Community

By Annie Gent, Head

Definitions of the word community include ideas like ‘sharing a characteristic’, ‘practising common ownership’, and ‘a fellowship with others’. At Sherborne Prep, our community is all of these – and more.

This is a place where children build tight-knit friendships, where the youngest and oldest share the joy of being together. They learn from each other. They grow alongside one another. And, in doing so, they begin to understand their place in the world.

School is one of the first places where children encounter the idea of society. They begin to realise they can shape it. That they can be role models. That character begins when you’re young – and grows stronger when nurtured with care.

Opportunities to build this character are woven throughout school life. The House system encourages pupils to work and play together towards shared goals. School council, eco committee and class reps are democratically chosen. Pupils know who will represent their voice. They know who they can look up to.

Every year, our senior children rise to the challenges we set. They become those ‘giants’ the younger pupils watch so closely. Never underestimate the quiet power of a pat on the back from an older pupil, or a smile during a House meeting. A small gesture from a senior can make a younger child’s day.

It’s fun, too. It’s joyful. Whether they’re tearing around at break, helping out after a tumble, or getting gloriously goofy during Saturday activities, the connection between year groups is full of warmth. That same connection builds confidence, empathy and resilience.

The role model effect is real – and powerful.

Throughout the school, children rub along together, laugh together and learn from each other. The healthy lack of hierarchy is part of our culture. It shows up in the way children talk to each other, help each other and lead each other. It shines in House events, community action days, and our pupil listener scheme. When they’re given the chance, children step up. They want to contribute. They want to be the citizens we hope they’ll become.

A strong community isn’t just a nice-to-have. It’s vital. It helps children understand relationships. It teaches them that connection matters. It shows them how to grasp opportunity, build trust, and be a source of strength for someone else.

School is so much more than the classroom. When pupils feel ownership over their environment – when they play an active role in shaping it – they feel pride. Pride builds resilience. Belonging builds wellbeing.

And all of this begins with the simple, powerful idea that we’re in this together.