Prep School

WHY CHOOSE DEAN CLOSE?

Place Where Every Child is Known and Cherished
With around 325 pupils from Years 3 to 8, Dean Close Prep School feels like home, offering exceptional pastoral care within our close-knit community.
Opportunities as Unique as Your Child
With 30+ clubs and our innovative 5Time programme, children develop key future skills while exploring their passions. From Quidditch and American Football to gel plate printing, there’s something for everyone.
Learning That Inspires and Nurtures
With small class sizes (capped at 20) and specialist teachers, we nurture academic excellence and a love for learning. Enriched by lots of bespoke initiatives, pupils gain essential skills, mentorship and the confidence to thrive.
A True Family Home for Boarders
Boarding is a vibrant 24/7 experience, offering a home away from home with exciting weekend activities. From film nights and go-karting to discos, outdoor adventures, and creative workshops, pupils forge lifelong friendships while thriving in a safe, supportive community.
Adventures Beyond the Classroom
From the magical forest school to performances in our woodland amphitheatre, learning extends far beyond the walls of a classroom.
Parents are Part of the Family
From active participation in events to a vibrant parent association, we ensure parents are involved in their child’s journey every step of the way.

Welcome from the Head of School

My philosophy is to encourage every pupil to make the very most of the opportunities open to them. Topics to explore in the classroom, activities to try out in clubs, or the chance to discover a hidden talent in music, sport, drama or art.

It is such a great pleasure to see a muddy-kneed boy or girl, straight from the playing fields, picking up their musical instrument and taking part in an orchestra practice; or the delight of one of our senior Library Ambassadors sharing their love of literature with a younger child.

Favourable pupil-teacher ratios and small class sizes allow for time to get to know each individual, to open a world of possibilities to them and to encourage them in their interests. Indeed, pupils’ own passions often lead the way as they are able to suggest clubs and activities of their own.

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