The quality of pupils' academic and other achievements is excellent.
ISI Inspection, 2023
Sherborne Prep is a leading independent school in Dorset, at the forefront of private preparatory education. We believe that every child should be given the opportunity to find their talents. Our role is to help that process, creating an environment in which every pupil thrives.
We are proud of our reputation in Dorset, the South-west and beyond as a leading independent school at the forefront of private preparatory education. We have an excellent record of academic success, with an average of 40% of our Year 8s gaining a range of scholarships to a variety of prestigious senior schools.
JUNIORS
Pupils in Years 3-5 study in small classes and are taught by primary-trained teachers for the majority of their subjects. Children spend quality time with their Form Tutors, building lasting relationships that ground them in the very heart of a community in which they are nurtured, encouraged, and shaped for the future. Form teachers are in regular and open dialogue with parents, ensuring a shared commitment to every pupil’s wellbeing.
Alongside core subjects taught in forms, children are immersed in specialist teaching from our wider staff body in areas such as Design Technology, Art, Music, ICT, and Sport.
Co-curricular activities provide important balance: every pupil is involved in a Year Group Play and the Art and DT rooms are abuzz with activity. Music and Sport are at the core of the Juniors’ experience, and most choose to get involved in our programme of optional Saturday Activities.
Click here to find out more about our Forest School
SENIORS
With greater specialist teaching, Seniors (Years 6-8) move around School more frequently and engage with a larger number of teachers. This prepares them for their transition to senior school in Year 9, as well as deepening their subject knowledge and helping them identify their enthusiasms and strengths.
Many of our pupils apply for scholarships at senior schools, with a high degree of success. But the real benefit of our approach is seen in the longer term: our alumni often go on to assume leadership positions in the next phase of their schooling. And they move into their adult lives as well-rounded, courteous, and confident people who have strong roots and an adventurous spirit.