Renovations to Enhance Learning Spaces
Over the summer, several areas of Queen’s underwent renovations to improve the student experience. In the Pre-Prep and Nursery, a large-scale refurbishment was carried out, including fresh décor, new flooring, and the addition of a new bathroom, utility space, and a covered outdoor play area. As part of these changes, the Nursery moved from the Highgrove building into the Pre-Prep, creating a more central and integrated space for our youngest pupils to grow and play together. A brand-new dining facility has also been created for the Pre-Prep, complete with a new kitchen that will be used for our new Breakfast and Supper Club, giving children more flexibility and a warm, welcoming start and end to their day.
The Senior School now boasts a dedicated classroom for Personal, Social, Health, and Education (PSHE) lessons, ensuring that this vital subject has its own space for focused, impactful learning.
The Howard Vivian Building saw a complete window replacement and external decoration program, enhancing both its aesthetic appeal and functionality, with the new windows offering improved safety and energy efficiency.
Our purpose-built teaching kitchen, designed with a sleek “MasterChef” look, is in its final stages of development. With chrome worktops and individual workstations, this state-of-the-art facility will be used for the prestigious Leith’s Academy Courses, providing pupils with hands-on culinary training.
Over in Cotlake boarding house, the boys’ floor received a fresh update, creating an even more homely and comfortable space for our boarders to enjoy.
New Academic Opportunities: Queen’s College Centre Français
This summer also marked the establishment of the Queen’s College Centre Français (QCF), located in the former Highgrove Nursery. This department provides a seamless integration of the French curriculum for Prep French pupils, allowing them to continue their French academic studies in the mornings while being fully immersed in Queen’s College life in the afternoons.
Outstanding Exam Results
Queen’s celebrated exceptional academic success again this summer. On A-Level results day, the outgoing Year 13 cohort achieved results well above the national average, with a 100% pass rate across 20 subjects, including Biology, Business Studies, Economics, Further Maths, and Physics. There were particularly strong performances in English Literature, Art, Music, Textiles, and Computing. GCSE results were equally impressive, with 40% of pupils achieving one or more of the top grades.
Olympic Glory
In addition to academic achievements, Queen’s is immensely proud of Rebecca Wilde, an Old Queenian and daughter of long-standing Queen’s teachers Mr. and Mrs. Wilde, who secured a bronze medal in the Women’s Double Sculls Rowing event at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Alongside her rowing partner, Mathilda Hodgkins-Byrne, Wilde’s outstanding performance brought home a podium finish with a remarkable time of 6:53.22.
