Thinking about how to find the best prep schools for your child that meets your educational needs is not easy. We have prepared for you a list of the best prep schools in the UK as it is an important investment for your family. Selecting the school that best serves your needs and wants is a gigantic decision, as you may need to relocate. If you are thinking about sending your kids to a grammar school in the future, we also have a league table for the Best Grammar Schools in the UK 2022. If you are looking send to a private (independent) school in the future, we have a league table for the Best Private Schools in the UK. The list shows top 100 best state secondary school in 2023 GCSE and A Level results. 

Finding the best prep schools in the UK

Prep schools, also known as preparatory schools, are independent schools in the UK that prepare children aged 8-13 for entry into independent senior schools. These schools typically offer a strong academic program, as well as a range of extracurricular activities and opportunities for personal development.

Finding the best prep schools in the UK can be a challenging task, as there are many factors to consider. One of the best ways to start is to research and compare schools using resources such as league tables, school directories, and independent school guides.

League tables, such as those produced by The Times and The Telegraph, can be a useful starting point for finding the best prep schools in the UK. These tables rank schools based on a range of factors such as academic performance, exam results, and student satisfaction. While league tables should not be the only factor in choosing a school, they can give an indication of a school’s academic performance and reputation.

School directories and independent school guides can also be useful resources for finding the best prep schools in the UK. These directories provide detailed information on individual schools, including their admissions processes, fees, facilities, and academic programs. Independent school guides, such as The Good Schools Guide and Tatler Schools Guide, provide in-depth reviews and insights into individual schools, including interviews with staff, students, and parents.

It’s also important to visit potential schools in person and speak with staff, students, and parents to get a sense of the school’s culture and atmosphere. This can provide valuable insights that cannot be found through research alone.

When considering a prep school, it’s important to look beyond academic performance and consider factors such as the school’s ethos, culture, and values. It’s also important to consider practical factors such as the location, fees, and extracurricular activities offered.

In summary, finding the best prep schools in the UK requires research, comparison, and personal visits to potential schools. While academic performance is important, it’s also important to consider a range of other factors such as school culture, values, and practical considerations such as location and fees.

What is a prep school?

A prep school, or preparatory school, is an independent school that provides secondary education to students who are preparing for college. Prep schools typically offer a rigorous academic program with a focus on college preparation, and may also offer extracurricular activities such as sports and the arts. 

Prep schools often have smaller class sizes than public schools, which allows for more individualised instruction and better student-teacher relationships. In addition, many prep schools have a residential component where students live on campus during the school year. This type of living arrangement allows for more structure and support in terms of academics and social development. The goal of a prep school is to provide its students with the best possible education so they can attend top colleges and universities and achieve success in their future endeavours.

Are prep schools good for your child?

Prep schools in the UK can be a good option for children as they provide a quality education and a range of opportunities for personal development. These schools typically offer a rigorous academic program, as well as a range of extracurricular activities such as sports, music, drama, and community service.

Prep schools are known for their small class sizes, dedicated teachers, and individualised attention, which can help children reach their full potential and develop a lifelong love of learning. Many prep schools also offer a supportive and nurturing environment that encourages children to develop confidence, independence, and social skills.

Attending a prep school can also provide children with a range of other benefits, such as access to specialist facilities and resources, exposure to a range of cultures and perspectives, and the opportunity to form lifelong friendships.

However, it’s important to note that prep schools in the UK are independent schools, and as such, they come with a high price tag. Fees for prep schools can be expensive, and not all families can afford to send their children to these schools. Additionally, some children may not thrive in the highly academic environment of a prep school and may benefit from a more diverse or creative education.

It’s also important for parents and caregivers to research and carefully consider their options when choosing a prep school, taking into account factors such as the school’s academic record, extracurricular opportunities, values and culture, location, and fees.

In summary, attending a prep school in the UK can be a good option for children who thrive in a highly academic, supportive, and nurturing environment. However, it’s important for families to carefully consider their options and to weigh the benefits and drawbacks of attending a prep school before making a decision.

50 best prep schools in the UK, according to their SATs scores collected by the Times

* Please note that not all independent schools participate in the SATs tests; therefore, many of the UK’s top prep schools, such as Cottesmore, Ludgrove, Papplewick, Dragon, and Bute House Schools, are not ranked in this table.

Details for the 50 Best Prep Schools in the UK, based on their SATs scores collected by the Times

1. 1. Guildford High Junior School

Guildford High Junior School is an independent school for girls situated in the town of Guildford, Surrey, UK, providing a supportive and stimulating environment for girls aged between 4 to 11 years. The school’s primary goal is to help its students achieve their academic, social, emotional, and physical potential. With a reputation for providing exceptional education, top-notch facilities, and committed teachers, Guildford High Junior School inspires a passion for learning in its students. The school is part of the Guildford High School family, which comprises a senior school and a sixth-form college.

2. 2. Seaton House School

Seaton House School is an independent day school located in Sutton, Greater London, UK, exclusively for girls aged 3-11. The school offers a nurturing and supportive environment to encourage each girl’s academic, personal, and social development. Seaton House School provides a broad and balanced curriculum with core subjects such as English, maths, science, and humanities, as well as music, art, drama, and sports. The school has modern facilities, including a science lab, music room, art studio, and sports field. Seaton House School fosters confident, well-rounded individuals through a range of extracurricular activities and has a strong community spirit.

3. 3. St Martin’s Preparatory School

St Martin’s Preparatory School is an independent day school in Northwood, Greater London, UK, catering to children aged 3-11 years. The school prepares its students for entry into top senior schools through a broad and balanced curriculum that includes core subjects such as English, maths, science, and humanities, along with modern foreign languages, music, art, drama, and sports. The school features modern facilities, including a science lab, music room, art studio, and sports field. St Martin’s Preparatory School focuses on challenging and nurturing each student, providing extracurricular activities and fostering a supportive community.

4. 4. Haberdashers’ Girls’ Junior School

Haberdashers’ Girls’ Junior School is an independent day school located in Elstree, Hertfordshire, UK, that caters to girls aged 4 to 11. The school’s curriculum is designed to encourage intellectual curiosity, creative expression, and personal growth through a broad range of academic and extracurricular activities. As part of the renowned Haberdashers’ Aske’s Schools, the Girls’ Junior School aims to provide a nurturing and inclusive environment for every girl, promoting individual potential, a love for learning, and the establishment of lifelong friendships.

5. 5. Highfield Priory School

Highfield Priory School is an independent, coeducational day school that can be found in Fulwood, Preston, UK, and offers education for children aged 2 to 11. The school’s key focus is on academic excellence and personal growth, providing a wide range of opportunities for students to explore their talents and interests. Highfield Priory School puts an emphasis on student well-being and community involvement to ensure a well-rounded education, empowering students with the necessary skills and values for future success. The school’s motto, “Always Striving for the Highest,” is reflected in its outstanding academic standards and diverse extracurricular activities, including sports, music, drama, and languages.

6. 6. Reddiford School

Reddiford School is an independent day school located in Pinner, Middlesex, UK, that caters to boys and girls between the ages of 3 and 11. The school prides itself on its dedication to providing an excellent academic foundation while nurturing personal development. Reddiford School offers a challenging and diverse curriculum, aimed at inspiring a lifelong love of learning. The school places great importance on pastoral care and community involvement, encouraging students to embrace positive values, mutual respect, and a sense of responsibility. Additionally, Reddiford School offers an extensive range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, drama, and clubs, providing students with the opportunity to develop their interests and talents outside of the classroom.

7. 7. Alpha Preparatory School

Alpha Preparatory School is an independent day school located in Harrow, UK, which offers co-educational day schooling for children between the ages of 3 and 11. The school’s core mission is to create a nurturing and supportive environment in which every student can excel academically, socially, and emotionally. The school’s curriculum is tailored to each student’s individual needs and aims to foster critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills. Alpha Preparatory School is dedicated to cultivating a passion for learning, and students are encouraged to explore their interests and develop their talents. The school prioritises pastoral care and community involvement, promoting positive values, respect for diversity, and a sense of responsibility among its students.

8. 8. St Bernard’s Preparatory School

St Bernard’s Preparatory School is a co-educational day school situated in Slough, Berkshire, UK, catering to students aged 3 to 11. The school’s vision is to create a stimulating and challenging environment that supports academic achievement, personal growth, and well-being. St Bernard’s Preparatory School provides a comprehensive education that blends a diverse and balanced curriculum with a broad range of extracurricular activities, such as sports, music, drama, and clubs, to spark and cultivate students’ interests and talents. With a deep emphasis on pastoral care and community participation, the school promotes an inclusive and positive culture, instilling values such as respect, empathy, and responsibility. The school is dedicated to preparing students for the future, equipping them with the abilities and qualities necessary to succeed in a constantly evolving world.

9. 9. Royal Grammar School Junior School

Royal Grammar School Junior School is a co-educational day school located in High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, UK, catering to students aged 7 to 11. The school’s objective is to provide an innovative and stimulating learning environment that fosters academic excellence, intellectual curiosity, and personal development. The curriculum is designed to be comprehensive and balanced, emphasising both academic rigour and creativity, with a strong emphasis on cultivating critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration skills. The Royal Grammar School Junior School places significant emphasis on student well-being and pastoral care, creating an inclusive and supportive community where students can thrive and prosper. Along with a rigorous academic curriculum, the school offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, such as sports, music, drama, and clubs, that provide opportunities for students to explore their interests and develop new skills.

10. 10. Carleton House Preparatory School

Carleton House Preparatory School is a co-educational day school located in London, UK, catering to children aged 3 to 11. The school aims to provide an environment that is nurturing and inclusive, which promotes academic success, personal growth, and well-being. The curriculum is designed to be stimulating and varied, providing students with a wide range of subjects such as mathematics, English, science, humanities, art, music, modern foreign languages, and physical education. Carleton House Preparatory School prioritises pastoral care and character development, instilling values such as kindness, respect, and resilience. The school offers a diverse range of extracurricular activities, including clubs, sports, and music, to enhance students’ learning experiences.

11. 11. St Anne’s Preparatory School

St Anne’s Preparatory School is a co-educational day school situated in London, UK, which caters to children aged 3 to 11. The school’s primary objective is to provide a supportive and nurturing learning environment that promotes academic achievement, personal growth, and creativity. The curriculum is designed to be diverse and challenging, encompassing a wide range of subjects such as English, mathematics, science, humanities, art, music, modern foreign languages, and physical education. St Anne’s Preparatory School prioritises pastoral care and character education, encouraging students to embody values such as kindness, respect, and accountability. The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including clubs, sports, and music, that allow students to explore their interests and develop their skills.

12. 12. Notting Hill and Ealing High School Junior School GDST

Notting Hill and Ealing High School Junior School GDST is an all-girls independent day school located in London, UK, providing education to girls between the ages of 4 and 11. The school is affiliated with the Girls’ Day School Trust (GDST), the foremost network of independent girls’ schools in the UK. Its mission is to provide an inclusive and empowering environment that fosters academic excellence, creativity, and personal growth. The school’s curriculum is designed to be challenging and stimulating, with a wide range of subjects including mathematics, English, science, humanities, modern foreign languages, art, music, and physical education. Notting Hill and Ealing High School Junior School GDST prioritise character education and pastoral care, instilling values such as kindness, respect, and responsibility in its students. The school offers a diverse range of extracurricular activities such as sports, clubs, and music, allowing students to explore their interests and develop their talents.

13. 13. St Mary’s Colchester Lower School

St Mary’s Colchester Lower School is an independent day school in Colchester, UK, that provides education to children from ages 3 to 11. The school aims to create a nurturing and supportive environment where children can thrive academically, creatively, and personally. The curriculum is well-rounded, encompassing various subjects such as English, maths, science, humanities, modern foreign languages, art, music, and physical education. The school prioritises pastoral care and character education, instilling values such as responsibility, respect, and kindness in students. St Mary’s Colchester Lower School also offers extracurricular activities such as sports, music, and clubs to provide students with additional opportunities to explore their interests and enhance their learning experiences.

14. 14. Ursuline Preparatory School, Warley

Ursuline Preparatory School, located in Warley, UK, is an independent Catholic day school that provides education for both girls and boys aged 3 to 11. The school’s main objective is to create a nurturing and supportive environment that fosters academic excellence, creativity, and personal growth. The curriculum is comprehensive and balanced, covering a wide range of subjects such as English, mathematics, science, humanities, modern foreign languages, art, music, and physical education. The school places great emphasis on pastoral care and character education, instilling values such as kindness, responsibility, and respect in its students. To enrich students’ learning experiences, Ursuline Preparatory School offers a diverse range of extracurricular activities such as sports, music, and clubs. As a Catholic school, Ursuline Preparatory School also prioritises the spiritual development of its students and incorporates Catholic values into its ethos.

15. 15. Mayfield Preparatory School

Mayfield Preparatory School is situated in the West Midlands of England and offers independent co-educational education to children between the ages of 4 and 11 years old. The school’s main objective is to create a caring and stimulating environment that enables every student to excel in their academic, social, and emotional development. Mayfield Prep’s curriculum is designed to be broad and balanced, including sports, music, and drama, in order to foster well-rounded individuals who are confident, resilient, and equipped to tackle future challenges.

16. 16. Chigwell Junior School

Chigwell Junior School, situated in Essex, England, is an independent co-educational school that caters to children aged 7-11 years old. The school’s primary goal is to provide a stimulating and nurturing environment that supports the academic, social, and emotional growth of each student, helping them to reach their full potential. Core subjects like Maths, Science, and English are emphasized in the curriculum, which is designed to be challenging and engaging. Along with academics, the school encourages participation in extracurricular activities such as music, sports, and drama to foster well-rounded individuals who can thrive in all areas of life.

17. 17. Durston House

Durston House is an independent preparatory school exclusively for boys situated in the Ealing district of West London. Established in 1886, the school provides an enriched curriculum to boys aged 4-13 years old, with an emphasis on academic excellence, character development, and pastoral care. The school’s primary objective is to create a supportive and nurturing environment where boys can excel academically and socially, while also developing into responsible and self-assured young men. Durston House offers a diverse range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and drama, to provide a comprehensive education that prepares its students for success in all aspects of life.

18. 18. Breaside Preparatory School

Breaside Preparatory School is an independent co-educational institution situated in the scenic town of Bromley, located in South East London. The school provides education to children aged between 2 to 11 years old, with an emphasis on academic excellence, personal development, and social growth through a comprehensive and varied curriculum. Breaside Preparatory School strives to create a supportive and nurturing environment that promotes individual learning and development. The school encourages a broad range of extracurricular activities, such as sports, music, and drama, with the goal of nurturing well-rounded individuals who possess self-confidence and are well-equipped for success in their future pursuits.

19. 19. Elm Green Preparatory School

Elm Green Preparatory School is an independent co-educational institution in West Ealing, West London. It provides education to children aged 3 to 11 with a reputation for academic excellence, pastoral care, and a diverse and inclusive community. Elm Green Preparatory School is dedicated to nurturing each student’s individual potential through a comprehensive and engaging curriculum that includes core subjects, foreign languages, and extracurricular activities such as sports, music, and drama. Its supportive and inclusive environment inspires confident, inquisitive, and independent learners.

20. 20. The Belvedere Preparatory School

The Belvedere Preparatory School is an independent preparatory school situated in Sefton Park, Liverpool, catering to girls and boys aged 3 to 11. Founded in 1880, the school has a focus on academic excellence, character development, and pastoral care, providing a nurturing environment where pupils can achieve their full potential. With a diverse range of extracurricular activities, such as sports, music, and drama, pupils are encouraged to explore their interests. The school aims to prepare its pupils for success both inside and outside the classroom, fostering a lifelong love of learning.

21. 21. Oakwood School

Oakwood School is an independent co-educational institution in Purley, southern Greater London. It caters to students aged 3 to 18, offering a challenging curriculum with a focus on academic excellence, creativity, and personal development. The school fosters a supportive and nurturing environment that encourages students to build self-confidence, and independence, and become responsible members of society. With a variety of extracurricular activities, such as sports, music, and drama, Oakwood School promotes a well-rounded education and a passion for lifelong learning, preparing students for success in their future pursuits.

22. 22. Hopelands Preparatory School

Hopelands Preparatory School is an independent co-educational school situated in Stonehouse, Gloucestershire. Established in 1953, it caters to children aged 2 to 11 years old, providing a nurturing environment that fosters a love of learning and encourages personal development. The school offers a broad range of academic and extracurricular activities, including music, drama, and sports, promoting a well-rounded education. Hopelands Preparatory School values respect, kindness, and inclusivity, ensuring that every student feels supported and valued. The school aims to prepare its students for success in their future endeavours.

23. 23. Mylnhurst Preparatory School

Mylnhurst Preparatory School is an independent co-educational school situated in Sheffield, South Yorkshire. It caters to students aged 3 to 11, offering a challenging curriculum that promotes academic excellence, creativity, and personal development. The school provides a supportive and nurturing learning environment, encouraging students to explore their interests and reach their full potential. With a diverse range of extracurricular activities, including music, art, and sports, Mylnhurst Preparatory School offers a well-rounded education. The school’s values of respect, integrity, and kindness underpin its ethos, ensuring that students develop into responsible and compassionate individuals.

24. 24. St Winefride’s RC Independent School

St Winefride’s RC Independent School is a co-educational institution located in Shrewsbury, Shropshire. Established in 1897, it caters to students aged 3 to 18, providing a high-quality education that emphasises academic excellence, personal development, and spiritual growth. The school nurtures a welcoming and inclusive community, offering a broad and balanced curriculum that includes various extracurricular activities such as music, drama, and sports. St Winefride’s RC Independent School promotes a Catholic ethos that values respect, compassion, and social responsibility. The school prepares its students for success in their future endeavours.

25. 25. The Ursuline Preparatory School, Ilford

The Ursuline Preparatory School, Ilford is an independent Roman Catholic day school for girls aged 3 to 11 years in London’s Redbridge borough. Founded in 1903, it provides a challenging curriculum that promotes academic excellence, creativity, and personal development. The school creates a supportive and nurturing environment, offering extracurricular activities such as music, art, and sports for a well-rounded education. The Ursuline values of community, respect, and integrity underpin its ethos, ensuring that every student is valued and supported.

26. 26. New Hall School

New Hall School is a prestigious co-educational Catholic boarding and day school located in Boreham, Essex. Established in 1642, it offers a holistic education for students aged 1 to 18, emphasising academic excellence, personal development, and spiritual growth. The school boasts outstanding facilities, including a sports complex, performing arts centre, and a 5-star boarding house. New Hall School provides a broad and balanced curriculum that includes various extracurricular activities such as music, drama, and sports. Its Catholic ethos promotes respect, compassion, and social responsibility, instilling values that prepare students for success in the future.

27. 27. St Michael’s School

St Michael’s School is a co-educational day and boarding school in Llanelli, South Wales, catering to students aged 3 to 18 years old. Established in 1924, the school provides a well-rounded education that emphasises academic excellence, personal development, and extracurricular activities. Known for its supportive and nurturing environment, St Michael’s School offers a broad and balanced curriculum with small class sizes for personalised attention. The school instils values such as respect, responsibility, and resilience, preparing students for success in their future endeavours.

28. 28. Windrush Valley School

Windrush Valley School is a co-educational day school located in Ascott-under-Wychwood, Oxfordshire. Established in 1929, it caters to children aged 3 to 11 years old, providing a nurturing and stimulating environment with a strong focus on academic excellence and extracurricular activities such as music, sports, and drama. The school values creating a supportive community where every child is valued and encouraged to reach their full potential.

29. 29. Abbey School

Abbey School is a co-educational day and boarding school located in Reading, Berkshire. Established in 1887, it offers education to pupils aged 4 to 18 years old. Abbey School is renowned for its academic excellence and balanced curriculum, which includes a range of subjects in science, technology, humanities, and the arts. The school also values extracurricular activities, such as sports, music, drama, and community service, to develop pupils’ character and leadership skills. With a nurturing and supportive environment, Abbey School encourages its pupils to achieve their full potential.

30. 30. Park School

Park School, located in Yeovil, Somerset, is a co-educational independent day school catering to students aged 2 to 18 years old. With a strong focus on individual attention and pastoral care, the school offers a broad and balanced curriculum including traditional subjects like mathematics, English, and science, as well as creative subjects such as music, art, and drama. In addition to academics, Park School places emphasis on extracurricular activities such as sports, music, and community service. Park School is dedicated to providing a supportive and inclusive environment that enables students to grow academically and personally and become responsible members of society

31. 31. St Andrew’s School 

St. Andrew’s School is an independent co-educational day school located in Rochester, New York that was founded in 1888. The school offers classes for students from nursery through grade 12 and provides a challenging academic curriculum with a focus on character development and a diverse range of extracurricular activities. The school has a diverse student body and is committed to creating an inclusive community where all students feel supported. The campus is situated on 15 acres and features modern classrooms, science labs, athletic fields, and performance spaces. St. Andrew’s School is accredited by NYSAIS and MSA-CESS and is known for its academic programs, strong community, and commitment to students’ personal growth.

32. 32. St David’s Prep

St David’s Prep is an independent co-educational day school located in Purley, Surrey that caters to students aged 3 to 11 years old. The school prioritises academic excellence and personal development with a well-rounded curriculum covering English, maths, science, humanities, and modern foreign languages. Additionally, St David’s Prep values extracurricular activities and offers opportunities for students to develop their skills and interests in areas like sports, music, art, and drama. In a nurturing and supportive environment, St David’s Prep aims to inspire students to reach their full potential and become confident, responsible individuals.

33. 33. Waverley Preparatory School

Waverley Preparatory School is a co-educational day school located in Finchampstead, Berkshire, providing education for students aged 3 to 11. The school focuses on academic excellence and personal development, offering a balanced curriculum covering subjects like English, maths, science, humanities, art, music, and drama. Additionally, Waverley Preparatory School prioritises extracurricular activities like sports, outdoor education, and community service to develop well-rounded individuals. With an inclusive and supportive environment, the school aims to inspire students to reach their full potential and become confident, responsible individuals.

34. 34. Widford Lodge Preparatory School

Widford Lodge Preparatory School in Chelmsford, Essex, is a co-educational day school for students aged 2½ to 11 years. The school offers a well-rounded curriculum that emphasises academic excellence, creativity, and personal development, covering core subjects and specialist areas like music and art. With a focus on extracurricular activities such as sports and drama, Widford Lodge Preparatory School aims to provide a supportive environment where students can thrive and achieve their full potential.

35. 35. Merton Court Preparatory School

Merton Court Preparatory School in Sidcup, Kent, is an independent co-educational day school for students aged 2 to 11. Their curriculum emphasises academic excellence, personal development, and talent exploration through core subjects and specialist areas like music and art. The school also offers a variety of extracurricular activities such as sports, drama, and clubs to help students develop their interests and skills. Merton Court Preparatory School aims to provide a supportive and nurturing environment for students to grow into confident and well-rounded individuals.

36. 36. Lincoln Minster Preparatory School

Crown House Preparatory School, located in Surrey, UK, is an independent co-educational day school that offers a holistic education to students aged 3 to 11. The school prioritises academic excellence, personal growth, and character development through a curriculum that covers core subjects, specialist areas, and extracurricular activities. Along with providing opportunities for leadership and teamwork, Crown House aims to create a nurturing community that fosters a love of learning and prepares students for future success.

37. 37. Crown House Preparatory School

Crown House Preparatory School, located in Surrey, UK, is an independent co-educational day school that offers a holistic education to students aged 3 to 11. The school prioritises academic excellence, personal growth, and character development through a curriculum that covers core subjects, specialist areas, and extracurricular activities. Along with providing opportunities for leadership and teamwork, Crown House aims to create a nurturing community that fosters a love of learning and prepares students for future success.

38. 38. Notre Dame Prep School

Notre Dame Prep School is a Catholic day school for girls aged 2 to 11 located in Surrey, UK. The school provides an excellent education that nurtures personal and spiritual growth in a supportive environment. The curriculum covers subjects such as English, maths, science, humanities, art, music, and sports, as well as French and Spanish. Notre Dame Prep School emphasises character development, leadership, and community service through extracurricular activities. The school is committed to the values of respect, integrity, and compassion, preparing its students for a fulfilling life.

39. 39. Durlston Court Preparatory School

Durlston Court Preparatory School in Hampshire, UK, is an independent co-educational day school that provides an exceptional education for children aged 2 to 13. The school prioritises academic excellence, personal development, and pastoral care. Its curriculum is diverse, covering various subjects such as maths, English, science, humanities, music, drama, modern languages, and sports. Students can also participate in extracurricular activities, including chess, debate, dance, and community service, to explore their interests and abilities. The school upholds values of respect, kindness, and resilience, creating a welcoming and supportive community that recognizes and nurtures every student.

40. 40. Loyola Preparatory School

Loyola Preparatory School in New Orleans is a Catholic Jesuit school for boys in grades 3-7. The school focuses on spiritual, intellectual, and social development, and offers a curriculum covering various subjects, including maths, science, English, and art. Extracurricular activities such as sports, theatre, and community service are also available. The school values diversity and inclusion, promoting a respectful environment for all students.

41. 41. Griffin House Preparatory School

Griffin House School is an independent preparatory school in the UK that provides children aged 3-11 with a well-rounded education. The school aims to foster a nurturing environment that encourages academic success, personal growth, and social development. The curriculum covers a broad range of subjects, including literacy, numeracy, science, technology, art, music, and sports, and the school boasts modern facilities such as classrooms, a library, music and art rooms, and sports fields. Griffin House School has a reputation for academic excellence, supportive community, and dedicated staff.

42. 42. Grange Park Prep School

Grange Park Prep School is a co-educational independent day school located in Winchmore Hill, London that offers education to children aged 3 to 11. The school has a strong emphasis on STEM subjects, as well as music, drama, and art, and provides a nurturing and inclusive environment where every child is valued. With modern facilities including specialist labs, music and art studios, and sports facilities, Grange Park Prep School is known for its academic excellence, supportive community, and accredited by the Independent Schools Association (ISA).

43. 43. Prenton Preparatory School

Prenton Preparatory School is an independent day school located in Prenton, Wirral in North West England, founded in 1935. Catering to children aged 2 to 11, the school offers a broad and balanced curriculum that emphasises literacy, numeracy, and critical thinking. With modern facilities, including classrooms, a science lab, and sports fields, Prenton Prep School has a reputation for nurturing students in a supportive environment. Along with academic excellence, the school provides extracurricular activities such as music, drama, and sports, and is accredited by the Independent Schools Association (ISA).

44. 44. Gateway School

Gateway School is an independent co-educational day school located in Great Missenden, Buckinghamshire, UK that provides a comprehensive education for children aged 2 to 11. With a strong focus on academic excellence, personal development, and wellbeing, Gateway School offers a nurturing environment with modern facilities such as classrooms, science labs, ICT suite, art studio, and sports fields. Along with a broad range of extracurricular activities, the school has a reputation for academic excellence and caring teachers, and is accredited by the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI).

45. 45. Sacred Heart School

Sacred Heart School is a co-educational Catholic day school located in Hammersmith, London, that offers a holistic education to students aged 4-18. The school emphasises academic excellence, spiritual development, and social responsibility through a curriculum that covers a range of subjects such as languages, mathematics, sciences, humanities, and creative arts. With modern facilities including classrooms, labs, sports hall, and outdoor learning area, Sacred Heart School is known for its nurturing environment and high standards. The school has a long-standing history of excellence and a commitment to the education and growth of its students.

46. 46. The King’s School, Harpenden

The King’s School is an independent co-educational day school in Harpenden, Hertfordshire, UK that offers a well-rounded education to students aged 3-18. The school emphasises academic excellence, personal development, and community engagement, with modern facilities such as classrooms, science labs, music and art studios, sports fields, and a theatre. The King’s School has a strong tradition of extracurricular activities, including music, drama, sports, and clubs, and is accredited by the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI). The school is recognized for its high academic standards, dedicated staff, and supportive community.

47. 47. Barlborough Hall School

Barlborough Hall School is an independent co-educational day and boarding school in Barlborough, Derbyshire, UK, providing education for children aged 3-16 years. The school emphasizes academic excellence, personal and social development through a broad curriculum covering core subjects such as English, maths, science, and humanities, as well as art, music, drama, and sports. The school has modern facilities, including a sports hall, swimming pool, music rooms, and science labs, and a strong pastoral care system that fosters a nurturing environment and supportive community.

48. 48. Huddersfield Grammar Preparatory School

Huddersfield Grammar Preparatory School is an independent co-educational school situated in Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, UK. The school provides education for children aged 2-11 years, with a broad and balanced curriculum including core subjects like English, maths, science, and humanities, as well as languages, music, art, and sports. The school has modern facilities, such as a library, ICT suite, science lab, art room, and sports hall, and aims to instil a lifelong love of learning in its students. Huddersfield Grammar Preparatory School is recognized for its nurturing environment, supportive community, and emphasis on developing the whole child.

49. 49. Thorpe Hall School

Thorpe Hall School is an independent co-educational day school located in Southend-on-Sea, Essex, UK, catering to children aged 2-16 years. The school is well-known for its strong academic reputation, providing a broad and balanced curriculum covering core subjects such as English, maths, science, and humanities, along with art, music, drama, and sports. The school features modern facilities including a theatre, music rooms, sports hall, and science labs. Thorpe Hall School emphasises the development of the whole child, offering a variety of extracurricular activities and fostering a supportive community.

Other top prep schools in the UK that are not on this league table

Cottesmore School

Cottesmore is one of the leading boarding prep schools in the UK, preparing boys and girls for major public schools since 1894. Today, it continues to provide excellent preparation for the UK’s prestigious senior boarding schools, such as Eton, Harrow, and Downe House, etc. The school is well-known for its strong pastoral system, treating every pupil as a member of the extended family with responsibilities to the community. The great facility of the campus allows most activities, academic and pastoral care to take place as a whole, ensuring pupils can achieve to a high standard, both academically and through a wide range of extracurricular activities.

Dragon School

The Dragon School, which consists of two sites in Oxford, England—the Dragon Pre-Prep (children aged 4–7) and Prep School (children aged 8–13)—are both leading co-educational independent schools in the UK. With its strong focus on academic performance and extensive extracurricular activities, the Dragon School is a feeder school to many top independent schools, including Winchester College, Eton College, Shrewsbury School, Oundle School, Cheltenham Ladies’ College, Harrow School, Radley College, Rugby School, and Abingdon School.

Bute House School

Bute House Preparatory School for Girls is one of the UK’s top independent day schools for girls aged 4 to 11, located in Hammersmith, London. The school’s 4+ entry (Reception) into Lower School is by ballot, while all other entry ages are by individual assessment. Bute House is dedicated to creating a dynamic, exciting, rounded, and rigorous environment in which girls flourish, thrive, and have fun while growing. Many of its leavers are admitted by the nearby St Paul’s Girls School.

Ludgrove School

Ludgrove School is one of the UK’s top boarding prep schools for boys aged 8-13 years old. The school has extensive sports facilities, featuring a nine-hole golf course, a swimming pool, tennis courts, etc. School life is favoured by the students due to the link between sporting activity and positive academic performance. Most school leavers are admitted by either Eton, Harrow, Radley, or Winchester.

Papplewick School

Papplewick is a day, weekly, and full boarding preparatory school for boys between the ages of 6 and 13, situated on 15 acres of land opposite Ascot racecourse. Destinations for Papplewick School leavers are mainly the country’s leading Public Schools, with the most popular historically being Eton, Harrow, Winchester, Wellington, and Charterhouse.

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