Pre-Prep

Where the adventure of learning begins

At Hatherop Castle, our Pre-Prep is a joyful and nurturing space where curiosity is encouraged, confidence takes root, and children begin the most magical part of their educational journey. Based in the historic Stable Yard, our Reception to Year 2 pupils thrive in small classes, guided by dedicated teachers who celebrate every step of each child’s growth.

Surrounded by 22 acres of Cotswold parkland, our children don’t just read about the world, they explore it. Whether learning phonics under the shade of ancient trees, measuring puddles in maths, or spotting seasonal changes on their woodland walks, learning in Pre-Prep is active, exciting and full of adventure.

A Day in Pre-Prep: Wonder at Every Turn

Every day in Pre-Prep is a balance of structure, creativity and play. From morning carpet time and story-led phonics to joyful maths sessions using practical resources like Numicon, we spark curiosity and lay strong academic foundations.

Children enjoy:

• Daily outdoor learning in our gardens, fields and woodland trails
• Specialist teaching in music, French, PE and Forest School
• Hands-on exploration, role play, crafts and themed learning
• Plenty of play, indoors and out, to develop confidence and imagination

We know that young children learn best when they feel safe, happy and inspired, so we make sure they are.

Growing Character from the Start

Our values are woven into everything we do. Pre-Prep children are gently encouraged to be kind, to try again, to share, to be brave, and to celebrate their own and each other’s successes.

Weekly assemblies, outdoor team challenges, performance opportunities and simple acts of kindness are all part of daily life. This is where confidence blooms, friendships are formed, and resilience is nurtured.

Learning Through Play, Purposefully

In Pre-Prep, play is powerful. Whether building castles in the sandpit, role-playing in the classroom shop, or counting conkers collected on a woodland walk, our children are developing the key skills they need for life, and they love every minute of it.

Our curriculum is carefully structured to give children a strong grounding in:

• Early literacy and numeracy
• Scientific thinking and the natural world
• Creative arts, from music and drama to painting and clay
• Physical development through games, movement and outdoor play

A Place to Belong

We pride ourselves on our warm, family atmosphere. Every child is known and cared for. With low pupil-to-teacher ratios and high levels of pastoral support, your child is in the best hands to grow in confidence and independence.

We work closely with parents to ensure a smooth transition from Nursery or home life, offering regular updates, shared goals and a strong sense of partnership.

Come and See Us

Choosing the right setting for your child’s first years of school life is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. We warmly invite you to visit and experience the joyful, purposeful energy of Pre-Prep for yourself.

Book a visit or attend one of our Stay & Play events, we can’t wait to meet you.