Berkhamsted Preparatory School

Berkhamsted Prep School is an independent day school for boys and girls ages 7-11. The School is part of Berkhamsted Schools, a school with a ‘Diamond’ structure that combines single-sex and co-educational teaching. Boys and girls are taught together at the Pre-Prep (Haresfoot site) from age 3 to 7, and at the Prep (Doctors Commons Road site) from age 7 to 11. They are then taught separately from age 11 to 16 (Berkhamsted Boys and Berkhamsted Girls), enabling them to flourish academically, with numerous co-educational activities, trips and events, before coming back together again in a joint Sixth Form.

All children are encouraged to develop to their full potential and grow in confidence and independence. The School’s general approach is progressive, while retaining traditional values and standards; courtesy and politeness towards others are expected at all times. Academic achievement is of great importance, but the emphasis on other activities such as sports and music ensure that pupils receive a well-rounded education.

All classes offer a happy, caring environment where children are encouraged to investigate and explore the world around them. Classes at all levels have access to computers. Key features include a multi-purpose hall, modern dining facilities and a full range of specialist classrooms (e.g. Science laboratory, a DT and an ICT suite with mobile device accessibility for all year groups, Drama Studio, new Food Technology and Art classrooms). The school has also added a Netball Court, Eton Fives courts and an outdoor learning area. The Prep School also has use of Senior School facilities including extensive playing fields, Tennis and Netball Courts, a Sports Centre, a Swimming Pool and a 500-seat theatre.

The most recent ISI Inspection Report found that the school was excellent in all areas, in particular in terms of the quality of pupils’ academic and other achievements and also their personal development.

A wide range of voluntary extracurricular activities is offered at lunchtime and the end of the school day, including Art, Drama, Music and Sport. Choirs and orchestras perform in concerts and services throughout the year and school teams compete successfully in a variety of sports. The school operates excellent wrap around and holiday care.

Headteacher

Karen O’Connor

Website: https://www.berkhamsted.com/prep/