Chigwell School Reviews and Testimonials

Since September 2022, Damian King MA PGCE. Formerly deputy head (academic) at Dulwich College and before that head of science at Brighton College and physics teacher and tutor at Eton.

Originally from Ipswich, he attended Colchester Royal Grammar School (as did the school's founder Samuel Harsnett) before studying Physics and completing his PGCE at Oxford.

A well-connected head, something parents say is reflected in the calibre of new staff he has appointed, including members of the senior leadership team from some of the country's leading independent schools.

"He's made some excellent appointments and has a strong vision for the school," said one parent. Like his predecessor, Mr King remains firmly rooted in school life.

He still teaches A Level Physics and, during the reviewers' visit, was spotted on breaktime duty chatting with pupils around the campus. "We see him quite a lot," students said, "and he's good at talking to us."

Parents also appreciate the importance he places on school life beyond the classroom. "No matter what hour of day or night, he's there to wave them off on trips or welcome them home," remarked one.

Living on site with his wife and three young children, two of whom attend the Prep School, is another factor parents believe helps him stay connected to the school community. When time allows, he enjoys sailing, particularly racing dinghies off the Isle of Wight, and is also known for his early morning runs through the school grounds – although at 5am, few are around to witness them.

The largest intake is into Year 7, when around 80 pupils join approximately 60 children moving up from the Prep School. Entry is via computer-based adaptive assessments in January, following an informal interview in November.

Places at 13+ vary from year to year, depending on availability, with applicants sitting assessments in English, maths and a language, followed by interview.

Around 10 day pupils join the Sixth Form each year alongside international boarders. Applicants are expected to achieve grade 8s in their intended A Level subjects (with 7s considered in some cases following discussion) and complete subject assessments and interview.

Parents describe Chigwell as striking the right balance academically – "the middle ground" between some of its local rivals. Expectations are high without feeling overly pressured, allowing pupils to achieve their potential in a supportive environment.

Teachers continue to earn high praise from pupils and parents alike. Lessons are lively and engaging, with pupils particularly appreciating that "teachers talk to you as an equal." Extra support is readily available through subject clinics and, pupils say, "there's no stigma around going." Parents agree that the quality of teaching means there is little need for outside tutoring after the 11+.

Setting remains light touch, with maths from Year 7 and science from Year 9. Pupils begin by studying French, Spanish and German before continuing with one language alongside Latin, which becomes optional from Year 9. Almost all pupils take Triple Science at GCSE and, with no option blocks, parents say pupils are able to study the subjects they want. Drama, Religious Studies and Computer Science are among the most popular GCSE options, while STEM subjects continue to be particular strengths.

The Sixth Form curriculum has expanded with the addition of Business, Psychology and PE. Careers guidance begins early, with tailored support for Oxbridge, Medicine and degree apprenticeships, while the dedicated Sixth Form Centre provides an adult environment for independent study.

Learning support is another notable strength. Parents describe the SEND team as "phenomenal", praising the personalised support provided for pupils with a range of additional needs and the close partnership between staff and families.

Parents describe Chigwell as a "kind community", with wellbeing embedded throughout school life. Daily form time, chapel, PSHE and enrichment are complemented by a Head of Wellbeing, full-time counsellor and dedicated wellbeing centre, providing support ranging from a quiet space to specialist care where needed.

Year 7 and 8 pupils benefit from their own pastoral environment before joining one of four senior houses in Year 9. Parents praise the balance between high expectations and genuine care, while pupils say teachers are understanding and approachable.

It is hard not to be impressed by Chigwell's combination of outstanding facilities, academic ambition and genuine sense of community. A supportive family atmosphere, breadth of opportunity and down-to-earth ethos ensure pupils leave as confident, well-rounded young people, ready to make the most of the opportunities ahead.

Head of Prep and Pre-Prep

Since September 2024, Evelyn Gibbs BA (Reading) PGCE NPQH has led both the Prep and Pre-Prep Schools, having joined Chigwell in 2013 as the founding Head of Pre-Prep. Previously deputy head and acting headteacher at St Mary's RC Primary School in Chingford, she began her career as a chartered surveyor before retraining as a teacher after having twins.

Having overseen the development of the Pre-Prep from its very beginning, including the completion of its purpose-built building, she brings extensive teaching and leadership experience across all primary age groups, including as a SENCo. Attuned to the anxieties families can face when choosing a school, she speaks of the "big, emotional decisions" parents make and the privilege of sharing their children's educational journey.

Parents are effusive in their praise, describing her as "so warm" and highlighting her "completely open-door policy". "Nothing is too much trouble," remarked one. Despite her leadership responsibilities, she still teaches Reception once a week and runs an after-school sewing club for Prep pupils.

Married with grown-up children and grandchildren, she enjoys travelling, particularly to visit family in New Zealand, and sailing holidays.

Nestled within the wider Chigwell campus, the Prep and Pre-Prep schools enjoy the best of both worlds – dedicated spaces for younger learners alongside access to the exceptional facilities of the senior school.

The purpose-built Pre-Prep building remains a particular highlight, with bright classrooms opening directly onto outdoor learning areas, a spacious hall, library, specialist teaching rooms and generous playgrounds. From Year 3 onwards, pupils benefit from regular use of the senior school's science laboratories, drama centre, music department, art and DT facilities, as well as the impressive Sport & Wellness Centre.

Outdoor learning is another real strength, with woodland sessions, bushcraft, fire building and orienteering forming a popular part of the curriculum for many year groups.

Reading remains central to life at Chigwell, with classrooms and libraries full of books and pupils encouraged to develop a genuine love of literature from an early age.

Learning in the Pre-Prep is hands-on, creative and conversation-led, with play-based activities gradually developing into more formal subject teaching as pupils progress through the school.

Small class sizes ensure every child is known well, with teachers described by parents as "brilliant", "really experienced" and able to hold children's attention. Learning extends well beyond the classroom through outdoor education, creative projects and specialist teaching in subjects including music, art, drama, French and computing.

The move into the Prep School in Year 3 is carefully managed, with pupils benefiting from specialist teachers across the curriculum while continuing to learn in a nurturing environment. Parents praise the balance between academic rigour and a holistic education, describing it as "academic but at the same time holistic."

Literacy is a particular strength, while maths challenges, enrichment activities and extension opportunities ensure able pupils continue to thrive. From Year 3, children also benefit from increasing use of technology as part of the school's digital strategy.

Learning support is closely integrated into school life, with teachers working alongside the wider Learning Support team to provide intervention where needed. Parents praise the personalised approach, noting that "nothing is an issue", whether that involves coloured overlays, adapted resources or additional support. One-to-one help is available where appropriate and, in most cases, is provided at no additional cost.

Music, art and drama continue to flourish, with pupils enjoying a wealth of performance opportunities, instrumental tuition and creative workshops. Clubs remain plentiful, ranging from robotics and debating to photography, chess and sewing, while wraparound care provides additional flexibility for families.

A school with an enviable campus and a refreshingly down-to-earth ethos, where bright, busy pupils benefit from warmth, strong academics and a genuine sense of community.

From outdoor learning and specialist teaching to outstanding facilities and exceptional pastoral care, Chigwell Prep offers a balanced education that prepares children confidently for Senior School and beyond.

Community is king here

Despite being a large, selective independent school, Chigwell has retained a genuine village feel. Parents speak warmly of a welcoming community where families know one another, neighbours attend school events and the Head visits bursary applicants at home. It is a hands-on, inclusive approach that creates a strong sense of belonging from the moment families join the school.

Good for...

Pretty much every type of child you can think of. Whether sporty, musical, artistic, academic or simply keen to get involved, Chigwell's broad educational offering ensures everyone has the opportunity to flourish. The impressive Sport & Wellness Centre, thriving music, drama and art departments, extensive outdoor learning opportunities and excellent academic outcomes mean pupils are encouraged to discover and develop their individual strengths. The school's unstuffy, down-to-earth values cultivate curiosity, resilience and independence, while its warm community ensures children of all personalities quickly feel at home.

Recently inspected in June 2026, Chigwell School was awarded a "Significant Strength" by the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI), recognising the school's continued commitment to delivering an outstanding all-round education.