Age range. 2–7. Co-educational.
Number of pupils. 130.
Fees per term (2024-2025). £3,320–3,620.
Dean Close Pre-Preparatory School is a co-educational, Christian, family-focused school that warmly welcomes children aged 2 to 7. Our vision is for every member of our community to flourish, grounded in the values of Love, Courage, and Contribution. These values are central to our ethos, creating a nurturing environment where children feel valued, inspired, and empowered to succeed.
Our school is distinguished by its small class sizes and high staff-to-pupil ratios, ensuring that every child receives the individual attention they need to thrive. Located on the stunning Dean Close campus in Cheltenham, we are proud to offer some of the most exceptional grounds in the area, providing an inspiring and safe environment for exploration and play.
A Unique and Purpose-Built Environment. Dean Close Pre-Preparatory School is housed in a purpose-built facility opened by Lord Robert Winston in 2004. The school features a central hall surrounded by bright, modern classrooms, with dedicated Nursery and Dining Hall buildings and age-appropriate playgrounds. Children benefit from seamless transitions between year groups and the preparatory school, ensuring their journey through education is smooth and supported.
Excellence in Early Years Education. All our Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) classes are taught by qualified teachers, providing a strong foundation for both teacher-led and child-led learning. This balanced approach helps children develop independence, curiosity, and a love of learning from their earliest years.
Outstanding Facilities and Enrichment Opportunities. As part of the wider Dean Close School community, our pupils enjoy access to unparalleled facilities, including a swimming pool, sports hall, tennis courts, theatre, art block, astro turf, and an extensive Forest School. Our Forest School program is a particular highlight, offering children the opportunity to develop resilience, teamwork, and creativity while fostering a lifelong love of the natural world.
A Curriculum Designed for the Future. At Dean Close Pre-Preparatory School, we prepare children for a dynamic and evolving world through our commitment to the five Skills for the Future (5Cs):
•Critical Thinking
•Communication
•Compassion
•Creativity
•Collaboration
These essential skills are embedded in all aspects of school life, from academic lessons to co-curricular activities such as Speech and Drama, Dance, PE, Tennis, Art, META, Music, Orchestra, and Choir.
A Family-Focused Community. What truly sets us apart is our warm, family feel, where every child is known and celebrated as an individual. Parents and pupils alike appreciate the welcoming atmosphere, supportive relationships, and strong sense of community that make Dean Close Pre-Preparatory School a truly special place to grow and learn.
The Dean Close Foundation. Dean Close Pre-Preparatory School is part of the Dean Close Foundation, a group of schools and nurseries spanning Cheltenham and Chepstow, with seven nurseries across these locations. As part of a through school, children benefit from seamless transitions through all stages of their education—from Pre-Prep to Prep and Senior School—on the same expansive campus. This unique setup ensures consistency and continuity, giving pupils the advantage of growing and learning within a familiar, well-supported environment that prepares them for the future.
Charitable status. Dean Close School is a Registered Charity, number 1086829.