Headmistress’ Welcome

A very warm welcome to Wellesley Haddon Dene School.

Wellesley Haddon Dene is a truly inspiring school community to be part of.  For more than twelve years, I have had the privilege of watching countless children thrive and succeed at our school, leaving us as confident, motivated young people, well prepared to thrive and deal with the excitements and challenges that lie ahead.

At Wellesley Haddon Dene, we pride ourselves on the ability to build close and constructive relationships with our families.  Children often refer to our school as a ‘home from home’ and our school roll is small enough so that we know each individual child really well.  It is through positive and constructive relationships with children that we uncover their potential, nurture their individual strengths and support them to achieve maximum progress from their starting point.  Every child has their chance to shine and no one gets lost in the crowd.

Our staff and children alike have high expectations. In the classroom we make every minute of learning count and in the playground we focus on having fun and building lifelong friendships. We firmly believe that children who are happy and inspired will succeed. Our broad curriculum, exceptional pastoral care and nurturing environment at Wellesley Haddon Dene helps to foster the individual strengths of every pupil.

Academic success is a priority, and our pupils benefit from small classes, superb facilities and dedicated, talented teachers. We are proud of the excellent results that our pupils achieve in their entrance exams at 11+ to grammar schools and at 13+ to a wide range of the UK’s top public schools. However, at Wellesley Haddon Dene education is so much more than just what is learned in the classroom. Our aim is to lay strong foundations, and teach our pupils vital life skills that will help them to succeed throughout their life.

All the children are encouraged to take part in a wide array of activities, and they each get the opportunity to participate in a variety of sports, helping them to learn the importance of teamwork, resilience, and how to win and lose graciously. Pupils are encouraged to try new experiences and take a few risks, which helps them to build their self-confidence, ignite passions and make lasting friendships.

As Headteacher, I firmly believe that a good education provides children with choices and life chances. We want our children to have the very best opportunities ahead of them. We instil strong values in every child, and encourage them to be well-mannered, considerate and kind.

Choosing the right school for your child is one of the most important decisions you will make. Wellesley Haddon Dene is more than just a school, we are a family. We encourage you to come and visit us, so that you can see for yourself what makes Wellesley Haddon Dene such an outstanding school.

Mrs Joanne Parpworth B.Sc (Hons), PGCE, NPQH

“Wellesley has given me so many opportunities – the drama, the sports, the activities, the music, the teachers – in fact, I love everything about Wellesley!”

WELLESLEY HADDON DENE PUPIL

“I love the art and drama – there are so many opportunities and the plays are always amazing fun!”

WELLESLEY HADDON DENE PUPIL

“Wellesley has given me confidence and independence in all that I do. It has given me the opportunity to meet new people, make new friends and explore new things that I would never be able to do at any other school.”

WELLESLEY HADDON DENE PUPIL