Business Details
Your Trusted Independent Nursery & Prep School in Cricklade
Cricklade Manor Prep School is a successful, happy, and high-achieving independent nursery and prep school located in the historic town of Cricklade, Wiltshire. Established to provide accessible, high-quality private education, we cater to children aged 2 - 11, offering a nurturing environment that balances academic rigor with personal development. Our dedicated team of experienced educators ensures each child receives individualized attention through small class sizes and tailored learning programs. With state-of-the-art facilities, including science labs, sports amenities, and outdoor learning spaces, we foster curiosity, confidence, and a lifelong love of learning. Our curriculum extends beyond traditional academics, incorporating extracurricular clubs, leadership opportunities, and partnerships with senior schools to prepare students for future success.Parents consistently praise our supportive community and the visible enthusiasm children show for their education. As part of the Wishford Education group, we combine tradition with innovation to deliver exceptional outcomes without excessive costs. Our commitment to inclusivity and accessibility is reflected in our diverse student body and school bus routes serving Swindon, Cirencester, and surrounding areas. We prioritize open communication with families, offering regular progress updates and personalized guidance throughout a childs educational journey. By focusing on both academic excellence and character development, Cricklade Manor Prep School equips students with the skills and confidence to thrive in an ever-changing world.
Services
Nursery Education
Pre-Prep Curriculum
Prep Department
Holiday Activity Camps
Individualized Learning
Sports Programs
Extracurricular Clubs
Senior School Preparation
Forest School Activities
Language of Learning Program
Highlights and features
- We offer small class sizes ensuring personalized attention for every child.
- Our experienced Early Years staff specialize in nurturing foundational learning skills.
- We provide individualized learning sessions tailored to each child's strengths and needs.
- Exceptional facilities include science labs, sports amenities, and outdoor learning spaces.
- Our curriculum extends beyond academics with leadership programs and extracurricular clubs.
What people say
Happy and high-achieving
Dedicated people
Confidence
Role model
Special and amazing staff
Services
Nursery Education
Our Nursery program for ages 24 focuses on foundational learning through play-based activities. Experienced educators create a stimulating environment where children develop social skills, creativity, and early literacy/numeracy. Small class sizes ensure personalized attention, fostering confidence and curiosity while preparing them for structured learning in Reception.
Pre-Prep Curriculum
The Pre-Prep department (ages 47) delivers a balanced curriculum emphasizing core subjects alongside specialist teaching in music, languages, and art. Daily individual learning sessions address specific needs, while outdoor and Forest School activities enhance practical understanding. This stage builds essential academic habits and resilience in a supportive setting.
Prep Department
For ages 711, our Prep Department offers a structured yet flexible curriculum exceeding national standards. Specialist teachers deliver advanced subjects, complemented by weekly CAP sessions developing life skills through activities like public speaking and conservation. Regular assessments track progress toward senior school entrance exams and personal growth targets.
Holiday Activity Camps
Open to all children aged 414, our Discover Activity Camps provide supervised fun during school holidays. Qualified staff organize sports, creative arts, and team-building challenges on our extensive grounds. Early Bird discounts and inclusive meal plans make these camps accessible while introducing non-pupils to our school community.
Individualized Learning
Every pupil receives four weekly 30-minute individual sessions tailored to their needs. These sessions may focus on reinforcing core skills, extending advanced learners, or addressing specific learning challenges. This personalized approach ensures all children progress at their optimal pace while building self-confidence and independence.
People
Mr Guy Barrett
Headmaster
Mr Guy Barrett leads Cricklade Manor Prep School with over 20 years of experience in independent education. He champions a child-centered approach, emphasizing academic excellence and emotional well-being. His leadership has expanded the school's facilities and strengthened partnerships with senior schools.
Mrs Penny Kelly
School Registrar
Mrs Penny Kelly manages admissions with a focus on making the enrollment process welcoming and transparent. She coordinates personalized tours and assessments, ensuring families receive detailed guidance about curriculum options and school life.
Questions
What age groups do you cater to?
We accept children aged 2–11 across our Nursery, Pre-Prep, and Prep departments.
Are your class sizes small?
Yes, we maintain small class sizes to ensure personalized attention for every student.
Do you offer after-school clubs?
We provide over 30 extracurricular clubs annually, including sports, arts, and specialist skill sessions.
How do you support transition to senior schools?
Our Year 6 program includes entrance exam preparation, school selection guidance, and confidence-building activities.
Are facilities accessible to all pupils?
Our campus includes modern sports facilities, science labs, and outdoor learning spaces for all students.
Do you accept external candidates for exams?
Yes, we welcome non-pupils for senior school entrance exam preparation programs.
Reviews (7)
James Barton
May 13, 2021
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Thank you to all the staff for supporting Joel over the past 8 years. He has thoroughly enjoyed all the opportunities that he has been given! He is well set and ready Secondary School @Westonbirt!
Burt Ernie
Jan 17, 2021
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Attended Irish Christian Brothers Prior Park Prep from 1974 to 1978, and loved every single day of my life here as a boarder. My parents worked and lived in Munich. Our school had fellow boarders from UK, Malaysia, Botswana, Zambia, Sierra Leone, Singapore, Hong Kong to name a few. Mr Kaffola taught music, Mrs Davies taught English and Drama, Brothers Madigan, Dolan, Early, Smythe taught various subjects.
Alexandra Holmes
Feb 03, 2020
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I’ve had experience of many private schools in my working life but none quite so fantastic as CMP. Both my sons attend, both with very different needs & yet, all their needs are met. The school is a warm, friendly environment focussing on every aspect of a child’s development, something schools often forget. The activities available are great, Lego… club is the current favourite!! Food here is exceptional with such a wide range of options that cater for my boys who have allergies. I can’t recommend this school any higher, we are so lucky to have this nearby. Thank you
Sarah-Lynn Wilson
Oct 08, 2019
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My son has thrived at this school and gone from strength to strength. I couldn’t have wished for a better school for him. The staff are thoughtful and caring and fully supportive of the students and families of the students. The staff are engaged and committed throughout the entire school. They take the time to know each child and nurture them… intellectually,physically,socially and emotionally and engage them in hands on and intentional learning experiences. My son has made leaps and bounds at Cricklade Manor prep academically and socially. I couldn’t recommend this school highly
Nic K.
Aug 05, 2019
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Absolutely fantastic school! My children have gone from being very shy and nervous to being so settled, confident and enthusiastic! Amazing transformation! They have a real love of learning and come out of school so happy every day! They are really well-rounded, enjoying every aspect, and there are so many opportunities to take interests to the next level!
Tamsin Johnston
Feb 28, 2017
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A remarkable school with wonderful pupils - I have not only read my stories at Prior Park prep but I also brought my creative workshop to their classes and we had such a good time. The children were so inspiring to be around and learned a huge amount for such a short time. I look forward to returning with my new book. .
Cheryl Mason-Croft
Feb 23, 2017
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My daughter has been here since September. She's really enjoying the extra curricular sporting and music activities
