Prep Schools around Newbury

[jammyhammy]

Hi,

We are looking at Prep schools for our son who is in his final year in Pre Prep. We are local(ish) to Newbury and aren't looking to relocate. Does anyone have any insight into Elstree, St Andrews or Brockhurst & Marleston? Have stayed away from Horros Hill due to all the changes happening but open to the possibility, if they're having a positive impact.

TIA

We are near to HH and know the Head well, an ex Eton Housemaster. Really nice guy. The school has been through a lot of change but are now coming out the other side. Huge investment in facilities - £4m in last 3 years. Also Head has brought in whole new leadership team, all from great schools. I think it has turned a corner and would certainly visit. I would be more worried about Cheam, whose co Heads a married couple just resigned last week, 4th Head in 3 years!!
Also hear they are in financial trouble. Elstree I hear good things about not sure about B&M. Hope that helps

As a past parent of Horris Hill, please do not send your son there. It puzzles me how this school has been allowed to continue.Horris Hill

Of the three you mention, I'd say Elstree is the most 'alpha' and pushy. I've heard of at least one girl leaving because of bullying, but make of that what you will. The head is highly regarded, and most people seem to rate the school.

Brockhurst & Marlston is a beautiful site but the head is said to be a bit odd and rather 'old school'. There was a strange tribunal involving a teacher a few years ago. The kids there seem nice enough though and they feed into some excellent senior schools.

St Andrew's is terrific and, imo, probably your safest bet. A very happy, down to earth school and the kids have acres of grounds to roam around in. The new(ish) head has sharpened the academic side a little but retained the happy vibe, and most parents seem to love it.