Dulwich Preparatory School

Dulwich Preparatory School, located in the picturesque setting of Cranbrook, offers a nurturing and inclusive environment for children aged two to 16. The school is co-educational and provides both day and flexible boarding options, making it a versatile choice for families. With a Church of England ethos, the school welcomes children from all faiths, fostering a community spirit that is both warm and welcoming.

The school is non-selective academically, allowing children to join pre-nursery from the September after they turn two. The most popular entry points are nursery or reception, and the school operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Tours are available throughout term time, providing prospective families with a first-hand look at the vibrant learning environment.

Teaching and learning at the school are characterised by a strong emphasis on discovery and exploration. Nash House, which houses the pre-nursery and nursery, is a hub of sensory play and creative activities. Children engage in hands-on learning experiences, such as painting and shape matching in scented foam, which help develop language skills through discovery. The school encourages outdoor learning, with children equipped with wet-weather suits and wellies to explore the natural surroundings.

As children progress to reception, they benefit from free-flow classrooms that promote social interaction across classes. Specialist teaching in music, PE, and French begins in nursery, with innovative methods such as using puppets and songs to engage young learners. Class sizes are kept intimate, with no more than 20 pupils, ensuring a buzzing yet personalised learning experience.

Prep life begins in Little Stream, where the focus remains on nurturing and exploration. Children are grouped for reading, maths, and spelling, allowing for individualised learning approaches. Specialist teaching in art, computing, and science starts here, with dedicated labs and studios providing a hands-on learning experience. Humanities subjects are often taught cross-curricularly, with projects like aqueduct models combining history and design technology.

Senior pupils experience a change in status, marked by smart blue shirts. From year 7, specialist subject teaching is provided for all subjects, fostering a lively and engaging learning environment. The redesigned Coursehorn building hosts exciting re-enactments and discussions, with children eager to contribute and learn. The school offers tailored enrichment programmes from year 10, allowing students to maximise their individual talents.

The school places a strong emphasis on learning support and special educational needs (SEN). A dedicated team, including four SENCos, supports the quarter of pupils on the SEN register. The school is committed to inclusivity, with accessible learning aids and increased accessibility across the campus. Parents praise the school for going above and beyond in supporting children with physical disabilities.

The arts and extra-curricular activities are a vibrant part of school life. The art rooms are bustling with creativity, and the music block is a haven for budding musicians. A wide range of musical groups and termly concerts provide ample opportunities for students to showcase their talents. The theatre department is highly regarded, with confident performances and a strong focus on dance and drama.

Sport is an integral part of the school experience, with a broad range of activities available year-round. The school has invested in new sports facilities, including a resurfaced Astro, and offers a variety of sports, from football and rugby to cross-country and swimming. The outdoor swimming pool is a popular feature, although parents have expressed a desire for an indoor pool to extend the swimming season.

Flexi boarding offers a cosy and fun experience, with 26 beds available. The boarding environment is warm and inviting, with themed events and positive messages adorning the notice boards. The school’s ethos and heritage are deeply rooted in its history, with the original building serving as the heart of the campus.

Pastoral care is a priority, with a focus on acceptance and wellbeing. The school offers mental health support through Place2Be and an ‘i-space’ wellbeing programme for older students. Parents appreciate the school’s nurturing environment, where children thrive and are valued as individuals.

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