Has anything surprised you?

What's surprised me since joining LP is how much I've come to love, appreciate and rely on the school.
A pupil (Year 11)

I hadn't really thought about the flexible start and finish times, but I now see it as a huge benefit for a working parent. On the days when I do pick my children up after school my stress is reduced as I can pick them up when I, or they, are ready. If I'm late I don't have to worry as they will join in with activities/tea/prep. It's a huge benefit!
A parent (Years 9 & 11)

Just how quickly the staff were able to understand and develop strategies for working creatively with my child. At her previous school, I had to keep telling staff that her outward 'strength' was actually often a cover for insecurity and anxiety. At LP staff very quickly demonstrated an understanding of all her complexities and took positive steps to help her develop. Of one thing I am sure, sending my daughter to LP is one of the best decisions I've made on her behalf.
A parent (Year 8)

The staff's speedy understanding of my daughter's traits and adapting their approach to best support her quite took my breath away.
A parent (Year 7)

The way staff listen and respond to parental concerns.
A parent (Year 10)

I am surprised how down to earth the parents are and that a school can offer so much respect and freedom of expression without academic compromise.
A parent (Year 9)

In my eyes the school just gets better and better. I've said it before and I say it again, I just wish all schools could be like LP.
A parent (Year 11)

The fact that Year 11 boys are keen to get up early so that they can be in breakfast at 7.15am so they have maximum time to sit and put the world to rights over breakfast! The way that pupils and staff can share so much humour.
A parent (Years 9 & 11)

I am extremely impressed that money is simply not an issue. The range of parental incomes must be very large, but it does not seem to be an issue at all for the children.
A parent (Year 8)

My children both love school - I am constantly reminded by friends that this isn't normal for most teenagers!
A parent (Year 9 & 11)

As soon as I got to LP I enjoyed every moment of it: the lessons, the classes, the food! But the best bit is that everyone is accepted for who they are!
A pupil (Year 8)

How much the staff believe in the school.
Jakki Marr, Deputy Housemistress & Head of Girls' Games

Just how very nice everyone has been!
A parent (Year 7)

I didn't realise how much the children would gain from their relationships with staff. This is proving to be a great help during the teenage years in terms of their willingness to listen and take on board the views of various members of staff who they respect. It has given them another perspective on things.
A parent (Years 9 & 11)

The trust and friendship between staff and pupils: I wouldn't be afraid to discuss things with most LP teachers.
A pupil

I think the members of this community, pupils and staff, know each other very well. I feel there are very strong bonds here which, coming from a day school, I was surprised at.
Nigel Williams, Director of Studies