Heywood Prep, operating from the charming market town of Corsham, offers a nurturing environment for children aged two to eleven. This independent, co-educational school embraces a non-denominational ethos, welcoming boys and girls alike. The school is a part of the Wishford Education Group, which enhances its appeal with connections to other reputable institutions.
Since January 2024, Tim O’Connell has been at the helm as Headmaster. With a background in sport and exercise science from Exeter and a PGCE specialising in physical education, Mr O’Connell brings a dynamic approach to leadership. His previous experience includes teaching at St. Felix School in Suffolk and serving as deputy head at Heywood Prep since 2018. His passion for sports is evident, yet he balances this with a commitment to academic excellence and student wellbeing.
The school’s compact site is strategically placed in Corsham, featuring a butter-coloured Georgian manor house that exudes charm. The grounds are home to resident peacocks, adding a unique touch to the school’s atmosphere. Despite its small size, the school maximises its space effectively, with classrooms adorned with colourful displays and a basement transformed into a vibrant learning support base.
Heywood Prep prides itself on its individualised curriculum, ensuring that each child’s educational needs are met. Classes are small, often around 15 pupils, allowing for personalised attention. The innovative Individualised Learning (IL) curriculum is a standout feature, where pupils from Year 2 upwards attend lessons tailored to their specific needs for 30 minutes each day. This approach ensures that every child is challenged and supported appropriately.
The quality of teaching at Heywood Prep is commendable. During our visit, we observed Year 5 students engaged in a sewing lesson, creating their own fabric pouches with enthusiasm and skill. Reception children were immersed in dinosaur-themed activities, showcasing the school’s commitment to hands-on learning experiences. From Year 3 onwards, pupils benefit from subject specialists teaching many of their academic lessons, an unusual but effective practice for a prep school.
Technology integration is seamless at Heywood Prep. From Year 4, pupils use multi-functional Surface-Go devices alongside traditional exercise books, preparing them for the digital age while maintaining essential writing skills. The school’s involvement in the Lego League Challenge drives its strong STEM programme, with Year 5 students participating in regional competitions where they design and build robots.
The Head of Learning Support leads efforts to cater to children with diverse needs such as dyslexia, dyspraxia, ADHD, and ASD. The school’s willingness to provide additional support is evident through the availability of learning support assistants and adaptations for children with hearing impairments. One-to-one sessions with specialists are available for those requiring extra assistance.
Heywood Prep’s extra-curricular offerings are impressive for its size. The school boasts an array of clubs ranging from judo to jewellery making and dance. Residential trips begin from Year 3, with Years 5 and 6 alternating between sport and culture tours abroad or outdoor adventures closer to home. The Heywood Award programme encourages pupils to set and achieve personal goals.
Sports are carefully managed due to space constraints but remain an integral part of school life. The mini-Astro and sports field on-site are complemented by nearby facilities such as local cricket grounds and swimming pools. The school has achieved notable success in sports competitions, including winning the ISA hockey championships for U11 boys.
The sense of community at Heywood Prep is palpable. Parents appreciate the school’s family feel and the strong relationships between teachers and students. Children are encouraged to be independent thinkers with opportunities to voice their opinions and participate in decision-making processes.
Behavioural expectations are clear at Heywood Prep, supported by motivational rewards and reflective discussions when needed. The school fosters an environment where mistakes are seen as learning opportunities, promoting personal growth among pupils.
While the pupil body may not be particularly diverse due to local demographics, the school actively champions diversity and inclusivity. Wrap-around care is available for families needing extended hours beyond the standard school day.
In terms of financial considerations, Heywood Prep offers competitive fees compared to local competitors and provides bursaries for those who can contribute meaningfully to the community.
Heywood Prep’s compact site fosters a sense of togetherness while delivering a dynamic academic framework enriched by extensive extra-curricular activities. Under Mr O’Connell’s cheerful leadership, children thrive within this supportive environment.
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