Prep Life

“Prep is the most important six years of a child’s education. We treat it that way.”

"Cranleigh Prep School is a treasure hunt: children arrive with a growing appetite for independence, ready to explore further, turn over more stones, and discover what truly fires their interest. Our job is to open up that breadth of opportunity and then build on it – in the classroom, outside the classroom and in character. Being all-round doesn't mean being average; it means our pupils become genuine specialists on multiple pathways, finding real excellence in more than one thing as they grow."

Will Newman, Head of Prep

Will Newman with prep pupils Summer 2026
Prep Co Curricular Summer 2026

What are the years at Cranleigh Prep?

Cranleigh Prep welcomes children aged 7 to 13 (Years 3 to 8) to our vibrant day and boarding community, set within 280 acres of stunning Surrey Hills countryside.

These six pivotal years form a bridge between early childhood and young adulthood. Here, pupils are encouraged to throw themselves into every aspect of school life - from academic discovery and competitive sport to music, drama, and outdoor adventure. Whether joining as a day pupil or exploring our flexible boarding options, children find a warm, family environment where they feel safe to step out of their comfort zones.

Our goal throughout the Prep years is simple: to cultivate happy, well-rounded individuals who are eager to learn, proud of who they are, and fully prepared for the exciting transition to Senior School.

Prep Academic Lesson Summer 2026 (2)

What is the academic ethos at Cranleigh Prep?

At Cranleigh Prep we nurture curiosity, confidence and independence from day one. Our ethos runs through daily life, with specialist teaching starting in Year 3 (age 7–8). By Years 7–8 (ages 11–13), pupils complete the Cranleigh Foundation Diploma, developing future ready skills such as problem solving, collaboration, public-speaking and much, much more. This gives pupils the qualities and self‑belief they need for Cranleigh Senior and beyond. Our small class sizes ensure every child is well known as an individual. Teaching is carefully tailored so that children are supported where they need it and stretched when they are ready, ensuring strong progress, confidence and a love of learning at every level.

For a detailed look at daily life, routines, and policies across both sites, please explore our Cranleigh Prep Handbook, where you will find everything you need to know about our Prep School.

What co-curricular activities does Cranleigh Prep offer?

Cranleigh Prep buzzes with co‑curricular life. From sports and performing arts to unique clubs like stonemasonry and darts, adventure and community service are woven into every child's experience - ensuring everyone discovers what they love. Specialist teaching starts in Pre-School in activities such as sports and swimming, all the way through to Prep and Senior School. We also offer paid activities in dance, music lessons, riding, tennis, judo and LAMDA. Every year group also takes part in a residential stay.

What is the daily routine at Prep?

The daily routine at Cranleigh Prep balances academic lessons with creative, sporting and social time. Pupils follow a purposeful structure that supports learning and wellbeing, while boarders and flexi-boarders also benefit from a calm, organised evening within House life.

Years 3-4

7.30 - 8.00Drop off
8.00 - 8.10Registration
8.10 - 8.30Tutorial
8.35 - 10.20Lessons
10.20 - 10.45Break & Snack
10.50 - 11.40Games
11.45 - 12.35Lesson
12.35 - 13.05 Lunch
13.05 - 13.35Break
13.35 - 13.50Registration
13.50 - 14.15Tutorial
14.20 - 16.50Lessons
16.50Day pupil collection time
16.50 - 17.45Wraparound Care activities

Years 5-6

7.30 - 8.00Drop off
8.00 - 8.10Registration
8.10 - 8.30Tutorial
8.35 - 10.20Lessons
10.20 - 10.45Break & Snack
10.50 - 12.35Lessons
12.35 - 13.05Lunch
13.05 - 13.35Break
13.35 - 13.50Registration
13.50 - 15.10 Games
15.15 - 16.50Lessons
16.50Day pupil collection time
16.50 - 17.45Wraparound care activities

Years 7-8

7.45 - 8.00Drop off
8.00 - 8.10Registration
8.10 - 8.30 Tutorial
8.35 - 10.20Lessons
10.20 - 10.45Break & Snack
10.50 - 11.40Lesson
11.45 - 13.05Games
13.05 - 13.35Lunch
13.35 - 14.05Break
14.05 - 14.15Registration
14.20 - 16.50Lessons
16.50Day pupil collection time
16.50 - 17.45Wraparound care activities

What is the culture at Cranleigh Prep?

The culture at Cranleigh Prep centres on helping pupils become confident, well-rounded people. The Prep years matter, so we mix academic challenge with plenty of pastoral support. With specialist teaching, a lively day full of variety, rich co‑curricular opportunities and a friendly community, pupils feel stretched, supported and have a genuine sense of belonging.

What wraparound care does Cranleigh Prep offer?

Wraparound care for day pupils in Years 3 to 8 at Cranleigh Prep begins at 7.30am and can run through until 7.30pm, giving pupils a calm, structured day while offering families the flexibility they need. Flexi and ad hoc boarding is also available.

  • Prep Breakfast Club*: from 7:30am
  • Start of Prep Lessons: 8:00am
  • End of Prep Lessons: 4:50pm
  • Optional Activities or Supervised Prep: 4:50pm - 5:45pm
  • Supper*: 5:45pm - 6:30pm
  • Evening activities*: 6:30pm - 7:30pm 

* at additional cost 

Find out more about Prep Wraparound Care
Pre Prep Pupils with Will Newman

Pastoral care & pupil wellbeing

Pastoral care at Cranleigh Prep is delivered by a joined-up team that ensures every child is known and supported. Form Tutors and Heads of Year and our Boarding, Counselling, Mentoring and Learning Support teams all work together to deliver the right care at the right time. House structures build belonging and friendship, bringing house spirit to life through friendly year-round competition. Pupils also have access to The Retreat, our dedicated wellbeing space.

Prep Cafeteria Summer 2026

Food & Daily Routine

Food is an important part of Cranleigh School Prep life, bringing pupils together through healthy meals, shared routines and a strong sense of community.

  • Lunch offers freshly prepared hot meals, salad bar, with healthy variety of fruits and deserts
  • Break-time snacks of fresh fruit and homemade items
  • Three balanced meals cooked on site for boarders, with plenty of variety and options for all dietary needs
  • Food Council with pupil representation across year groups, working alongside the Head of Catering to shape menus and feedback ideas
Senior Stage Selector

What happens after Prep?

Moving from Prep to Senior at Cranleigh feels like a natural next step. Years 7 and 8 (ages 11-13) act as a bridge that links academic, pastoral and co-curricular life so pupils feel ready and confident. They already know the culture, expectations and facilities, and the focus is as much on independence and character as on academics. A clear recognition system encourages good work, kindness and collaboration, reflecting our core values – Aspire boldly, Be yourself and Look out for others.

Year 3 → Year 8 → seamless transition into Cranleigh Senior

Frequently asked questions about Cranleigh Prep School

How long is the school day?

The school day at Cranleigh Prep runs from 8.00am to 4.50pm for all year groups, with optional wraparound care available from 7.30am to 8.00am, and activity and prep time from 4.50pm to 5.45pm. This provides families with flexibility while ensuring pupils enjoy a full and enriching school day.

How is the school day structured?

Pupils enjoy a varied and balanced timetable that combines academic learning with creative subjects, sport, movement and opportunities to explore new interests. The day is carefully structured to encourage curiosity, confidence and a love of learning.

What meals are provided at Cranleigh Prep?

Cranleigh Prep provides nutritious, freshly prepared meals each day, with menus designed to offer variety and choice. Pupils enjoy balanced meals and snacks with options to suit different tastes and dietary requirements. Mealtimes are an important part of the school day, giving pupils time to sit together, socialise and strengthen their sense of community.

How do you support pupils’ wellbeing at Cranleigh Prep?

Pupil wellbeing is at the heart of Cranleigh Prep life. Every child is known as an individual, with dedicated pastoral support, strong relationships with teachers and a caring House system helping pupils feel happy, confident and ready to learn. Through daily routines, activities and opportunities for leadership, pupils develop resilience, independence and a strong sense of belonging.

What opportunities are there beyond the classroom?

Beyond lessons, pupils can take part in a wide range of clubs, activities, sport, creative pursuits and outdoor experiences. These opportunities allow children to develop new skills, build confidence, work collaboratively and discover interests that may become lifelong passions.

Visit us and experience it for yourself

The best way to experience Cranleigh Prep School life is to visit us in person. Families are warmly invited to attend our Open Days and Admissions Mornings, or arrange a personalised tour designed around their individual interests and questions. For those unable to travel to Cranleigh, virtual tours provide an opportunity to discover the School from wherever they are.