WELCOME TO ST JOSEPH’S PREP SCHOOL
We believe ambition begins from day one.
Our nurturing environment, adaptive teaching and outstanding opportunities help every child discover their passions.



At St Jo’s Prep, we believe ambition starts early.
“Inspiring ambition is at the heart of St Jo’s Prep. We create an environment where curiosity is nurtured, challenges are embraced, and success is celebrated. Through high-quality teaching and a rich variety of opportunities, we encourage every child to think deeply, take bold steps, and achieve their best. We are committed to supporting them with the right guidance, opportunities, and encouragement to help them thrive.”
Mrs Dianne Searle
Head of St Joseph’s College Prep School.
At St Jo’s Prep, we inspire ambition by helping every child discover their talents, set goals and grow in confidence. With high expectations and dedicated support, we guide pupils in realising their potential across academics, sports, the arts and beyond.
WHO WE ARE
Introducing the Prep School staff
FAQs
Here you will find answers to some of the commonly asked questions about St Joseph’s College Prep School. Feel free to browse through the questions to learn more.
Do you offer wrap-around care?
Prep School children are welcome to arrive from 8.00am. Once their lessons finish there is a plethora of development clubs to occupy their minds and bodies, followed by supervised prep (homework) up to 6.00pm. All of this is included in the termly fees (terms and conditions apply).
Does my child need to sit an entrance exam?
Children from Year 3 onwards are asked to sit a two-hour assessment in Mathematics and English. This allows teachers to appreciate their strengths and identify any gaps in their learning.
What is your Learning Support provision?
The Prep school has a designated Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator (SENco) and teaching assistants, to help stretch those children who require additional challenge and to help those requiring a little more support.
What makes you different from my local primary school?
St Jo’s Prep offers several unique features that distinguish it from many local primary schools. These include small class sizes, specialist teaching staff for Music, Drama, Sport, Engineering and Science, a broad curriculum, and outstanding pastoral support. These elements provide a nurturing and stimulating learning environment that prepares girls and boys for success in their academic and personal lives.
Will my child be offered any extra-curricular trips, visits or opportunities?
Yes! With residential trips starting from Year 4 and half-termly day trips for children in Reception – Year 6, we ensure our Prep School children are aware of the world around them, beyond their high-tech classrooms. Trips include attractions such as Africa Alive, Buckingham Palace and the Kinetic Science Centre. We also go international – to Holland and France. Whenever possible there’s a fantastic Year 6 adventure, before the children transition to Senior School.
How do parents get involved?
We welcome and encourage parent involvement in their child’s education. Parents are warmly welcomed at the weekly coffee morning and Prep School Sharing Assembly, to which the whole family is invited. We also have numerous concerts throughout the year, plays – including Christmas nativities – House games, parents’ evenings, fayres/fetes and sports days. These events give parents the chance to engage with their child’s academic and extracurricular activities, meet other parents and strengthen our school community.