Blog

“Everyone is born musical, and it’s never too late to find something you enjoy.”

Head of Music Mrs Rawlings explains how her love of music blossomed throughout childhood and informed her approach to teaching.

September 2025

1.) What inspired you to teach?

This is a great question! In my opinion, sharing knowledge with younger generations is an important part of life and history; it is how we learn more as a society. I once asked my school drama teacher the same question, and she said something along the lines of, ‘No one day is the same; children are such fun, and you can learn a lot from them too.’ Whilst she was right, I think there’s more to it than that, particularly when you have the privilege and responsibility to shape a young person’s life. If you can make a difference in a child’s life by inspiring them through challenges, then that is a motivator to keep doing what you enjoy as a teacher! When I was fifteen years old, I decided to do my work experience at Birmingham Music Service and I was able to shadow other teachers as well as teach some aspects of the lessons myself. It was this experience that inspired me to follow the career path of being a music teacher. 

2.) Why did you decide to specialise in your chosen subject area?

My musical learning began when I was very little, so music was always a huge part of my life growing up. I enjoyed music lessons in school, but it was the enrichment activities that I enjoyed the most. As a result, I aim to incorporate enrichment activities when I am teaching. Throughout the week, I played in music service bands and orchestras and later set up a few of my own with musical friends. Music made me a well-rounded person, gave me discipline and cultural understanding, and helped me grow in confidence. It was also lovely to have a social life outside school. For these reasons, I wanted to promote that music can bring a lot to a young person’s life, and I have been fortunate enough to do this throughout my teaching career, both in the UK and abroad.

3.) What would the elevator pitch for your subject be?

Music is a fun, creative, and emotionally satisfying activity; it is an essential part of a child’s education. Music can improve overall performance across academic study and help to develop other life skills such as boosting confidence, building social relationships, encouraging endeavour, and improving organisational skills. It is also an excellent way to express emotions and release tension. Musical practice and performance are also known to keep brain neurones active, stimulated, and challenged. Everyone is born musical, and it’s never too late to find something you enjoy.

4.) What do you enjoy about teaching at The Manor?

I have found The Manor to be a unique place. In some respects it doesn’t feel like a school; rather, it feels like a large family where people care and are kind to one another, and the children are happy within themselves. A lot of emphasis is put on the well-roundedness of the children, and this is something I value very much in a school environment. This is proven at The Manor with a broad curriculum and its exceptional club list. It is evident that the clubs make a positive impact throughout the week because it is a regular sight to see children from different year groups playing together at break time, which is lovely. Children are happy here and have happy friendships, and with this they are able to come to lessons ready, with a desire to learn.

Guest Speakers at The Manor

June 2025

We are very fortunate to have some fantastic guest speakers to visit us at The Manor! From Nursery to Year 6, children hear from an array of visiting speakers, all of whom come with their own incredible stories, skills and knowledge to inspire us.

During the Spring Term, professional adventurer, speaker, and two-time Guinness World Record holder, Louis Alexander, led an extra special assembly at The Manor. He shared tales from his exciting expeditions, including running the seven continents, swimming the seven seas, and climbing some of the world’s most challenging mountains. Following his visit to the school, Louis had this to say:

“It was a real joy to visit The Manor Preparatory School – a school with a clear sense of community and a purpose for challenge. I have been fortunate to travel across all Seven Continents, but one of the greatest privileges of my career is visiting schools and speaking to students, hoping to spark an interest for their own adventures in life, whatever they may be.”

In addition, children throughout the school had fun participating in story-telling and illustration workshops led by children’s book author and illustrator duo, Helen and Thomas Docherty who created Abracazebra, the book which our Year 4 play was based on this year!  Whilst the children loved their visit, Helen and Thomas equally enjoyed their time at The Manor, saying that they had a “wonderful day working with all the different year groups” and that watching the Year 4 production was a “very special experience” for them.

Guest speakers offer an interesting and dynamic way of bringing topics alive. As part of their English topic, Year 6 participated in a workshop run by playwright, screenwriter, and ex-Manor pupil Mike Bartlett. Through constructive questioning, Mike sparked the children’s imaginations and encouraged them to think about character development when creative writing. Additionally, during Year 2’s Indian Celebration Day, the children were visited by two wonderful teachers from Bhaktivedanta Manor,who brought the beauty and intricacies of Indian culture to life through story-telling, dressing up and demonstrating religious rituals.

Manor children also benefit from regular parent visits; Year 1 and 2 had a lovely session with a parent who gave an informative and colourful presentation about Chinese New Year followed by fun craft activities. It is so great to be able to include parents in the children’s education.

We look forward to meeting many more guest speakers to inspire the children and enhance their educational journey at The Manor!

Life of a Librarian: Best Job Ever!

Manor Prep Librarian, Mrs Mentzel, shares why she believes that her job is the best!

May 2025

I often say that my role of running the Library here at The Manor is a fabulous job!

Surrounded by rainbow-coloured walls and stacks of books adorning the shelves, it’s hard not to be cheered by the pleasure that a quiet space and a good book can provide a child. Moreover, there’s never a dull day in the Library!

Don’t be fooled by the idea of someone scanning in books, arranging them pedantically on shelves and reprimanding late returns; being a librarian at The Manor is far more dynamic! Each day is different, engaging and fun.

For instance, one day I am reading stories to Pre-Nursery, enjoying their laughter at a silly character in a book; the next, I meet with our Year 6 Pupil Librarians to prepare new window displays. I’ve dealt with requests from staff for books on good manners and new babies and discussed discrimination prompted by a wonderful picture book with Year 3 children. I’ve ordered new books for an author’s visit and chatted to parents about reading suggestions. I particularly enjoy World Book Day as it is always a joy seeing children’s interpretations of their favourite book characters!

In my opinion, the importance of reading can never be underestimated and we are very fortunate at The Manor to be able to offer weekly Library lessons to all classes. This enables good reading habits to form. I also strongly believe that Librarians need to really know the children before they get to know their book stock! I aim to match a book with each child to help ensure they are not only reading something they enjoy but that it is appropriate for their ability. Whilst not always easy, it’s comforting to know that the book will be reviewed every week, meaning that staff can keep an eye on what is being borrowed.

I also am aware of how fortunate we are to have a specific, centrally placed library that can be easily accessed by all children and staff. It’s great when staff borrow books to enjoy themselves or with their own children or grandchildren at home!

In this fast-paced world that we live in, it is such a gift to be given scheduled time to hunker down with a book and to have time to decompress and let the mind nourish itself with words. I love that I can help enable this; I really do have the best job ever!

“One day you could be a bold adventurer, sailing down the Amazon River, or a monkey swinging from the branches above.”

Our Head of Drama, Mrs Footring, tells us why she loves teaching Drama and how she aims to develop her pupils’ confidence and imagination along the way.

February 2025

What inspired you to teach?

I think I have always known I wanted to be a teacher. I still remember writing registers for my teddy bears when I was very young! I have also been lucky enough to have had some wonderful teachers of my own as I grew up who always made learning fun and inspired me to promote a love of learning in children today.

Why did you decide to specialize in your chosen subject area?

From a young age, I remember deciding that I wanted to be a drama teacher because I loved the subject so much. In fact, I rather ambitiously claimed that I would open a drama school one day! Growing up, I was often on stage or putting on shows for family and friends, pretending to be a wide range of characters. I hope that I can encourage the children I teach to develop their confidence and imagination in the same way.

What would the elevator pitch for your subject be?

Drama is a safe space in which to explore stories, characters, and worlds. You can develop your performance and collaboration skills and stretch your imagination. One day you could be a bold adventurer, sailing down the Amazon River, or a monkey swinging from the branches above. The next day, you could be performing a monologue as Tim Peake, returning from the International Space Station; you could even use your body and collaborate with your friends to be the Great Barrier Reef! Drama is limitless and fun!

What do you enjoy about teaching at The Manor?

The amazing children! Each one of them is fantastic and brings a unique creativity to our lessons. They are always polite and kind and work brilliantly together.

What’s your best tip for helping all children to engage with drama, especially if they perhaps lack confidence or have difficulty accessing it as a subject for some reason? 

What I love about teaching Drama is seeing the variety of ways children can engage with the same material. Some children dive straight into an imaginary world; others enjoy researching and bringing scientific or historical knowledge into their work. Some children come alive directing and giving feedback to others. There is always a role for each child to engage in, and we always find a way to make sure they can meet the lesson objective whilst approaching it in a way that works for them.

Do you have a favourite play that you like to watch or teach?

I love watching plays that involve interesting use of the stage, such as “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time.” If I fancy something scary, “The Woman In Black” also does this very well! Of course, I will also always enjoy a wide range of musicals, and I often find myself singing songs from Matilda. When teaching plays, I love seeing perceptions change around Shakespeare, and also I do enjoy our often rather silly Year 6 plays!

If you were not a teacher, what would you want to be and why?

It was a close call between becoming a teacher or a vet when I was younger! I do love animals although I can imagine being a Vet comes with many challenges!

What do “a large white sow, one cow, one pair of goats, three pigs, four flocks of poultry, a beehive and 600 saplings” have to do with The Manor?

And no, this isn’t the start of a bad joke!

December 2024

With The Manor Prep dating back to 1907, it’s no surprise that there is an abundance of history to delve into and plenty of it is available from archived photo albums, newspaper clippings and yearbooks.

Recently a new box of such regalia made an appearance. It contained an album of newspaper articles from the 2000s. Intrigued to know what Manor pupils were up to during this decade, I had a flick through and found a few interesting stories to share!

For instance, in 2001, Year 4’s Egyptian Day was reported in a local magazine. Apparently the children enjoyed “an ancient banquet consisting of wonderful food like stuffed vine leaves, fresh figs, olives, humous and honey cakes”. Delicious!

In 2003, pupils took World Book Day to the next level by indulging in a “Book Binge”. According to the Oxford Mail, Manor children spent an entire week enjoying “sea themed” books, with the event culminating in a fancy dress parade.

Another story that made several papers that year, was about a pupil who won a drawing competition run by Le Crunch apples. Their colourful, apple themed illustration won the school £1500 worth of sports equipment!

It was also heartening to read that The Manor’s commitment to helping charitable organisations has a long history; in 2003 pupils raised money to provide a cow, pigs, goats, poultry, a bee hive and saplings for the charity “Send a Cow – Livestock for Life”.

In one, more shocking article, written in 2006, an ex-Manor pupil was interviewed following a serious car accident. Thankfully, she was on the mend but it was fascinating to read that she had founded a successful chemical-free toiletries business after appearing on a TV programme called “Make me a Million”.

And finally, did you know that in 2005 the Early Years department was known as “Manor Munchkins”?

Whilst times have changed, it’s comforting to know that Manor children remain the same at heart; they still show a love of learning, a strong sense of community and charity and a keenness to contribute positively to all areas school life.

“Like it or not, computing is the future!”

Our Head of Computing, Mrs Mullaney, explains what led her into teaching and why taking risks can create something beautiful.

November 2024

What inspired you to teach?

Whilst completing my MSc in Information Management Systems, I was explaining to another student the similarities between structured query language (SQL) and a shopping list. She suggested that I would make a good teacher, so here I am!

Why did you decide to specialise in your chosen subject area?

It was the advent of the Internet, and I thought that website design and computing would be a good career path to follow. I had moved a lot as my husband was in the RAF, so I felt ready to settle into something.

What would the elevator pitch for your subject be?

“Like it or not, computing is the future!” Whether it’s education, work, entertainment, health and safety, or transportation, technology plays an important part in our lives, and we need to ensure that our children are competent and confident users. I hope to inspire our children to study a STEAM subject that will feed into the sector and continue the development of ethical and safe technology.

What do you enjoy about teaching at The Manor?

I particularly enjoy and appreciate the trusting relationship which exists between pupils and staff. I laugh every day and I think that this is a very important aspect of education; let’s enjoy learning and being together!

What’s happening in the IT and Tech world that excites you at the moment?

Artificial intelligence (AI) and how it can help us be more creative and efficient interests me greatly. Recently, I attended a conference about AI and, whilst I realise that AI will not replace teachers, it has the potential to allow us more time to adapt to the specific educational needs of our children.

If you weren’t teaching, what would you be doing and why?

I’d like to be a gardener as I love nurturing plants and seeing them mature. I also like to take risks and plant the unexpected to see what happens; I’m all about happy coincidences! This is a phrase I used often when teaching GCSE/A Level Computer Science and Graphic Design; let’s give it a go and we may just create something beautiful!

The Lodge at The Manor: Enjoying the Great Outdoors

October 2024

With Team Green’s recent success in achieving an Eco Schools Green Flag and The Manor being shortlisted as a finalist in the Oxford Climate Awards this October, the addition of an outdoor classroom to our school couldn’t be better timed!

It is undeniable that outdoor learning has numerous benefits for children including boosting confidence, developing social, emotional and physical skills and increasing knowledge and understanding of the natural world. It is also inclusive and accessible for all, enabling every child to thrive.

Mr Valentine, one of The Manor’s dedicated Forest School Leaders, agrees:

“Outdoor learning offers numerous benefits for children. It provides a unique opportunity to connect with nature, stimulating curiosity and fostering a sense of wonder. Experiencing the natural world first-hand can spark a lifelong passion for the environment. It promotes physical activity, contributing to children’s overall health and well-being. Furthermore, it encourages social interaction and teamwork as children collaborate on activities. By breaking away from the traditional classroom setting, outdoor learning can enhance creativity and problem-solving skills, equipping children with valuable tools for future success.”

Aptly named The Lodge, our outdoor classroom boasts a fire pit for heating cold hands and cooking tasty treats on as well as ample seating and a canvas roof to help protect the children against the elements. Its flexibility will allow for so many exciting experiences and challenges for all ages of children to participate in. The fire pit was stoked for the first “Forest, Fire and Food” after school club session recently, allowing the children to rustle up popcorn to munch on alongside a warming cup of hot chocolate.

What is also truly wonderful about ‘The Lodge’ is that it was funded by the Manor Association of Parents (MAP); it is a great example of how supportive our parent community is and of the value they can add for the children. Thank you MAP!

The Lodge at The Manor: Enjoying the Great Outdoors

October 2024

With Team Green’s recent success in achieving an Eco Schools Green Flag and The Manor being shortlisted as a finalist in the Oxford Climate Awards this October, the addition of an outdoor classroom to our school couldn’t be better timed!

It is undeniable that outdoor learning has numerous benefits for children including boosting confidence, developing social, emotional and physical skills and increasing knowledge and understanding of the natural world. It is also inclusive and accessible for all, enabling every child to thrive.

Mr Valentine, one of The Manor’s dedicated Forest School Leaders, agrees:

“Outdoor learning offers numerous benefits for children. It provides a unique opportunity to connect with nature, stimulating curiosity and fostering a sense of wonder. Experiencing the natural world first-hand can spark a lifelong passion for the environment. It promotes physical activity, contributing to children’s overall health and well-being. Furthermore, it encourages social interaction and teamwork as children collaborate on activities. By breaking away from the traditional classroom setting, outdoor learning can enhance creativity and problem-solving skills, equipping children with valuable tools for future success.”

Aptly named The Lodge, our outdoor classroom boasts a fire pit for heating cold hands and cooking tasty treats on as well as ample seating and a canvas roof to help protect the children against the elements. Its flexibility will allow for so many exciting experiences and challenges for all ages of children to participate in. The fire pit was stoked for the first “Forest, Fire and Food” after school club session recently, allowing the children to rustle up popcorn to munch on alongside a warming cup of hot chocolate.

What is also truly wonderful about ‘The Lodge’ is that it was funded by the Manor Association of Parents (MAP); it is a great example of how supportive our parent community is and of the value they can add for the children. Thank you MAP!

Moving from Prep School to Senior School: wise words from Year 7’s, Danny and Eve

May 2024

The transition from primary to senior school can be a daunting prospect for children as they leave the safety of a familiar educational environment and close friendship groups. It is however an exciting time too with the opportunity to take on fresh challenges and meet new peers.

Whilst there is plenty of support on offer, it can be interesting and comforting to hear the experiences of those who have been through the primary to senior school transition process. As Eve, an ex-Manor pupil who is finishing her first year at Headington Rye Oxford, says “It’s normal to feel nervous, but remember everyone is feeling exactly the same as you.” She continues to say:

“The first day is super fun, you meet your form tutor and your class, then do some activities with your form. You also do an activity to help you figure out where the different classes are, which is really helpful.

For the first week or so, it can feel a bit weird, but you will soon adjust to your new class. A great way to make new friends is to join clubs and after-school activities. You make some really good friends who are interested in the same things as you…

A good tip is not to do much at the weekend for the first couple of weeks, so you can catch up on sleep, and just be able to chill.”

Danny, also an ex-Manor pupil who is currently in Year 7 at Abingdon School, shares similar sentiments.

“When I left the Manor last year, it felt like it was time to move forward. The way Year 6 wrapped up was the best farewell: it gave us the greatest memories, after preparing us for the next stage of our education.

The actual first day at Abingdon School was not technically the first day. We were invited to join a sports camp a week before the official start date, where we all got to meet our future classmates and even break the ice with some of the teachers. It was like dipping our toes in the Abingdon School pool before cannonballing in the deep end. I immediately made new friends and was very happy to know some of them were in my class!”

Whilst Danny makes no pretence that the beginning of senior school can be overwhelming, he is clear that there is help and support to guide Year 7’s.

“As for the actual, actual first day, I have to say I never thought I’d have to run so much! I found myself sprinting down halls, trying to figure out where to go while looking at building and room numbers, all while dodging the gazes of the older years who found our ‘first-year sprints’ absolutely hysterical. The teachers were very friendly, but some were serious and made sure we knew it from Day 1.”

And how can parents prepare their children whilst they adjust to their new secondary school surroundings? Danny suggests the following:

“Here is my advice to you: help your children be more organized by reminding them to check their emails and schedules or planners. Tell them to write important things down and make sure they pack their bags the night before, not in the morning! I’m guilty of doing that, and it’s stressful for everyone!”

Sage words indeed. Feelings of apprehension are a normal response to change, the aforementioned tactics might help make each day a little smoother and ultimately each child and family will find what works for them.

And finally, an encouraging and empowering thought from Danny:

“…to the future Year 7’s, my top tip for you is to give yourself some time to get to grips with everything. Teachers have seen it all, and they don’t expect first years to know everything. You’re going to be alright.”

Nurturing Intrinsic Motivation in Children: The Key to Lifelong Success

Neil Jackson, Head of Years 5 & 6

March 2024

In the fast paced world of parenting and education, it’s easy to fall into the trap of relying on external rewards and incentives to motivate children. From stickers and sweets to grades and gifts, extrinsic motivators often take centre stage in shaping children’s behaviour and performance. However, beneath the surface lies a profound truth: intrinsic motivation reigns supreme in nurturing children’s long term growth and success.

Intrinsic motivation, the internal desire to engage in activities for their own sake, is a powerful force that fuels lifelong learning and fulfilment. As parents, educators, or caregivers, our role in nurturing intrinsic motivation is pivotal. Here’s why:

• A Lasting Flame: Extrinsic rewards like treats or prizes might ignite a temporary spark of enthusiasm, but it’s intrinsic motivation that keeps the flame burning bright over a prolonged period of time. When children are driven by internal factors such as curiosity, passion and personal satisfaction, their motivation endures beyond the promise of external rewards.
• Building Self-Efficacy: Intrinsic motivation fosters a sense of self-efficacy. When children pursue activities because they find them enjoyable or meaningful, they develop a deep seated confidence in their capabilities. This self belief becomes a sturdy foundation upon which they can tackle challenges and pursue their aspirations.
• Fostering Creativity and Innovation: Unlike extrinsic motivators, intrinsic motivation encourages creativity and innovation. When children are driven by genuine interest and passion, they’re more likely to think outside the box, explore new ideas and take risks. This spirit of creativity is essential for navigating an ever evolving world and finding solutions to complex problems.
• Intrinsic Satisfaction: The satisfaction derived from pursuing activities for their own sake is unmatched. Whether it’s delving into a favourite book, solving a challenging puzzle or mastering a musical instrument, the intrinsic joy of the process itself becomes its own reward. This deep sense of satisfaction fuels children’s ongoing engagement and commitment to their pursuits.
• Promoting Autonomy and Growth: Intrinsic motivation thrives in environments that prioritise autonomy and personal growth. When children are given the freedom to explore their interests, make choices and set their own goals, they develop a sense of ownership over their learning journey. This autonomy not only cultivates intrinsic motivation but also nurtures essential life skills such as self regulation, resilience and adaptability.

While extrinsic rewards certainly have their place, they should be used sparingly and thoughtfully. By prioritising intrinsic motivation, we empower children to become self directed learners, creative thinkers and resilient individuals equipped to navigate life’s challenges with confidence and curiosity. So let’s nurture their inner drive, cultivate their passions and watch them soar to new heights of achievement and fulfilment. After all, the greatest rewards are those that come from within.

The Importance of Reading for Pleasure

Victoria Evans, Deputy Head Academic

February 2024

Reading is so important; it provides an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, allowing children to explore new worlds, cultures and ideas.

Beyond the pleasure it brings, the enjoyment of stories and books equips us all with a valuable tool – the ability to gain perspective. It allows us to step into the shoes of characters from diverse backgrounds, fostering empathy and understanding. In an increasingly interconnected world, the capacity to see things through others’ eyes is a skill that will serve your children well as they grow and navigate the complexities of the real world.

It’s crucial that we prepare our children for that real world not just academically, but holistically. At The Manor, we aim to develop resilient, adaptable, and independent thinkers who are not only capable of assessing and directing their own learning but are also equipped to thrive in an ever-changing global landscape.

Independent and collaborative learning styles are both equally important. Independence in learning means empowering our children to ask questions, pursue their passions, and take real ownership of their education. It means teaching them how to research, analyse, and synthesise information effectively. This self-directed approach not only builds confidence but also instils a lifelong love of learning.

Collaboration, on the other hand, is similarly vital. In life, very few problems are solved in isolation. Teamwork and effective communication are skills which will be in high demand as your children enter the workforce of the future. Through group projects, debates, and extracurricular activities, we encourage the children to work together, learn from one another, and appreciate the strength of diverse perspectives.

Reading a range of books helps us all to develop our views and opinions and find the words to express them and is therefore of the utmost importance in both independent and collaborative learning.  So our advice is to read with your children, read to your children and enjoy discussing whatever topics you may bump into along the way; it’s a journey worth sharing!