Business Details
Your Child's Journey Starts Here
St. Margaret's Prep School provides a holistic education that combines academic excellence with character development in a nurturing countryside environment. Established to prepare children for senior school success, we prioritise individualised learning through specialist teaching across the curriculum. Our dedicated educators foster curiosity, kindness, and confidence in pupils aged 2-11, supported by exceptional facilities including dedicated science labs, music rooms, and extensive outdoor learning spaces. With small class sizes and a strong family ethos, we ensure every child receives personalised attention while maintaining rigorous academic standards that consistently exceed national averages.Our award-winning nursery offers an outstanding early years foundation, complemented by a comprehensive co-curricular programme that includes competitive sports, arts, and music. Recognised as European School of the Year 2022, we combine traditional values with innovative teaching methods to develop well-rounded individuals prepared for future challenges. The school's 2021 ISI inspection rated both academic achievement and personal development as 'excellent', reflecting our commitment to creating a supportive community where children thrive both educationally and emotionally.
Services
Nursery Education
Reception Class
Pre-Prep School
Prep School
After School Care
Forest School
Music Lessons
Sports Programmes
Language Tuition
Scholarship Preparation
Highlights and features
- We offer specialist teaching across the curriculum with a 100% focus on individual learning needs
- Our pupils achieve results well above national averages from Early Years to Key Stage 2
- Award-winning nursery provision with two consecutive Top Nursery 2025 awards
- We provide personalised 11+ exam preparation with an enviable scholarship success record
- Our ISI-rated 'excellent' facilities include dedicated science labs and outdoor classrooms
Associations and certifications
- Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI)
What people say
Happy, confident and motivated
Award-winning nursery provision
Excellent in every aspect
Enviable scholarship success record
Beautiful parkland setting
Services
Nursery Education
Our award-winning nursery provides a stimulating environment for children aged 2-4. Specialist teachers deliver weekly French, music, PE and Forest School sessions within our Grade 2 listed buildings. With a 2025 Top Nursery Award, we offer a home-from-home setting that prioritises both educational foundations and social development through structured play and outdoor learning.
Preparatory School
For pupils aged 7-11, our Prep School focuses on academic excellence and character development. We combine traditional teaching methods with innovative approaches to create personalised learning experiences. Our curriculum prepares children for 11+ exams and scholarships while maintaining a strong emphasis on wellbeing, with exceptional results in both academic and co-curricular activities.
After School Care
Our 'Owls' after school programme operates daily until 18:00, offering homework support, structured activities and supervised play. The service includes a light tea and provides a safe environment where children can complete academic work or participate in creative pursuits while parents benefit from flexible scheduling options.
Forest School
Integral to our curriculum, Forest School develops resilience and teamwork through nature-based activities. Pupils engage with our seven-acre grounds featuring adventure playgrounds, outdoor classrooms and woodland areas. This hands-on approach enhances traditional learning while promoting physical development and environmental awareness across all age groups.
Music Tuition
Specialist music tuition includes individual lessons in dedicated practice pods. We offer a comprehensive programme covering multiple instruments and vocal training, supported by regular performances and music events. Our facilities include a full-sized music room and regular opportunities for pupils to showcase their talents in concerts and competitions.
People
Carolyn Moss
Headteacher
Carolyn Moss leads St. Margaret's with a clear vision for educational excellence. With extensive experience in primary education, she champions a holistic approach that combines academic rigor with character development. Her leadership has maintained the school's 'excellent' ISI rating while expanding specialist teaching across the curriculum.
Questions
What makes St. Margaret's Prep School unique?
Our combination of academic excellence, specialist teaching, and nurturing environment creates a unique educational experience. With small class sizes, individualised learning plans, and extensive facilities including Forest School and dedicated specialist rooms, we develop well-rounded pupils who consistently exceed national standards.
How does the school support pupil progression to senior schools?
We provide tailored 11+ preparation with an enviable scholarship success record. Our personalised approach ensures each child transitions to their chosen secondary school with academic confidence and personal resilience, supported by specialist exam preparation and comprehensive guidance.
What facilities does the school offer?
Our Grade 2 listed buildings include dedicated science labs, music rooms, and computer suites. Outdoor facilities feature sports pitches, adventure playgrounds, and seven acres of parkland. We also utilise nearby swimming pools and sports grounds for specialist activities.
How does the school handle pupil wellbeing?
Wellbeing is central to our approach, with dedicated pastoral care that focuses on individual needs. Our family ethos creates a supportive environment where children feel safe to explore, learn and develop confidence, supported by small class sizes and experienced teaching staff.
What extracurricular activities are available?
We offer extensive co-curricular activities including competitive sports teams, music ensembles, and creative arts programmes. Regular termly trips enhance classroom learning, while after-school clubs and our 'Larks & Owls' wraparound care provide additional enrichment opportunities.
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Reviews (4)
Dionne Paull
Sep 16, 2020
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Fantastic school! Everyday my 2 children look forward to attending school. I attribute this to the exemplary teaching and community feel. They participate in a variety of activities and events and enjoy both their teachers and classmates company. Our daughters are thriving and having lost of fun too! Best decision we made was sending them here...
Julian J.
Jul 27, 2020
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This has always been a great friendly school, the teachers are so engaging, our daughters have loved it, they even look forward to going to school :-)
However during the lockdown the school really showed its class. The school quickly provided excellent technology solutions and the teachers have been even more fantastic, putting in so many hours to continue a high quality education. We do feel fortunate that we choose St Margarets for our girls.
However during the lockdown the school really showed its class. The school quickly provided excellent technology solutions and the teachers have been even more fantastic, putting in so many hours to continue a high quality education. We do feel fortunate that we choose St Margarets for our girls.
Nicholas Fearn
Jul 22, 2020
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As the parent of one of this year's Year 6 leavers I cannot write highly enough of this wonderful school. In every area of the development of the individual they excel and exemplify the approach of bringing out the best in every pupil that's entrusted to them. The school caters for the whole spectrum of achievement from academic, through the expressive arts and on to a wide range of sporting options.
We have been truly delighted with our daughter's experience of the school throughout her educational and developmental journey at St Margaret's. They really go above and beyond to deliver a phenomenal
We have been truly delighted with our daughter's experience of the school throughout her educational and developmental journey at St Margaret's. They really go above and beyond to deliver a phenomenal
Joanne Hedley
Jul 02, 2020
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A fantastic school with a real family feel. My three children have all been given the best of starts, with truly dedicated teachers , widely varied opportunities and all in beautiful surroundings. Even a global pandemic did not knock St Mags off track!
