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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
2013 — Mrs Charlotte Oosthuizen appointed Head
Mrs Charlotte Oosthuizen joined as Headmistress, with Mrs Natalie A Covell continuing as Proprietor and Director.
2016 — Mr Andrew Roberts-Wray appointed Head
Mr Andrew Roberts-Wray joined as Headmaster, with Mrs Natalie A Covell continuing as Proprietor and Director
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.
2018 — Mrs Sally Moulton appointed Head
Mrs Sally Moulton joined as Head, with Mrs Natalie A Covell continuing as Proprietor and Director.
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.
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
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.
