The best prep schools Surrey

Prep Schools Surrey

Our readers know that our comprehensive educational guides are well-researched and feature only the best of the best in Surrey and across SW London.

As choosing and looking for the right preparatory school local to you is often no easy feat, we've brought all your choices together in one list, where you can easily find and compare independent preparatory schools across the county.

RGS Prep

RGS Prep

RGS Prep

RGS Prep

RGS Prep

RGS Prep

RGS Prep

Guildford, Surrey GU1 2EL ​​| Phone | EmailWebsite

RGS Prep is a vibrant school where boys aged 3–11 are inspired to thrive academically and creatively. The school has a reputation for preparing pupils for success academically, with many securing scholarships at RGS Guildford and other leading secondary schools. At the heart of this success is its values-driven approach, rooted in Collaboration, Courage, Integrity, Scholarship, Respect and Inclusivity.

The school’s latest ISI report highlighted two ‘Significant Strengths’ - a rare distinction that reflects the school’s exceptional impact on its pupils. These were identified as the school’s active promotion of inclusion and mutual respect, and its ability to foster genuine enthusiasm for scholarship.

The broad and balanced curriculum is designed to spark curiosity and a lifelong love of learning, with specialist teaching in music, sport, drama, French, Spanish and art. Far beyond the classroom, pupils enjoy a rich co-curricular programme with over 60 clubs, Inspire Day (based on pupils’ passions), and Activities Week, which includes trips, workshops, and outdoor adventures - experiences that build independence, creativity, and essential life skills.

In addition, wellbeing is also central to school life, supported by a dedicated ELSA, a bespoke wellbeing app, regular events, and even colouring therapy.  

With a strong focus on character development and communication, RGS Prep equips boys with the confidence, integrity and adaptability to succeed in an ever-changing world. By the time they leave, pupils are ready to take the next step in their education. 

Robert Stephen

2. Milbourne Lodge

Esher KT10 9EG | Phone | Website

Renowned for its students' high-achieving academic outcomes, Milbourne Lodge is adept at preparing children for entrance and scholarship exams to the most prestigious institutions, including Eton.

Whilst studious, their investment in the arts is not evaded, with exceptional sports, art, and music programmes that earn their pupils scholarships to reputable senior schools.

Milbourne Lodge instils its students with confidence and independence that is critical for their next educational steps.

The exceptional standard of education, coupled with an encouraging environment, produces well-rounded children who shoot for the stars- and reach them.

3. Rowan Preparatory School

Claygate, Esher KT10 0LX | Phone | Website

An academic institution that understands the importance of well-being, Rowan is dedicated to maintaining a nurturing environment and instilling a sense of self, preparing young girls with the skills and aptitude that fortify the foundations for success.

Within their diverse curriculum designed to build a range of analytical and creative skills, there are strong sports and arts programmes at Rowan, with both schools harbouring specialist classrooms for music and drama.

Their enriching academic excellence, tight-knit community, and uplifting atmosphere ensure girls are aspirational and high-achieving moving forward. The extensive curriculum allows girls to find their paths and select the most appropriate senior school.

4. Danes Hill

Oxshott, Leatherhead KT22 0QT | Phone | Website

Recognised as one of the top preparatory schools in the country, Danes Hill spans a comprehensive and balanced curriculum, with the resources to be equally supportive of all students at both the stronger and weaker ends of the scale.

With remarkable facilities, Danes Hill is particularly renowned for its sporting programmes, encouraging participation from every student with their supportive 'sports for everyone' attitude.

Thanks to specialist coaching, competitive fixtures are played at county and national levels.

Children at Danes Hill excel in their academic achievements and remain outstanding institutions, with a large proportion accepted into Reeds School and Epsom College.

5. Cranleigh Preparatory School

Cranleigh, GU6 8QH | Phone | Website

Cranleigh Preparatory School provides tailored education for every child in a setting uniquely well-equipped to offer a breadth of opportunity.

In Years 3 to 8, pupils enjoy specialist subject teaching alongside a complete co-curricular programme of creative and performing arts and sports and a vast range of extracurricular activities.

Inspiring staff put the individual child's well-being and experience at the heart of everything on offer and provide a supportive pastoral setting where they can flourish. Kindness and friendship are valued and nurtured.

The school's ethos is one of full participation, and whether it's through team sports, choirs, orchestras, plays or collaborative academic work, teamwork is central to the community.

School life aims to foster empathy, understanding and value difference that will grow with a child's experience and help them contribute to their next school and beyond.

6. Parkside School

Stoke D'Abernon, Cobham KT11 3PX | Phone | Website

Parkside School has an impressive, all-encompassing curriculum and strong values and ethos.

The sense of individuality and pride is evident in their learning environment, which cultivates passions and celebrates successes across all excellences, whether academic, sporting, or creative. Such an uplifting environment motivates students to strive for the best.

Thanks to their commitment to teaching lessons of gratitude and humility, Parkside produces respectful young boys with big ambitions.

The class of 2021/22 saw a 100% pass rate in standard entrance exams, with 27% of the year earning scholarships to their preferred senior school.

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