Prep (Years 3–6)

Leading Prep School in London

Heath House is an independent prep school where children in Prep Years 3–6 (ages 7–11) build strong academic habits, deeper subject knowledge and genuine confidence. Based in our Upper School at The Old Library, Prep pupils learn in small classes, with high expectations and warm support—so they become independent thinkers, articulate communicators and well-rounded young people, ready for the next stage of education.

Prep at a glance

Prep School Curriculum at Heath House, London

As a private prep school in London, Heath House offers a curriculum designed to stretch, inspire and prepare pupils for the demands of senior school. Prep learning is characterised by deeper academic exploration and the development of independent learning skills, with pupils encouraged to think, question and take pride in their work. Alongside a broad subject base, we introduce Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning to support 11+ preparation, and keep learning active through Physical Education that includes rock climbing and cycling.

How we prepare pupils for the next step

Subjects for Prep School

As a prep school in South East London, Heath House offers a broad, balanced programme that supports strong academic progress and confident communication. Pupils study English, Maths and Science alongside Geography, History, Religious Education, Computing, Music, Drama, Art & Design, Physical Education and PSHE & RHE. Languages are a key strength: children continue French and Mandarin, with Spanish introduced from Year 3, and Prep pupils also take Classical Studies as well as Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning. (In Year 6, pupils also receive an introduction to Ancient Greek in the Summer term.)

Why Choose Heath House Prep School?

Families choose Heath House because it is an independent prep school in London that combines high standards with a calm, supportive ethos. Heath House is a preparatory school by nature and prepares pupils for 11+ entry to secondary schools, with an approach that balances academic rigour and active learning. Pastoral care is a real strength: children are guided by clear school values—respect, resilience, kindness and responsibility—and from Prep Year 3, pupils can represent their peers through the School Council. On joining the school, every child is placed into one of six school houses (Apollo, Athene, Demeter, Hera, Poseidon, and Zeus), with inter-house music and sports competitions building community spirit.

The Heath House difference

Prep School Admissions

Prep school admission to Heath House begins with an informal parental visit, followed by an interaction with the Headteacher. For children aged seven and above, admissions also include an informal assessment in English, Mathematics and Non-Verbal Reasoning. Places in other year groups depend on availability, and families are offered a place following a successful meeting and where spaces are available.

If a place is offered, parents complete and return the Registration Form, Medical Form and Home School Agreement, along with the £200 registration fee and £1,800 confirmation deposit (terms apply).

Prep School Fees

Our prep school fees for Prep Year 3 to Year 6 (2025/2026) are charged per term: £5,764 tuition + £1,152.80 VAT + £300 lunch = £7,216.80 total per term. Tuition fees include (among other items) normal classroom teaching, morning break snacks, swimming, climbing and cycling lessons, educational day trips and insurance cover.

After Prep School Activities

Heath House offers a wide range of clubs that complement the curriculum. For families exploring a prep school in Dulwich and nearby areas, our South East London location also supports trips and workshops at local cultural venues such as Dulwich Picture Gallery, alongside many London-based experiences. Upper School clubs can include Choir, Chess Club, Computing Club, Lego Club, Football, Rugby, Hockey, Rounders, Cricket and Guitar, with an afterschool Homework Club running until 5.30 pm (5.00 pm Fridays).

FAQs

Prep is for children aged 7–11, covering Prep Years 3 to 6, based at The Old Library (Upper School).

Yes. Heath House is a preparatory school and introduces Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning in Prep to support 11+ preparation.

Admission is via a parental visit and meeting with the Headteacher; children aged 7+ also take an informal assessment in English, Maths and Non-Verbal Reasoning.