Suffolk &amp; Cambs


<p>Meet Claire Petrie &#8211; head of Kimbolton Prep School. We caught up with her to find out why she believes a good Prep school should always be where children are happy. She talks about her passion for discovering the childrens&#8217; potential, why watching children skipping through the school gates is a highlight of her day, and what happened when two pupils took over role for the day. </p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="667" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2026/06/kimbolton-Cambs-8-1000x667.png" alt="Kimbolton school" class="wp-image-48436" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2026/06/kimbolton-Cambs-8-1000x667.png 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2026/06/kimbolton-Cambs-8-800x533.png 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2026/06/kimbolton-Cambs-8-400x267.png 400w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2026/06/kimbolton-Cambs-8.png 1500w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-describe-kimbolton-school-to-a-parent-who-doesn-t-know-it">Describe Kimbolton School to a parent who doesn’t know it</h3>



<p>Kimbolton School is a thriving independent day and boarding school for children aged 3–18, where every pupil is known, valued and encouraged to flourish. Whether a child’s strengths lie in academics, sport, music, drama or something yet to be discovered, we are passionate about helping them realise their potential. At the heart of everything we do are our values and our &#8220;One School, One Family&#8221; ethos, creating a genuine sense of belonging from the very first day. </p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="667" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2026/06/kimbolton-Cambs-1000x667.png" alt="Kimbolton School" class="wp-image-48413" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2026/06/kimbolton-Cambs-1000x667.png 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2026/06/kimbolton-Cambs-800x533.png 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2026/06/kimbolton-Cambs-400x267.png 400w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2026/06/kimbolton-Cambs.png 1500w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



<p>Set within the stunning grounds of Kimbolton Castle, there is also something distinctive about the school spirit – a thread of pride, ambition and community that runs throughout every stage of a child’s journey here, often symbolised by the colour purple that has become synonymous with Kimbolton.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-keeps-you-excited-about-your-job">What keeps you excited about your job?</h3>



<p>Without question, the people. I am fortunate to work alongside an incredibly talented and committed team of staff who care deeply about the children in their care. We place a huge emphasis on staff wellbeing because happy, supported staff are able to bring out the very best in every child. In turn, our colleagues are passionate about their own professional and personal development, continually seeking new ways to inspire and challenge pupils. Seeing the positive impact this has on children every day – confident learners, happy families and young people who genuinely enjoy coming to school – is what makes the role so rewarding.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-s-the-best-part-of-your-day">What’s the best part of your day?</h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="667" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2026/06/kimbolton-Cambs-1-1000x667.png" alt="Kimbolton School" class="wp-image-48414" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2026/06/kimbolton-Cambs-1-1000x667.png 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2026/06/kimbolton-Cambs-1-800x533.png 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2026/06/kimbolton-Cambs-1-400x267.png 400w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2026/06/kimbolton-Cambs-1.png 1500w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



<p>Standing on morning duty and watching children skip through the gates with smiles on their faces is always a highlight. There is a wonderful energy at the start of the day as pupils arrive excited for what lies ahead, greeting friends and teachers alike. Those small but meaningful conversations with children and parents each morning are incredibly special and provide a daily reminder of the warmth and strong sense of community that makes Kimbolton such a happy place to learn.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-do-you-hope-pupils-feel">What do you hope pupils feel?</h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="667" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2026/06/kimbolton-Cambs-2-1000x667.png" alt="Kimbolton school" class="wp-image-48415" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2026/06/kimbolton-Cambs-2-1000x667.png 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2026/06/kimbolton-Cambs-2-800x533.png 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2026/06/kimbolton-Cambs-2-400x267.png 400w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2026/06/kimbolton-Cambs-2.png 1500w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



<p>I hope every pupil feels that they can truly be themselves. We want children to feel safe, valued and supported, but also encouraged to be brave enough to step beyond their comfort zones. School should be a place where children discover what excites them, what inspires them and what makes them unique. Finding that spark – whether in the classroom, on the stage, on the sports field or through a new friendship – is often the beginning of a lifelong passion.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-would-current-pupils-describe-kimbolton-school">How would current pupils describe Kimbolton School?</h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="667" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2026/06/kimbolton-Cambs-3-1000x667.png" alt="Kimbolton school" class="wp-image-48417" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2026/06/kimbolton-Cambs-3-1000x667.png 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2026/06/kimbolton-Cambs-3-800x533.png 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2026/06/kimbolton-Cambs-3-400x267.png 400w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2026/06/kimbolton-Cambs-3.png 1500w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



<p>I think they would describe it as a kind, fun, friendly and exciting school where learning is at the centre of everything, but where there are also countless opportunities beyond the classroom. Pupils are encouraged to get involved, have a go and challenge themselves, knowing they will be supported every step of the way. It is a school where children build strong friendships, make wonderful memories and develop the confidence to embrace each new stage of their journey. They are always excited for what comes next, but often genuinely sad to leave the chapter they are moving on from.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-surprises-parents-most">What surprises parents most?</h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="667" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2026/06/kimbolton-Cambs-4-1000x667.png" alt="Kimbolton school" class="wp-image-48418" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2026/06/kimbolton-Cambs-4-1000x667.png 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2026/06/kimbolton-Cambs-4-800x533.png 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2026/06/kimbolton-Cambs-4-400x267.png 400w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2026/06/kimbolton-Cambs-4.png 1500w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



<p>Parents are often amazed by how quickly staff get to know every child as an individual and by the strength of the relationships that develop across the school. They are also sometimes surprised by the balance we strike between tradition and innovation. Kimbolton is a school steeped in history, with strong values, high expectations and a clear sense of purpose, yet it is also incredibly forward-thinking. We continually review and develop our curriculum, introducing initiatives such as Engineering and Innovation lessons in the Prep School, while embracing technologies such as AI to enhance teaching and learning. We are proud to prepare children not only for today, but for the future they will help shape.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-do-you-ensure-children-are-seen-in-a-school-this-size">How do you ensure children are seen in a school this size?</h3>



<p>By putting relationships first. Small class sizes, exceptional pastoral care and regular contact with tutors and teachers ensure that every child is known as an individual. We celebrate successes, support challenges and take the time to understand what makes each pupil tick. Our aim is that every child feels noticed, valued and understood, because when children feel seen, they thrive.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-do-you-help-pupils-discover-what-they-re-good-at">How do you help pupils discover what they’re good at?</h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="667" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2026/06/kimbolton-Cambs-5-1000x667.png" alt="Kimbolton school" class="wp-image-48419" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2026/06/kimbolton-Cambs-5-1000x667.png 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2026/06/kimbolton-Cambs-5-800x533.png 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2026/06/kimbolton-Cambs-5-400x267.png 400w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2026/06/kimbolton-Cambs-5.png 1500w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



<p>We give them every opportunity to explore. With more than 70 co-curricular activities available across the Prep School each week, pupils are encouraged to try new experiences, uncover hidden talents and develop existing interests. Whether it is sport, music, drama, coding, outdoor learning or something completely unexpected, our staff are brilliant at encouraging curiosity and confidence. Often it is through simply having the opportunity to try something new that children discover the activities that truly ignite their enthusiasm.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-s-the-best-school-event-of-the-year">What’s the best school event of the year?</h3>



<p>Sports Day is certainly hard to beat. The atmosphere is fantastic, with House pride on full display, enthusiastic cheering, huge family picnics and plenty of healthy competition. It perfectly captures the sense of community that makes Kimbolton special. That said, &#8220;Be Mrs Petrie for the Day&#8221; remains one of my personal favourites. Organised by the School Council, two pupils took over my role for the day – possibly with more confidence and authority than I anticipated! It was enormous fun and raised money for a wonderful cause at the same time.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-s-your-favourite-spot-on-campus">What’s your favourite spot on campus?</h3>



<p>Being surrounded by such beautiful grounds, it is difficult to choose just one place. Our wonderful Squirrel Wood is certainly high on the list; it is where outdoor learning comes alive and children can explore, discover and connect with nature. Equally, I love spending time in the dining hall as some of the best conversations happen over lunch, when pupils are relaxed and eager to share their achievements, interests and stories from the day. From woodland adventures to lively lunchtime discussions, both spaces capture different aspects of what makes school life so special.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-one-thing-about-kimbolton-school-that-makes-you-proud">One thing about Kimbolton School that makes you proud?</h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="667" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2026/06/kimbolton-Cambs-7-1000x667.png" alt="Kimbolton Prep School" class="wp-image-48422" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2026/06/kimbolton-Cambs-7-1000x667.png 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2026/06/kimbolton-Cambs-7-800x533.png 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2026/06/kimbolton-Cambs-7-400x267.png 400w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/suffolkcambs/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2026/06/kimbolton-Cambs-7.png 1500w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



<p>Our children. Every day they impress us with their kindness, enthusiasm, resilience and willingness to contribute to the life of the school. I am equally proud of the trust our families place in us and the partnership we build together. We know that happy children learn best, and creating an environment where pupils feel confident, supported and inspired is something we never take for granted. It is a privilege to play a part in helping young people grow into capable, compassionate and successful individuals.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-your-one-piece-of-advice-about-choosing-a-school">Your one piece of advice about choosing a school?</h3>



<p>Talk to the pupils. Their manners, confidence, curiosity and interactions with others will tell you far more than any prospectus ever could. A school&#8217;s culture is reflected in its children, and when you see pupils who are happy, engaged and genuinely enjoying their school experience, that speaks volumes. It is something I am incredibly proud of at Kimbolton, and one of the clearest indicators of the caring, ambitious and supportive community we have built.</p>



<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" />



<p>To book a tour, visit Kimbolton School website <a href="https://kimboltonschool.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a>.</p>


Muddy meets Kimbolton School Head of Prep Claire Petrie

You may also like