Welcome back to Season 3 of On the Sofa with British Mums! I’m Emma, and today I’m joined by Cat from the British Mums team for a chat that honestly left me wishing I could go back to school myself. We’re talking to Headmaster Simon Barber and Head of Pastoral Care Sophie Barber from Ludgrove School, and their warmth and energy shine through from the very first moment.

In this episode, we dive into what makes Ludgrove feel so special—from muddy-knees outdoor adventures and proper fresh-air freedom, to “Sunday Fundays,” tight-knit friendships, and a school culture that genuinely feels like a big, caring family. At the heart of it all is kindness: the idea that how the boys treat themselves and each other matters just as much as what they achieve, and that character, empathy, and compassion sit alongside ambition every single day.

We also talk about how Ludgrove balances that deep focus on pastoral care with serious academic rigour—creating an environment where children are stretched, challenged, and supported to aim high, all while feeling truly seen and cared for as individuals. If you’ve ever wondered what a truly nurturing, yet academically ambitious, boarding experience can look like, you’re going to love this one.

So grab a cuppa and settle in for a heartwarming conversation that might just have you wanting to sign up alongside your kids.

https://britishmums.com/dubai/events/

https://www.ludgrove.net/

#you're-a-part-of-this