Prep

At the heart of the Upper Years experience are four guiding principles: Leadership, Learning, Character and Contribution.

Through these, pupils gain not only knowledge but the responsibility, resilience, empathy and integrity essential to thrive in modern life.

Whether through academic pursuits, STEM innovation, creative arts, music, design technology or sport, every child is encouraged to explore their unique strengths and ambitions. Our small class sizes and dedicated staff group ensure that each pupil receives individual attention and stretch appropriate to their stage of development.

When pupils leave us, they do so as curious thinkers, capable communicators and confident young people, ready to meet the challenges of senior school and beyond with a sense of purpose – and joy.

Our Senior Prep curriculum is designed to inspire curiosity, deepen knowledge and equip pupils with the skills they need for success at senior school and beyond.

From Years 6–8, pupils are taught exclusively by specialist subject teachers, helping them take real ownership of their learning as they grow in confidence and independence.

Small class sizes allow teachers to provide personalised attention and tailor learning to individual needs, with some streaming introduced where it benefits progress. This approach ensures that every pupil is both supported and challenged at the right level.

Subjects are explored in real depth, often reaching beyond national curriculum expectations. Lessons encourage pupils to think critically, apply their knowledge, and stretch themselves academically and intellectually.

Creative subjects and performance play a central role in our curriculum. Music, drama, art and practical projects help pupils develop confidence, communication skills and the self‑belief that comes from creating, presenting and performing.

Boarding at S. Anselm’s opens up a world of friendship and adventure.

For Prep pupils, it offers far more than simply a place to sleep – it provides a lively, nurturing community where children feel instantly at home. Here they build strong friendships, develop growing independence and experience a wonderful sense of belonging that enriches their school life.

We offer flexi, weekly and full boarding, giving families the flexibility to choose what suits them best.

Our role is to guide each pupil towards the senior school that best matches their talents, ambitions and character.

Pupils move on from S. Anselm’s to a wide range of leading schools, including: Abbotsholme, Ampleforth, Birkdale, Cheltenham Ladies’ College, Denstone College, Downe House, Eton, Giggleswick, Harrow, Highfields, Lady Manners, Malvern, Oakham, Oundle, Sheffield Girls’ High School, Repton, Rugby, St Edward’s (Oxford), Sedbergh, Shrewsbury, Tudor Hall, Uppingham, Worksop College, Winchester, Wycombe Abbey and many more.

We aim to send pupils on to their next schools not only well prepared academically, but confident, kind, curious and ready to make the most of every opportunity ahead.