We are pleased to announce the exciting merger of two prestigious prep schools, Marlborough House School and Vinehall, effective from September 2025. The new school will be known as Marlborough House Vinehall and will operate on the existing Vinehall site, marking a significant development in independent education in the South East.
This merger comes in response to the evolving landscape of the independent school sector, allowing both schools to thrive in the face of political and economic pressures. The shared educational philosophy and pastoral care ethos of Marlborough House School and Vinehall will continue to flourish, emphasising the development of each child’s unique talents.
The legal merger will take effect during this academic year, with the full practical merger and move to the Vinehall site being completed by September 2025.
A Shared Vision for Excellence in Education
For well over 100 years, these two prestigious and high-achieving schools have built an outstanding reputation for educational provision based on high standards of teaching, small class sizes, exceptional levels of individual support and first class facilities, within idyllic and stimulating environments. Both schools’ most recent ISI Inspection reports confirm this.
As registered charities, the merger strengthens the core mission of both schools: to provide an outstanding educational experience focused on the holistic development of each pupil. As part of the Repton Family of Schools, Marlborough House Vinehall will benefit from enhanced resources, financial stability, and access to a global network of educational opportunities. The collaboration promises a bright future for the School, with continued investment in academic programmes, the arts and sport, a range of extra-curricular activities, and pastoral care.Daniel Lewis, Chair of Governors at Vinehall, and Simon Hodson, Chair of Governors at Marlborough House, have both expressed their enthusiasm for the merger, stating: “This merger represents an exciting step forward for both schools. Working together, we will ensure outstanding provision, bolster admissions, and safeguard the future and traditions of our schools in these changing times.”
Outstanding Opportunities
Marlborough House Vinehall will offer an exceptional child-centred, individualised approach to education from ages 2 to 13. The School will provide a vibrant educational environment for both day and boarding pupils, with a curriculum designed to balance academic rigour with artistic, sporting and personal development. Staff and pupils will benefit from collaboration with the wider Repton Family of Schools, gaining access to expert teaching, innovative resources, and new opportunities for professional growth.
Boarding will be at the heart of a Marlborough House Vinehall education, thus continuing both schools’ tradition of fostering a strong sense of community, lifelong friendships, and personal confidence. Full, weekly and flexi-boarding will be available.
The merger ensures that Marlborough House Vinehall’s pupils will receive the best preparation for their senior school of choice, and will enable development towards offering the very finest in 21st century education.
Leadership and Governance
Marlborough House Vinehall will be led by Mr Eddy Newton, current Head of Marlborough House School and a former Chair of IAPS (Independent Association of Prep Schools). A newly formed Board of Governors, comprising members from both schools, will oversee the governance of the merged institution, ensuring a seamless transition and a continued focus on educational excellence.
Eddy Newton, Headmaster of Marlborough House, remarked: “Establishing Marlborough House Vinehall allows us to combine the best of both schools as we strive to maintain excellent provision, value for money and the finest all-round education. Together, we will continue to provide an inspiring and nurturing environment that prepares our pupils for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.”
Categories: Marlborough House School School News Vinehall
