We were very sorry to hear the news that Stoke College will be closing at the end of the academic year. Our thoughts are with its pupils, families, staff and alumni at what we recognise will be a challenging and uncertain time. We understand that many families may now be considering their next steps and seeking reassurance about their child’s future education. At Holmwood House Senior School, we are committed to helping families navigate this transition with care and sensitivity to each family’s and child’s individual needs. Our experienced admissions and pastoral teams are ready to provide guidance, answer questions and ensure every child feels welcomed, supported and excited about the opportunities ahead.
Why Families Choose Holmwood House Senior School
Holmwood House is an independent co-educational school in Colchester with a Nursery, Prep and Senior School. Our Senior School is for pupils in Years 7-11. It offers a unique combination of academic ambition, exceptional pastoral care and outstanding co-curricular opportunities on our beautiful 25-acre campus.
Families joining us benefit from:
- Small Class Sizes – where every pupil is truly known as an individual.
- Engaging Curriculum – a stimulating and inspiring curriculum, with excellent GCSE preparation led by experienced teachers
- Outstanding Pastoral Care – where every child is truly known and understood
- Extensive Co-Curricular Opportunities – in sport, performing arts, leadership and enrichment.
- A Strong Inclusive Community – where pupils develop confidence, character and independence.
Our ethos is simple: every child should be inspired, challenged, and supported to achieve their full potential.
A Smooth and Supportive Transition
We recognise that changing schools can feel daunting for both children and parents. We are very experienced at helping new pupils, in all year groups, settle quickly into school life, make friends and feel part of the Holmwood community from day one. We work closely with families to understand each child’s individual strengths, interests and aspirations so that support can be tailored accordingly. Whether your child is joining in Year 7, Year 8, Year 9 or beginning their GCSE studies, we will guide you through every step of the process.
Stability, Continuity and Confidence
Since 1922, Holmwood House has provided an education built on strong values, academic excellence and genuine care for every child. Since 2019 Holmwood House is part of Bellevue Education, a leading group of exceptional independent schools across the UK and internationally.
Bellevue Education provides:
- Long-term financial strength and strategic support.
- Continued investment in people, facilities, and educational innovation.
- Opportunities to share best practice across teaching, pastoral care, leadership, and co-curricular provision.
- Access to a wider network of educational expertise and professional development.
As part of the Bellevue family, Holmwood House retains its distinctive character, values, and leadership while benefiting from the support, experience, and stability of a highly respected educational organisation. For families, this provides confidence that the school’s traditions, ambitions, and commitment to excellence will continue to thrive for generations to come.
For families seeking continuity during a period of change, Holmwood House offers the reassurance of an established school with a clear vision for the future.
Visit Us
The best way to experience Holmwood House is to visit us in person. We would be delighted to arrange a personal tour, introduce you to our staff and pupils, and discuss how we can support your child during this transition. Our Headteacher, Edward Bond, or Head of Seniors, Emma Booth, will also happily organise a video call to discuss your child if that would be your preference.
There are a number of ways to book a visit or video call with our Admissions team:
Telephone: 01206 574305
Email: admissions@holmwood.house
Online: Please Click Here to book a Personal Tour
We look forward to welcoming you and helping your family discover everything Holmwood House Senior School has to offer.
