Prep at Somerhill
One way of living but two ways of learning
In our prep years (girls aged 7 to 11 and boys aged 7 to 13), Somerhill offers a distinctive and highly effective approach where co-education and single-sex learning blend in perfect harmony. We believe that children at this age thrive when they can learn in environments that reflect their academic, social, and emotional development.
For many subjects, boys and girls are taught separately. This allows teaching to be carefully tailored to different learning styles, helping pupils feel confident, comfortable and uninhibited in the classroom. In these settings, children are encouraged to ask questions, take intellectual risks and fully engage with their learning, resulting in strong academic progress and personal growth.
At the same time, Somerhill is very much a shared community. Boys and girls come together throughout the school day for break times, assemblies and a wide-ranging co-curricular programme. This ensures that pupils benefit from a mixed-school environment, forming friendships across year groups and developing strong social skills in a positive, inclusive atmosphere.
Our prep curriculum and calendar of activities are designed to provide a truly all-round education. Pupils enjoy a rich blend of academic challenge, creative expression and physical activity, all of which help build self-esteem, resilience and emotional intelligence. Opportunities both inside and outside the classroom encourage children to discover their strengths, develop independence and grow in confidence.
With small class sizes and innovative teaching at the heart of our approach, we are able to focus on the individual child. Pastoral care and well-being sit at the heart of everyday school life. Every child is known, supported and encouraged by a caring team who take the time to understand them as individuals, creating a safe, nurturing environment where children feel happy, confident and ready to learn.
Through strong relationships, thoughtful guidance and a calm, supportive approach, we help pupils develop resilience, emotional intelligence and a genuine sense of belonging, ensuring they are able to flourish both academically and personally. Our excellent academic outcomes reflect this philosophy, with many pupils achieving scholarships and moving on successfully to local grammar and independent senior schools.
A flagship school for the PSB programme
From Year 3, pupils follow a broad and stimulating curriculum that includes art, digital literacy, engineering, English, French, games, geography, history, Latin, mathematics, music, PE and swimming, personal, social and health education (PSHE), philosophy, religion and ethics, and science. All subjects are taught in single-sex classes, allowing teaching to be carefully tailored to pupils’ needs while maintaining high expectations across the curriculum.
We are proud to be a flagship school for the Pre-Senior Baccalaureate (PSB). The PSB is designed to challenge traditional perceptions of education by placing equal value on knowledge, skills and character. It encourages children to become reflective learners who understand their own strengths, recognise areas for development and take ownership of their learning journey.
Through the PSB, pupils at Somerhill develop independence, creativity and critical thinking, alongside strong academic foundations. Most importantly, it fosters confidence and a lifelong love of learning, ensuring children are exceptionally well prepared for the next stage of their education and beyond.
Endless opportunities at Somerhill
At Somerhill Prep, our co-curricular programme plays a vital role in developing confident, curious and well-rounded children. Alongside the academic curriculum, pupils enjoy a rich programme of sport, music, drama and creative opportunities, led by specialist staff and supported by excellent facilities. With a strong emphasis on participation, teamwork and enjoyment, children are encouraged to discover new interests, build resilience and grow in confidence, whether representing the school in fixtures, performing on stage or exploring creative talents beyond the classroom.
Our extra-curricular activities and trips programme enriches school life and perfectly complements our academic curriculum, co-curricular provision and strong pastoral care. A wide range of clubs, activities, and age-appropriate trips allows children to explore new interests, apply their learning in real-world settings, and build confidence, independence, and friendships beyond the classroom. From creative and sporting pursuits to educational visits and residential experiences, these opportunities help pupils grow socially and emotionally while deepening their love of learning — creating truly endless opportunities at Somerhill.
Preparing pupils for the next chapter, and beyond
At Somerhill, we are proud of the excellent outcomes our pupils achieve as they move on to their next schools. Each year, children progress to a wide range of highly regarded senior schools, both grammar and independent, supported by careful preparation and individual guidance. Many pupils are awarded academic, music, sport and all-rounder scholarships, reflecting not only strong academic foundations but also confidence, character and a love of learning. We celebrate every destination equally, ensuring that each child leaves Somerhill happy, well prepared and ready to thrive in the school that is right for them.
