Page 38 - The Badger - Issue 8

THE BADGER Celebrating 125 Years of The Downs
Year 8 Parent Reflflection
“ When I was asked to write something for The Badger about our time at The Downs, I wasn’t sure how to capture the journey from Year 2 to
Year 8 in just a page.
Having lived and worked in Qatar for six years, we were looking for a school where Henry could run outside, get muddy knees, and enjoy a bit of freedom. We wanted a “Goldilocks” school, one that felt just right: kind and supportive, but with enough stretch and plenty of encouragement to try something new. I found The Downs Malvern online, and our visit quickly confirmed it was the right choice. Henry’s taster day happened to fall on Christmas Jumper Day and included a visit from Santa. What’s not to love? He joined Year 2 in January 2019 with Mrs Sigley, and the magic of Pre-Prep began.
We still smile about the Golden Spatula for good table manners, the handshake at the end of the day, and the muddy wellies needed for Forest School. Pre-Prep remains one of our fondest memories, a warm, nurturing start that gave Henry real joy in learning.
The move to Prep in Year 3 meant crossing the road to “big school.” Henry was ready, but I was sad to let go of the cocoon we’d come to love. Life suddenly felt more complicated with after-school clubs and Saturday hobbies, and I remember taking copious notes on Move-Up Day.
The transition was managed brilliantly by school, and the children were soon charging around Brock Meadow with talk of den building and trading sticks or conkers. The choice of extra-curricular activities and hobbies soon had Henry working on the Downs Light Railway, learning badminton, and enjoying baking. What was I worried about?
Covid and home schooling brought its own challenges, but TDM responded quickly with both pastoral and academic support, which we really appreciated. We were relieved when school reopened, and grateful to hand teaching duties back to the professionals!
From there, the years have flown by. Campouts turned into residential trips, and Henry grew more independent with every experience. From nervously reading his first match report in Year 3 to performing as Miss Trunchbull in Matilda in Year 8, the transformation has been remarkable. Along the way, we’ve faced spelling test challenges, celebrated sporting triumphs, and seen Henry grow into himself.
I still remember our visit in 2018, when the Registrar showed us the Science classrooms and the Quad. She explained how exams from Year 6 to Year 8 would gradually build the children’s time management and exam technique. It felt a long way off then, but that’s exactly what happened.
The kindness and support we were shown from the very first day continued throughout. At each step, from the move to Prep School to longer camps or exam preparation, we were well supported by a succession of kind and patient Form Tutors. Communication was clear, and the next step easy to understand, which helped us immensely.
Being part of Friends of The Downs has also been a real highlight, giving us a way to contribute to the school’s vibrant community life. Polly Nuttall has been a wonderful support throughout, and we’re grateful to Andy and the whole Senior Leadership Team for everything they do behind the scenes to make the school run so smoothly.
Now Henry is moving on to Malvern College, and he’s ready, just as his peers are. The Downs Malvern has beautifully met its remit, to support us as a family ready for this next stage. We’ll miss the boarding house, the warm-hearted matrons, and the fantastic staff who have made it feel like home.
Once again, my son is ready for the next move. But am I!? ” Anita Tomany
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