Westonbirt Schools become part of the Wishford Schools group

Westonbirt Schools are delighted to announce that, with immediate effect, they will become part of the Wishford Schools group of successful and high-achieving, independent schools, marking a new chapter in their 90-year history.

The group’s ethos of offering a first-class education in a nurturing environment, while delivering the highest standards of customer service and value for money, matches Westonbirt’s own. Three Wishford schools are local to Westonbirt – Cricklade Manor Prep (formerly Prior Park Prep), Hatherop Castle and Heywood Prep – and all have thrived under Wishford’s governance. In the last three years, Westonbirt Schools have seen some remarkable successes, including:

• Westonbirt Prep making The Times list of ‘Top 100 Independent Prep Schools’
• Natasha Dangerfield being listed as Runner Up in the Tatler Schools Awards as ‘Best Head of a Public School’
• The simplified and more competitive fee structure being shortlisted for a Times Educational Supplement Independent School Award in the category of ‘Financial Initiative of the Year’

Now with growing pupil numbers across both schools, Westonbirt is looking to the future. Being a member of the Wishford group guarantees Westonbirt’s long-term stability, allowing it to continue to provide an outstanding education and to push forward with new developments.

Wishford will work with Heads Mrs Natasha Dangerfield and Mr Sean Price and the Westonbirt Senior Leadership Team to progress both schools. Westonbirt will benefit from additional funding for facilities and educational resources to ensure that the schools are able to continue to develop, evolve and thrive for many generations to come.

Natasha Dangerfield, Headmistress of Westonbirt Schools, says of the move ‘This exciting development ensures continued progression and investment for the future of both our schools. We are delighted to welcome the expertise and significant experience of the Wishford Group as we continue our journey.’

Sam Antrobus, Executive Chair of Wishford Schools, says ‘I am delighted to welcome Westonbirt Schools into the Wishford Schools Group. Westonbirt Schools have changed remarkably over the last few years under Natasha’s leadership and we are delighted to be part of their future.’

Dermot McMeekin, Chair of Westonbirt Schools, says ‘Westonbirt Governors believe that the long term strategic fit between Wishford and Westonbirt is absolutely compelling and unanimously support this transformational outcome.’