makes me feel honoured and delighted to have played a part in the development. Staff and pupils at the pre-prep now have an excellent teaching and learning environment built to meet the needs of the school’s early years children.”

Lockers Park is hosting an open morning on Saturday 10 October when prospective pupils and parents can hear more about both the new co-educational pre-prep and the boys-only prep schools.

www.lockerspark.herts.sch.uk