The History of Yarrells

From its founding as St Monica's in Deal, Kent in 1927, to its home in Upton, Poole, and its approach to its centenary in 2027.

Nearly a century of care, continuity and community.

Founded in 1927, Yarrells has been nurturing children and supporting families for almost 100 years. As we approach our centenary in 2027, we look back with pride at the journey that has shaped who we are today.

A black-and-white photograph of a large group of people, including men, women, and children, posing outside a house with plants and trees in the background, appearing to be from the early 20th century.

1927 — St Monica's, Deal, Kent

Founded by Miss M E Clark, who served as both Proprietor and Headmistress from the school's very beginning. The school that would one day become Yarrells opened its doors for the first time.

Black and white photo of a woman with light-colored hair and glasses

1940 — St Monica's moves to Poole, Dorset

During the Second World War, the school relocated from Deal in Kent to Poole, Dorset, establishing roots in the community it has called home ever since. Miss Clark continued as Headmistress and Proprietor.

A portrait photograph of an older woman with short, light-colored hair, wearing a white top with dark stripes, smiling slightly against a black background.

1957 — New leadership at St Monica's

Miss G W Jeanes joined as Headmistress, with Miss Jeanes and Mrs P B Badham taking joint ownership of the school as Proprietors.

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1989 — The Covell family arrives

Mrs Natalie A Covell joined St Monica's as Headmistress, the beginning of the family's long and lasting connection to the school, while Miss Jeanes and Mrs Badham remained as Proprietors.

A large stone house with multiple chimneys and dormer windows on the roof, viewed from a garden filled with colorful tulips and greenery. The house has a stone balustrade and a well-maintained exterior, with trees and a bright blue sky in the background.

1992 — Yarrells Preparatory School is born

St Monica's was renamed Yarrells Preparatory School. Mr and Mrs Anthony M Covell became Proprietors, establishing the family-run model that defines the school to this day. The school's name was inspired by 19th-century naturalist William Yarrell, reflecting the school's spirit of curiosity, a love of the natural world, and learning beyond the classroom.

A smiling elderly woman with short gray hair and glasses, standing indoors with a bookshelf and a framed photo in the background.

2004 — Mrs Natalie Covell becomes Head

Mrs Natalie A Covell took on the role of Headmistress, Proprietor and Director, leading the school with warmth, ambition and a deep commitment to every child in her care.

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2013 — Mrs Charlotte Oosthuizen appointed Head

Mrs Charlotte Oosthuizen joined as Headmistress, with Mrs Natalie A Covell continuing as Proprietor and Director.

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2016 — Mr Andrew Roberts-Wray appointed Head

Mr Andrew Roberts-Wray joined as Headmaster, with Mrs Natalie A Covell continuing as Proprietor and Director

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2017 — Mrs Linda Sharpe, Acting Headteacher

Mrs Linda Sharpe served as Acting Headteacher during this period of transition, with Mrs Natalie A Covell continuing as Proprietor and Director.

Close-up of a smiling woman outdoors with short brown hair and a blurred green background.

2018 — Mrs Sally Moulton appointed Head

Mrs Sally Moulton joined as Head, with Mrs Natalie A Covell continuing as Proprietor and Director.

A woman sitting on a couch with a brown dog on her lap, holding a tablet, in a brightly lit room with books and plants.

2024 — Mrs Clare Cunningham appointed Headmistress

Mrs Clare Cunningham, part of the Yarrells community for over 20 years, former Deputy Head, SENDCo and Yarrells parent, was appointed Headmistress. Mrs Natalie A Covell continues as Proprietor and Director, now supported by her sons Mr Adam Covell and Mr Crispian Covell as Directors.

A black and white photograph of a large, historic house surrounded by trees and shrubbery. In front of the house, there are three children sitting on the grass and a few dogs, with additional trees and objects in the background.

2027 — Centenary

Yarrells approaches its 100th anniversary, a milestone that reflects nearly a century of family ownership, community spirit, and a genuine commitment to giving every child the brightest of beginnings.

Explore our Wonderful School

A large brick house with multiple chimneys, dormer windows, and a stone balcony, viewed from a garden with colorful tulips and green shrubs under a blue sky.

About
Yarrells

Children working together with flowers in a greenhouse. A girl in the foreground holds a pot with pink and red flowers, smiling at another child.

Admissions

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Meet the
Yarrells Family

Two children in school uniforms sitting together, smiling, and looking at each other while reading books, surrounded by shelves of books.

Ethos, Value
and Mission

Come and see Yarrells for yourself and meet Mrs Cunningham, Head of Yarrells, in person

The best way to experience Yarrells is to come and see it for yourself. Mrs Cunningham personally welcomes every prospective family and would love to show you around — a conversation over a tour is worth a thousand words.

01202 622229