This year, Beech Hall School in Macclesfield proudly marks its centenary, celebrating 100 years of providing a nurturing, high quality independent education on its beautiful 16-acre campus.

A Legacy of Growth and Tradition

Beech Hall School was founded in 1926 by Mr. W. Edwards as a preparatory school for boys. Over the decades, the school has evolved significantly: it became a charitable trust in 1966, admitted girls for the first time in 1981, and expanded its age range to include nursery and senior pupils, now serving children from 6 months to 16 years.

Nestled on the edge of the Peak District near Macclesfield, Beech Hall occupies a historic country house. The building itself dates to Victorian times, though a house called Beech Hall has existed on the site since at least 1435, and archaeological finds point to even earlier settlement.

Celebrating the Centenary

To mark its 100th anniversary, Beech Hall is planning a year of celebrations that reflect both its rich history and school spirit. Activities will run throughout the year, and include:

• 100 sporting achievements for 100 years, including a New Year’s Day morning swim
• A heritage exhibition showcasing archival photographs, school artefacts, and student research into the school’s past.
• A centenary fair on the grounds, inviting current pupils, families, alumni, and the wider community.
• A time capsule project, where pupils will contribute messages, artwork, and reflections for future generations.
• A reunion weekend for Old Griffinians (alumni) to return, reconnect, and celebrate.
• A gala dinner to bring together supporters, staff and students; past and present, for a formal celebration of a century of Beech Hall.

Building for the Future

While the centenary is a celebration of the past, Beech Hall’s leadership is looking to the future and planning for the next 100 years. Under Headmaster James Allen, the school continues to emphasise its foundational values; kindness, respect, integrity, and ambition, while investing in modern facilities, pastoral care, and curricular excellence.

Recent achievements underscore that commitment: in 2025, Beech Hall recorded 100% pass rates in several GCSE subjects, with many students exceeding their predicted grades.

Looking Ahead

As Beech Hall School enters its second century, its mission remains strong, to provide a caring, ambitious, and inclusive environment that empowers every pupil to reach their full potential.