Prep

Prep School in South Croydon

Welcome to the Elmhurst Prep School (7–11 Years)

Elmhurst School’s Prep School in South Croydon provides an inspiring and supportive environment for children aged 7 to 11. As pupils progress through Key Stage 2, they are encouraged to develop academically while fully supported within our close-knit school community.

At Elmhurst, we see the Prep School as a natural continuation of each child’s educational journey. Some of our pupils will have been with us since they were 6 months of age while others may be joining us at the age of 7. We strive to provide the best possible education to both groups as they become a part of the Elmhurst community.

Our balanced approach to education combines academic excellence with exceptional pastoral care. This helps pupils build the skills and confidence they need for success in senior school and beyond. Through specialist teaching, enriching experiences, and a broad curriculum, children are prepared both academically and personally for the next stage of their education.

Admissions

Our Prep School Stages

Year 3 and Year 4

During Years 3 and 4 at our Prep School, pupils begin a new and important stage of personal and academic development as they grow in independence and self-confidence. Elmhurst supports this transition with greater access to specialised teaching. This includes dedicated Science lessons and focused English and Mathematics periods from Year 4 onwards. This gradual introduction to different teaching styles helps pupils develop their organisational skills and confidence as learners.

Homework expectations also evolve during these years, with Google Classroom supporting pupils in managing tasks and deadlines independently. Along with academic progress, children are encouraged to develop positive learning habits that will support them throughout their school journey.

Year 5 and Year 6

As pupils move into Years 5 and 6, they take on greater responsibilities as they develop academically. Academic preparation becomes increasingly focused during Upper Key Stage 2, with weekly booster sessions in English and Mathematics. This supports supporting pupils as they prepare for senior school entrance assessments and 11+ examinations.

Our experienced staff provide personalised guidance and encouragement, helping every child take their first steps from general education to specific career goals. This is supported by the strong relationships between pupils and teachers that remains central to life at Elmhurst.
We know that raised expectations require increased support. We provide that with a caring and nurturing environment that prioritises both wellbeing alongside achievement.

Pastoral Care and Personal Development

At Elmhurst, pastoral care is at the heart of the prep school experience. We recognise that these years are an important stage in children’s emotional and social development. That is why we work closely with families to ensure pupils feel supported, understood, and confident.

Because of the support we offer, our students are ready to grasp the opportunities that come their way. Opportunities such as sport, performing arts, leadership, and other enriching activities. These activities enrich our students’ school experience and help them find their confidence, discovering their strengths in and out of the classroom.

Specialist Teaching and Academic Growth

elmhurst south croydon

Elmhurst School’s Prep curriculum is designed to engage pupils across a wide range of subjects. Specialist teaching in core academic areas helps children deepen their knowledge, develop critical thinking skills, and build confidence in preparation for senior school.

Learning is enriched through creative opportunities and practical experiences that encourage curiosity and independent thinking. Small class sizes allow teachers to provide tailored support. This ensures that every child receives the attention they need to thrive academically and personally.

Enrol at Elmhurst Prep School

Elmhurst Prep School provides children with the academic foundation they need to succeed at senior school and beyond. Through outstanding teaching, nurturing pastoral care, and amazing extracurricular activities, we help every child develop to their fullest. All so that they can thrive throughout their educational journey.

Visit our Prep School in South Croydon to experience our welcoming community and exceptional learning environment first-hand. Contact our admissions team today to arrange a tour, request a prospectus, or begin the admissions process.

Admissions

Lower Key Stage 2

By lower key stage 2 (Years 3 & 4) our pupils are developing as independent individuals. Boundaries are more likely to be challenged and self esteem is fragile as they step away from their parents’ shadow towards their own place in the sun. Whilst this transition is a gradual one, the school lays the foundations for boys and girls to flourish with high expectations of behaviours both personally and in learning.

In the classroom, pupils meet specialist teachers more frequently. Both English and Maths are also delivered by a specialist teacher as the gentle move away from a single teacher is promoted. This shift is a key benefit of our preparatory education as pupils become familiar with differing expectations of teachers and build their own responsibility for learning. The 11+ journey is well underway and pupils are encouraged to build study habits and take responsibility for their own learning.

Pastorally too, our pupils are expected to take greater responsibility for their items and organisation with homework deadlines likely to be varied and more numerous. Google classroom is used across the school to manage homework load and, by Y4, are asked to monitor their responsibilities, in the first instance.

Upper Key Stage 2

Pupils in Years 5 and 6 have strong learning behaviours established and are usually working at least a year ahead of their peers. With the 11+ process an important part of an Elmhurst education in Year 5 and 6 pupils understand the commitment required to be successful in school.

Three mornings a week booster classes in Maths and English are offered before the school day to support the development of exam technique in preparation for both grammar and independent school exams.

Strong relationships with staff are built and, although expectations step change again in this final part of the key stage, pupils are still nurtured and supported to develop their brilliance. Opportunities for extra curricular experiences are plentiful and pupils are encouraged to engage in all aspects of school life.