Brookes School are pleased to announce a new parent-led governance board has been set up to tap into the skills and expertise of parents to support the school.

The unique school-parent partnership has been welcomed by headteacher, Graham Ellis who also hailed the work of staff and students after all studies were moved online for both the school’s local and international students during the coronavirus pandemic.

Mr Ellis said: “We have talked about a new management structure for a while. When we lost this year’s international students, who were boarding at Brookes, due to the Government guidelines around travel, it allowed us to have a rethink.

“We are fortunate to have parents with such a wealth of business experience who are also passionate about growing the school.

“In response to the impact of the coronavirus, we have already reduced our school fees to offer alternative education at realistic prices and we now feel it is the right time to work together to open up to a wider catchment group.

“It made sense to get some parents more involved to help us overcome the challenges facing all independent schools at this time.

A quartet of existing parents have joined the school board and one of them, Andi Hodgson, said this was an exciting time for staff and parents alike.

Mr Hodgson, whose daughter is in reception class, said: “All private schools are having to reassess their future in the current crisis.

“The school asked for support from parents who might be able to apply their career experience to benefit Brookes going forward.

“Brookes School offers an inclusive and nurturing learning environment and has huge potential. The new management board are looking forward to doing everything we can to support it right now and into the future.”

Founded just under 40 years ago, Brookes School is a leading independent day and boarding school for children aged between two and 16 years old.

Local students are joined by young people from across the world including Iran, China, USA and Mexico with the school promoting a wellbeing agenda throughout its education.

Mr Ellis added: “I have nothing but praise for how our staff and students have adapted at this time.

“Our evolving online learning programme has been well supported and our communication has ranged from one-to-one support, virtual assemblies and even plans for family quiz nights.

“We are doing all we can to ensure we provide the best education and support for our young people.”