The Little School-Mothers

In the quiet New Forest near Bournemouth, a small, select boarding school thrives on routine, friendship, and the gentle hum of diligent study. The third‑form girls—Frederica, Patience, Harriet, Jane and the Amberley sisters—balance lessons with leisurely pursuits, from church pews to flower shows, all under the watchful guidance of their teachers. Their world is one of order and modest competition, where even the most reserved pupil finds purpose in the shared pursuit of knowledge.

When the shy twelve‑year‑old Robina Starling arrives, the older girls are tasked with guiding her through her first weeks away from home. The promise of a special picnic to Mark Ash, led by the charismatic Miss Devigny, adds a bright spark of anticipation, while the girls grapple with the new responsibility of caring for a newcomer. As they prepare, the school’s harmony is tested, offering a warm glimpse into youthful camaraderie and the subtle challenges of growing up together.