Bute House Preparatory School
Luxemburg Gardens, Hammersmith, London, W6 7EA
Pupils
319
Ages
4 - 11
Gender
Girls
Type
Primary
Head Teacher
Ms Sian Bradshaw
Boarding / Day
Day
Fees
£6,859
ISC Associations
IAPS, GSA, AGBIS, ISBA
Religion
Non-denominational
Bursaries
Available
About Bute House Preparatory School
Bute House Preparatory School, located in the heart of Hammersmith, offers a unique educational experience for girls aged four to eleven. The school is known for its rigorous yet non-competitive academic ethos, which is evident from its entry procedures. At 4+, offers are made via a ballot system, ensuring a fair and transparent process. This method involves the chair of governors, the head, the registrar, and even the school’s auditors. With around 400 names in the pot and only 22-24 offers made, the competition is fierce. Those who are unsuccessful are placed on a waiting list for the 7+ entry, which involves a more rigorous selection process.
The school places a strong emphasis on enjoyable activities in English and Maths, discouraging the use of past papers and preparation. Instead, it focuses on finding ‘vivid, engaged’ girls through interviews that value personal experiences over decorated achievements. This approach fosters a love for learning and encourages students to be themselves.
Despite its proximity to St Paul’s Girls’ School, Bute House is not a feeder school. However, around 25-30% of students do move on to St Paul’s, with others attending nearby schools such as Godolphin and Latymer, Latymer Upper, and Putney High. A small percentage opt for boarding schools like Wycombe Abbey and Cheltenham Ladies’ College. The school boasts a strong scholarship programme, with numerous academic and music scholarships awarded each year.
The school’s facilities have undergone significant improvements, with the addition of a theatre, a tiered art room, and a revamped library. The library, complete with reading pods and a wide selection of magazines, offers a vertiginous view down to the atrium. A new science lab, food tech room, and digital learning space further enhance the school’s offerings. The interiors are bright, functional, and cheerful, creating an inviting atmosphere for students.
Outside, the playground abuts St Paul’s playing fields, providing ample space for play and sports. The newly constructed wilderness garden offers a peaceful haven for students to explore nature and grow plants. The school’s commitment to outdoor learning is evident in its use of the playground and playing fields for lessons and matches.
Bute House’s curriculum is underpinned by ‘learning powers’ such as resilience, reflection, and risk-taking. These values are visually displayed throughout the school, and are integrated into every lesson. The teaching staff are described as sparky and stimulating, delivering engaging lessons across a range of subjects. From problem-solving in Maths to practical exercises in French, the curriculum is designed to challenge and inspire students.
The school’s sports programme is extensive, with all activities taking place onsite. Cricket, netball, tennis, and cross-country are popular, and the shared swimming pool with St Paul’s is a huge bonus. The school’s swimming squad is particularly successful, with national strengths in swimming and gymnastics. The non-competitive ethos is set aside in sports, where students are encouraged to strive for excellence.
Music and the arts are also a significant part of the school’s offering. Over 80% of students take individual music lessons, and there are numerous opportunities to perform. The new studio for dance and drama has injected fresh energy into the school’s arts programme, offering dance of every sort and inclusive drama opportunities.
The school is acutely aware of the demands on dual-income families and offers wraparound care from 7.30am to 6pm. This care is non-academic, with a focus on outdoor activities whenever possible. The school’s pastoral programme is tailored to each child’s needs, with particular praise for its zones of regulation and friend-ology initiatives.
In conclusion, Bute House Preparatory School seeks to foster confident, articulate, and engaged girls who are eager to stretch themselves. The school succeeds in providing a stimulating and supportive environment where every girl can ‘run her own best race’. To receive updates about this school including exam results, senior staff changes and open days please bookmark it using the button at the end of this review.
ISI Review
Bute House Preparatory School, located in Hammersmith, London, is an independent school for girls aged four to eleven. The school operates under a non-competitive academic ethos, encouraging each pupil to reach her personal best. The school is divided into three phases: lower, middle, and upper, encompassing Reception through Year 6. The current headteacher has been in position since 2021, and the school is governed by a board that ensures compliance with educational standards and promotes the well-being of its pupils.
The school has a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, which is reflected in its motto, every girl runs her own best race. This ethos is embraced by the entire school community, fostering an environment where pupils feel supported and valued. The curriculum is broad and innovative, designed to promote good progress and achievement across all areas. The dedicated staff work collaboratively, knowing their pupils well and providing tailored support to help each child flourish.
Governors play an active role in the school's leadership, collaborating effectively with school leaders to fulfill their responsibilities. They oversee key areas such as safeguarding and ensure that the school's standards are consistently met. The school has established a culture of tolerance, understanding, and respect, which is evident in the positive relationships among pupils. The Bute House Learning Powers, a shared language of learning, is integrated throughout the school, helping pupils develop confidence and articulate their thoughts.
Pupils benefit from a bespoke well-being curriculum that aids them in managing their emotions and relationships. The school provides appropriate support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), ensuring that all children are well-prepared for their educational journey. The extensive range of extracurricular activities and trips enriches the pupils' experiences, contributing to their mental and physical well-being. The school has seen success in regional and national sporting competitions, showcasing the talents of its pupils.
In the early years, children make good progress, with a curriculum that is well-matched to their needs. The school has identified the outdoor learning area as an area for further development to enhance outdoor knowledge and skills. Leaders understand the importance of technology in education, and its effective use is evident across all subjects, helping pupils become confident and resilient learners.
The school's safeguarding arrangements are robust, with effective health and safety systems in place. Leaders consult with local agencies when necessary, ensuring that pupils are safe and well-cared for. The school premises are well-maintained, providing a secure environment for learning. Attendance is closely monitored, and the school follows up on any unexplained absences, resulting in high attendance levels among pupils.
Bute House Preparatory School promotes a culture of kindness and respect, with pupils demonstrating excellent behavior and understanding of the school's expectations. The weekly lessons on beliefs, ethics, and well-being help pupils navigate friendships and resolve conflicts. The school actively engages pupils in anti-bullying initiatives, fostering a supportive community where they feel safe to express their concerns.
Pupils are encouraged to contribute to the school community and the wider society through various roles, such as school councillors and ambassadors. This involvement helps them understand responsibility and the impact of their actions. The school's initiatives, such as the mirrors and windows program, promote awareness of diversity and inclusion, allowing pupils to appreciate different cultures and perspectives.
The curriculum is designed to develop pupils' social and cultural knowledge, with opportunities for visiting speakers and authors from diverse backgrounds. Pupils engage in discussions about environmental issues and participate in fundraising activities for local charities, demonstrating their commitment to social responsibility. The school emphasizes the importance of fundamental British values, promoting democracy and respect for others.
In summary, Bute House Preparatory School is dedicated to providing a nurturing and inclusive environment for its pupils. The school's leadership, curriculum, and extracurricular offerings work together to ensure that each girl is supported in her personal and academic growth. The commitment to well-being, diversity, and community involvement creates a positive atmosphere where pupils can thrive and develop into confident, articulate individuals. The school's strong governance and effective safeguarding measures further enhance the educational experience, making Bute House a commendable choice for families seeking a preparatory school for their daughters.
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Last Updated: 8 October 2024