Located in the coastal town of Eastbourne, East Sussex, St Andrew’s Prep is a co-educational primary school with a Church of England affiliation. The school operates from 12 acres of landscaped grounds and sports fields, providing a picturesque setting that includes views of the South Downs National Park. With the beach just a five-minute stroll away, the school offers unique outdoor learning opportunities through its woodlands classroom and beach school, complementing traditional classroom study.
The headmaster, Tom Gregory, has been leading the school since 2021. His background is diverse, having transitioned from a career in finance to education after being inspired by his wife, Esther, a teacher. Gregory’s leadership style is described as friendly yet professional, earning him respect from both parents and pupils. His enthusiasm for education is evident in his popular assemblies and proactive engagement with the school’s alumni.
St Andrew’s Prep is non-selective academically, welcoming students from nursery age (9 months) to Year 8. The main entry points are nursery, reception, and Years 3, 5, and 7. The school prides itself on its breadth and excellence in education, offering a curriculum that balances academic rigour with creative and physical development. At age 13+, approximately 90% of students transition to Eastbourne College, with others moving on to prestigious schools such as Roedean and Shrewsbury.
The school’s facilities are impressive, featuring an indoor pool, sports hall, theatre, ICT suites, science labs, and a library. The pre-prep section has its own building with themed tiles and interactive displays that create a sense of fun for young learners. Outdoor play areas are well-equipped, supporting activities like baking bread and bird watching to enhance learning.
In Years 3-8, students benefit from specialist teaching across all subjects. Class sizes are capped at 18 to ensure individual attention. The curriculum includes cross-curricular learning and competitions like the geometry and symmetry challenge during maths week. English is a favourite subject among students, many of whom aspire to be authors in various genres.
The Bridge Curriculum for Years 7 and 8 aims to ease the transition into senior school by introducing themes relevant to future studies. Pupils engage in deep learning across subjects such as Science and Latin, with digital exams receiving positive feedback.
The school supports students with special educational needs through its new learning hub. The Head of Learning Support oversees assistance for conditions like dyslexia and autism. Parent involvement is encouraged in this area, with initiatives like Lexia lessons making a significant impact.
Art is highly valued at St Andrew’s Prep, with vibrant displays throughout the school. Facilities include a large studio with a kiln room where students work on projects that rival senior school standards. Music is another strong area, featuring seven choirs and various instrumental groups. Drama is praised for its inclusivity and professionalism, with productions like Madagascar involving professional musicians.
Sport is integral to daily life at the school. Core sports include rugby, netball, football (for both boys and girls), hockey, athletics, tennis, and cricket. Additional activities such as pickleball and archery are also available. Swimming is part of the curriculum from reception through Year 8.
The school’s pastoral care system is well-regarded by parents for its thoughtful approach. Pupils can access support through staff members trained as wellbeing ambassadors or playground buddies. Social media use is addressed sensitively to ensure student safety.
Boarding options include full-time, weekly, and flexible arrangements for up to 50 students in spacious dormitories within the main building. Boarders enjoy a sense of community fostered by kind staff who support them through the challenges of being away from home.
St Andrew’s Prep offers means-tested bursaries alongside scholarships in academics, music, art, drama, and sport. These awards provide fee remittance between five and 20 per cent.
In summary, St Andrew’s Prep values kindness while nurturing loyalty and character development in its students within an inspiring environment by the sea.
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