Headteachers Welcome

It is a tremendous privilege to serve as Headteacher of St Martin's Preparatory School - a school I already know and care about deeply. Having spent the past two years as Deputy Headteacher, I have seen at first hand what makes this community so special: remarkable children, dedicated staff and families who work in genuine partnership with the school.

For me, education has always been about purpose and people. Inspirational teachers showed me the difference it makes when learning feels engaging and full of possibility - and when a child feels noticed and believed in.

I believe every child is capable of achieving great things. High expectations and genuine care go hand in hand. When children feel known, valued and supported, they develop the confidence and resilience to embrace challenge, learn from mistakes and discover just how much they can achieve.

“Every child deserves someone who believes in them, and every member of our school community deserves to feel that they belong.”

St Martin's has a proud tradition of academic excellence and long-established 11+ preparation. Our current Year 6 pupils achieved a 100% pass rate, with every child securing a local grammar-school place. That success matters, but our purpose is broader: pupils should leave us curious, confident and ready for the academic, social and personal opportunities ahead.

Visible leadership matters to me. You will find me at the school gate, in classrooms, celebrating children's work and leading assemblies. The small moments - knowing a name, noticing an effort or offering a quiet word of encouragement - help children feel truly seen.

I am proud of the warm community around St Martin's, including our HSA and the support of parents and wider family members. As a mother of two, I understand the realities of family life and how important it is for parents to feel listened to, understood and welcomed by their child's school.

Above all, I want every child to be proud to say that St Martin's is their school: to love learning, to feel that they belong and to leave us with respect for others, resilience in the face of challenge and ambition for the future. I look forward to working with you as we build on the school's many strengths and begin this exciting next chapter together.

We look forward to welcoming you into our St. Martin’s family.

Elizabeth Cullen-White

Headteacher