The Pre-Prep School

Reception

In an informal yet structured setting, children are encouraged to develop at their own pace and acquire self-confidence and independence in a stimulating environment. We help pupils to develop enquiring, investigative minds, with wonder-filled days and children who feel championed.

Start your journey

Discover more about how Clifton College Pre-Prep enables a confident and positive start to school life.

Personalised learning experience

With small class sizes, we ensure each child receives individualised attention, allowing our experienced teachers to build strong, supportive relationships with every pupil. This approach encourages confidence and a willingness to embrace new challenges.

Reception teacher
Dynamic learning environments

A variety of stimulating spaces designed to enhance your child’s educational journey.

Forest School

Children in Reception have weekly visits to our dedicated Forest School where their time is spent following their interests, working on topic based activities or learning about our world.

Library

Our age-specific library cultivates a love for books and storytelling.

On-site swimming pool

Weekly swimming lessons promote physical development and water confidence from a young age.

Music is magic

Children engage in regular music sessions and can learn to play with a range of instruments.

A day in the life at Pre-Prep

Wonder what your child’s day will look like?

Wraparound care

Wraparound care begins at 7.30am, it includes breakfast as well as the opportunity for children to play and relax ahead of the school day.

The school day begins

The school day begins at 8.25am for registration in classes followed by group singing, an assembly, or a guided reading session.

Lessons

Lessons start at 9am, with games on a Friday for our Year 3s.

Playtime

A healthy mid-morning snack is provided at 10am, followed by a break for free play and to mix with friends across the Pre-Prep.

Activities

Outside the classroom, activities throughout the week include swimming, choir, music lessons and games.

Lunch

A healthy and varied lunch is provided, where all children and teachers sit together to enjoy their meal.

Young boy in a green sweater eating lunch at a cafeteria table, surrounded by other children with colorful trays and cups.

Library

The Pre-Prep has a wonderful age-specific Library where groups spend an afternoon lesson each week, and can borrow books to read at home.

Forest School

Children visit our enchanting Forest School weekly, exploring their imaginations in an outdoor setting, expanding on their learning in class and developing team-building skills.

Discovery

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Afternoon lessons range from languages, music, computing, art, science, English, P.E. and much more, allowing children to discover their own interests.

After school club

The normal school day finishes at 4pm, with wraparound care available until 6pm where children can stay and play with their friends, join an after school club and have some dinner before home time.

Holistic development

Your child’s wellbeing and happiness underpins everything we do.

Pastoral care

Our experienced teachers create a warm and welcoming environment for every child.

Balanced nutrition

Our in-house catering team provide balanced and nutritious meals, accommodating various dietary needs to support healthy growth.

Social skills

Interactive play and group activities help children develop empathy, collaboration, and effective communication.

Hear from a Pre-Prep parent

The journey from Reception to Sixth Form
Benefits of Reception from day one
Ensuring a smooth transition to Year 1

As children approach the end of Reception, we facilitate a seamless progression to Year 1.

Familiarisation activities

Visits to Year 1 classrooms and interactions with future teachers ease the transition.

Parental involvement

We maintain open communication with families, providing guidance and support throughout the transition process.

Come and see for yourself

We invite you to experience the dynamic and supportive atmosphere of our Pre-Prep. Visit us to see firsthand how Clifton College Pre-Prep can provide the ideal start to your child's educational journey.

Open Events

Experience Clifton College first-hand with a guided tour, meet key staff, explore classrooms, and chat with our parent community.

Personal visits

Book a personalised tour to explore the school and ask any questions specific to your child’s needs at a time convenient to you.

Little Explorers

Our weekly toddler group offers a range of exciting activities, including soft play, music, forest school and more.

Explore our year groups

Years 1-3

Preschool

Join the Pre-Prep School

Where next?

Quick links

Who we are

Get to know Clifton College Pre-Prep, a place where young learners are nurtured, inspired, and encouraged to explore their unique potential.

A day in the life

Curious about a typical day at Clifton College Pre-Prep? Discover how our children grow through learning, play, and discovery.

Our spaces

Explore our inspiring classrooms and outdoor spaces designed for young learners. See how our environment sparks creativity.

Our community

We believe that a child's educational journey begins with a sense of belonging, and are proud to be part of an incredible community that fosters curiosity, courage, and kindness in every child.