South West London and Surrey have some of the best independent schools in the country and you could say that parents are spoilt for choice when choosing a school for their child. League tables come to play when choosing a senior school, although parents are always advised to keep their child’s individuality at the centre of their choices. Deciding on which one is the top prep school for your child is usually influenced much more by personal recommendations and the feel of the school. Each school is different, and offers a unique environment, atmosphere, ethos and a way of facilitating your child’s education journey. Not to mention the facilities and focus on extra curricular activities. Do visit all the options in your area to get an all-rounded feeling of what’s right for you.
We’ve shortlist six of the top prep schools in South West London and Surrey – all exceptional in their different ways. See below in alphabetical order.
Hall School of Wimbledon – co-educational for ages 7 to 18
Occupying a magical campus in the heart of Wimbledon, Hall School Wimbledon (HSW) is a non-selective, co-educational independent school for pupils aged 7 to 18.
Under new leadership, led by experienced Headmaster and educational author, Andrew Hammond, HSW delivers a contemporary and inclusive education in a caring environment, empowering all pupils to flourish and become independent learners. An outstanding pastoral care system supports pupils’ health and self-worth, while an exciting and tailored curriculum, delivered by characterful teachers, encourages intellectual curiosity and the building of lifelong learning skills.
Open Mornings: Wednesday 16th March and Saturday 21st May.
17 The Downs, Wimbledon, SW20 8HF | hsw.co.uk | admissions@hsw.co.uk
Holy Cross Preparatory School – girls 3 to 11
A compassionate, vibrant community, working together to inspire a true love of learning. The school now boasts a fantastic purpose built pre-school for 3- year old girls. Their state-of-the-art facilities are set in eight acres of beautiful, historic grounds, with plenty of outdoor space for the girls to explore. Holy Cross Prep is perfect for girls who want to enjoy school life and achieve excellence. Their pupils are happy, curious individuals, encouraged to nurture their natural inquisitiveness and a healthy attitude towards learning.
Please book a personal tour of the grounds with the Headteacher. Our virtual tour is also available on our website.
George Road, Kingston upon Thames, KT2 7NU
holycrossprepschool.co.uk/admissions | admissions@holycrossprep.com
Newland House School – prep school and nursery: co-ed aged 3 to 13
Newland House’s extensive and engaging curriculum fosters a sense of self-confidence and provides opportunities for children to reach their full potential whilst traditional standards remain very important. Pupils have excellent academic outcomes, securing places and awards at a broad range of excellent senior schools. The school’s broad range of subjects, progressive but nurturing learning environment and reputation for exceptional pastoral provision means that it is a natural choice for many local families. The last ISI inspection judged that ‘Throughout the school, the quality of the pupils’ achievements and learning is excellent’.
Find out more and join the Welcome Morning on 18th March 2022.
Waldegrave Park, Twickenham TW1 4TQ | admissions@newlandhouse.net | newlandhouse.net
Parkside School – boys aged 2 to 13
With new all year round co-educational nursery, Parkside is a wonderful environment where children’s curiosity is awakened. Set in 45 acres of beautiful countryside where talents and passions are nurtured and developed, and pupils are encouraged to take responsibility for their learning. The school delivers a dynamic and innovative curriculum that lights that inquisitive spark. Academic excellence and outstanding sporting achievements are underpinned by exceptional pastoral care. Parkside pupils flourish and are valued as individuals; happy and confident as they move to their Senior School.
Register your interest by e-mailing admissions@parkside-school.co.uk or call 01932 862749.
The Manor, Stoke D’Abernon, Cobham KT11 3PX | parkside-school.co.uk
Rowan Preparatory School girls aged 2 to 11
Rowan Preparatory School in Claygate, is a vibrant, friendly and nurturing community, with traditional values and a forward thinking approach to education. For girls aged 2 to 11, Rowan offers a broad and adventurous curriculum. The school has excellent sport facilities and a highly developed arts programme spanning both creative and performing arts. All the girls progress to outstanding senior schools of their choice, equipped with life skills and knowledge for the next stage of their learning journey.
Come and visit us on our Spring Open Morning – Friday 18 March 2022
6 Fitzalan Road, Claygate, KT10 0LX | rowanprepschool.co.uk
The Study Prep – girls aged 4 to 11
The Study is a well-established independent school for girls aged four to eleven in the heart of Wimbledon Village. We are a creative and progressive school, always nurturing and proud to be non selective. Our four core values, compassion, curiosity, creativity and courage, encapsulate what it really means to be a Study girl.
Our annual school Open Morning will take place on Saturday 1 October 2022 and offers families the chance to come and look around our school and its wonderful facilities, to meet our staff and some of our pupils. Please get in touch to book a place as numbers are limited.
Camp Road, Wimbledon Common, SW19 4UN | thestudyprep.co.uk
You may also enjoy reading about making a choice about single sex v co-educational schooling for your child.
