Pre-Prep Reflections 25 September 2026

25 September 2026

Dear parents, 

We’ve now reached the half-way point of the first part of the autumn term and the children are really finding their feet and adjusting to their new routines with great enthusiasm. This week in assemblies I’ve spoken to them about Fair Trade Fortnight, answered all the usual start-of-term questions about Ruffles, and reminded them of our expectations when using the toilets at school! 

Parent workshops 

It was great to see lots of parents at our phonics and reading workshop on Tuesday afternoon. Thanks to Ms Richards and Mrs Lawrence-Jones for leading this session and we hope you found the information useful. We are holding a mathematics workshop open to all parents next week on Wednesday after school so please come along if you can, from 4pm in the Year 2 classroom. Children are welcome to join Late Room without charge while you attend.

Governor visit 

Today was Governor Education Day across Exeter School and we were delighted to welcome David McGahey into school this morning. After a tour of the school with me, he spent time hearing children read, visiting each class to observe lessons, and talking to the staff. 

Staff update 

I am sorry to announce that Mrs Wannell will be leaving Exeter Pre-Prep at October half term to take up a new role as deputy pre-school leader at a local primary school. While we are delighted about Chloe’s promotion, I know that we will all miss her after twelve amazing years caring for our Nursery children.  

I am pleased to inform you that Miss Rachel Harrison will be taking up the role of Nursery practitioner on Mondays to Wednesdays, and will be working alongside Mrs Wannell for her final week to ensure a smooth transition for the children. Miss Harrison is a qualified teacher, former social worker and keen hockey player. She has two children in the senior school and many of you will know her from Family Society meetings and events. 

Next week 

I look forward to seeing many of you at the Exeter School open event tomorrow – Ruffles and I will be in the main hall at the pre-prep stand, so do some and say hello. Next Friday is our annual grandparents’ afternoon, which is always a popular event. Please make sure your visitors have signed up – full details can be found in yesterday’s Notices and Reminders email. 

Wishing you a wonderful weekend. 

Mr Daniel Ayling

Stars of the Week

Nursery 

Shine 

For being a subitising superstar! Well done!  

Mrs Dray 

 

Reception 

Felix 

For impressing us with his number recognition this week. Well done!  

Mrs Rickard & Mrs Smyth 

 

Year 1 

Rose 

For trying her best in English lessons this week and demonstrating beautiful handwriting. Well done! 

Mrs Lawrence-Jones & Mrs Howe  

 

Year 2 

Alex 

For his excellent attitude towards learning this week and for trying his best in lessons. Well done! 

Mr Lovett & Mrs Goodwill  

 

Head’s Star 

Luna (Year 1) 

For being such a kind big sister, helping her little brother settle into school this week. Well done! 

Mr Ayling 

Do you have a story or pupil achievement to share with our community?

If you have a couple of lines of information and a photograph that you and your child are happy to be shared we will try to post these at relevant times through the year.
Email our communications team

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Gold for Samantha! 🥇

Huge congratulations to Exeter School gymnast Samantha, who competed at the Southwest Championships on Sunday, held at the Wiltshire School of Gymnastics!

Representing Exeter in the U12 Bronze Classic Challenge Floor event, Samantha went up against 19 gymnasts from across the region, including Bristol, Camborne, Peterborough, Barnstaple, Truro, Wiltshire, Swindon, Axminster and Paignton, and came away with 1st place on Floor! 🎉

A fantastic result reflecting all her hard work and dedication. 👏

#ExeterSchool #IndependentSchools #Gymnast #FirstPlace #SouthWestChampionships #HardWork #Dedication #Congratulations
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