The Pre-Prep School

Preschool

Preschool education at Clifton College provides a high quality learning experience, giving priority to the development needs and happiness of the children in a safe, nurturing and stimulating environment.

A warm and supportive start

We understand the importance of a child's early experiences in education. Our dedicated and caring staff ensure that each child feels welcomed and valued from their very first day. With small class sizes, we provide personalised attention, allowing us to cater to the unique needs and interests of every child. Our Preschool is a home from home, where your child can feel safe, secure and happy.

What to expect

Engaging learning environments

Designed to inspire and captivate young minds.

Forest School garden

Children explore the natural world through hands-on activities at our dedicated on-site Forest School Garden, fostering a sense of adventure and learning about the environment around them.

Learning through play

Our classrooms are set up to encourage collaboration and learning through the art of play.

On-Site swimming pool

Weekly swimming sessions promote physical development and water confidence.

Music is magic

Music plays an important role at our Preschool to enhance auditory skills and creative expression.

Why our parents choose our Preschool

A day in the life at our Preschool

Wonder what your child’s day will look like?

Wraparound care

Wraparound care begins at 7.30am with Breakfast Club as well as the opportunity for children to play and relax ahead of the school day.

The school day begins

The School day starts at 8am with independent play in the classroom, based around curriculum goals and the focus topic of the term.

Circle time

At 9am everyone comes together for circle time before enjoying a healthy snack.

Activities

We then take part in an extracurricular activity such as music, P.E. or visiting the library.

Forest School

Children enjoy regular visits to our on-site Forest School garden, following their interests and learning about our world.

Lunch

Everyone then settles down for story time and gets ready for a nutritious lunch.

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

Choosing time

After lunch, we have choosing time outside where the children can follow their preferences, from riding bikes, playing in the sandpit to cooking in the mud kitchen.

Afternoon snack

We come back together for circle time at 2pm to chat about our day so far, and enjoy an afternoon snack.

Assembly / Activity

We have time for one more activity which can range from assembly in the Pre-Prep to a French lesson!

Wind down

We then choose a story to read together and wind down after our busy day.

Late pick up

The normal school day finishes at 4pm, with an option for late pick up until 6pm, including a light dinner.

Holistic development

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

Play

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

Care

Our strong Early Years team ensure a safe and nurturing environment tailored to each child.

Healthy eating

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

Hear from our teachers

"Being part of the Pre-Prep is truly wonderful, as every moment brings the joy of working with enthusiastic, inspiring pupils and dedicated professionals. Each day presents abundant learning opportunities for both the children and myself. Working with young learners ensures that no two days are ever the same - one day, we may be exploring the outdoors at our Forest School, and another, we may be reenacting stories in the role-play area. What remains constant, however, is the unwavering commitment, compassion, and care that the staff provide to the children. Throughout the year, our exceptional facilities, expansive grounds, and well-equipped buildings offer enriching recreational and educational experiences for pupils, staff and the local community."

Preschool teacher

A seamless transition

As children approach the end of their Preschool year, we ensure a smooth transition into Reception.

Familiarisation activities

Our ‘Getting Ready for Reception’ programme, including regular visits to Reception classrooms and interactions with future teachers eases the move to the next stage.

Parental involvement

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

Come and see for yourself

We host a range of events throughout the year to help families experience life at Clifton College Pre-Prep. We can’t wait to welcome you.

Friday
26
SEP

Preschool to Year 6 (ages 3-11)

Next Pre-Prep and Prep School Open Event

Little Explorers

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

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.

Open Events

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

Explore our year groups

Reception

Years 1-3

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.