Headteacher's Welcome

Welcome to The Forest School, a place where tradition meets innovation and every student is empowered to Aspire to Become Elite.

Since opening our doors in 1957, The Forest School has been dedicated to providing a high-quality education that not only equips students with academic excellence but also instils in them the values of resilience, integrity, and community. As the headteacher since September 2017, it has been my privilege to lead this dynamic and forward-thinking school.

We are particularly excited about the upcoming academic year, as September 2024 will mark a historic milestone for The Forest School. For the first time, we will welcome our first co-educational cohort into Year 7, opening our doors to both boys and girls and enriching our learning environment with greater diversity and inclusivity.

At The Forest School, our ethos is clear: we aspire to become elite. This vision drives everything we do, from our robust academic programs and state-of-the-art facilities to our wide array of extracurricular activities and supportive pastoral care. We believe that every student has the potential to excel and achieve their highest aspirations. Our dedicated staff are committed to nurturing this potential, providing personalised guidance and fostering an environment where students are encouraged to take on challenges, develop critical thinking skills, and grow as individuals.

Our vibrant house system, inspired by the UK's iconic forests, further enhances the sense of community and belonging at The Forest School. Each house – Ashdown, Bramshill, Kielder, Langdale, New, Sherwood, and Windsor – embodies unique qualities and values that reflect the diverse strengths and attributes of our students. Through inter house competitions, events, and assemblies, we promote teamwork, leadership, and a spirit of healthy competition.

I invite you to explore our website to learn more about what makes The Forest School a unique and inspiring place to learn and grow. Whether you are a prospective student, parent, or community member, we look forward to welcoming you and showing you first hand the exceptional opportunities that await at The Forest School.

Warm regards,

Shirley Austin
Headteacher, The Forest School, Winnersh