History of the School

In 1886, Durston House School was founded in Ealing by brothers Ben and Robert Pearce, both graduates of Trinity College, Dublin. Inspired by their passion for education and a desire to make a difference in the lives of young people, they began their journey as schoolmasters with great ambition.

In 1893, Robert Pearce married Mabel Perks and together they moved to Ripley to take over Ripley Court, then a boarding school, purchasing it from Mr William Wainwright. The site’s rich history stretches back centuries, with a house recorded there since at least 1568. The present main building, dating from the 17th century, is now recognised as Grade II listed.

The Pearces’ daughter, Angela, married G. Onslow in 1916. He joined the school as Assistant Headmaster in 1922, working alongside Mrs Pearce, who had courageously taken the reins following her husband’s sudden passing in 1917.

During the Second World War, the school temporarily relocated to Betton Strange Hall near Shrewsbury while Ripley Court itself was transformed into a maternity hospital to support Westminster Hospital. Following Mrs Pearce’s passing in 1941, Angela and G. Onslow brought the pupils home to Ripley Court in 1946, continuing the family’s legacy until Mr Onslow’s death in 1952.

In 1953, the school entered a new era under the leadership of Mr Ashmore, and then, in 1956, under Mr and Mrs W. M. Newte. The Newtes modernised the school while honouring its heritage, expanding its facilities with the Barrington and Newte blocks and strengthening its reputation as a vibrant preparatory school. In 1968, Ripley Court became a Charitable Trust, cementing its commitment to the community it served.

Following Mr Newte’s retirement in 1978, his deputy, Neville Dudgeon, became Headmaster. This era saw Ripley Court welcome day girls for the first time in 1977 and, later, the phasing out of boarding in 1998. A new Sports Hall and additional facilities were constructed, reflecting the school’s continued growth and adaptability.

In 2001, Andrew Gough took the helm, leading a period of modernisation that included the refurbishment of the swimming pool, the replacement of the Orchard Block and the creation of Holloway Hall. Ripley Court became fully coeducational, welcoming equal numbers of boys and girls up to Year 6, while Years 7 and 8 remained predominantly boys. Mr Gough’s retirement in 2019 marked another significant chapter, with Aislinn Capindale becoming Headmistress.

Following the merger with Reed’s School, Mr Mark Hoskins, Headmaster of Reed’s School in Cobham, became Executive Headmaster of both schools, overseeing the integration of resources and vision. Ripley Court embraced a new structure, focusing on pupils from Nursery to Year 6, reflecting the growing trend for families to transition to senior schools at the end of Year 6. This focus allowed the school to pour its energy into providing an exceptional foundation for young pupils at the very start of their educational journey.

In 2025, the appointment of Gavin Ryan as Headmaster marked a bold new chapter in the school’s story. Having served Ripley Court with dedication for over nine years, he brought both continuity and a fresh perspective, ensuring a seamless transition and the continued pursuit of excellence. With an understanding and passion for the school’s heritage, and a forward‑thinking vision, Mr Ryan continues to build upon Ripley Court’s proud traditions while guiding it towards an exciting future.
Today, Ripley Court School flourishes as a coeducational preparatory school for boys and girls from Nursery to Year 6. Its strong connection with Reed’s School has brought renewed growth, with talented staff shared across both schools and a joint Board of Governors. Pupils now enjoy exceptional facilities at Reed’s, including the Future Tech building, the indoor cricket centre and all-weather pitches. At Ripley Court, the campus continues to evolve, featuring the outdoor classroom and educational garden at Little Court Pre-Prep and the new STEM Room, accessible to all children from Reception to Year 6, inspiring curiosity and creativity for generations to come.