school life
PREP
In Prep, from Year 3 upwards, learning becomes more subject-based, but joy and creativity remain at the heart of every day. Specialist subjects like art, drama, music, sport, French and computing enrich the curriculum alongside core academics. A vibrant programme of trips, residentials and enrichment opportunities encourages pupils to discover new interests and develop individual passions.
Empowering curious minds to grow with confidence and discover new interests, skills and passions
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Opportunity, challenge and discovery
Life at St Margaret’s Prep is full of opportunity, challenge and discovery inspired by dedicated teachers who know each child and how to support their individual strengths.
Sport also takes on a more competitive edge from Year 3 onwards, with weekly fixtures offering valuable lessons in teamwork, resilience and celebrating achievements together.
By the time children leave St Margaret’s, pupils are confident, independent learners with a positive ‘can do’ mindset. They celebrate their own achievements, and those of others, and are well-prepared to embrace the next stage of their education with confidence and purpose.
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Encouraging independence, building confidence
In Years 3 and 4 we nurture each pupil’s growing independence. We encourage children to take greater responsibility for their learning, develop strong organisational skills and begin thinking critically about their experiences. By the end of Year 4, pupils feel confident in their abilities and ready to take appropriate risks, pushing themselves further both in and beyond the classroom.
The syllabus includes core and creative subjects, with lessons carefully planned to meet each child’s needs, ensuring every learner feels supported and challenged.
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Stepping up with support, stretch and encouragement
In Years 5 and 6, children remain with the same class teacher, building strong, supportive relationships that carry them through this important stage of their Prep journey. This continuity helps pupils and families feel secure, while fostering independence, resilience and a positive work ethic in preparation for 11+ and beyond.
At this point, pupils grow in courage, enquiry and responsibility, taking on greater challenges both in and out of the classroom. For example, children in Year 6 participate in the English-Speaking Board award, which develops skills in presentation, listening and debating.
Our lessons extend well beyond the Primary National Curriculum, covering the ISEB syllabus, with science taught in specialist labs and modern foreign languages broadening to include Spanish.
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Strong foundations for bright futures
We work closely with each family to ensure their child is prepared for senior school. Our support for 11+ and Common Entrance exams is thorough and balanced. Our record of success is excellent, with many pupils achieving academic and specialist scholarships to leading senior day and boarding schools.
For girls at St Margaret’s, our unique early entrance route into St Mary’s Calne – our senior school which is one of the leading schools for girls in the UK – enables girls at St Margaret’s to apply to St Mary’s before pupils from other schools and without taking an additional assessment.
Dauntsey’s, Marlborough, Kingswood and King Edward’s Bath, alongside St Mary’s Calne, are popular senior school destinations.
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A warm introduction to boarding
Our early start boarding programme offers girls aged 9-11 the chance to live and learn on our shared campus with St Mary’s Calne. Our boarders have lessons at St Margaret’s and board with the Lower School at St Mary’s, just a short walk across campus.
With outstanding facilities, dedicated pastoral care and a warm and friendly community, it is the perfect introduction to boarding life and a seamless step towards Year 7.
ST MARGARET’S CO-EDUCATIONAL PREP SCHOOL
Start your journey
Discover a nurturing, forward-thinking community where every child is known, supported and inspired to thrive.
Join us at St Margaret’s Prep and be part of our exciting journey.