Haberdashers' Monmouth School Overview
Haberdashers’ Monmouth School is a co-educational independent day and boarding school for pupils aged 3 to 18, set within the stunning surroundings of the Wye Valley in Wales. The school offers a high-quality education that skilfully blends tradition with a forward-thinking approach. It is conveniently located just over an hour’s drive from Bristol, Birmingham, and Cardiff International Airports, and approximately two and a half hours from Heathrow Airport.
The school has a rich history, originating from two esteemed institutions: Monmouth School for Boys, founded in 1614, and Monmouth School for Girls, established in 1982. The boys’ school was situated at the foot of a hill, with the girls’ school a mere ten-minute walk away at the top. As of the 2024/25 academic year, these schools have merged into a single entity. The former boys’ school site now primarily serves as the teaching base for Years 7 to 11, while the former girls’ school campus houses the Prep School and Sixth Form.
Haberdashers’ Monmouth School is dedicated to fostering a learning community where character, curiosity, and ambition are nurtured. It brings together day and boarding pupils from across the UK and around the world, forming a diverse and vibrant global community.
While committed to academic excellence, the school places an equally strong emphasis on a rich co-curricular programme. This encompasses sport, outdoor pursuits, performing arts, design, and sustainability, providing a holistic education that supports pupils in building confidence and discovering their potential. The school’s core values – Respect, Resilience, Kindness, Integrity, and Creativity – are deeply embedded in every aspect of school life, guiding pupils as they prepare for the future.
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Haberdashers' Monmouth School - Academic
At the Prep School, learning is an adventure that blends tradition with innovation, designed to ignite a love of learning. The curriculum is broad and varied, covering English, Mathematics, Science, Latin, Humanities, ICT, Computing, History, Geography, Religious Education, Art, Design Technology, Music, Physical Education, Games, Drama, French, and study skills. From Year 5, pupils use personal devices to make lessons interactive. The school is a recognised Microsoft Showcase School, leveraging cutting-edge digital tools. Subjects like science and art are taught to spark creativity and curiosity.
The Senior School offers a wide range of subjects, with students typically selecting nine or ten GCSE subjects beginning in Year 10. Small class sizes ensure personalised attention and support, with strong examination results reflecting the school’s commitment to academic excellence. Specialist support is available through the Additional Learning Needs (ALN) department for those who need it, and English as an Additional Language (EAL) provision is offered for international students.
The Sixth Form promotes academic rigour and intellectual excitement through a wide choice of over 30 A Level subjects, BTEC Sport, and the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ). Students usually study three or four A Levels, complemented by a bespoke Enrichment programme. This prepares them to bridge the gap between school and university or the world of work. With approximately 65% of students gaining entry to Russell Group universities, leavers progress to a diverse range of fields including engineering, languages, business, medicine, and the arts.
Haberdashers' Monmouth School - Co-curricular Activities
The school firmly believes in the importance of a well-rounded education and offers an extensive array of co-curricular activities.
Sport
The Prep School focuses on developing fundamental movement skills and teamwork through sports like cricket, hockey, gymnastics, football, rugby, and swimming. Senior and Sixth Form students have access to a competitive fixture programme and benefit from the expertise of the Eddie Butler Sports Academy, which offers individual development plans. Outstanding facilities include an indoor swimming pool, sports hall, climbing wall, tennis and netball courts, and extensive playing fields.
Performing & Creative Arts
The school has a thriving performing arts scene. The music department offers instrumental lessons, choirs, and inspirational trips. Drama and Dance are taught by industry professionals, with opportunities for performances. The Creative Arts departments allow students to explore a wide range of mediums, from traditional materials like clay and paint to digital tools in Art, and wood, metal, and plastics in Design & Technology.
The Monmouth 100
This flagship programme offers over 100 activities, from yoga and debating to ceramics and water polo. It encourages students to explore new interests, develop new skills, and cultivate passions that could last a lifetime.
Haberdashers' Monmouth School - Boarding Life
The school offers a range of flexible boarding options to suit the needs of different families, including full, weekly, and occasional boarding.
Prep School
Junior boarders (Years 3 to 8) reside in Monnow House, located on the St Catherine’s Campus. The house offers a happy and nurturing environment where children sleep in cosy dormitories of three or four. Under the care of the Housemistress and her team, boarders enjoy a well-balanced routine of work and play. To ensure a good night’s sleep, mobile phones are not permitted overnight.
Senior School
From Year 9, boarders move to single-sex houses. Boys are housed in either New House or Weirhead House on the William Jones Campus, while girls stay in Twiston Davies House on the St Catherine’s Campus. The houses provide spacious study and social areas, as well as kitchens. Weekends are filled with extracurricular activities, sporting fixtures, and a programme of outings.
Sixth Form
Sixth Form boarding is designed to provide a stepping stone to independent university life. Boys are housed in Buchanan House (William Jones Campus) and girls in the modern, purpose-built Augusta House (St Catherine’s Campus). Both offer single, en-suite study bedrooms and university-style common rooms and kitchens, allowing students to manage their own space and time.
Haberdashers' Monmouth School - Pastoral Care & Wellbeing
The health and wellbeing of pupils is the school’s highest priority, supported by a comprehensive and meticulous pastoral structure.
Pastoral System：A strong house system is at the heart of pastoral care. Each student is known and supported by a team of Housemasters/Housemistresses, tutors, and matrons who build strong, trusting relationships.
Medical Care：Two well-equipped Health and Wellbeing Centres (HWBC) are staffed by a team of professionally registered nurses. Boarding pupils are registered with a local GP who holds weekly surgeries at the school. Experienced night matrons provide overnight care.
Counselling Support：Professional school counsellors are available throughout the week to provide confidential, one-to-one support. Many staff are trained in Mental Health First Aid.
PSHE Programme：A carefully structured Personal, Social, Health, and Economic (PSHE) programme, known as HabsMon, delivers age-appropriate education on topics including relationships, mental health, and financial literacy, often supported by external experts.
Wellbeing Leadership：A dedicated Head of Wellbeing oversees a proactive approach to mental health, implementing innovative strategies such as ‘Buddy Breakfasts’ and a ‘Shelf Help’ bibliotherapy initiative to ensure the whole school community feels safe, included, and supported.
Haberdashers' Monmouth School - Contact Information
- Official website: https://www.rishworth-school.co.uk/
- Location: Almshouse St, Monmouth NP25 3XP, United Kingdom
- Email address: enquiries@habsmonmouth.org
- Phone: +44 01600 713143
