Canterbury Preparatory School

Canterbury Preparatory focuses on developing the whole child by teaching the mind to think, reason, and problem-solve rather than merely learning facts. The school’s core values are trust, encouragement, and mutual respect, with a commitment to challenging learners through active, engaged, and thoughtful education. It seeks to foster a sanctuary where students feel valued and are encouraged to be kind, brave, and extraordinary.

The school follows the Cambridge International Primary Programme, which covers English, Science, Mathematics, Global Perspectives, and ICT. Additional core subjects include Art and Design, Music, Physical Education, and Digital Literacy, supplemented by Robotics, Engineering and Design, Drama, Integrated Studies, and Economic Management Science. Assessment methods include built-in progression tests, the optional Cambridge Primary Checkpoint in the final year of primary, and a mix of cycle tests and formal exams for senior primary students.

The school aims to develop students who are confident, responsible, reflective, innovative, and engaged. Graduates are intended to be equipped with the knowledge, skills, grit, and determination to be effective problem solvers and to succeed in a fast-changing modern world.

The school maintains small class sizes, with each grade limited to no more than 24 learners and each stage limited to no more than 16 learners per class. All educators are SACE-registered, first-aid trained, and hold police clearance.

Prospective families must submit an application form, the student's birth certificate, and the latest school report, followed by a non-refundable administration fee that includes a credit risk assessment. Applicants are required to attend a "stay-for-the-day" assessment, where teachers evaluate academic ability, emotional and behavioral levels, and social interaction, including short assessments in English and Mathematics. Upon provisional acceptance, a financial check is conducted, requiring bank statements, financial clearance from the previous school, and relevant visa documentation for international students. A non-refundable registration fee is required to secure a placement once an offer is made.

Canterbury Preparatory School operates on a three-term academic calendar. Detailed term start and end dates are provided annually on the school's website.

The school is situated on grounds described as a sanctuary. The campus environment is designed to be family-oriented, with the philosophy that learning is not confined to classrooms with four walls.

The school offers a variety of sports, including athletics, soccer, tennis, netball, hockey, and orienteering. Cultural activities include public speaking, music, drama, art club, and both indoor and outdoor chess. Additionally, the school provides a language program featuring French, Spanish, Italian, and German.