22 May 2026

Headmaster's Newsletter, Friday 22nd May 2026

Dear Parents

I am writing this ahead of our Family Afternoon and, with Dumpton already bathed in sunshine, it promises to be a very special occasion. Events like today give us the opportunity to come together as a community, to share this wonderful site and celebrate our pupils and all the opportunities that make Dumpton so special. Thank you for playing your part in that.

At a time when communities and society can sometimes feel a little fractured, I think many of us are seeking a greater sense of connection and belonging. It is my hope that Dumpton provides that not only for our pupils and staff, but for all of you as parents - and grandparents - too. Schools are places full of joy, enthusiasm and hope, and I hope days like today serve as a special reminder of that, and of the vital role each of you plays in creating the special atmosphere at this school.

A huge well done as well to Year 3 and our Pre-Prep pupils for their performances today. I have enjoyed catching glimpses of rehearsals from my study window throughout the week, and I know we are all in for a real treat!

Triathlon National Champions!
On Sunday, we took a team of budding triathletes to the IAPS Nationals near Bath. We’re incredibly proud of every child who took part, but special mention must go to Adam S, who finished 2nd, and with George W and Spencer W, won the team event to earn the title of IAPS U12 Boys National Triathlon Champions!

This year has seen unprecedented success for our Swimming team, Cross Country running team, Golf team, Sailing team and Equestrian team too – and I’m delighted to see children excelling in such a wide range of sports, alongside the major sports of Football, Hockey, Netball, Rugby, Athletics and Cricket. What an incredible breadth of opportunity, and thank you to the staff team who work so hard to achieve this.

Aiming High at Dumpton means showing our pupils that if they try new things, even if those push them out of their comfort zone, wonderful things can happen.

Equestrian Success
I am delighted to share the fantastic success of the Dumpton NSEA equestrian team following an outstanding weekend of competition in the One Day Event and Eventers Challenge. Our younger riders performed exceptionally, with every Dumpton competitor placing either 1st or 2nd in their classes - congratulations to Coco B, Olivia R and Elise W. On Sunday, senior riders Matilda D and Annabel B continued the team’s success in the Eventers Challenge, placing 1st and 2nd respectively. The team represented the school with enormous pride, teamwork and sportsmanship throughout the weekend. A special thank you to Mrs Brass for her invaluable support preparing the younger riders’ dressage tests, and best of luck to Ava W and Annabel as they travel to Hickstead this weekend to compete at the National Schools Championship.

Y7 and Y8 Exams
Good luck to all of our Year 7 and Year 8 pupils who are taking exams after half term. We hope the half term allows a good balance between some revision and enjoying this beautiful weather. Mr Morgan's revision timetable suggestions and guidance offer some very wise advice on the best way to approach the tricky skill of revision – good luck to everyone!

Old Dumptonian Day and Cricket Match
It was such a pleasure to welcome around 30 Old Dumptonians to Dumpton on Saturday, with a good number attending the school as long ago as the 1950s! So many memories shared and stories told. They also marvelled at Dumpton’s modern facilities and were delighted to hear of the school’s progress and success.

A big thank you also to John Micklewright for helping to organise a brilliant cricket match that afternoon. The Headmaster’s XI snuck a one run victory against the Dumpton Ducks, but it was a lovely community occasion, with a marvellous ‘match tea’ provided by Steph and her team.

Prep School - ATL Reports
Your child's Attitude to Learning Report has been published and is available to view on the Parent Portal.

Local Community School Visits
There was plenty of excitement, along with muddy boots and smiling faces as Reception pupils from St John’s CE First School took part in the third of our four outdoor learning visits from local schools. With the help of Mr Harris, Mr Ward and Mrs Pharoah, the pupils completed three hands-on activities. One of the highlights of the visit was creating bug hotels in the woodland area. The pupils also rolled up their sleeves in the allotments, where they helped with weeding and tidying the growing areas. They learned how important it is to care for plants and maintain healthy spaces for fruits and vegetables to grow. In the final activity, armed with nets and trays, the pupils explored the fascinating minibeasts living in the Dumpton ponds. We have also hosted Witchampton, Hayeswood, Colehill and Pamphill First schools here at Dumpton, and we’re delighted to support the children in our local community in this way.

Goodbye to Matron Hayley
After half term, one of our wonderful Matron team, Hayley, will be leaving Dumpton to join the Medical team at Bryanston. We are hugely grateful for all she has done for the school community and wish her every happiness and success in her new role. Many of you will hopefully already have had the opportunity to meet our new Matron Caroline Janssen, who, alongside Janette, will continue to provide excellent care and support for both our pupils and parents while Bev is away

Vacancies
We are advertising for a few roles for September, across our Nursery, Pre-Prep and for our Sports programme. Do pass on to any who you know who might be interested!

With best wishes for the half term break.