One of England’s most venerable independent schools is to undertake a merger with a Surrey neighbour.
Charterhouse, founded in 1611, will join forces with Edgeborough School, established in 1906. While a single governing body will have responsibility for both schools from the beginning of the next academic year, each will retain its current name, badge, uniform and day-to-day operational autonomy.
For Charterhouse, September also marks the transition to becoming fully coeducational for the first time.
Edgeborough’s head, Dan Thornburn, will continue in his role following the merger, although the headmaster of Charterhouse, Alex Peterken, will be given overall executive responsibility for both schools.
The schools already enjoy a close relationship, with a well-trodden path of Edgeborough pupils moving to Charterhouse at 13.
“For parents seeking a joined-up prep and senior school education for their child, we believe our offer will be exceptional; rooted in an academic yet all-round curriculum, with a real breadth of choice and delivered in beautiful, inspiring grounds and facilities,’’ said Peterken.
“Under the leadership of Dan Thornburn, Edgeborough is enjoying significant success and momentum, with record pupil numbers and growing interest in admissions. At the same time, Charterhouse is currently undergoing the most exciting transformation you will find in any independent school in the country, and we are delighted that Edgeborough can be part of that journey.”
Charterhouse is currently undergoing the most exciting transformation you will find in any independent school in the country, and we are delighted that Edgeborough can be part of that journey – Alex Peterken, Charterhouse
Despite the merger, the schools are at pains to point out that there will be “no expectation” that Edgeborough pupils should go on to join Charterhouse.
“This merger will see Edgeborough joining with one of the foremost senior schools in the country, with the overriding aim of providing a truly exceptional educational offering, unparalleled both in the local area and beyond,” said Thornburn.
“I am proud of everything we have achieved at Edgeborough in recent years, and this exciting development will now help inject further energy, immense educational history and additional expertise into our onward journey. It is the most wonderful opportunity for Edgeborough to move onwards to the next level.”
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