Orla

When nine-year-old Orla joined King Edward VI Preparatory School in September 2024, she arrived with a saxophone, a love of rugby, and a bright enthusiasm for learning. With just a year into her KES Prep journey, we sat down with Orla to find out more about what life was like starting KES Prep from Year 4.    

Reflecting on her first impressions, Orla shares a simple but telling observation: “I love the teachers here so much.” It’s a heartfelt comment that speaks volumes about how quickly and warmly she has settled in. “Mrs Beckwith-Waughman is amazing – she encourages me through my art,” Orla says.   

Learning That Comes Alive  

What stands out most when Orla talks about life at KES Prep is how rich and engaging her learning experience has been. Her favourite memory to date? A fiery Viking boat experiment during their Discovery topic. “We set our model Viking boats on fire and sent them sailing down the river,” she says with a huge smile. “We took really funny pictures of us – all my friends – with the boats on fire in the background.”  

This kind of immersive, hands-on learning clearly suits her. “You can get outside a lot,” she says appreciatively, noting how the school embraces both the classroom and the world beyond. Whether it’s visiting Butser Farm or exploring Moors Valley, Orla is thriving in an environment where curiosity is encouraged, and every lesson feels like an adventure.  

Finding Her Voice  

Wednesdays are Orla’s favourite day of the week — and for good reason. They begin with saxophone lessons, followed by a morning of art and then speech and drama in the afternoon. “I love music. I wouldn’t say I’m amazing at it, but I still like it,” she says, modestly but proudly. Early morning slots mean she never has to miss her other subjects, something she clearly values.  

Her love of performance extends to the stage too. Orla was cast as a storyteller in the school’s Anglo-Saxon play, a role she embraced with enthusiasm. “I like acting a lot,” she says, and hopes to join more drama activities in the future.  

Art also holds a special place in her heart. She recalls a recent wellbeing session where pupils were invited to draw freely in the field. “It was really quiet and nice, and I liked that,” she reflects – showing how the school supports calmness and creativity as much as energy and excitement.  

Confidence on the Pitch  

Orla’s passion for sport – especially rugby – is another striking part of her story. Not only does she play at school, but she’s also an active member of her local team, where she’s earned medals and even a Players’ Player award, which she proudly showed us. She grins as she recounts a memorable match against parents: “We all had sunglasses on – it was really fun!”  

At KES Prep, Orla made a bold choice to join the boys’ contact rugby team. “I did hockey for a bit, and then I moved to rugby – contact rugby with the boys – and that was really fun. It’s one of my favourite sports.” Her confidence in taking that step, and the support she received in doing so, speaks to the school’s inclusive approach and focus on personal growth.  

Living the Values  

When asked about the school’s values, Orla’s answers are thoughtful and sincere. “‘Lift others’ means to me, be kind and encourage people,” she says. Her take on “keep growing” is just as reflective: “Don’t just give up – keep on going.”  

For Orla, success isn’t simply about being the best or winning medals. “You have to earn the trophy to get to that level,” she says, showing a developing understanding of effort, resilience, and what real achievement looks like.  

Looking Ahead  

If Orla had to choose three words to describe KES Prep, she’d say: “Kind… and probably encouraging and helpful.” It’s a fitting summary of the environment she’s found – one where each child is seen, supported, and celebrated for who they are.  

Whether it’s through her art, saxophone, rugby, or role on stage, Orla is making the most of every opportunity – and her story is a testament to the power of a nurturing, dynamic education. At KES Prep, she has truly found a place to grow, to be herself, and to thrive.