Award-Winning Excellence in Skills-Based Learning
In a rapidly changing world, academic excellence is no longer enough, according to Highfield and Brookham Head Suzannah Cryer.
An independent school in Liphook, Hampshire is thrilled to announce it has been awarded the Skills Builder Gold Award, placing it amongst a select group of schools nationally recognised for their commitment to building children’s essential skills.
As one of the first independent primary schools to adopt this approach to teaching, this prestigious achievement highlights Highfield and Brookham’s forward-thinking commitment to education - one that goes beyond academic success to prepare pupils for life beyond the classroom. Through its bespoke Essential Skills programme, based on the respected Skills Builder framework, the school focuses on eight key areas: listening, speaking, problem-solving, creativity, staying positive, aiming high, leadership and teamwork.
'In a rapidly changing world, academic excellence is no longer enough,' says Head, Suzannah Cryer. '
We must nurture adaptability, resilience and communication – the skills children need for tomorrow’s workplaces.'
The programme is embedded from Nursery to Year 8 and is guided by the school’s core values, Be Kind, Be Courageous, Be You. From Year 3, progress is tracked through a Keys Passport, culminating in the Keys Diploma in Year 8, celebrating each child’s unique development journey.
Recent guidance from the Department for ÍÑ¿ã°É echoes this need for skills-based learning – a future-facing direction that Highfield and Brookham has long embraced. With research showing that 90% of future jobs will demand high-level interpersonal and cognitive skills, the school is proud to be leading the way.
'ÍÑ¿ã°É here goes beyond academics,' says Mrs Cryer.
'It’s as much about character and growth as it is about knowledge. We are proud to be preparing children not just for their senior school and academic success but for life, equipping them with the confidence and capability to thrive in an ever-evolving world.'
October 2025