A LUDLOW prep school has been shortlisted for a top award at the 2014 Independent Schools Awards.

Moor Park School in Richards Castle has been recognised in the best boarding initiative category for its ‘Big Weekend’.

The brainchild of head of boarding Simon Gedye, the Big Weekend was introduced in 2011 to encourage boarding at the weekend.

Since its inception in 2011 ‘Big Weekend’ themes have included Bollywood, Master Chef, making movies, cowboys and Indians, and an ‘Armed Forces’ themed weekend complete with helicopter.

Children from eight to 13 spend Saturday afternoons and evenings ‘in theme’ and the experience is topped off by a big full English Breakfast on Sunday morning prior to departure.

The first Big Weekend attracted 40 children but today such is its popularity that there is a scramble for places and the Big Weekends are always a ‘sell out’.

As well as the fun aspect, ‘Big Weekends’ serve two important functions. They provide an opportunity for children to experience ‘boarding’ and staying overnight at school often for the first time, and they also raise additional revenue which goes directly to fund improvements to facilities.

To date they have funded a widescreen TV and surround sound system, as well as iPads for the boarders to Skype home.

“I am delighted that Moor Park has been shortlisted for the best boarding initiative," said Mr Gedye.

"There are 13 judges, including the chief inspector of the Independent Schools Inspectorate, so it is a great honour.

"We still have to go through one more ‘hoop’ but this is a wonderful achievement for the school and reflects the hard work that everyone puts in.

"The Big Weekend is now a focal point in the school diary and the children love them. They also serve as a good springboard in preparing children for the boarding experience. I have plenty more themes up my sleeve and look forward to organising many more.”

Winners will be announced at an awards ceremony in Nottingham in November.