Age range. 3–13.
Number of boys and girls. 263.
Sherborne Prep is a co-educational day and boarding school for children aged 3 to 13. Founded in 1858, the school is set within 20 acres of gardens in the centre of Sherborne, a town known for its history, charm and strong sense of community.
Our facilities provide pupils with plenty of space to play, perform and explore. These include two indoor swimming pools, all-weather pitches, modern sports centres, a concert hall and two theatres. While we are surrounded by green space, we are also well connected, with a direct train service to London Waterloo and easy access by road.
Pre-Prep. The Pre-Prep Department is based in a purpose-built building with bright, colourful classrooms. It is staffed by experienced, well-qualified, passionate and nurturing teachers, providing an excellent teacher-to-pupil ratio. Children enjoy weekly swimming lessons and a varied programme of after-school activities, including sport, music, performing arts, crafts and design.
Prep. At Sherborne Prep, our Core Skills programme sits at the heart of learning across the school. Alongside academic knowledge, pupils develop skills such as communication, collaboration, independence, thinking and learning, reviewing and improving, and leadership. These skills are embedded in everyday lessons, projects and feedback, helping pupils to understand how they learn as well as what they learn. From the classroom to co-curricular life, pupils are encouraged to reflect, work with others, take responsibility and grow in confidence, building habits that support them well beyond their time at the Prep.
In the most recent ISI report (January 2026), inspectors noted that ‘Leaders place pupils’ wellbeing at the forefront of their work. Their vision for a collegial environment is communicated well and enacted through warm and caring relationships with the pupils’. Although the school is non-selective, many pupils go on to achieve scholarships and awards to leading senior schools, including the Sherborne Schools Group, Downe House, Winchester and Canford.
Co-curricular. Co-curricular activity forms a central part of life at Sherborne Prep, offering fun, challenge and adventure beyond the classroom. Time and energy are devoted to making the most of every opportunity, with a wide range of activities available in the daily Enrichment programme and on Saturday mornings.
Recognition and support. The total amount payable for CEA-funded pupils will be the CEA allowance plus 10% of the prevailing (full) boarding fee (inclusive of VAT). All the Schools within Sherborne Schools Group offer a 10% discount off day and boarding fees for those families currently working in the armed forces, who do not qualify for the CEA allowance. Scholarships are offered from Year 6, with assessments held each spring, and additional means-tested bursaries are available.
Charitable status. Sherborne Schools Group is a charitable company limited by guarantee, registered in England and Wales, (company number: 4002575) and registered with the Charity Commission for England and Wales (registration and number: 1081228).