Celebrating 135 Years at Hazelwood School

Hazelwood School is proud to celebrate 135 years of rich history in 2025, with a legacy built on dedication, resilience, and a steadfast commitment to exceptional education. Since our doors first opened in 1890, Hazelwood’s journey has been defined by a progressive spirit and a focus on excellence, innovation, and the holistic development of every child entrusted to its care.

Our first headmaster, Edward Baily, opened the school in 1890, captivated by the views of Ashdown Forest. He believed the natural surroundings would provide a healthy and invigorating environment for his pupils and we are benefitting from his vision today as the school sits nestled within 25 acres of woodland. The first cohort of 38 boys, aged 8 to 13, were taught in the Victorian building that continues to remain at the heart of the school.

In 1919, the school introduced its first House system, named after former pupils Cather and Hansen, who served in World War I. The 1962 acquisition by Mr. Dowling merged Hazelwood with his Kent school, resulting in the iconic double motto and badge still seen today. The 1970s marked major renovations, including the construction of a gymnasium, music room, and tennis courts, and the admittance of girls, leading to a significant increase in student numbers.

In 1980, the outdoor swimming pool was replaced with an indoor one, and in 1987, the original chapel was destroyed in the Great Storm. This tragedy led to the creation of a new Creative Arts Centre. The school continued to innovate in the following decades, opening the Willow Building as a state-of-the-art technology block and the Sports Hall, which further enhanced our sporting facilities. In 2009, Hazelwood merged with Laverock School and converted its site into a vibrant Nursery, a popular choice for parents today in the centre of Oxted.

Under the leadership of Mrs. Louw, who became Head in 2016, Hazelwood has continued to evolve, with the opening of the Baily Building and the introduction of the BOX, an innovative learning space designed to encourage creativity and exploration. In 2024, the school launched its Wheel Philosophy, a progressive approach that emphasizes personalized learning, celebrates individuality, and utilizes AI to enhance education.

This summer, we will celebrate Hazelwood’s 135th anniversary with events centred around five themes: modern education, sport, wellbeing and relationships, the arts, and our heritage. These celebrations will include a fundraising ball, a Creative Arts Exhibition, a picnic concert, and much more.  These events will provide an opportunity for the entire Hazelwood community to come together and reflect on the school’s incredible journey.

As we mark this remarkable milestone, we not only celebrate our history but also the vibrant community that continues to uphold the traditions that make Hazelwood so special. It is the laughter, the friendships, the dedication to hard work, and the enduring commitment to education that define us. As we stand on the shoulders of those who came before us, we are excited to carry this legacy forward for generations to come.