As Clare House School Porthcawl prepares to welcome its founding families in September 2026, the Chair of Trustees Rachael Harman reflects on the journey to opening, and the opportunities that lay ahead for the school.

When did you first believe Clare House School would be a reality?

There wasn’t a single defining moment. We always believed there was an opportunity to create something special. What changed over time was seeing that vision translated into reality.

Securing the school site through a long-term lease, appointing an experienced leadership team, submitting our registration to the Welsh Government, launching teacher recruitment and seeing families place their trust in what we are offering each reinforced that belief.

With every milestone, Clare House School moved from ambition to reality, and the conversation evolved from “Can we do this?” to “How do we make this exceptional”

What has it taken to reach this point?

A great deal of commitment from a great many people.

Opening a school requires expertise across education, governance, finance, compliance, operations and leadership. From the outset, we recognised the importance of bringing together the right people, with the right experience, with a shared commitment to creating something exceptional for children and families.

We have been fortunate to work alongside educational leaders, professional advisers and specialists who understand what it takes to create a successful school. Their insight and expertise have been invaluable in helping us build strong foundations for a sustainable future.

What do you believe children need most from a school today?

A school where children are known as individuals, and one that allows children to experience childhood to its fullest. In a world that seems to move faster every year, we want children to have the time and space to explore, discover, create and grow. Childhood is precious, and it should be filled with opportunity, adventure, friendship and fun!

As a small school, we can create an environment where every child is known, where relationships are strong and where learning extends far beyond the classroom. Ultimately, we want children to leave with a strong sense of who they are, the confidence to embrace new opportunities and the self-belief to thrive in whatever path they choose.

Clare House School is community-led and not-for-profit. Why is that important?

Because it keeps our focus exactly where it belongs. Every decision starts with the same question: what is best for children and families?

Being not-for-profit allows us to focus on educational quality and long-term sustainability. It ensures that the school’s purpose remains centred on creating exceptional opportunities for young people.

What excites you most about opening the school in September 2026?

The opportunity to welcome our founding families. There is something incredibly special about being part of the very beginning of a school’s story. The families who join us in those early years will help create the culture, traditions and community that future generations inherit. That sense of possibility and legacy is enormously exciting, and a privilege for everyone involved.

What do you hope families feel when they visit Clare House School Porthcawl?

A sense of warmth and that they belong here. Choosing a school is one of the most important decisions a family will make. Whilst facilities matter, what often leaves the strongest impression is how a school feels.

I hope families see a community where relationships matter, children are genuinely known and every child is thriving.

Finally, what would you say to prospective parents and grandparents reading this?

Clare House School Porthcawl exists because people believed in the value of an education that focuses on your child and the importance of creating opportunities for future generations.

We are opening a school with ambition, purpose and a strong sense of community. For families considering joining us, this is an opportunity to become part of something special from the very beginning.

Clare House School Porthcawl opens in September 2026. Located less than 20 minutes from Cowbridge, the school offers an ambitious education for children aged 3 to 11. Book your visit today at www.clarehouseschool.org