Gresham's Prep School

Gresham’s Prep School aims to provide a happy, caring, and inclusive environment that celebrates British values in a Christian setting. The school focuses on character development, curiosity, and critical thinking, encouraging pupils to achieve their potential while fostering self-respect, responsibility, and compassion. It strives to balance academic rigour with a nurturing atmosphere where childhood is cherished.

The school follows a broad, innovative curriculum that is not bound by the National Curriculum or Common Entrance, allowing for tailored teaching and learning. The programme includes core subjects alongside project-based STEAM lessons, outdoor learning, bushcraft, and adventure skills. Pupils in Year 8 participate in the ABE Endorsed KidsMBA programme, and the school provides dedicated time for reading, reasoning skills, and supervised prep within the school day.

Pupils are prepared for a smooth transition to the Senior School or other chosen secondary institutions, with academic and pastoral information shared regularly to support this progression. The school’s curriculum aims to empower children to become effective, independent, and curious learners. Recent successes include recognition in international entrepreneurial competitions and strong performance in academic and sporting events.

The school maintains an extensive learning support department that provides a joined-up, informed, and caring approach for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). Subject teachers work closely with the support team to ensure individualised attention. For more able pupils, the school offers enrichment opportunities such as workshops, lectures, and specialised trips.

Gresham’s Prep School welcomes pupils from age 7 to 13, with Year 7 being a common entry point for those transitioning from primary or other independent schools. The admissions process includes a general interview and entrance assessments for those wishing to progress into the Senior School. The school offers a range of scholarships and financial assistance, with detailed information available through the admissions office.

The school operates on a three-term academic year—Michaelmas, Lent, and Summer—with a two-week timetable structure. The school day for day pupils typically runs from 08:15 to 17:00, with shorter days on Wednesdays and Saturdays, and an optional after-school activities programme available until 18:00. Boarding pupils follow a structured schedule, with specific arrangements for home weekends and half-term breaks.

The current Prep School site features purpose-built facilities, including the Butterwick Centre for Art, Design Technology, and ICT, as well as a dedicated music school with Apple Macs and Steinway pianos. Sports facilities include an indoor swimming pool, sports hall, squash courts, gym, and extensive playing fields for rugby, cricket, hockey, and netball. A new, state-of-the-art Prep School building, funded by The James Dyson Foundation, is scheduled to open in 2027 and will feature advanced STEAM facilities.

The school provides a broad co-curricular programme that includes drama, music, dance, and a variety of sports such as rugby, cricket, hockey, netball, and tennis. Pupils participate in leadership and service training, with opportunities to serve as prefects, house captains, and mentors. Additionally, the school engages in competitive activities, including the ABE Endorsed KidsMBA programme and various academic and sporting competitions.