Where other schools have the chess club and cross-country club, Papplewick has an antiquarian book club and herpetology…it may be small, but this sought-after prep is anything but ordinary. Charming Head Tom Bunbury selects boys with character (enthusiasm, energy, team players). That their happiness comes first is evident in his leadership and among his inspiring, often eccentric, team. 'So long as they are fed and exercised well, then everything falls into place,' he says. It works: leavers head for Eton, Harrow and Charterhouse. A new boarding house and classrooms for Year 8 recently opened and new art, design and ICT facilities are planned - welcome boosts for the outdated buildings. Space may be a little cramped but, wow, do they use every inch. 'There is something here for everyone,' Mr Bunbury says. Did we mention the snakes?