Headteacher's Welcome

Welcome from the Headteacher

Hello and a very warm welcome to The Grove Junior School. My name is Lorna Urquhart, and I’m the Headteacher of this vibrant and nurturing school, nestled in the heart of Southdown, Harpenden.

At The Grove, we believe that education is about far more than academic achievement. We are deeply rooted in our local community, actively engaging in events and partnerships that enrich every child’s experience and sense of belonging.

We are a three-form entry junior school, welcoming children aged 7 to 11 across Years 3 to 6. Our curriculum is broad, rich, and purposeful, designed to inspire lifelong learners who embody our core values of Respect, Resilience, and Responsibility. These values are not just taught; they are lived every day.

Sharing our site with The Grove Infant and Nursery School allows us to offer a seamless transition and close collaboration, ensuring continuity and confidence as children move through their educational journey. Our dedicated and highly skilled staff focus exclusively on the Key Stage 2 curriculum, enabling us to deliver exceptional learning tailored to this crucial stage of development.

Year after year, our pupils achieve above national expectations: a testament to the quality of teaching, the strength of our support systems, and the joyful, inclusive environment we foster.

Our facilities reflect our commitment to whole-child development. From our bespoke library, which ignites a love of reading, to The Sanctuary, a calm and restorative space supporting mental health and emotional wellbeing, every corner of our school is designed to help children flourish.

Sport is a cornerstone of life at The Grove. With two specialist coaches and a strong presence in local and district competitions, we ensure that every child has the opportunity to participate, grow, and represent their school with pride.

Music is equally celebrated. All children learn a range of instruments including recorder, violin, ukulele, and keyboard. Our partnerships with local musicians enable private lessons during the school day. Our choir, over 100 voices strong, has performed at prestigious venues such as the O2 and the Royal Albert Hall.

We are passionate about developing character. Our pastoral team champions emotional intelligence and resilience, while our playground mental health champions offer peer-to-peer support, fostering empathy and kindness throughout the school.

Beyond the classroom, our children enjoy a wealth of enriching experiences from weekly swimming and historical visits, water sports at Stanbrough Lakes and our unforgettable Year 6 residential at Mill on the Brue, to name but a few.

When our pupils leave us for secondary school, they do so with confidence, enthusiasm, and readiness for the next exciting chapter.

We would be delighted to welcome you to The Grove Junior School and show you all the wonderful things that make our school such a special place to learn and grow.

Lorna Urquhart - Headteacher