TAUNTON Prep School is making real progress in all areas, the Headmaster Mr Duncan Sinclair told Saturday’s Parents’ Day prize giving ceremony.

“The standard of the academic provision continues to be advanced, and our sporting offer is largely unrivalled by most local schools in terms of both standards of achievement and breadth of opportunity,” he said.

“Our Performing Arts sees productions and concerts which would be the envy of most Prep School Heads nationally.”

Mr Sinclair added: “I am not complacent, and there is still work to be done before we are the leading school across all areas of the South West.

“But the huge number of prospective visitors this year, alongside a growth of some eight per cent on the pupil roll, shows that we are both popular in the community and in rude health.

“With the present team, we are ideally placed to forge ahead but we can do little without the support of you, the parents, and the talent of your children.

“Over the Summer, we will draw breath and recharge our batteries, but ensure we are ready to hit the ground running in September.”

The prize giving ceremony was preceded by performances from four TPS Music scholars – Sascha Hamilton-Meikle, Daniel Lloyd-Jones, Daisy Topp and Ben Shattock.

The audience also heard two songs from the Cantabile Choir.

Those present were welcomed by Mr Henry Keeling, who said it was his first official function since taking over as Chairman of Governors, Mrs Jane Barrie, the previous day.

Mrs Barrie was presented with an arrangement of flowers to thank her for her work as Chairman for the past 14 years.

Guest speaker at the prize giving was Mr Curtis Jobling, designer of worldwide hit children's television show Bob the Builder, and author/illustrator of numerous children's books.

The vote of thanks was given by Navya Menon and Paddy Doherty.