EWELL CASTLE SCHOOL REPORTS & FINANCIAL STATEMENTS YEAR ENDED 31ST AUGUST 2024 


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GOVERNORS REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS’ REPORT AND STRATEGIC REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024 

## Contents 

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## GOVERNORS REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT AND STRATEGIC REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024 


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## GOVERNORS REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT AND STRATEGIC REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024 

## Chair’s1?) report 

The governors of Ewell Castle School present their annual report, incorporating the strategic report and the audited financial statements of Ewell Castle School for the year ended 31 August 2024. The annual report serves the purpose of both a trustees’ report and a directors’ report under company law. 

We confirm that the accounts have been prepared in accordance with the accounting policies Set out in note 1 to the accounts and comply with the charity’s Memorandum and Articles of Association, the Companies Act 2006 and “Accounting and reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UL and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102)” (as amended for accounting periods commencing from 1 January 2016. 


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:<br>(a ve<br>Colin Griffith<br>**----- End of picture text -----**<br>


Chair 

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## GOVERNORS REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS’ REPORT AND STRATEGIC 

REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024 Reference and administrative details 

Charity Number : 312079 Company Number : 788782 (England and Wales) Registered Office : Ewell Castle School, Church Street, Ewell. KT17 2AW 

Our advisers Auditors : Moore Kingston Smith Bankers : Barclays Bank NatWest Bank Solicitors : Andrew Lutley 

## Directors and trustees 

The directors of the charitable company (the charity) are its trustees for the purpose of charity law. The trustees and directors serving during the year were as follows: 

## Key management personnel: Trustees and Directors 

Chair: Mr CA Griffith Vice Chair: Mr AP Shawyer Trustees: Mr NG Bird Mrs C Carpenter Mr AJ Evans Mrs PJ Hutchinson MR CW Jayaweera Mr AC MacFarlane 

Mrs Sara Wiltiams-Ryan (Appointed 17" May 2024) 

## Key management personnel: Key Executives 

Principal: Mr S Edmonds Bursar : Ms J Abraham Head of Prep School : Mrs L Macalltister (to 31/8/24) Head of Senior School : Mr S Leigh Deputy Head Academic : Mrs B Hart 

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## GOVERNORS REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS’ REPORT AND STRATEGIC REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024 

## Objectives and activities 

Ewell Castle School was established in 1926 and was incorporated on 22nd of January 1964 as a company limited by guarantee. The company is a registered charity, and it is governed by its Memorandum and Articles of Association last amended on 25th of January 2006 when the company also changed its name from Ewell Castle School Limited to Ewell Castle School bya special resolution. 

The principal objects of the company are: 

1. to purchase or otherwise acquire, establish, maintain conduct and Carry on schools and colleges with the education of boys, girls or adult students of either sex, and to provide for the delivery and holding of classes, lectures, exhibitions and conferences calculated to advance the cause of education, 

2. todo all such acts and things as may be deemed necessaryfor imparting instruction and for the encouragement of study, education and learning. 

3. to spread the knowledge of and belief in and otherwise, to promote the fundamental practice principles of the Christian religion. 

4. to support, organize, endow, finance, maintain and provide for public or private lectures, meetings and meetings addresses, professorships, lectureships and readerships calculated to promote the said principles, to provide fit up and equip classrooms, laboratories, gymnasia, swimming bars, playing field, dining and other accommodation and conveniences for pupils, masters, mistresses and other persons employed by the company or performing any function or doing any act in furtherance of the educational or religious purposes of the company, 

5. to create and minister and to assist In the creation and administration of scholarships, exhibitions and prizes for the encouragement of Study and Learning. 

6. to actas trustees or managers of any property endowment request or gift for educational purposes. 

7. to receive voluntary donations and subscriptions for any of the purposes of the company and to a quarter, the donors thereof such privileges of nomination of pupils, or otherwise of the company, or otherwise. As a company, shall from time to time, determine. 

The School operates as an independent co educational school for pupils from 4 to 18 years, comprising a pre Preparatory School for pupils from four to seven years, a Preparatory School for pupils from 7 to 11 years, and a Senior School for pupils from 11 to 18 years. 

As Governors, we are responsible for setting a strategy for achieving the objectives we have set. The focus of our strategy is on the development of our pupils, their continued high levels of academic and co-curricular achievement and to further widen access to the education our school provides. In taking forward our strategy we 

- e review and benchmark the school's academic syllabus, teaching practices and examination results; 

- ° ensure the range of co-curricular activities available to our pupils is stimulating and challenging; 

- e invest in technology and infrastructure of our school; 

- e give careful consideration to the charities commission public benefit guidance; 

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## GOVERNORS REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS’ REPORT AND STRATEGIC 

REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024 

## Objectives for 2023/24 

Our objectives for the year were set to reflect our educational aims and the ethos of the School as it is important to us that we maintain and enhance the academic success of the school. These objectives are, however, set in the context of the broader goals we set for the school and its pupils as reflected in our School Development Plan. 

The primary objectives in 23/24 to fulfil these aims were: 

- e tocapitalise on our decolonised academic curriculum and racially inclusive approach, e toimplement the school's digital strategy and to form an Al Working Party, e toenhance and improve the participation in co-curricular provision 

- e to communicate more effectively about our first-class pastoral care and wellbeing philosophy and pupil provision, 

- e to consolidate and improve our Prep School premises onto one site and to develop our 6'" Form facilities further, 

- e to capitalise on the School's popularity by sharing our best practice through the Society of Heads and HMC independent school associations, 

- e to improve the quality of teaching and learning through a focus on High Performance Learning and targeted pupil feedback, 

- e tocomplete the first year (of a two-year process) for accreditation as a World Class High Performance Learning School. 

All strategies, policies and objectives are reviewed regularly by the governors and senior leadership team to identify and monitor progress. Priority in the use of resources is given to achieving the objectives in the budget. 

Our aims are to INSPIRE-ENGAGE-EXCEL. We aim to provide an independent co-educational through school that offers our children an excellent education from Reception right through to Sixth Form and provides outstanding pastoral care and a broad range of co-curricular activities where they can be happy. We provide a stimulating, rigorous and tailored academic program that pays close attention to the needs of the individual, facilitated by small class sizes. 

Our high expectations enable our pupils to achieve their full potential, both inside and outside the classroom, and to develop their abilities, character and confidence to meet the demand of the 21st century. The happy, family friendly nature of our school community is underpinned by excellent pastoral care. Pupils, parents and staff have strong relationships of mutual understanding and a commitment to our values of personal integrity, mutual respect, social responsibility, lifelong resilience. 

## Public Benefit 

Although the main activity undertaken continues to be the provision of education as an independent day school, the School has continued to foster relationships with the community. 

## Community Access 

In keeping with our policy of widening access to facilities at free rates below commercial levels, subsidised arrangements are enjoyed by many groups, eg, Fitznells School of Music and Drama, 

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GOVERNORS REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS’ REPORT AND STRATEGIC REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024 

the Associated Board of Royal School of Music - Theory, Stewart Cricket Centre and Surrey County Cricket Club, and Mole Valley Bowmen - archery club. 

We offer holiday sports courses and play schemes, as well as hours beyond normal school day to our charges — ie. early morning care and after school care. We also play host to several other local associations, including the village fair, and various heritage events and archaeological visits/works. Indeed, the very upkeep of three listed buildings and sites within the village itself is itself of significant value to the community. This year, the School made a £10K donation to St Mary’s Church to assist in its upkeep and to allow our continuing use of the facilities. 

The School has this year enjoyed some success in forming new partnerships with maintained settings. A closer relationship with NESCOT has seen us using their facilities more with their Students in turn supporting our performing arts provision. We have also forged a partnership with Springwest Academy, gifting a full Key Stage 2 and 3 Literacy programme and collaborating successfully around environmental sustainability and EDI initiatives. The School continued to support three refugee families this year with two finishing A-level courses with successful results securing them both university places. These were 100% bursary assisted places including uniform, lunches, trips and visits all being donated. 

In setting its objectives and planning activities, we have also given due consideration to general guidance published by the Charity Commission relating to public benefit, including the guidance ‘Public Benefit: running a charity (PB 2)’. 

## Bursary policy 

Our bursary policy continues contributes to a widening of access to the education we offer and the facilities we enjoy as is important to us that access to the education we offer is not restricted to those who can afford our fees. We believe our pupils benefit from learning within a diverse community. A great deal of learning occurs through social interaction, conversation and shared experiences, which helps our peoples develop an understanding of the perspectives of other people that will be vital in their adult lives. 

The governors view our bursary awards as important in helping to ensure that children from families who would otherwise not be able to afford the fees can access the education we Offer. Our bursary awards are available to all who meet our general entry requirements and are made solely based on parental means or to relieve hardship where a pupil's education and prospects would otherwise be at risk for example, in the case of redundancy. The availability of financial support is publicised on the School’s website, marketing materials and in our application packs for entry to the School. 

Those wishing to be considered for bursary support are required to complete a Bursary Application giving full details of their financial situation, supported by original documents. The assessment is carried out by agents appointed by the School. 

In assessing means, we take several factors into consideration, including family income, investments and savings and family circumstances, for example, dependent relatives and the number of siblings. 

As our school does not have a large endowment, when funding our awards, we are mindful that we must ensure a balance between fee paying parents, many of whom make considerable personal sacrifices to fund their child's education, and those benefiting from the awards. 

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## GOVERNORS REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT AND STRATEGIC REPORT) 

## FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024 

Ewell Castle is pleased to record continued public benefit offered through means tested bursaries. In 23/24 the value of means tested bursaries totalled £315,717 and represented 2.5% of our gross fees. Bursaries aided 30 of our pupils, of which five pupils benefited from a 100% remission of fees. The bursary awards range from 15% to 100% remission of fees. 

A hardship fund is also available to provide short term financial assistance with fees and to help pupils in receipt of bursaries meet the cost of school trips, music lessons, examination entrance fees and similar expenses. 

## Other Policies on Assistance 

## Monthly Payments 

Timely financial policy is often the key for many parents who are hoping to send their children to Ewell Castle School, and the School has partnered with School Fee Plan to help those who wish to fund educational costs through regular monthly rather than termly payments. 

## Sibling discounts policy 

To underline the value we place on support for families, we offer a modest discount where parents have more than one child at the school. 

## Assistance for our teaching staff 

As part of our emphasis on attracting and retaining high calibre staff, we offer a discount scheme. 

## Fees in Advance Scheme 

The School has introduced a fees in advance scheme to allows fee payers to plan for fees for the longer term and benefit from a discount on fees. 

## Scholarship Policy 

The purpose of our scholarship awards is to recognize high academic potential or the ability to excel in our co curricular activities. Our scholarships are awarded on the basis of the individual's academic potential or evidence of exceptional abilities which will contribute to our co curricular activities. In addition, awards may be subject to conditions imposed by the original donor. 

Scholarships are awarded with a fixed remission of fees between 5% and 100%. Where further assistance is required, scholarship awards may be supplemented by a means tested bursary. lin 2023 24 the school awarded scholarships to 112 pupils based on their educational merit and potential, totalling £374,495 and representing 3% of our gross fees. Of this number six also qualified for means tested bursary support and are included in figures relating to bursary awards. 

The progress of pupils receiving scholarships is reviewed at least annually to ensure their progress is in line with their abilities. No scholarships were withdrawn in the year as a result of reviews. 

The Governor's confirm that they have complied with their duty to have due regard to the guidance on public benefit published by the Charity Commission in exercising their powers or duties. 

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## GOVERNORS REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT AND STRATEGIC REPORT) 

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024 

## Strategic Report 

This report provides context for the financial statements, together with an analysis of performance and insight into the school's objectives. It also identifies the key risks and uncertainties the school faces, and what steps it takes to mitigate these. 

## Achievements and performance 

## School Roll 

The total number of pupils across the School enrolled at the start of the 2023/24 school year was 667 and ended at 666 at the end of July 2024. We continue to offer four form entry in the Senior School (comprising an average 18 pupils per form) for entry to Year 7 (age 11 years) in September 2023, however due to the success of our Year 7 cohort being full, we have stopped promoting Year 9 entry (age 13 years) and now only offer places for that year group on an ad-hoc basis. Our Year 13 cohort for 2023/24 was 52 students in September 2023, rising to 53 in July 2024, 

## School Buildings and Environment 

The specialist rendering work on the Castle building continued during the 2023/24 academic year as well as ongoing regular planned for and ad-hoc maintenance work across all the School sites, 

A brand-new outdoor classroom-teepee was constructed in the gardens of Glyn House at the Prep School for Forest School lessons. On-going repairs and maintenance to the other school buildings at Chessington Lodge and Glyn House continued. Additionally, the refurbishing of leased office buildings on the second floor at Fitzalan House in Ewell Village was completed in time for the space to be used from September 2023 for additional Sixth Form classes as well as Supervised Private Study and teaching offices includingthe Head and Deputy Head of Sixth Form and Careers Advisor. 

Towards the end of the summer term, work began onthe expansion and refurbishment of our two tennis courts to create three clay courts. 

At Chessington Lodge, only Early Years (Nursery and Reception) part of the Prep School remained at that site, with the main building now being used solely for Sixth Form classes. 

## PTA 

Throughout the year, the seemingly tireless PTA committee and volunteers organise a number of fundraising activities that raise money for additional capital investment items at the School including the Fireworks evening, Winter Village for Senior School pupils, Quiz nights and Curry Nights. 

## Exams and Results 

Prep Year 6: We had 39 pupils in Year 6 at the end of July 2024, with 30 of those staying on to Ewell Castle Senior School. Ewell Castle Prep School pupils were not entered for the Key Stage 2 SATs as we have our own assessment system at the Prep School. At the Prep School 77% of Year 6 leavers choose to stay with us and transfer to Ewell Castle Senior School whilst others acquired places 

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## GOVERNORS REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT AND STRATEGIC REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024 

at grammar schools, other independent schools, or local state schools. (4 went to other independent schools, 0 to grammar schools, 3 to state secondary schools and 1 overseas. 

## GCSEs: 

August 2024, 88% of pupils achieved 5 grades or more at grades 9-5 and 31% of these grades were 9-7. 87% of pupils achieved a grade 5 or above in both English and Maths GCSE’s. An impressive 31% pupils achieved 5 or more grade 9-7s and 28% of pupils achieved at least one grade 9. 

## Top GCSE performers this year were: 

Our top performing GCSE pupil this year, achieved 8 Grade 9s and 1 Grade 8 and 1 Grade 7. Other top performing pupils also did incredibly well and achieved 6 Grade 9s and 4 Grade 8s, another achieved 6 Grade 9s, 2 Grade 8s and 1 Grade 7. Another pupil secured 6 Grade 9s, 2 Grade 8s and 3 Grade 7s. Another S Grade 9s, 2 Grade 8s and 3 Grade 7s. Another 6 Grade 9s, 1 Grade 8s, 2 Grade 7s and 1 Grade 5. The final highest performing pupil achieved 6 Grade 9s, 1 Grade 8, 1 Grade 7 and 2 Grade 6s. 

Our Year 11 cohort consisted of 85 pupils in the year group. 47% of our Year 11 pupils chose to stay on at Ewell Castle after their GCSEs, 23% went on to college, 14% went to maintained secondary school sixth forms, 1% went on to a state grammar school, 12% went on to other independent school sixth forms, 1 pupil went to an online sixth form, 1 pupilto the Brit School and 1 pupil to the Sporting Excellence Centre. 

## A-levels: 

Ewell Castle School Year 13 students achieved excellent exam results this year with a 100% pass rate and whilst not all of them achieved their first-choice university (this mirrored the national trends) the majority did, and those who didn’t were offered places at their secondchoice university. 

28% of all grades were A*- A, 56% of all grades were A* - B, 85% A* - C, with a 100% pass rate. BTEC results were 100% Distinction or Distinction Star, all of which means that students achieved an average of 115 UCAS points each. Year 13 consisted of 52 students in the year group, 90% of them went to university or college, 2% accepted Higher Apprenticeships, 4% took a GAP year and 2% accepted a US tennis scholarship. 

## Notable Achievements 

Our top performing A-level student this year, achieved A*A*A*B, and is now reading Computer Science at Oriel College Oxford. In addition, the following students also received exceptional results: One student achieved A*A*A and is reading Chemistry and the University of Bristol, another also achieved A*A*A and is reading Politics and International Relations at the University of Exeter. Another achieved A*A*AB and is reading Mathematics and Physics at the University of Warwick. Another achieved A*A*AB and is reading History and Ancient History at the University of Exeter. One student has started on a Tax Higher-Level Apprenticeship with KPMG and one of our top performing tennis scholars is now at Ashville College, North Carolina on a Tennis Scholarship. 

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GOVERNORS REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT AND STRATEGIC REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024 

## The Heads’ Conference (HMC) 

In addition to our ongoing and much valued membership of The Society of Heads and IAPS, in the Spring term we were delighted to announce that Ewell Castle School had been granted prestigious membership of HMC (The Heads' Conference), a leading association of independent schools, following a rigorous accreditation process during the 2023 Autumn term. HMC is a kitemark of global quality, innovation and excellence in education and high standards are expected of both schools and members. Central to every HMC schoolis a commitment to the benefits of a holistic education experience: including academic excellence and exceptional co-curricular opportunities. 

## PREP SCHOOL 

## Highlights of the Prep School Autumn Term: 

On the 11th and 12th of September, Year 3-6 participated in our annual activity trip at Three Peaks in Barfield. The aim of the day is to develop the children’s ability to work together and develop their team building skills as well as push themselves out of their comfort zones. The activities included: quad biking, high ropes, low ropes and team building tasks, and the instructors were supportive and encouraging as always. All the children approached the tasks with perseverance and positivity and thoroughly enjoyed the day. 

The Prep School celebrated The European Day of Languages on the 26""* September and welcomed a performing theatre group to celebrate the day in an immersive way. The one-hour play, entitled Chasse au Trésor was performed by an English actor and a French performer. The focus was on communication. Mime, repetition, games, singing and dancing were used to encourage the pupils to practise and consolidate their Modern Foreign Language, developing their listening, speaking and cognitive skills (problem-solving, critical thinking, and memory). Years 5 and 6 also took part in the Primary Bee foreign languages competition for pupils who Started learning foreign language ab initio in KS2 to practise and improve their vocabulary, pronunciation and memory skills in the target language (French, Spanish and German). 

We are fortunate to have a Forest School at the Prep School and during timetables lessons pupils enjoyed learning about trees and were able to plant some hedgerow saplings, free from the Woodland Trust, as part of their free trees for schools’ initiative. 

On the 13th of October the Early Years Team held their twenty fourth Macmillan Coffee Morning, inviting grandparents and other family members to come for a cup of coffee and a slice or two of cake, in aid of Macmillan Cancer Care. The children sang and performed songs for the invited guests. 

Year 3 pupils studied Ancient Egypt and to build on their learning and bring it to life, the Hobgoblin Theatre Company visited and delivered an Egyptian mystery show and drama workshop entitled ‘The Curse of the Mummy’. The children were captivated from the beginning by the engaging storyline and were eager to help solve the mystery of who had stolen the worldfamous Amulet of Tutankhamun. 

Music update - The String Ensemble and Chapel Choir pupils spent time rehearsing for their Carols by Candlelight performance at the end of term. The String Ensemble continued to devetop, and all of Year 3 had the opportunity to learn the cello or violin in their classroom 

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## GOVERNORS REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT AND STRATEGIC REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024 

music lessons. Woodwind Ensemble also expanded to include many of the Year 4s who learnt the clarinet as part of their whole class music lessons during the Autumn term. The Senior School Chapel Choir featured members of Year 6 who regularly attended showcased their abilities at the Senior School Carols by Candlelight on 11th December. 

The members of the School Council met together twice during the term. To encourage pupil voice, the children were set the task of discovering what their respective classes felt could be improved around the school. The School Council members all confidently delivered this to their forms and gained some amazing and varied ideas on what the children themselves wanted. All pupil voices matter and the Council started making strides to ensure they were all heard, and ideas acted upon. 

On Tuesday 14 November Year 5 went to the London Science Museum, highlights included; pretending to be lab assistants, using the computers to analyse samples and being in awe of the different aircrafts and parts, taking part in the Wonderlab where they learnt about acids and alkalis and even stood on the revolving platform that showed the orbits of the moon and earth around the sun. They also watched ‘The Beautiful Planet’ in IMAX 3D. 

On the 23rd of November, Years 1-5 travelled to the Polka Theatre in Wimbledon to watch The Snow Queen based on the fairy tale by Danish author Hans Christian Andersen. Towards the end of term, the Nursery and Reception children put on their annual Nativity production for parents and grandparents. 

The Prep School hosted its first Ewell Speaks Event, which was an optional event for all children in Years 5 and 6 to test out their public speaking skills a go in front of a parental audience. The children delivered a wonderful selection of speeches, and it was an opportunity for pupils to push themselves out of their ‘Comfort Zone’ and into the ‘Learning Zone’. 

Boys’ Sport update: Credit to the U8s for their energy and enthusiasm. Season highlights included a 3-0 win against Stains Prep at the Surbiton Tournament, displaying grit and determination in battling draws against both Chinthurst and Micklefield. It certainly was a busy season for the UQs with the boys’ playing fixtures most Thursday afternoons. Overall, the ‘A’ team won five of their seven fixtures with only narrow defeats to both Micklefield and Banstead. The highlights were thumping 6-2 and 6-0 wins against Aberdour and Chinthurst. 32 goals scored across the season with only 15 conceded tells a story of their dominance in some fixtures. A special mention to the ‘B’ team who remained undefeated throughout the season, this is some achievement. The Year 5 and Year 6 pupils combined to form U11 Colts teams to train and play inter-school fixtures together. This allowed the School to play up to five teams on a Wednesday afternoon so that all boys were able to play a competitive game most weeks. It was a season with great success. Early season, the ‘A’ team secured the Plate at the Surbiton Tournament gaining wins over Cranmore, RGS Guildford, Hampton, Twickenham Prep and Sussex House. In October, they reached the latter rounds at IAPS and won the trophy at Caterham School in October defeating The Hawthorns on penalties in the final. Success in inter-school fixtures on a Wednesday followed with the highlights being wins over Aberdour, Banstead and Caterham. The B’s, C’s and Ds achieved a great deal of success and provided huge competition for places with the boys displaying such enthusiasm throughout the season. Very competitive fixtures took place with Micklefield, Banstead and Kingswood House to name a few with some super wins achieved. The season finished with games against Surbiton and 

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Homefield and it was great to witness the boys enjoying their football and giving high levels of effort on the field of play. 

Girls’ Sport update: The first half of the term was busy with netball training, fixtures, and tournaments. Delightfully one of our teams received medals for doing well at a tournament. It was great to see lots of U10 and U11 pupils at Wednesday lunchtime netball club. During the second half of the term girls have experienced football training, taken part in inter-House football games, fixtures and mixed festivals. The girls really enjoyed playing both sports. The U8 teams improved sucha lot since September and most of the girls had never experienced a full Bee Netball game before. In Bee Netball the players get more time on the ball, some positions Can move in a bigger area and the players get to experience several playing positions. The small U8 team improved their game play throughout their fixtures. Earlier on they lost games against Cumnor House and Aberdour. They then pulled it back with a win over Chinthurst. During their first ever tournament away at Aberdour the team did incredibly well winning five of their seven games and coming in second place, the girls were very proud of their silver medals. The U9 teams secured their knowledge of the game. Their physical ability improved with lots of fast feet, good shooting, defending and pass and move skills. The girls played in several fixtures against Cumnor House, Aberdour and Banstead. Learning from these games the girls fought back to end the season ona high, gaining worthy medals at the Aberdour Tournament. The U10 girls went from strength to strength, their marking and defensive skills are improving and so is their ability to get free to receive the ball. The season started on a high with a win and drew against Cumnor House and the girls then played in some very close games against Chinthurst, Aberdour and Banstead, all tough games, but it was a good learning curve, and the girts improved their play from fixture to fixture. The U11’s played Cumnor House losing two and drawing one. This was a good warm game to take the girls into a tougher game against Aberdour away. The whole team should be commended for their resilience in this game as it was a heavy defeat. Mid-October the two teams played in the Aberdour Versatility Tournament. Both teams improved as the games went on, learning from game to game. Both teams did well, with the A team winning two matches. 

Girls football this term - it was lovely to see so many U10/11s girls taking part in the Monday lunchtime football club, the increased enthusiasm and passion for the game defiantly changed since the Lionesses won the Euros and got so close to that World Cup. Some more able girls were given the opportunity to play in additional football fixtures and mixed fixtures this term and we also hosted our two very successful Mixed U11 and U9 Football Festivals. The U11 girls played Prospect House where three very close games were played. The A team fought hard ina very even game and one of the B teams should have drawn but narrowly missed two goals. The U10s played Banstead in a coached games at the start of the season. They showcased some great ball skills, but confidence was needed to tackle. After a few training sessions the girls played Seaton House winning one and losing one with great goals. Highlights of the Prep School Spring Term: 

Year 4 visited Butser Ancient Farm, in the South Downs National Park - a world leading destination for experimental archaeology and education, bringing the past to life through handson, immersive, practical activities that are accessible for all. The trip included tailored activities such as spinning, flint wall building, jewellery making anda villa tour. 

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The Early Years children learnt about ‘People Who Help Us’. The staff invited in people who did different roles to come in and talk to the children about what they do such as a pharmacist, an accountant, a vet and an author. 

On Tuesday 27th February Years 1 & 2 visited Juniper Hall to take part in a variety of different educational and fun woodland and nature activities including a minibeast hunt. They also went to the ponds with giant nets for scooping and some children caught water snails and baby water beetles. Year 3 pupils had their own nature related trip when they visited The Living Rainforest, as it related to what they had been studying in class. 

The ‘Oceans of Adventure’ World Book Day theme started with a visit from authors Jan Burchett and Sara Vogler who spent the day running creative writing workshops and inspiring the children with their stories. They have written and contributed to hundreds of children’s publications over the past decade and the children used their books to influence their writing and all other lessons such as Art and DT for the week. 

All Prep pupils enjoy weekly Forest School classes and are taught about the importance of sustainability. Pupils from Nursery to Year 6 helped plant 100 fruiting hedgerow whips and have learnt about why hedgerows are important and how by planting these baby trees they are helping to make a positive impact on our environment. The trees were free via a successful application to the ‘Orchards for Schools’ campaign run by the Tree Council. This brings the total number of trees planted this school year to over 190. We have a selection of species including hawthorn, sloe and dog rose. Pupils learnt about the importance of hedgerows in our landscape and the variety of species supported by hedges; including vulnerable creatures such as hedgehogs and dormice. 

Oracy is a big focus area at the Prep School and three of our Year 5 pupils were proud to win the ‘Best Team’ prize at the prestigious Epsom College Public Speaking Competition, which is open to local Prep Schools. They had to create a speech about something they were passionate about and share this between their Chairperson, the Main Speaker and the Vote of Thanks. 

A group of Prep pupils and staff were fortunate enough to be a part of the ski trip to Zell am See in Austria during the Easter holidays. They enjoyed a wonderful week in the Austrian mountains and as well as learning to ski, had fun taking part in a range of snow/winter-related activities. 

Girls’ Sport U10/11: It was a successful term of hockey and rugby at the Prep. The girls played with endeavour and great enthusiasm, it was a pleasure to coach the girls and boys through their hockey fixtures, tournaments, and festivals. Our first games of the season were at home to Cumnor House, and Aberdour with wins for both the U11 A, U10A and U10B teams, U10s also played Banstead Prep with some more challenging games. The U11 Weston Green Tournament was a great experience with the girl’s showing resilience in the rain. The games didn’t go our way this year unfortunately, coming 5th out of the 9 schools, but we learnt lots which benefitted us in the rest of the season which was busy with lots of exciting mixed hockey fixtures. 

U8/9 Girls’ Hockey: Our first games were played away against Banstead, with three teams playing in fun coached games, we won one, drew one, and lost a game. The U8s were on fire winning their first game. We then played away at Cumnor House; the friendly matches were a great learning curve for the girls. The U9s winning, U9Bs loosing and U8s drawing both their games. Unfortunately, the weather wasn’t on our side with a few cancelled games and the rest of the season were mixed fixtures. 

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Girls Rugby: There has been a great enthusiasm amongst the girls for rugby. They’ve had opportunities to experience both tag rugby and U9- 11 controlled contact training and controlled small-sided games. The fun games and controlled tackling were a great hit. 

Primary Fitness Games: Two U11 teams of 5 girls competed at Seaton House in a Primary Fitness Games Qualifier against 8 schools. The fun but challenging workouts were a fusion between the Athxgames, The Grid games, Crossfit and Hyrox. Both teams worked incredibly hard and worked each fitness station to exhaustion. Their efforts individually and as ateam should be commended. Great skipping skills and stamina in the shuttles along with burpees, hand release push ups, air squat and more. They showcased fantastic sportsmanship and encouragement to each other. We were lucky enough to have Olympic athlete Leah Wilkinson (Senior School Ewell Castle teacher and Assistant Head) coach the girls on the Hockey pitch and it certainly showed in their results with our U10 team achieving fabulous results against both Cumnor House and Aberdour. Our U11 team enjoyed taking part in the Weston Green Hockey Tournament and our U8 and U9 girls also benefited from a Hockey Masterclass with Mrs Emily Keating who is a member of the Great Britain Masters Hockey squad. 

Year 5 and Year 6 pupils visited Surrey Sports Park to watch some high-level Netball and saw some England Roses players in action. The successful Surrey Storm took on Bath in a preseason friendly prior to the Netball Super League commencing. The pupils were in awe of the fast pace and skilful nature of the players on display and made huge amounts of noise with every Surrey Storm goal! Eventually the Surrey Storm team triumphed 68-37. 

Boys’s Sport - Boys’ Rugby: U8S The U8s thoroughly enjoyed their first season of tag rugby. Some highlights of the season included the performances in the matches with Chinthurst and Micklefield when they picked up some deserved victories. The team contained some elusive runners, and some wonderful individual tries were scored. 

The U9S trained hard and listened well and were really enthused about the game of rugby. The A team remained undefeated throughout the season and the highlights were the narrow victory against Micklefield and a convincing performance against Banstead in their final game winning 18 tries to 5. Bar a narrow defeat against Micklefield the ‘B’ team also put in some super performances and credit must go to all the players who ran strongly and tackled hard. 

The U10s displayed significant improvement as the term progressed. In their first game of the season, they came up against a strong Surbiton team ultimately coming up just short with a 9-7 loss. This was then followed by two closely fought encounters with Prospect House and Chinthurst. Ewell Castle had the better of a 5-5 draw with Prospect House and again just narrowly went down 11-9 to Chinthurst. Micklefield ultimately were too strong in the home fixture but in their final game, the U10s played out two well deserved victories against Banstead Prep capping a successful end to a promising season. 

The U11 squads had a very positive season with five wins, three draws and three loses overall across the three teams. There was constant individual and squad progress with the teams further developing their understanding of the game. The first game of the season for the A team was a tight contest against Surbiton, winning 10-8, with most boys in the team scoring. The second game of the season saw all boys play in the same squad against Aberdour, which finished 8-8. This highlighted the boys’ abilityto adapt and adjust to new players surrounding 

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them. The A team had a one-off game against Prospect House which ended in a 9-6 victory. The next two fixtures against Chinthurst and Micklefield resulted in one draw and three loses over the fixtures. The final fixtures of the season were against Banstead Prep with both ending in two solid wins. The A team achieved a convincing 13-3 win and the B teama solid 8-6 victory. This was a perfect way to finish the season. 

Boys Rugby switched over to Hockey after half-term and the age groups worked hard to develop their stick skills and understanding of hockey game play. The U8s sadly had several of their games postponed due to the wet weather but they were all able to compete against Weston Green at Old Cranleighans Hockey Club towards the end of the term. A select few pupils also participated in the Surbiton Hockey Club Festival where they met some GB Internationals and were able to play games against other local schools. The U9s managed to play games with Kingswood House and Weston Green and showcased their stick skills in super performances, the highlight of which was a 4-0 victory against Kingswood. Again, some pupils were selected to take part in the Surbiton Festival and gained further exposure to the game because of this. The U10s thoroughly enjoyed the season further developing their skills throughout. They played in competitive games with both Homefield and Kingswood House gaining draws in both games. The year group was very fortunate to be invited for a masterclass at Surbiton Hockey Club where they took part in skills sessions led by GB Internationals Stu Rushmere and Conor Williamson. The U11s secured a draw in their game with Kingswood House and put in some strong performances against Prospect House. The year group also took part in the Ewell Castle Mixed Festival as well as participating in the Surbiton Hockey Festival gaining further exposure to the game. 

On the 13th March we hosted our second U11 Mixed Hockey Festival. The event involved 90 pupils from 6 schools which took place at the Epsom Sports Club. It was great to see boys and girls playing together, working as a team, and showcasing the skills they have learnt over the season in fun, friendly, yet somewhat competitive games. The whole of Year 6 represented Ewell Castle in four teams at the festival. The focus was on inclusion and encouragement and awards were given at the end for Sportsmanship. 

## Highlights of the Prep School Summer Term: 

One of the highlights of the Summer term was the Year 4 play The Romans, featuring wonderful costumes and the chance to see the pupils really engage in some great characters on stage. 

A number of Prep pupils joined some Senior School pupils in representingthe School at the D- Day Memorial Service in Epsom. 

The Slice of Learning events continued in the Summer term for pupils and parents. The pupils were able to use some of Learning Behaviour language areas such as Agile, Empathetic and Hardworking in describing activities to their parents. For Year 5 and Year 6 High-Performance Passports were trialled, where the children were able to track their progress so far. 

There was an Activities Week in May and during this, Year 4 enjoyed a walk along the local Hogsmill River, a rare chalk stream habitat which has been undergoing some improvement work recently in a multi-million-pound effort to cleanse it. Children learnt about the physical features of the river as well as the animals and plants that thrive in this environment. Year 4 also visited Juniper Hall in Dorking near Boxhill for their first residential trip. They spent two days taking part in activities such as den building, safe fire starting, stick sharpening and then collected nettles 

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and other leaves to brew nettle tea, which they then enjoyed with pizza, homemade cake, campfire songs and toasted marshmallows. During Activities Week the Year 3s enjoyed designing and making The Next Toy Craze during DT lessons, with the help of the 8-Billion Ideas resource. 

On the 7th May Year5 set off on their residential trip to PGL, Little Canada on the Isle of Wight. They visited the Wildheart Animal Sanctuary, meeting a variety of animals and listening to an informative talk about the animals that lived there. Over the course of the next few days the children went canoeing, abseiling, played laser tag, climbed, went ona giant swing, danced ata disco and took part in a sensory trail. Year 6 pupils also went on a wonderful end of year trip, Spending three days at Nethercott House (Farms for City Children) in Devon. The activities revolved around feeding and mucking out the animals on the farm, everything from pigs to donkeys to chickens and ducks. Sport was played and there were a few cooking lessons, and the children gained a better understanding of where the animals/food on their plates comes from. 

Year 3 pupils were lucky enough to take part in both a Science and a Circus Workshop. They learnt many new skills and loved trying out a wide range of circus equipment which included everything from diablos to unicycles. They ended the day putting on an extraordinary show for the Reception and Nursery younger pupils who gave it a big thumbs up and 10/10. The new Science topic ‘Earth Rocks’ was kicked off with a fun filled workshop from Fizz Pop Science. Pupils learnt about how fossils are formed, discovered what the world is made of and found out about the diverse range of rocks, rock cycles and volcanoes, Magma and lava. 

The same year group also had an exciting day trip to London in May, visiting The London Eye and experiencing the Thames at close range on board a river cruise up to Tower. During Activities Week they also enjoyed a special themed Paddington Day which involved baking cakes and making marmalade sandwiches for the children to eat with their ‘teddy bears’. 

Year 6 pupils were lucky enough to be involved in an important, local nature project called the Chamber Mead Wetlands Project. Southeast Rivers Trust created a new wetlands area along the Hogsmill River, close to Ewell West Station. Year 6 children helped research the European eel and helped plant carbon-busting plants on site. It is hoped the new wetlands will help clean the Hogsmitl and thus boost wildlife in this rare habitat. Prep Music: In June Prep pupils held a lunchtime music recital for families, where the Instrumental Ensemble showcased a performance of ‘Amazing Grace’ along with some exciting solo performances on piano, violin, cello and clarinet. The Year 6s performed their excellent show of Peter Pan over two evenings in June, remembering all their lines, songs, stage directions and dances, performed with enthusiasm and confidence. Years 3, 4.and 5 performed their individual class productions to their families, where a wide range of skills and talents across all these year groups in the form of singing, acting, spoken word, dancing, instrumental performances, magic tricks and diablo spinning. 

All year groups 1 - 6 performed special pieces at the annual Prize Day event on the 26" June at the Rose Theatre Kingston. Years 1 and 2 performed a show called Whizz Wham Alakazam and even Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) performed at their own Prize Giving event. 

The Year 6 end of year playJM Barrie’s Peter Pan was colourful and enjoyable with wonderful costumes, and gave the pupils great characters to work with. 

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The EYFS held their Sports Day in the field at Glyn House and this gave parents an opportunity to watch them utilise the many co-ordination skills they had learnt in their PE lessons throughout the year. Years 1-6 held their Sports Day at the Harrier Centre in Epsom, which offers allweather track and field facilities and plenty of room for parents to attend to watch and support their children. On Wednesday 3rd July, Years 1 and 2 as well as EYFS pupils enjoyed a fun-packed day of activities at Bocketts Farm near Dorking, Surrey which includeda tractor ride around the fields, an animal encounter session and the chance to watch a pig race. 

Sport - Year 3 pupils thoroughly enjoyed the cricket season where they developed their batting, bowling and fielding skills in both Games lessons and inter-school fixtures. In this format, the children batted in pairs and got the opportunity to bowl and keep wicket. Throughout, the enthusiasm was high with matches contested against Banstead Prep, Aberdour and Weston Green. The games were closely contested encounters with the highlight being a 15-run win against Aberdour. Year 4 Mixed Cricket: Overall, a successful season for Year 4 with the year group achieving some super results and displaying enthusiasm for the game in both training and fixtures. Many of the games were closely fought encounters and this was demonstrated with the mixed A’s narrowly defeating Chinthurst by 7 runs. A convincing win against Kingswood House turned out to be the highlight of the season with the boundary peppered throughout. 

Colts Cricket (Year 5 and Year 6) The boys developed their knowledge of the game and worked hard on their bowling, batting and fielding skills. In the matches against other schools, the boys fielded and bowled well but struggled to accumulate the big scores with bat in hand. In the inter-school fixtures, games against Banstead were nip and tuck throughout with the ‘A’ team coming down to the final over but ultimately coming up just short. Some terrific wins followed against Kingswood House School with the highlight being the ‘B’ teams 38 run victory with many balls ending up in the car park following some huge hitting! Super performances with the incrediball against Surbiton Prep led to a further couple of victories before the season finished with a narrow defeat by Chinthurst for the ‘A’ team. However, worthy of mention was the ‘C’ teams 144 run win. 

Girls’ Cricket: The U11 and U10 girls’ teams displayed a good awareness of the rules and played with increased tactical awareness. In their first game, the U11’s played Seaton House at home. The A’s won by 7 runs with the B’s narrowly losing by 8 runs. The U11’s then played Rowan with the A’s narrowly losing by 9 runs. The girls hit the stumps three times when bowling which was a super effort. The B’s lost by a close 10 runs with some great bowling. The girls’ performed with endeavour against Cumnor House. The U10A's looked super smart in their whites and hats playing Banstead despite unfortunately losing by 32 runs. The A’s then played Seaton House winning by 1 run. The B’s lost by 18 runs in a more challenging game. The teams then played Rowan, the A’s lost by 26 runs but impressed with much improved bowling and great batting. The Bs lost by a close 8 runs with very good batting and fielding from several players. The U9 and U8’s played in mostly mixed games in addition to playing the girls of Cumnor House and Rowan. Against Rowan the U9’s fought hard but narrowly lost by 4 runs, they all showed much improved bowling. The team then played Cumnor House and it was lovely to see lots of positive encouragement and coaching between the team. The U8 girls performed with endeavour against Cumnor. 

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Prep School Sports Day included Year 1 and Year 2 pupits for the first time and a major focus of the event was to have each child, regardless of age, regularly involved. This year, all pupils represented their House in at least three events. Pupils took part in sprint and longer distance races and then had the opportunity to participate in the long jump, ball throw or high jump. Some pupils took part in the House relay. The event commenced with individual sprint races starting with our Year 1 pupils. Following the sprint races the pupils took part in their field events and then returned to the track for the individual 150m, 200m and 400m. The 2024 event concluded with the closely fought relay races. A mixed year group relay was introduced this year, and it was lovely to see the older children encouraging their younger peers. The relays always stimulate great excitement, and they again duly delivered. Congratulations to Arundel House this year who were overall winners of the event. 

## SENIOR SCHOOL 

## Highlights of the Autumn Term 

The new academic year started with a fun-filled team-building trip to Chessington World of Adventures to help all the new Senior School pupils get to know each other. The day included a range of rides as well as visits to some of the animals. 

The Sixth Form enjoyed their own team building day where both Years 12 and 13 spent the day at Blackland Farm, renowned for its comprehensive team challenge activities, aimed at enhancing teamwork, communication skilts, and fostering camaraderie. The diverse range of activities included the crate stack, high ropes, Jacob’s ladder, and an impromptu football match during the lunch break. Each exercise required meticulous collaboration and effective communication, promoting a cohesive and unified approach among the participating students. 

Year 9 also had a team building trip and headed out into the forest of Penshurst Place in Kent on the annual Bushcraft trip. This was a great start to the year and a wonderful way to welcome our new Year 9 pupils into the Ewell Castle family. Pupils learnt how to light and maintain fires; build their own shelter; make traps; cook their own food; and the principles behind camouflage. A great team building experience and opportunity for students to demonstrate the School values, particularly when it came to resilience and social responsibility! 

At the start of the academic year, Years 10 and 11 GCSE Drama pupils watched ‘Blood Brothers’ at Guildford Theatre. The experience helped give them a greater understanding of the play and the characters they were studyingfor their exam classes. 

The Year 11 Duke of Edinburgh Silver Award participants travelled to the New Forest on the 30th September for their three day assessed expedition. With the benefit of the DofE Bronze training behind them, the pupils successfully navigated themselves through checkpoints (including the bleak northern sector) with little or no input from the staff and it is up to them to organise themselves, including camping for two nights carrying all their own kit. The New Forest was an operational airbase for Lancaster Bombers during WW2 and also a testing ground for new bombs. The pupils were able to spot features in the landscape that date from that period. As ever the pupils are encouraged to press on with their other activities and get them all signed off, so they pass the full award. 

On the 16" and 17" September, the Year 10 Duke of Edinburgh Award participants were keen to prove themselves in the testing environment of the Surrey Hills. Having undertaken a full training week in June, the Silver Award expedition was time to see if the skills learnt in navigation had 

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sunk in. As with Silver, the staff organise the expedition, run checkpoints and ensure safety rules are applied. However, the pupils are very much left to navigate themselves and they thrived on the challenge. They climbed Leith Hill, then Ranmore and finally Boxhill, then camped overnight at Boiderhurst. On the second day they walked through a couple of checkpoints to finish on Epsom Downs. Our Bronze expedition is designed to be tough and the pupils walk fifty kilometres of the weekend, compared to just the twenty six kilometres that many other schools do. 

The Year 10 GCSE Art pupils went on a guided Street Art Tour in Shoreditch on Tuesday 10th October where the knowledgeable tour guide explained tales of turf wars, legendary artists and recent work as well as the history of Street Art and the difference between Street Art and Graffiti. Included in the tour were the work of Subdude, City Kitty, Cartoonneros and Pablo Fiasco and Banksy. Later in November the Sixth form Art and Photography students visited the newly refurbished National Portrait Gallery. They visited the annual Taylor Wessing Photography Prize Exhibition and enjoyed a variety of thought-provoking contemporary portraits as well as David Hockney’s ‘Drawing from Life’ exhibition filled with a wonderful array of hand and digital drawings from Hockney’s extensive and inspirational career. 

The theme of Black History Month in October was ‘Celebrating Our Sisters’ and alongside the fact 2023 marked the 75th anniversary of HMT Windrush arriving in Tilbury Docks carrying passengers from the Caribbean to the UK, Black History Month provided a key opportunity to raise the awareness and profile of the contribution of black people to society in the UK and around the world. Alongside discussions in lessons and assemblies, all pupils had the opportunity to watch a very informative and insightful interview between Mrs Ikwuemesi (PRS teacher at Ewell Castle School) and Professor Dame Elizabeth Anionwu DBE. She was the country’s first Sickle Cell and Thalassemia nurse specialist, holds the Order of Merit, is appointed the Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire and is also a Fellow of the Royal College of Nursing. 

In November, Year 13 Business students visited the Mini-BMW Cowley Plant in Oxford to boost their knowledge of the automation process. The trip’s objective was to find out the production methods, quality, efficiency and productivity of this famous car brand. We were first introduced to a video on Mini’s approach to be “greener” which was immediately made clear through the 12,000 solar panels they had and a recent £600m investment they received to build an altelectrical production line. Plant Oxford is the birthplace for three specifics models: Mini’s Hatch, the 5 door Hatch and the Mini Clubman. What made the experience fascinating is that Mini’s Factory is all based on robotic technology. 95% of a Mini is made exclusively by robots. 

Year 8 enjoyed a Geography trip to The Royal Botanic Gardens at Key to explore the vegetation of the deciduous woodland, desert and tropical rainforest biomes. This supported their learning about different climates and biomes, such as rainforests and deserts. 

Four pupils ranging from Year 9 to Year 11 took in and won The Royal Society of Chemistry’s ‘Top of the bench Competition’ local heat at Reigate Grammar School on the 16" November, competing against a large number of academically selective schools in Surrey. 

Year annual Year 9 trip to the Somme Battlefields took place over three days in November to ensure the group got the most out of the experience. They visited the Neuve Chapel Indian memorial after dark on the first day. The second day included the Beaumont Hamel, Thiepval, Ovillers, the Lochnagar Crater and the Tommy Café in Pozieres. The group visited the graves of 

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two ancestors of pupils on the trip which wasa great experience for them as well as visiting the German cemetery at Neuville Saint Vaast. At Vimy Ridge the group looked at the memorial and went in trenches both the ones preserved on the surface and the tunnels underground. 

Student Council meetings continued along with the election of the Student Council President for 2023-24, with six students competing for the honour. Each had to deliver a presentation to each pupil year group at assembly and an election took place to find the winner. Communication, organisation and creativity are all vital skills for an effective Student Council. Meetings will continue throughout the year. 

October half-term is always a time when pupils and teachers benefit from a two-week long break, and often some of the School’s most adventurous trips take place at this time. This included a cultural trip to Japan between the 20th - 30th October which included a group of 25 pupils across a range of year groups visiting Meiji Jinju, Sensoji Temple, Shibuya crossing and many more beautiful places. The visits provided great opportunities to learn about the culture and history of the amazing history and ancient culture. They visited Tokyo, Kyoto, Nara, and Osaka. Another fantastic October half-term trip was the DT trip to Munich. The group visited BMW Museum and was able to see the process of development of cars and see how they have changed. Pupils visited the Glockenspiel clock in the old town and took in the amazing view as well as the Olympic tower which stands at 291 meters, the Technology Museum and the famous Allianz Arena, home to the Bayern Munich football team. 

There was also a Sixth Form English and Classics trip to Rome and over a few short days students explored the Colosseum, Palatine Hill, Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, the Baths, the Circus Maximus and Pantheon as well as Vatican City, where they marvelled at the city’s grandeur and ancient past. 

The School celebrated National Poetry Day on the 5th of October and the focus this year was on a theme ‘Refuge’. Pupils read Chinua Achebe’s ‘Refugee Mother and Child’, and considered what safety meant, psychologically and physically with pupils writing their own poems on this theme. 

It was a busy term for the Charitable Works Committee with four cake and bake sale events for the House charities: Arundel — Guide Dogs for the Blind, Bodiam - Cardiac Risk in The Young, Carisbrooke — Donkey Sanctuary and Dover - Cat’s Protection. There were also non-uniform days for the British Red Cross to raise funds for all those afflicted in the Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territory crisis which raised £739.00. Whilst this conflict is very much at the forefront of the news, we have not forgotten our commitment to helping the Ukraine and we sent some medical supplies on a bus this week to Ukraine. The charity that we have been working with, is called Stand for Ukraine, the Ray of Hope Appeal. Funds of £258 were also raised for The Epsom and Ewell Food Bank. 

The Whole School Musical colourful production of Grease! featuring pupils from Year 6 in the Prep to the Sixth Form was at the Epsom Playhouse between 30" November and 1°" December. Telling the story of a group of working-class teenagers as they navigate the complexities of peer pressure, politics, personal core values and love. 

The ‘House’ competitions kicked off with European Languages Day in September. There was a Languages Quiz held by the MFL Department for Key Stages 3-5 won by Carisbrooke House. 

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## GOVERNORS REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT AND STRATEGIC 

## REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024 

Following this event, | was Girls’ House Football in October which Bodiam House won. Next, it was National Poetry Day, run by the English Department with winners from each year group. There was a Christmas Card and Christmas House Quiz during form time. On the 22" November, some Year 10 pupils took part in the prestigious Royal Society of Chemistry, Southeast Region section of its 2023- 2024 Chemistry Challenge. 

Boys Rugby - our U12s to U15s Boys continued fielding A & B teams all season. Building new bridges and creating a more competitive fixture list with the likes of Tiffin, Glyn, London Oratory and Cranmore, to name a few. There were over 110 fixtures in boys’ rugby this season and over 120 boys playing in competitive weekend fixtures. The senior side reached new heights and one of firsts in a number of ways. Ewell Castle were able to select a 1% XV and 2" XV for the very first time in the School's history. 40 pupils turned up for training on the first day of schoolin September and many of these made their 1* XV debuts during the Autumn term. Ewell Castle entered the U18 Continental Shield before reaching the Bowl Semi Final against a very good Brentwood Schoot side in Essex. The senior squad were not able to retain the Jonny Wilkinson Cup this year on tour to Rendcomb College, however on their return started to create some dominant performances as the season drew to an end. With rugby becoming ever popular and the Rugby Sevens programme proving a hit last season, the senior side have enough interest to expand the game further. The rugby success story continues with the girls, as we played two matches this year. We welcomed new friends Royal Latin to the hallowed turf of Ewell Castle, as our Year 7s and 8s got a taste of competitive fixtures and this is something we look to continue to grow next year. The bar has been raised and a platform has been set for pupils playing rugby at Ewell Castle next year. 

U12 girls’ football - had a brilliant season and our highest attendance figures on record to training and matches, thanks to a keen and talented group of Year 7 girls. The 1* Vil netball team also deserves a special mention with 9 games won and just 1 lost. They were a skilled and experienced team who trained hard and deserved their success, especially as they always competed against schools with much larger cohorts and pools of players to create a team. 

The Autumn term is a time for hard training in the dark and the early morning cold. There are no Schools’ competitions in the winter, so this is the time when players compete to improve their national and international rankings. The success of these players is also down to the hard work of the other scholars on the programme who train with them and continually push them hard as well as to the dedication of the various coaches who work with them daily. The players dedication is exemplary and reflects the amazing team spirit that exists in the Tennis Academy. There are several players who are on the edge of the international scene and ready to make a huge impact. This bodes well for Ewell Castle Tennis moving into the next phase of our programme where we will see the building of our three-brand new artificial clay courts with floodlights on site for September 2024. This will enable us to broaden our programme for these elite players and ensure they have access to the training needed to achieve on the international stage. 

A Ewellians Christmas social event took place at the Castle on the 24th of November with 110 guests (Ewellians, parents and Governors) attending a Christmas themed evening with music, drinks and dinner and a quiz. On the 7th of December, the Year 11 Classics pupils visited The British Museum as a number of the exhibitions are part of the prescribed academic sources, which meant they were able to 

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## GOVERNORS REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS! REPORT AND STRATEGIC REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024 

study the Parthenon Marbles, the Bassae Friezes, the Theseus Kylix and a Corinthian helmet among other things. This was followed on the 11°! December by Year 11 History pupils going on an organised tour of Whitechapel, London. This helped them understand the issues of crime, forensics and poverty in 1880s London, which they are studying in their Crime and Punishment GCSE unit. 

In December, the Sixth Form Psychology students visited the Emmanuel Centre in London for a “Psychology in Action” conference where they listened to a variety of speakers including theProfessor Jason Rihel from UCL, who kicked off the conference discussing the schemasto fill gaps in their knowledge which can ultimately lead to irrational decisions being made. During the Autumn term the Scholars and More Able speaker events included a talk from Ewellian Chris Stevens. He is a freelance motor sports commentator and journalist and instead of going to university, took an alternative path by following his passion for Formula E, networking like crazy, and using social media and hard work to get his jobs and contacts. 

The Autumn term ended with the traditional Senior School Carol Service Assembly which involved all of Years 7-13 and by the evening event of Carols by Candlelight at St Mary’s Church, Ewell. 

## Highlights of the Spring Term 

To mark Holocaust Memorial Day this year, guest speaker and former member of staff Mrs Lawrence hosted assemblies and a workshop reflecting on the importance of remembering and learning from the past and remembering the lives and individual stories of Holocaust survivors. 

On the 27" February, a group of Year 12 Maths students visited Maths Fest in London which featured inspirational talks by Silvia Butti and Steve Mould teaching us about paradoxical maths and mathematical obsessions. Maths Slam competition for schools followed by more talks and presentations on Al, Statistics and Music and Maths. 

As part of their Performing Arts Award, one of our Year 13 students was required to put ona public event as her “leadership project” for which she produced and directed a reconstructed version of “Newsies” the musical in which she was supported by pupils from Years 7 to 13. The Performing Arts Award is for Sixth Form students who wish to pursue a career in drama, music or dance, the award is also worth UCAS points. 

Our Girls Empowerment Programme features assemblies and guest speakers just for the girls at the School. These included Leonie Brown, Head of Nursing for Clinical Service, Epsom and St Helier NHS Trusts who spoke about her life and her career journey in the NHS. She was one of 44 healthcare professionals to be awarded the Florence Nightingale Foundation Scholarship for the Windrush Leadership Program, for BAME nurses or midwives who are or were descendants of the Windrush generation. 

The team of Year 10 pupils made it through to the Royal Society of Chemistry Downland Local Section Final for the 2023-24 Chemistry Challenge. Ewell Castle presented three teams of four Year 10 pupils and one of our teams made it through to the regional final at Kingston University in May. 

We celebrated National Careers Week on the 8""* March with our annual Careers Networking Carousel. It is essential for our students to make informed decisions about their future subject choices and career paths and Sixth Formers and Year 10s enjoyed the opportunity to speak with 

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## REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024 

professionals from a variety of industries and gather valuable tips from experts in their field. One of the most exciting aspects of the event is the opportunity for students to learn about jobs they may have never heard of before and how the future of industries is evolving, creating new roles and opportunities. They can also see how the problem-solving, critical thinking and interpersonal skills that they are learning at school are highly valued in different industries. Perhaps most importantly, the carousel builds students’ confidence and aspirations. 

Drama club for Years 7,8 and 9 is a space for pupils to work on drama skills and performance. It is encouraged as a Club to enhance acting skills, build confidence, make new friends and most of all, have lots of fun. The Drama club is directed by older drama students in the upper part of the school and they directed and produced a showcase of well know fairytales. They chose this because it would allow some creative freedom for the pupil taking part and stories included Alice in Wonderland, Goldilocks and Cinderella. 

The annual STEM Week activities in March means that pupils enjoy an immersive few days of Science, Maths, Computer Science and DT experiments and activities including the building and launching of rockets, egg parachutes and catapults, Python programming and various Maths challenges linked to Pi and circles. There was also a science experiment where wine was turned into water and into milk. 

The Duke of Edinburgh Silver and Gold practise expeditions took place together on Exmoor for the first time. Despite poor weather, the ascent across Dunkery Beacon in the clouds proved a challenge to the pupils’ map reading skills, but eventually marched on with determination over Exmoor before finally descending to Porlock. The Gold candidates wild camped ina pleasant valley, which worked extremely well. The Silver candidates stayed at a campsite in Porlock, with fantastic views over the Bristol Channel. The pupils honed their skills, and all the groups are now well prepared for the challenge of the Gold Expedition on Dartmoor in July and the Silver Expedition in the New Forest in October. 

Our annual Enterprise Week in the Spring term offers pupils across the Sixth Form and Senior School the opportunity to participate in social and business enterprise through a series of activities and workshops. There is also the Ewell Castle Dragons’ Den Competition, where pupils are challenged to expand their skill set and prepare them for the world of work through the creation of an Enterprise Village, with each tutor group tasked with organisinga ‘stall’ and the winning team keeping all their profit as a reward for enterprise. The exercise helps pupils understand how to generate income for themselves and for charities as well how to deliver a service and consider the customer experience, all the while promoting School values and encouraging creativity and collaboration. 

The ski trip remains ever popular and a group of our Senior School pupils had a fabulous time learning to skiin Austria during the Easter holidays. 

The Music Department and visiting music teachers put on a Spring Concert at Bourne Hall on the 22"4° March Senior School Concert in Bourne Hall. It was a rich and varied programme, from solo performances, brass and big band stylings, choral collectives and a jaw-droppingjazz improvisation. There was also a drum solo, and our Year 13 music scholars provided superb performances on piano, guitar and voice. 

Netball Team Season Report: NETBALL 1ST VII This has been the busiest schedule ever for a Ewell Castle team with 17 games played. The results are not indicative of the excellent standard 

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## FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024 

of netball that was played throughout. There have been many close and high scoring games, as well as many decisive wins, and the players made such progress in their tactical and strategic awareness. A couple of notable moments during the season were: Amemorable match was against Sutton High School where the leading team would change every few minutes. Our 28-26 win did not come easily, both teams were practically on the same level in terms of skills and fitness and so to secure that win we had pushed our bodies past their limits, achieving that long overdue win that we were so hungry for. Our final match this year was against Reed’s and even before starting we were convinced, we would lose. Surprisingly we managed to draw 13-13 and the performance of each Ewell Castle player had pleasantly surprised both teams, including coaches, overcoming the expectation of a predominantly one-sided match. 

Netball 2“° Vli The second team played a total of 14 games, winning 6 and drawing once. The team discovered its strengths through not only training but effective communication. In total they scored 165 goals, averaging 11 goals per game. Not only were the shooters excellent in their accuracy, but they were also quick to react when the opponents would makea turnover in the defence. This meant that they were ready to mark their opposing player and were often able to win back the ball. Our U15A team won many games and one of the best games was against Reigate Grammar School where we won 29-17 and we defended well in this game. U15B Throughout the netball season the U15B team improved a lot and when they played against Hall School Wimbledon, did particularly well winning 19-4. 

The U14A netball team have had an unbelievable season this year with strength in every position scoring 190 goals across 9 games. The girls have shown immense dominance and composure throughout this season, in particular in our fixture against St Teresa’s Effingham, an extremely tough, competitive and well-drilled team, in which the U14As had to show resilience when faced with some feisty opponents. 

The U13A netball team have had an amazing netball season winning six out of nine games. The U13B netball team endured despite a tough season and fought till the end every match. First opponents were Broomwood, passing the ball and having shots at goal. The toughest Opponents were St Teresa’s, such a strong team the previous year, but this year our team only lost by 2 points with a final score was 10-12. 

The U12A team has been full of energy from the very first game this season. They were a vibrant team who supported each other and loved to strategize about the best approach to beat their opponents. Our 12B squad worked hard during games and training this season to develop new skills. Their ability to defend and dodge as well as make interceptions improved. Many of the players never played netball before and worked very hard to learn the rules and challenge themselves in games. 

Football — Spring Term update - The U12 team showed great promise in their first season of senior football which includeda thrilling tast minute comeback victory against Maidstone Grammar and a comeback draw against Epsom College. The U13 team built on their impressive first year and regularly scored a high number of goals in their games. The U14 team developed and became more disciplined which helped their game and team performance and an impressive display at the illustrious grounds of Christs Hospital resulted in a famous victory. The U15 side were one of the most courageous and resilient sides at Ewell Castle. Their ability to suffer setbacks but pick themselves up and go again was a truly positive trait and this 

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## GOVERNORS REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS’ REPORT AND STRATEGIC 

perseverance has been rewarded with a victory against the giants of Epsom College. The Football First Xl and Second X! teams endured difficult seasons. Mostly comprising U16 players competing against U18s at times they showeda lack of experience and strength. The exposure to senior football will stand them in good stead for future years though. 

## Highlights of the Summer term 

We kick-started Environment Week with our new onsite textile recycling bank, perfect for any unwanted clothes or old-style uniform. There was also Mental Health Awareness Week which was marked at the Senior School with an Empathy Tree and School Counsellor, School Nurse and ELSA hosting the Wellbeing area in the playground, for pupils to come and ask for advice or simply have a chat. There were games and props which helped pupils explore emotions and wellbeing and live music was played in the dining hall over lunchtime. 

Arts Week takes place every year in June during the Summer term and this year Year 7 pupils immersed themselves in the world of lino printing, drawing inspiration from nature and the artist they had recently - Angie Lewin. Under the guidance of a visiting printmaker - Louise Anderson, our young artists honed their skills and creativity in this traditional art form. There was a Musical Theatre Workshop where pupils in Years 7-10 studying Dance and Drama enjoyed a Musical Theatre Workshop with West End performer, George Hinson, who shared insights and performance technical tips. For those studying Art and Photography, a guided colourful and engaging tour of local street art was organised to Shoreditch afforded pupils a comprehensive insight into their realm. The experience not only enriched artistic sensibilities but also fostered a profound appreciation for the diverse and dynamic Street Art culture prevalent in London. 

During early July all pupils in Years 7-10 participated in our annual House Maths Challenge. Each House had four teams per year group who took part in three Mathematical Rounds of puzzles and problem solving. These were a group round; a Countdown numbers round and a relay round. It was great to see all of the pupils working together to get as many questions correct in the 45-minute time limit. The relay was a highlight with pupils running between their assigned teacher or Sixth Former and their teams to keep their relay going whilst the Countdown round provided some very unique solutions. Overall, Arundel won but all Houses gained good points towards the overall House Championship. 

On the 6th of July, nine Year 12 students travelled down to Dartmoorfor their Assessed Duke of Edinburgh Gold Expedition. This took place over three nights and four days with the students wild camping and carrying all their own supplies. The weather was, to put it mildly, a little damp but that did not seem to depress their spirits as they trudged from tor to tor. Apart from a few Duke of Edinburgh Expeditions and a couple of hardy fell runners, you saw no-one for miles. The navigation was spot on, and the groups reached all the check points in good time. They were well prepared and there was plenty of determination, teamwork and leadership to be seen, the trip was a great success. 

It has been a busy and successful first year of having PSHE embedded into the timetable for pupils in Years 7 to 9, with our three PSHE Days and getting parents and guardians more involved with speaker sessions. Pupils experienced a plethora of visitors including: Action Breaks Silence delivering workshops about violence against women and girls, Rob Higgs performing his impactful anti-bullying play ‘The Boy in the Photograph’, Elevate Education delivering study skills workshops for our KS4 pupils, It Happens RSE talks, workshops with Surrey Police’s Youth Engagement Officer, and S.A.M.E. Academy delivering Road Safety 

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## GOVERNORS REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT AND STRATEGIC REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024 

sessions. Parents and guardians had access to in person talks/workshops and online webinars to help support their children. Debi Steven from Action Breaks Silence led an engaging talk exploring youth relationships, violence against women and girls and the impact of pornography on our young people. Naella Grew from ‘Teenagers Translated’ led a fascinating and interactive talk about the changing teenage brain. We also continue to foster our relationship with It Happens who led two parent/ guardian webinars this year about Relationship and Sex Education. PSHE is more important than ever in helping our young people navigate an everchanging landscape. 

At Ewell Castle Senior School we marked Pride Week with an assembly and talks in Form time, adornments around the School with Pride Flags, and a Pride themed lunch picnic. 

Our Year 10 team of Chemists showed great depth of knowledge and resilience, competing against a large number of much larger and very academically selective schools in the first round and going on to achieve second place in this year’s Royal Society of Chemistry Downland Local Section Chemistry Challenge Final. 

The Senior School Drama production performed in the Castle Hall this year was Willy Russell’s Blood Brothers. A captivating and moving tale of twins who, separated at birth, grow up on opposite sides of the tracks, only to meet again with fateful consequences. 

The Senior School Sports Day took place on the 9" July at the Harrier Centre all-weather track, Poole Road, Epsom. It is a perfect local venue that provides our pupils the opportunity to run on a quality racetrack as well as compete in field events such as discuss, javelin, shot put and triple jump which they practice during School Games lessons along with long-jump and highjump. 

Tennis Academy Update: It was quite a year, wining 52 out of the 60 matches played (with most of the losses in the finals) and the 13U not losing a single match. The School is very proud of the achievements of this group of players particularly given the current state of the two on-site tennis courts. The great news, however, was that planning permission was granted to redevelop them along with the addition of a further (third) clay court, which are due to be completed over the summer holidays. Our tennis scholars competed and won on a weekly basis at a national level, the highlights include: one of our pupils reaching the finals of the 12U Boys Singles UK National Championships and then later the last 16 and the doubles quarterfinals of Le Passage Tennis Europe 12U which hosted the best tennis players in the world in that age group. Another pupil qualifying for the 12U Boys Singles UK National Championships and reaching the quarter-final of the Consolation Draw in the Doubles. Another reaching the final in the Doubles of the 14U Finland Tennis Europe, semi-final in the singles of the 14U Lithuanian Tennis Europe and winning the doubles with another Ewell Castle tennis scholar, an incredible achievement by both boys! Two pupils were part of the Surrey County Team of six players who went on to win the 14U UK County Championships, another pupil reached the finals of the 16U Boys Doubles UK National Championships narrowly missing out on a place in Junior Wimbledon. Also winning the doubles finals of the J30 ITF (International Tennis Federation) at Liverpool where he faced another ECS scholar on the opposing team. Then there was a further pupil who won his first ITF points in Cyprus this year. The eldest of our tennis scholars reached the finals of the 18U Boys Doubles UK National Championships and narrowly missed out ona place in Junior Wimbledon. The accolades go on and on. 18U Boys: This year our A team was ranked #1 where they were awarded a place automatically in the last sixteen Schools finals to 

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## GOVERNORS REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT AND STRATEGIC REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024 

be held in Nottingham and we also submitted a B team, such is the strength and depth of our Academy. The ‘B’ team had to qualify, and they had some incredibly tough matches along the way, but they reached the finals at Nottingham. Having two teams in the final sixteen is such an achievement, especially as Surrey is the strongest county in the country. Our two eldest players leave at the end of the academic year, one has secured a US Division 1 college place at UNC Ashville and the other will continue to play tennis at a competitive level when he starts university in the UK in the autumn. 

## Ewellians — Alumni Events and Activities 

The School Alumni and Development Office produces regular e-bulletin newsletters emailed to everyone on the alumni/community database who hasa valid email address. These are mostly former pupils but also include some former members of staff and family members of former staff and governors. They are sent regularly (every two to three months) depending on the time of year and level of alumni/school events taking place as well as the amount of School and fundraising news to share. There are currently 1,582 valid email records on the alumni database and 519 of these have online profiles which provides full access to the Ewellians alumni and community website. 

Ewellian/alumni events for 2023-24 were as follows; an enjoyable and celebratory Christmas meal was held at the School on Friday 24" November attended by 110 guests, a Golf Day at Kingswood Golf and Country Club on Friday 26" April attended by 30 golfers (including 6 current pupils) which was a record number for the event. The informal and competitive 5-Aside roundrobin Football Tournament evening at Goals in Tolworth, attended by 20 players. There was also the annual Cricket Match against the School 1° 1X team, which was held at Ewell Cricket Club on Wednesday 3% July, and with the support of a number of parents who volunteered to play for the Ewellians team, when a number of the Ewellians team were unable to play. 

The Development Office mostly conducts friend raising activities, although there are regular requests for support for our Sixth Form Bursaries via direct requests and the Year 13 Leavers Deposit Donation Appeal, as well as the Tennis Academy Travel Fund. 

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GOVERNORS REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS’ REPORT AND STRATEGIC REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024 Financial Review 

|Themain|mainsourceofincomefortheSchool isthroughthefeeincome|incomecharged. In2023/24,the|
|---|---|---|
|fee|increasewas5.5%and thefees charged pertermwere:||
||EVES<br>Fulltime<br>PrepY1-Y2|23693<br>£4,160|
|||Prep<br>‘| PrepY3-Y6|£4,702|
||SeniorY7-Y13|£6,731|



## Expenditure 

## Results 

Despite the increase in the TPS employer contribution rate to 28.68% in April 2024, the School was able to generate efficiencies and cost savings over the year leading to the reported surplus of £5,601. 

Our staff are key to the ongoing success of the School and therefore we continue to invest in the highest standard of teaching staff and are also committed to ensuring their professional development. Staff salaries and associated costs accounted for 70 % of expenditure. 

The Governors also recognise that the School’s success relies on being able to continue to attract pupils to the School and therefore, despite the threat of the introduction of VAT, the School has continued with its programme for repairs to the render on the Castle building to both improve the appearance of the buildings and ensure health and safety compliance. The Governors also committed to renovating and developing the tennis courts on the Senior School site. The number of courts has increased two to three and allows the Tennis Academy to play year-round on clay courts. 

Despite the challenges facing the School due to the introduction of VAT, loss of business rates relief and changes to the employers National Insurance contribution rate, the School remains in a strong position where it can operate without requiring external finance. 

We have carried out projections for the forthcoming twelve months and beyond and are Satisfied that the School’s cashflows can be managed carefully allowing the School to continue to operate as a going concern despite the ongoing uncertainties. 

The Governors are committed to ensuring the financial stability of the School and continually review the financial position and consider any changes required. 

## Plans for future periods 

Our future plans are financed primarily from fee income and from reserves. We need to maintain an equitable balance ensuring our current pupils benefit whilst at the same time, ensuring a sound infrastructure and financial base are preserved for the next generation of 

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pupils in the same way as our current pupils today benefit from the investment made in the past. 

## Financial stability 

The School is keen to ensure that there is financial stability over the next five years and is seeking to ensure that its cost base is as lean as possible whilst ensuring that the pupil’s educational experience is not impacted. As part of that cost review we are consulting with staff the employer contribution from 23.68 to 28.68 in April 2024. 

## Curriculum 

A review of the curriculum is being undertaken to ensure that the curriculum offered is cost effective and meets the needs of pupils. The School will continue to embed High Performance Learning across the School. 

## Estates Strategy 

Maintaining and where necessary developing the fabric and facilities of the School are central to our strategy. Our plans for 2024/25 are to continue with our programme of works to ensure that all necessary repairs and maintenance is carried out and that buildings are compliant. The School has developed a Master Plan for capital projects and will prioritise projects according to funding available. 

## Centenary 

With the School’s centenary approaching in 2026, the School has been formulating plans to celebrate this momentous occasion through development of outdoor play spaces at both the Prep and Senior School, 

## Principal Risks and Uncertainties 

The risk register is reviewed in full with the Executive Leadership Team once a year by Governors and is considered at each full Governing Body meeting. The review with the Executive Leadership Team took place this year following publication of the Budget in October 2024. The principal risks identified from that review were: 

- e Uncertainty of School Roll - The main funding of the School is through fee income and therefore uncertainties over future school roll are always a factor. Governors are mindful of the fact the economic climate together with the introduction of VAT has affected parents’ ability to choose a private education for their children. However, the Governors believe that the reputation of the school for a high standard of education is key to ensuring the future success and that this will allow the school roll to be maintained. 

The principal controls used to mitigate against the risks identified include: 

- e Transfer of risk to insurers e Formalagendas and minutes for all committee activity e Terms of reference for committees 

- e Induction procedure for new governors 

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## GOVERNORS REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT AND STRATEGIC REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024 

- e Established organisational structures and lines of reporting e Comprehensive planning including strategic planning, budgeting and management accounting 

- © Strong management of cashflow and debtors 

- e Establishing appropriate levels of free reserves 

- ¢ Adoption of formal written policies including child protection measures and health and safety 

- e Regular review of IS! regulatory standards 

- e Vetting procedures for all staff 

- © Meeting requirements of the Charity Commission 

- e Clear authorisation and approval for all transactions e Seeking professional advice 

Through the risk management processes established for the School, we are Satisfied that controls have been considered and implemented where possible for the major risks identified but it is recognised that no system can give an absolute assurance against major risks. 

## Investment Powers and Policy 

Investment activities are managed in line with the Trustee Act 2000 and there are no restrictions on the company’s powers of investment. Our policy continues to be to monitor cashflow and to place any funds not needed as immediate working capital into high yielding bank Treasury Deposit Accounts when available. 

## Reserves Policy 

The reserves of the School are represented by the unrestricted and restricted funds of the School as shown in note 18. 

The total funds of the School at the end of the year are £9,995,266: of these funds £510,157 is restricted and is therefore not available for general use. This leaves a balance of £9,485,108 unrestricted funds of which £10,850,877 represent the tangible fixed assets of the School. The School therefore has a deficit of free reserves of £1,365,768. levelWe[recognise] ofinvestmentthat freein th r **e** servesSchoolareestate,currently negative but free reserves fluctuate in line with the The School has temporarily paused investment in major capital projects and expects to improve its reserves by the ability to be able to reclaim VAT on investments made in the past ten years through the Capital Goods Scheme. 

Arrangements are also in place with the School’s bankers should a ‘safety net’ be required. 

## Structure, Governance and Management 

## Governance 

The school is organized with a Board of Governors with a member being nominated as Chair. Governors are elected as a meeting of the Governing Body on the basis of nominations received. Nominations are made by existing governors and from the School Senior Management Team. We 

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## GOVERNORS REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT AND STRATEGIC REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024 

are currently reviewing our governance arrangements and taking active steps to diversify our membership to ensure an adequate mix of skills within the Governing Body. We apply the following criteria to the recruitment process: 

- e All governors should possess appropriate and adequate experience to enable them to add value to the overall effective administration of the school on a strategic level; 

- e anumber of the governors should ideally possess experience of the independent school sector; 

- e anumber of governors should possess adequate professional or commercial experience, eg, business, accounting, banking, legal, etc, to enable them to contribute to the overall effective administration of the school; and 

- e recruitment to the body should reflect our aim to encourage diversity. 

There is no fixed term of office for governors. A governor may be appointed by invitation to become a governor of the company and removed by a written request from all other governors. 

The Principal and Bursar attend all four meetings of the governing body. The Clerks to the Governing Body is responsible for coordinating the work of the governors and the committees, preparation of papers and the reviews of matters arising, 

## Management 

The Governors determine the general policy of the school and appoint the Principal and Executive Leadership Team who comprise of the key management personnel (see note 9 to the accounts). The board delegates executive responsibilities to the Principal, supported by senior staff. The Principal undertakes a key leadership role, overseeing educational, pastoral administrative functions in consultation with the senior staff. The day to day administration of both the Prep and Senior School is undertaken within the policies and procedures approved by the Governors, which provide for only significant expenditure decisions and major capital projects to be referred. 

The Principal is a member of the Society of Heads and the Deputy Heads of Senior School and the Head of Prep School are also members of the Society as a ‘Deputy Head’ and ‘Head of Prep School respectively. In addition, the Head of Prep Schoolis also a member of IAPS, (Independent Association of Preparatory Schools) and the Bursar is a member of ISBA (Independent Schools Bursars’ Association). The School is member of AGBIS (Association of Governing Bodies of independent Schools). 

As such, members of the Senior Leadership Team are able to promote and maintain the standards at Ewell Castle School in general terms and are also able to take part in peer group studies for the evaluation of quality and performance improvement methods. Membership also permits appropriate representation to Government and regulators of the views of the sector. 

## Induction and training of Trustees 

The School recognizes the importance of induction and in order to understand the workings of the School and their role within it, new governors will be given an induction pack, including the following documentation on taking up office,: 

- e AGBIS publication ‘Guidelines for Governors’; e the school's up to date constitution; e alist of current governors committee members and of the school staff; 

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- e the most recent accounts of the school; e the most recent inspection report; e the school strategic and business plans; e the school's governance manual, and a full list of all the Schools policies; e the Charity Governance Code; ¢ the Charity Commission publication CC3 ‘The Essential Trustee’; e the school's key risk assessment documentation: ® the minutes of last three meetings of the governors and related papers,; e latest school magazine and prospectus,; e dates of forthcoming meetings of the governing body and its committees ;and ¢ other additional information/documents as appropriate. 

This preliminary information should enable new governors to understand the overall administration and governance structure of the School and help them to play an active role in its administration. 

As part of their induction, each Governor shall observe at least one lesson, undertakea site visit to school, including meeting with the Principal and the Bursar. 

## Organisation and Management of the Governing Body 

The role of the Governors is to hold ultimate control of and responsibility for the management the school, including ensuring the School acts in accordance with the School's constitution, educating, safeguarding, promoting the well being of pupils; ensuring compliance with the inspection regime and managing the School's activities in furtherance of its charitable objects, in the context of its (dual) regulation by the Charity Commission and Companies House. To carry out this role, the Governors meet as a full Governing Body a minimum of four times a year. 

The work of monitoring the school's finances, policies and procedures is carried out by the Finance Committee who meet each half term. 

Development of an estate strategy is delegated to the Estates Committee that meets each half term as part of the Finance and Estates Committee. Informal working groups are set up as required. 

## Related parties 

All trustees give of their time freely and no remuneration or expenses were paid in the year. Any contractual relationship must be disclosed and is recorded in the Register of Interests. 

Many of the key personnel of the School have children attending the School but this generally does not affect their capability to make independent and fair decisions but if there is a specific situation where there may be conflicts of interest, staff will remove themselves from the meeting. 

## Employment and Remuneration Policy 

Staff remuneration, including senior staff, is reviewed and set annually by governors after considering and recommendations from the Finance Committee. Recommendations are informed by: 

33 



## GOVERNORS REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT AND STRATEGIC REPORT) 

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024 

- e the overall annual budget; e nature of the role and responsibilities; 

- ® competitor salaries in the region; e the sector average salary for comparable positions; 

- e trends in pay; 

- e consumer and retail price indices. 

Teaching staff are paid on an internal scale with progress determined by appropriate performance and experience. Allowance payments are made for extra responsibilities above the contractual norm. in recent years, flexible pay in the Academy school sector has affected the ease of recruitment to certain roles, and we therefore aim to track significantly above salaries paid in the Academy school sector . 

Support staff are paid on an internal scale, and with reference to local market conditions, a range of benefits are offered to staff, including workplace pension contributions, staff fee remissions, free parking and refreshments. Staff are consulted on matters such as staff well-being through the Staff Committee and questionnaires. We have a range of human resource policies to support our charitable and business objectives and ensure compliance with best practice and regulation. 

34 



GOVERNORS REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS’ REPORT AND STRATEGIC REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024 

## Trustees’ responsibilities in relation to the financial Statements 

The charity trustees (who are also the directors of Ewell Castle School for the purposes of company law) are responsible for preparing a trustees’ annual report and financial statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdon Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice). 

Company law requires the charity trustees to prepare financial statements for each year which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charitable company and of the incoming resources and application of resources for that period. In preparing the financial statements, the trustees are required to: 

- e Select suitable accounting policies and apply them consistently; ) e Observe the methods and principles in the Charities SORP (FRS 102); e Make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent; e State whether applicable UK accounting standards have been followed , subject to any material departures disclosed and explained in the financial statements; 

- e Prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the School will continue in business. 

The trustees re responsible for keeping proper accounting records that disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the company and to enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Companies Act 2006. They are also responsible for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities. 

The trustees are responsible for the maintenance and integrity of the corporate and financial information included on the School’s website. Legislation in the United Kingdom governing the preparation and dissemination of financial statements may differ from legislation in other jurisdictions. 

## Statement as to disclosure to our auditors 

In so far as the trustee are aware at the time of approving our trustees’ annual report: 

- e There is no relevant information, being information needed by the auditor in connection with preparing their report, of which the auditor is unaware, and 

- e The trustees, (having made enquiries of fellow directors and the School’s auditor) have each take all steps that he/she is obliged to take as a director to make themselves aware of any relevant audit information and to establish that the auditor is aware of that information. 

## By order of the Governing Body 


**----- Start of picture text -----**<br>
son lll veWt. (Chair) COLIN CALF FITH<br>Date: a<br>9 Morel. Add<br>**----- End of picture text -----**<br>


35 



## EWELL CASTLE SCHOOL INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF EWELL CASTLE SCHOOL FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024 

## Opinion 

We have audited the financial statements of Ewell Castle School (‘the company’) for the year ended 31 August 2024 which comprise the Statement of Financial Activities, the Balance Sheet, the Cash Flow Statement and notes to the financial statements, including significant accounting policies. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards, including FRS 102 ‘The Financial Reporting Standard Applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland’ (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice). 

In our opinion the financial statements: 

- e give a true and fair view of the state of the charitable company’s affairs as at 31 August 2024 and of its incoming resources and application of resources, including its income and expenditure, for the year then ended; 

- e have been properly prepared in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice; and 

- e have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006. 

## Basis for opinion 

We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK) (ISAs (UK)) and applicable law. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditor’s Responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements section of our report. We are independent of the charitable company in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the financial statements in the UK, including the FRC’s Ethical Standard, and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion. 

## Conclusions relating to going concern 

In auditing the financial statements, we have concluded that the trustees’ use of the going concern basis of accounting in the preparation of the financial statements is appropriate. 

Based on the work we have performed, we have not identified any material uncertainties relating to events or conditions that, individually or collectively, may cast significant doubt on the charitable company's ability to continue as a going concern for a period of at least twelve months from when the financial statements are authorised for issue. 

Our responsibilities and the responsibilities of the trustees with respect to going concern are described in the relevant sections of this report. 

## Other information 

The other information comprises the information included in the annual report, other than the financial statements and our auditor’s report thereon. The trustees are responsible for the other information contained within the annual report. Our opinion on the financial statements does not 

36 



## EWELL CASTLE SCHOOL INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF EWELL CASTLE SCHOOL FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024 cSSEO 

cover the other information and, except to the extent otherwise explicitly stated in our report, we do not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon. 

Our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the course of the audit or otherwise appears to be materially misstated. If we identify such material inconsistencies or apparent material misstatements, we are required to determine whether there is a material misstatement in the financial statements themselves. If, based on the work we have performed, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report that fact. 

We have nothing to report in this regard. 

## Opinions on other matters prescribed by the Companies Act 2006 

In our opinion, based on the work undertaken in the course of the audit: 

- e the information given the trustees’ annual report (incorporating the Strategic Report) for the financial year for which the financial statements are prepared is consistent with the financial statements; and 

- e the trustees’ annual report (incorporating the Strategic Report) has been prepared in accordance with applicable legal requirements. 

## Matters on which we are required to report by exception 

In the light of the knowledge and understanding of the company and its environment obtained in the course of the audit, we have not identified material misstatements in the strategic report or the trustees’ annual report. 

We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters where the Companies Act 2006 requires us to report to you if, in our opinion: 

- ¢ adequate accounting records have not been kept, or returns adequate for our audit have not been received from branches not visited by us; or 

- e the financial statements are not in agreement with the accounting records and returns; or 

- e certain disclosures of trustees’ remuneration specified by law are not made; or ewe have not received all the information and explanations we require for our audit. 

## Responsibilities of trustees 

As explained more fully in the trustees’ responsibilities statement set out on page 35, the trustees (who are also the directors of the charitable company for the purposes of company law) are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements and for being satisfied that they give a true and fair view, and for such internal control as the trustees determine is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error. 

37 



## EWELL CASTLE SCHOOL INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF EWELL CASTLE SCHOOL FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024 

In preparing the financial statements, the trustees are responsible for assessing the charitable company’s ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless the trustees either intend to liquidate the charitable company or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so. 

## Auditor's Responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements 

Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor’s report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with ISAs (UK) will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these financial statements. 

As part of an audit in accordance with ISAs (UK) we exercise professional judgement and maintain professional scepticism throughout the audit. We also: 

- e identify and assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to fraud or error, design and perform audit procedures responsive to those risks, and obtain audit evidence that is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion. The risk of not detecting a material misstatement resulting from fraud is higher than for one resulting from error, as fraud may involve collusion, forgery, intentional omissions, misrepresentations, or the override of internal control; 

- e obtain an understanding of internal control relevant to the audit in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purposes of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the charitable company’s internal control; 

- e evaluate the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of accounting estimates and related disclosures made by the trustees; 

- ® conclude on the appropriateness of the trustees’ use of the going concern basis of accounting and, based on the audit evidence obtained, whether a material uncertainty exists related to events or conditions that may cast significant doubt on the charitable company’s ability to continue as a going concern. If we conclude that a material uncertainty exists, we are required to draw attention in our auditor's report to the related disclosures in the financial statements or, if such disclosures are inadequate, to modify our opinion. Our conclusions are based on the audit evidence obtained up to the date of our auditor’s report. However, future events or conditions may cause the charitable company to cease to continue as a going concern; 

- e evaluate the overall presentation, structure and content of the financial statements, including the disclosures, and whether the financial statements represent the underlying transactions and events in a manner that achieves fair presentation. 

38 



## EWELL CASTLE SCHOOL INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF EWELL CASTLE SCHOOL FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024 eeaeee 

We communicate with those charged with governance regarding, among other matters, the planned scope and timing of the audit and significant audit findings, including any significant deficiencies in internal control that we identify during our audit. 

Explanation as to what extent the audit was considered capable of detecting irregularities, including fraud 

Irregularities, including fraud, are instances of non-compliance with laws and regulations. We design procedures in line with our responsibilities, outlined above, to detect material misstatements in respect of irregularities, including fraud. The extent to which our procedures are capable of detecting irregularities, including fraud is detailed below. 

The objectives of our audit in respect of fraud, are; to identify and assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements due to fraud; to obtain sufficient appropriate audit evidence regarding the assessed risks of material misstatement due to fraud, through designing and implementing appropriate responses to those assessed risks; and to respond appropriately to instances of fraud or suspected fraud identified during the audit. However, the primary responsibility for the prevention and detection of fraud rests with both management and those charged with governance of the charitable company. 

Our approach was as follows: 

- ¢ We obtained an understanding of the legal and regulatory requirements applicable to the Charitable company and considered that the most significant are the Companies Act 2006, the Charities Act 2011, the Charity SORP, and UK financial reporting standards as issued by the Financial Reporting Council. 

- e We obtained an understanding of how the charitable company complies with these requirements by discussions with management and those charged with governance. 

- e We assessed the risk of material misstatement of the financial statements, including the risk of material misstatement due to fraud and howit might occur, by holding discussions with management and those charged with governance. 

- e We inquired of management and those charged with governance as to any known instances of non-compliance or suspected non-compliance with laws and regulations. 

- e Based on this understanding, we designed specific appropriate audit procedures to identify instances of non-compliance with laws and regulations. This included making enquiries of management and those charged with governance and obtaining additional corroborative evidence as required. 

There are inherent limitations in the audit procedures described above. We are less likely to become aware of instances of non-compliance with laws and regulations that are not closely related to events and transactions reflected in the financial statements. Also, the risk of not detecting a material misstatement due to fraud is higher than the risk of not detecting one 

39 



## EWELL CASTLE SCHOOL INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF EWELL CASTLE SCHOOL FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2024 

resulting from error, as fraud may involve deliberate concealment by, for example, forgery or intentional misrepresentations, or through collusion. 

## Use of our report 

This report is made solely to the charitable company's members, as a body, in accordance with Chapter 3 of Part 16 of the Companies Act 2006. Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might state to the company’s members those matters we are required to state to them in an auditor's report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to any party other than the charitable company and charitable company's members as a body, for our audit work, for this report, or for the opinions we have formed. 

## Moore. kingston. Sacth LLP. 

## 2 April 2025 

James Saunders (Senior Statutory Auditor) for and on behalf of Moore Kingston Smith LLP, Statutory Auditor 

6" Floor 9 Appold Street London EC2A 2AP 

40 



## Ewell Castle School 

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES {including the income and expenditure statement) for the year ended 31 August 2024 

|INCOME FROM:|Notes|Unrestricted /<br>Desiqnated <br>funds<br>£|_Restricted<br>funds<br>£|Total<br>2024<br>£|Total<br>2023<br>£|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|Charitable Activities||||||
|School fees<br>Othereducational income<br>Investments|3<br>4|11,427,366<br>894,082|-<br>15,961|11,427,366<br>910,043|10,943,460<br>782,651|
|investment Income<br>Voluntary sources|5|81,840|-|81,840|37,352|
|Donationsand grants|6|42,262|-|12,262|20,241|
|Total incomeandendowments||12,415,550|15,961|12,431,511|11,783,704|
|EXPENDITURE ON:||||||
|Costs of raising funds|||;|||
|Interestand other costs||-|-|-|48 463|
|Charitable activities||||||
|Education||12,415,391|10,519|12,425,910|11,625,346|
|Totalexpenditure|7|12,415,391|10,519|12,425,910|11,673,809|
|Netoperating income/(expenditure)||159|§,442|5,601|109,895|
|Other Profit orLoss on sale ofassets/property<br>Netgains on investments||-<br>os|-<br>:|-<br>:|2,199|
|Netincome/(expenditure)||159|5,442|5,601|112,094|
|Transferbetweenfunds||ae||||
|Netmovement infunds||159|5,442|5,601|112,094|
|Fund balances broughtforward||9,484,950|504,715|9,989,665|9,877,571|
|Fundbalancescarriedforward|18,19|9,485,109|510,157|9,995,266|9,989,665|



The statement of financial activities includes all gains and losses in the year and therefore a statement of total recognised gains and losses has not been prepared. 

All of the above amounts relate to continuing activities. 

The accompanying notes form part of these financial statements. 

41 



|Ewell Castle School|||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
|BALANCE SHEET|||||
|as at 31 August2024|||———||
|||Notes|203|2028|
|FIXEDASSETS|||||
|Tangible assets||12|10,860,877|10,321,122|
|CURRENT ASSETS|||10,850,877,|_10,321,122|
|Stocks||13|4,659|5,601|
|Debtors<br>Cash atbank and in|hand|14|623,553<br>§,106,716|768,900<br>4,785,175|
||||§,634,928|5,559,676|
|CREDITORS: Amounts falling due within one year||15|(4,974,399)|(4,390,686)|
|NETCURRENTASSETS|||660,529|1,168,990|
|TOTAL ASSETS LESSCURRENT LIABILITIES|||11,611,406|11,490,112|
|CREDITORS: Amounts fallingdue aftermorethan one year||16|(1,516,140)|(1,500,447)|
|NETASSETS|||9,995,266|9,989,665|
|FUNDS|||||
|Restricted funds||18|§10,157|504,715|
|Unrestricted funds—general<br>Revaluation reserve|general|18<br>18|8,527,376<br>957,734|8,527,216<br>957,734|
||||2,995,266__9,980,665|__9,980,665|
|a<br>Approved and authorised for issue by the Board ofGovernors||F<br>Da Mag,29%<br>|<br>|<br> on”.................. and siqned on their behalf by:|||
|Ail<br>Gove!|||||



The accompanying notes form part of these financial statements. Company Number: 0788782 

42 



## Ewell Castle School CASHFLOW STATEMENT for the year ended 31 August 2024 

## CASH FLOW STATEMENT 

## Net cash inflow from operating activities 

Cash flows from investing activities: Bank interest received Bank interest paid Payments to acquire fixed assets Net cash outflow from investing activities 

Financing: Loans repaid Net cash outflow from financing activities 

Increase/(decrease) in cash Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of the reporting period Cash and cash equivalents at end of the reporting period 


**----- Start of picture text -----**<br>
Notes 2024 aes<br>21 1,103,163 1,773,542<br>81,840 37,352<br>. (48,463)<br>(863,463) (1,084,864)<br>(781,623) (1,095,975)<br>**----- End of picture text -----**<br>



**----- Start of picture text -----**<br>
: (51,678)<br>: (51,678)<br>321,540 625,889<br>4,785,175 4,159,286<br>§,106,715 4,785,175<br>**----- End of picture text -----**<br>


43 



## Ewell Castle School 

## NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 August 2024 

## 1 ACCOUNTING POLICIES 

- Ewell Castle School is a company limited by guarantee with registered number 0788782, incorporated and domiciled in England and Wales. Its registered office is Church Street, Ewell, Surrey, KT17 2AW. 

- 1.1 BASIS OF PREPARATION The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102). The Charitable Company is a public benefit entity for the purposes of FRS 102 and therefore the Charity also prepared its financial statements in accordance with the Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (The FRS 102 Charities SORP), the Companies Act 2006 and the Charities Act 2011. The financial statements are prepared in sterling, which is the functional currency of the charity. Monetary amounts in these financial statements are rounded to the nearest pound. 

These financial statements are prepared on the going concern basis, under the historical cost convention as modified by the revaluation of investments and in accordance with the Companies Act 2006 and applicable accounting standards in the United Kingdom. The principal accounting policies, which have been applied consistently throughout the year, are set out below. 

## 1.2 GOING CONCERN 

The financial statements have been prepared on the going concern basis which assumes that the School will continue in operational existence for 12 months from the date of approval of these financial statements. 

The School recognises the challenges for the independent schools sector in the upcoming period and have budgeted and planned accordingly, and they do not consider that there are any material uncertainties that that may cast significant doubt on a company’s ability to adopt the going concern basis of accounting in the future. As such the School can expect to be able to meet its liabilities as they fall due in the period of at least 12 months from the date of approval of these accounts. However, there can be no certainty in relation to these matters. 

On this basis the Governors have concluded that the School is a going concern. The financial statements do not include any adjustments that would result from the School not being able to meet its liabilities as they fall due. 

## 1.3 COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE 

The company is limited by guarantee, the guarantors at the present time being the Governors, to the extent of £1 each. 1.4 FEES RECEIVABLE AND SIMILAR INCOM Fees receivable and charges for services and use of premises are accounted for in the period in which the service is provided. Fees receivable are stated after deducting allowances, scholarships and other remissions granted by the school. 1.5 DONATIONS AND FUND ACCOUNTING Cash donations are recognised on receipt. Donations received for the general purposes of the school are included as unrestricted funds. Donations restricted by the wishes of the donor or the terms of an appeal are taken to restricted funds. Donations required to be retained as capital in accordance with the donor's wishes are accounted for as endowments — permanent or expendable according to the nature of the restriction. 

## 1.6 EXPENDITURE 

Expenditure is allocated to expense headings, which aggregate all costs relating to the category either on a direct cost basis, or apportioned according to time spent. The irrecoverable element of VAT is included with the item of expense to which it relates. 

All costs associated with the provision of education are allocated to Charitable Expenditure. Only the costs directly associated with, or incurred solely in, Raising Funds are allocated to this category. For example, the costs of kitchen and domestic staff who are employed on a short term basis during the school holidays are allocated to the Cost of Raising Funds whereas the costs of the permanent staff are allocated to Charitable Expenditure because they would have to be paid in any event. Likewise, only premises costs that are incurred because of, or to support, the letting activities are allocated to the Costs of Raising Funds. Governance costs comprise the costs of running the charity, including strategic planning for its future development, external audit, and all other costs of complying with constitutional and statutory requirements. 

## 1.7 TEACHING COSTS 

- Supplies of games equipment, books, stationery and sundry materials are written off when the expenditure is incurred. 

44 



## Ewell Castle School 

## NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 August 2024 

## 1.8 FIXED ASSETS AND DEPRECIATION 

All fixed assets are used in direct furtherance of the school’s objectives. Fixed assets are included in these financial statements at their original cost less depreciation and accumulated impairment losses provided to date. 

Depreciation is provided on all tangible fixed assets, other than freehold land, at rates calculated to write off the costs less estimated residual value of each asset, by equal annual instalments, over their expected useful lives which are considered to be: Freehold buildings -2% per annum Leasehold improvements ‘Pre 2002 - over original lease term. Post 2002 - 2% per annum Fixtures and fittings -15% per annumn Fixtures and fittings -15% per annum Vehicles -25% per annum Computers -25% per annum 

## 1.9 STOCKS 

Stocks are stated at the lower of cost or net realisable value. 

## 1.10 PENSIONS 

Full-time and part-time teaching staff employed under a contract of service are eligible to contribute to the Teachers’ Pension Scheme (TPS). The TPS, a statutory, contributory, final salary scheme is administered by Capita Teachers’ Pensions on behalf of the Department for Education and Skills. Costs include normal and supplementary contributions. The regular cost is the normal contribution, expressed as a percentage of salary of a teacher newly entering service, which would defray the cost of benefits payable in respect of that service. Variations from the regular pension cost are met by a supplementary contribution. This occurs if, as a result of the actuarial investigation, it is found that the accumulated liabilities for benefits to past and present teachers are not fully covered by normal contributions to be paid in the future and by the fund built up from past contributions. The normal and supplementary contributions are charged to the income and expenditure account in the year. 

## 1.11 LEASES AND HIRE PURCHASE CONTRACTS 

Rentals paid under operating leases are charged to the Statement of Financial Activities evenly over the period of the lease. 

## 1.12 CASH AND CASH EQUIVALE! 

Cash and cash equivalents include cash in hand, deposits held at call with banks, other short-term liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less. 

## 1.13 FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS 

The company has elected to apply the provisions of Section 11 ‘Basic Financial Instruments' and Section 12 ‘Other Financial Instruments Issues’ of FRS 102 to all of its financial instruments. Financial instruments are recognised in the company's balance sheet when the company becomes party to the contractual provisions of the instrument. Financial assets and liabilities are offset, with the net amounts presented in the financial statements, when there is a legally enforceable right to set off the recognised amounts and there is an intention to settle on a net basis or to realise the asset and settle the liability simultaneously. With the exceptions of prepayments and deferred income all other debtor and creditor balances are considered to be basic financial instruments under FRS 102. See notes 14, 15 and 16 for the debtor and creditor notes. 

## 1.15 TAXATION 

The company is a registered charity and is exempt from taxation as afforded by Section 505 ICTA 1988. 

## 1.16 EMPLOYEE BENEFITS 

The costs of short-term employee benefits are recognised as a liability and an expense. 

## 2 KEY ESTIMATES & JUDGEMENTS 

In the application of the company's accounting policies, the Council is required to make judgements, estimates and assumptions about the carrying amount of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. The estimates and associated assumptions are based on historical experience and other factors that are considered to be relevant. Actual results may differ from these estimates. 

45 



## Ewell Castle School 

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 August 2024 

The estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an on-going basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognised in the period in which the estimate is revised, if the revision affects only that period, or in the period of the revision and future periods if the revision affects both current and future periods. 

In preparing financial statements it is necessary to make certain judgements, estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts recognised in the financial statements. The following judgements and estimates are considered by the trustees to have most significant effect on amounts recognised in the financial statements. 

## Useful economic lives 

The annual depreciation charge for property, plant and equipment is sensitive to changes in the estimated useful economic lives and residual values of the assets. The useful economic lives and residual values are re-assessed annually. They are amended when necessary to reflect current estimates, based an technological advancement, future investments, economic utilisation and the physical condition of the assets. See note 12 for the carrying amount of the property, plant and equipment and note 1.8 for the useful economic lives for each class of asset. 

## Recoverable value of fee debtors 

The company makes an estimate of the recoverable value of trade and other debtors. When assessing impairment of trade and other debtors, management considers factors including the current credit rating of the debtor, the ageing profile of debtors and historical experience. See note 14 for the net carrying amount of the debtors and associated impairment provision. 

3 FEE INCOME The School's activities are carried out within the UK. 2024 2023 The school's fee income comprised: £ £ Gross fees 12,541,646 12,019,484 Less: Scholarships and bursaries (1,114,279) (1,076,024) 11,427,366 10,943,460 4 OTHER EDUCATIONAL INCOME 2024 2023 £ £ Other income 910,043 777,533 5 INVESTMENT INCOME 2024 2023 £ £ Interest received 81,840 37,352 81,840 37,352, 6 DONATIONS AND GRANTS 2024 2023 £ £ Donations and gifts 12,262 20,241 12,262 20,241 

46 



## Ewell Castle School 

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 August 2024 


**----- Start of picture text -----**<br>
||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|7|EXPENDITURE|
|(a)|Charitable expenditure|Staff costs|Total|
|(note|9)|Other|Depreciation|2024|
|£|£|£|£|
|Teaching|6,980,636|1,506|264|-|8,486,900|
|Welfare|2,117|211,795|-|213,912|
|Premises|and|Estates|301,842|1,448,725|-|1,750,567|
|Administration|1,379,963|240,308|333,709|1,953,980|
|Finance|-|-|-|-|
|Governance|-|20,550|aa|20,550|
|Total Charitable|Expenditure|8664558|3,427,642|333,709|12,425,909|
|Total Expended|8,664,558|3,427,642|333,709|12,425,909|

**----- End of picture text -----**<br>


Included within £12,425,909 is an amount of Enil (2023: £nil) relating to restricted expenditure. 


**----- Start of picture text -----**<br>
|||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|Staff costs|Total|
|(note|9)|Other|Depreciation|2023|
|£|£|£|£|
|Teaching|5,963,940|1,374,138|-|7,338,078|
|Welfare|-|191,725|-|191,725|
|Premises and|Estates|280,970|2,083,741|-|2,364,711|
|Administration|1,207,014|164,707|337,606|1,709,327|
|Finance|Costs|-|48,463|-|48,463|
|Governance|-|21,605|a|21,505|
|Total Charitable Expenditure|7,451,924|3,884,279|337,606|11,673,809|
|Total|Expended|7,451,924|3,932,742|337,606|11,722,272|
|(b)|Other Governance|Costs|include:|2024|2023|
|Auditors'|remuneration|£|£|
|- Audit Fees|17,260|16,445|
|~ Accountancy|Fees|3,290|3,135|
|(c)|Administration|Costs|2024|2023|
|Salaries|£|£|
|Staff|1,330,389|1,152,538|
|Bad|Training|49,574|54,476|
|debts|19,041|1,188|
|Depreciation|333,709|337,606|
|Legal|and|Professional|Fees|210,751|162,178|
|Other administration|10,517|1,341|
|1,953,980|__1,709,327|
|8|STAFF COSTS|2024|2023|
|£|£|
|Wages and|salaries|6,547,175|5,657,932|
|Social|security|costs|677,410|597,049|
|Other pension|costs|1,299,446|1,041,289|
|Other|staff costs|140,527|155,654|
|_|8,664,558|7,451,924|

**----- End of picture text -----**<br>


47 



## Ewell Castle School 

## NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 August 2024 


**----- Start of picture text -----**<br>
||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|8|STAFF|COSTS|(Continued)|
|The average monthly number of employees during the year was as follows:|2024|2023|
|No.|No.|
|Teaching|and|Supply Teaching|Staff|101|97|
|Classroom|Support|Staff|20|22|
|Premises|Staff|12|13|
|Administrative|Staff & Technicians|36|35|
|Coaches &|Invigilators|16|16|
|184|183|
|The|number|of employees whose emoluments|amounted|to|over|
|£60,000|in|the|year was as|follows:|2024|2023|
|No.|No.|
|£60,000|- £70,000|12|6|
|£70,001|- £80,000|4|4|
|£80,001|- £90,000|4|
|£140,001|- £150,000|1|-|
|£150,001|-|£160,000|:|1|
|£160,001|-|£170,000|ns|a|
|init tain|

**----- End of picture text -----**<br>


Pension contributions for the year amounted to £370,437 (2023: £173,998) for the above employees. Payments in lieu of notice for employees over £60,000 total £66,121 (2023: Enil). 

Key Management Personnel 

## Remuneration of key management personnel 


**----- Start of picture text -----**<br>
||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|The|remuneration|of key management personnel,|which|are defined|as|the|Principal,|the|Bursar,|the|Head|of|
|2024|2023|
|£|£|
|Aggregate|compensation|728,257|853,432|

**----- End of picture text -----**<br>


9 GOVERNORS' REMUNERATION AND BENEFITS There were Governor’ remuneration or other benefits of £514 (2023:£nil) for the year ended 31 August 2024. 

48 



Ewell Castle School 

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 August 2024 

10 PENSIONS 

The School participates in the Teacher's Pension Scheme (‘the TPS’) for its teaching staff, The pension charge for the year contributions payable to the TPS of £1,624,420 (2023: £948,974). £115,332 amount has also been into a Standard Life Pension for other staff. At the year end £146,827 (2023: £112,053) in relation to TPS and £15,442 (2023: 11,556) in relations to the Standard Life Pension Scheme was accrued in respect of the contributions. The TPS is an unfunded multi-employer defined benefits pension scheme governed by The Teachers’ Pensions Regulations 2010 (as amended) and The Teachers’ Pension Scheme Regulations 2014 (as amended). Members Contribute on a “pay as you go” basis with contributions from members and the employer being credited to the Exchequer. Retirement and other pension benefits are paid by public funds provided by Parliament. 

The employer contribution rate is set by the Secretary of State following scheme valuations undertaken by the Government Actuary’s Department. The most recent actuarial valuation of the TPS was prepared as at 31 March 2020 and the Valuation Report was published in October 2023. 

Following the McCloud judgement, the remedy proposed that when benefits become payable, eligible members can select to receive them from either the reformed or legacy schemes for the period 1 April 2015 to 31 March 2022. The actuaries have assumed that members are likely to choose the option that provides them with the greater benefits, and in preparing the 2020 valuation has valued the ‘greater value’ benefits for groups of relevant members. The employer contribution rate for the TPS is 28.6%, and employers are also required to pay a scheme administration levy of 0.08% giving a total employer contribution rate of 28.68%. 

|11|NET INCOME FOR THE YEAR|||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|||||||2024|2023|
||Net income is stated after charging:|||||£|£|
||Depreciation oftangible fixed assets<br>Loan Interest|||||333,709<br>:|337,091<br>48,463|
|12|TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS|||||||
|||Freehold|Leasehold<br>Property|Fixtures<br>&|IT|Motor||
||Cost:|Property<br>£|improveme<br>£|Fittings<br>£|Equipment<br>£|Vehicles<br>£|Total<br>£|
||At 1 September 2023<br>Additions|2,421,401<br>43,186|10,310,375<br>774,544|715,690<br>45,733|1,021,579<br>-|80,886<br>-|14,549,930<br>863,463|
||At31 August2024|2,464,587|11,084,919|761,423|1,021,579|80,886|15,413,393|
||Depreciation:|||||||
||At1September 2023<br>Charge foryear|91,382<br>48,275|2,591,163<br>174,091|601,951<br>32,494|868,979<br>73,295|75,332<br>5,554|4,228,807<br>333,709|
||At31 August2024|139,657|2,765,254|634,445|942,274|80,886|4,562,516|
||Net book value:|||||||
||At31 August2024|2,324,929|8,319,665|126,979|79,305|-<br>-|10,850,877|
||At1September 2023|2,330,018|7,719,212|113,739|152,600|5,554|10,321,123|



A valuation of Glyn House was complete on 30 April 2022, this was performed by McWhirter Locke who are a RICS Regulated Chartered Property and Building Surveyor. The historic cost of the property was £2,109,243 and has now been revalued to £2,360,000. 

49 



## Ewell Castle School 

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 August 2024 

|13|Stock|2024|2023|
|---|---|---|---|
||Finished goods and goods for resale|4,659|5,601|
|||4,659|5,601|
|14|DEBTORS|||
|||2024|2023|
|||£|£|
||Fees and extras|205,372|177,088|
||Less provision fordoubtful debts<br>Otherdebtors|(177,088)<br>9,260|(177,088)<br>24,187|
||Prepayments and accrued income|486,009|744,713|
|||523,553|768,900|
|16|CREDITORS|||
||Amounts fallingduewithinone vear:|2024|2023|
||Loans|.|755,619|
||Trade creditors|168,144|489,303|
||Taxation and social security costs<br>Fee Deposits<br>Fees in advance|164,691<br>34,050<br>3,809,231|137,033<br>41,250<br>1,383,206|
||Othercreditors|656,653|824,750|
||Accruals|141,630|759,525|
|||4,974,399|4,390,686|
||Deferred income:|2024<br>£|2023<br>£|
||Brought forwards<br>Released in year<br>Received in year|1,383,206<br>(1,383,206)<br>3,809,231|1,130,334<br>(1,130,334)<br>1,383,206|
||Carried forwards|3,809,231|1,383,206|
||Deferred income relates to schools fees received in advance forthe following term.|||
|16|CREDITORSDUEAFTERONEYEAR|2024|2023|
|||£|£|
||Amounts falling due aftermore than one year:<br>Provisions|918,322|893,322|
||School fee deposits|597,818|607,125|
|||1,516,140|1,500,447|
|||2024|2023|
|||£|£|
||Movement on loans|||
||In one year or less|-|755,619|
||Between one and two years|-|-|
|||-|755,619|



The long-term loans are secured by fixed charges over the freehold property and leasehold interest in Ewell Castle. The net book value of which at 31 August 2024 was £10,644,954 (2023: £10,049,231). However, the loan has been fully repaid in the year. 

50 



## Ewell Castle School 

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 August 2024 

## 17 FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS 


**----- Start of picture text -----**<br>
|||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|2024|2023|
|Carrying|amount|of financial|assets|£|£|
|Debt instruments|at amortised|cost|9,260|24,187|
|Carrying|amount|of|financial|liabilities|
|Measured|at amortised|cost|1,000,477|2,114,828|
|18|STATEMENT OF|FUNDS|
|At|1|Transfer|
|September|Between|Gains/|At 31 aie|
|2023|Income|Expenditure|Funds|(losses)|
|Unrestricted|funds:|£|£|£|£|£|£|
|General|reserve|8,527,215|12,415,550|(12,415,390)|-|-|8,527,375|
|Revaluation|reserve|957,734|-|-|-|-|957,734|
|Restricted|funds:|
|Other|939|-|(677)|-|-|262|
|Fitzalan|House renovations|500,000|-|-|-|-|500,000|
|Sammy Mhiza|Fund|3,776|4,993|(8,309)|-|-|460|
|Tennis Academy|Fund|-|2,868|(1,533)|-|-|1,335|
|Ewellians|Bursary Fund|-|7,600|-|-|-|7,600|
|Ewell|Parochial|Trusts|Fund|-|500|-|-|-|500|
|Total|restricted|604,715|15,961|(10,519)|-|-|510,157|
|Total|funds|9.989.665|12,431,511|(12,425,909)|-|-|9,995,266|
|Att|Transfer|
|September|Between|Gains/|ASH Aust|
|2022|Income|Expenditure|Funds|(losses)|
|Unrestricted|funds:|£|£|£|£|£|£|
|General|reserve|8,418,898|11,778,586|(11,672,468)|-|2,199|8,527,215|
|Revaluation|reserve|957,734|-|-|-|-|957,734|
|Other|9,376,632|11,778,586|(1 1,672,468)|-|2,199|9,484,949|
|Fitzalan|939|-|-|-|-|939|
|Sammy|House renovations|500,000|-|-|-|-|500,000|
|Mhiza Fund|-|5,118|(1,342)|-|-|3,776|
|Total|restricted|500,939|5,118|(1,342)|-|-|504,715|
|Total funds|9,877,571|11,783,704|(11,673,810)|-|2,199|9,989,665|

**----- End of picture text -----**<br>


Restricted funds The Governors are of the opinion that the funds designated for Fitzalan House have now been fully utilised as part of the ongoing refurbishment and maintenance of these facilities. 

The remaining other restricted funds relates to amounts restricted for award giving. 

51 



8 

## Ewell Castle School 

## NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 August 2024 

## 19 ANALYSIS OF NET ASSETS BETWEEN FUNDS 

||Unrestricted|Restricted|2024|
|---|---|---|---|
||funds|funds|Total|
||£|£|€|
|Tangible fixed assets|10,850,877|-|10,850,877|
|Investments|Z|s|a|
|Current assets/(liabilities)|660,529|-|660,529|
|Long term liabilities|(1,516,140)|-|(1,516,140)|
|Total netassets|9,995,267|:|9,995,267|
||Unrestricted|Restricted|2023|
||funds|funds|Total|
||£|£|£|
|Tangible fixed assets<br>Investments<br>Current assets/(liabilities)|10,321,122<br>=<br>1,168,990|-<br>Ps<br>-|10,321,122<br>-<br>1,168,990|
|Long term liabilities|(1,500,447)|-|(1,500,447)|
|Totalnetassets|9,989,665|-|9,989,665|



## 20 COMMITMENTS UNDER OPERATING LEASES 

At 31 August 2024, the company had outstanding commitments for future minimum lease payments under noncancellable operating leases, which fall due as follows: 

|||2024|2023|
|---|---|---|---|
||Duewithin one year|726,655|295,599|
||Duebetween twoand five years|2,622,894|1,081,590|
||Due after more than five years|1,770,000|840,000|
|||5,119,549__|__<br>2,217,189|
|21|NOTES TO THE CASHFLOW STATEMENT|||
||Reconciliation of operating result to net cash inflowfrom<br>operating activities|2024<br>£|2023<br>£|
||Netmovement in funds|5,599|112,094|
||Depreciation|333,709|337,606|
||Bank interest received|(81,840)|(37,352)|
||Interest payable|-|48,463|
||Increase/(Decrease) in creditors|599,406|1,416,491|
||(Increase)/Decrease in debtors|245,347|(104,187)|
||(Increase)/Decrease in stocks|942|427|
|||1,103,163|1,773,542,|



52 



## Ewell Castle School 

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 August 2024 

## 22 RELATED PARTIES 

The school has not engaged in any transactions with related parties during the period and has no outstanding balances with related parties. 

## 23 CONTROL 

The school is under the control of the Governors who are the trustees under Charity Law and directors under Company Law. 

53