A preparatory school close to Faringdon has revealed plans for a fresh cost-reduction programme designed to assist families and pupils.

St Hugh’s School delivers both day and residential education for children spanning three to thirteen years old, occupying the Carswell Manor site.

The independent institution will enrol its inaugural Year 9 pupils in September 2026, with those first GCSE candidates anticipated to finish their courses in 2029.

The school is now providing a complimentary minibus service for pupils in Years 1 to 9.

In a communication to parents, the school noted its delight at announcing the new scheme for all families in September 2026.

By utilizing current bus routes alongside an extra Oxford service, families will receive complimentary transport to and from school for Years 1 through 9 pupils. Organisers hope this will assist families with both expenses and practical arrangements, while fulfilling the school’s commitment to greater environmental responsibility and reducing local traffic congestion.

Buses may be reserved for mornings or afternoons only. Additionally, a complimentary breakfast club will be offered to Year 1 and above pupils who cannot access the existing bus routes.

An evening meal will likewise be provided at no cost for all Year 3 pupils. This supplements the current complimentary wraparound supervision before and after lessons for children from Reception age upwards. The school anticipates this scheme will give families increased flexibility and practical support on a daily basis.

The school is informing parents that the new provisions will operate on a provisional basis.

Both the complimentary transport and meal services will run as a pilot throughout the 2026-2027 academic year, during which time uptake, practicality, and continued viability will be carefully evaluated.

Should participation remain strong, expansion is anticipated in subsequent years. To guarantee fair availability for as many families as possible and prevent reservations being made for seats or meals that go unused, a modest fee will be introduced for cases where trips or meals are cancelled at short notice.

Earlier in the summer, the school hosted an inauguration ceremony for the opening of its senior school department.

Staff greeted visitors to celebrate the formal opening of the Senior School Hub, situated in The Hayes Centre.

At that time, the school remarked that The Hayes Centre marked a significant achievement in St Hugh’s evolution, representing the institution’s move into secondary education provision.

The opening united members of the St Hugh’s community, with attendees treated to refreshments and light bites, followed by speeches from Headmaster David Griffiths, Sally Ewins, Assistant Head of Seniors, and pupils Samuel and Tilly from the inaugural year group.