West Dene Preparatory School

Established 1927

In 1927 West Dene School began in Briar Cottage, Graham Road, Purley, with six pupils. They were taught at the dining room table, but such was the level of their education that two eventually went to Oxford University. The standards of education maintained by West Dene have remained at the highest possible level providing the best possible start for children in their early and important formative years. Age Range 2-11 years. Approximately 15 children per class.

Pre-School (2-4 years) Nursery - Children start their learning from age two in bright well equipped rooms. They may attend part of full time and are also offered on extended day. Nappy changing and rest facilities are also available. The children learn through play and are introduced to the phonic alphabet, counting, colours and simple pencil control. There is also an attractive outdoor play area and use of the gymnasium available for their use.

Kindergarten - a flexible day is also on offer in our Kindergarten class. Here the children move on to the Foundation Stage curriculum and also extend their knowledge of phonics, early number concepts and pencil control. The school’s comprehensive reading scheme is introduced during this year. A computer is located in the classroom with children receiving one to one tuition in ICT skills. Music. Physical Education and Drama also play an important part in the life of our Kindergarten pupils. Children are also taken on educational visits with French and Dance available as extra curricular activities.

(4-11 years) Reception - In the reception class the Foundation Stage curriculum is followed for the first two terms and then the children move on to the West Dene Curriculum (based on the National Curriculum) for the final term. The children read everyday and simple spellings are introduced in this year group. A wide range of activities is on offer ensuring a high quality all round education.  Upper School - With our pupils staying on from the Lower School, we are in a strong position to be able to provide continuity in the very stimulating curriculum that we continue to offer in the Upper School. The individual attention that each child receives is enhanced by the small class sizes, allowing each of our pupils to develop to his or her own potential. All of our traditional activities are established with individual attention being assured at all times. These curricular activities include Mathematics, English, Science, Geography, History, ICT Skills, Religious Education, Art, DT and Physical Education. All of our pupils are continually assessed throughout the year, enabling them to work towards achieving specific targets. They are well prepared for entry into the senior school of their choice and we gladly offer advice as to where the children are most suited to continue their education.

Music, Drama, Sport & Education Visits - A growing Sports department together with Music, French and various visits to our local community (these include Mountfitchet Castle, Farm visits, Theatre visits and visits to local services), ensure that our pupils receive a balanced education. The school is equipped with a minibus that allows us to undertake trips to away sporting fixtures as well as visits to educational sites that are located further a field. Swimming is introduced in year 1 and this together with a comprehensive Physical Education programme, contributes effectively to the physical development of our pupils.

School Hours: Monday to Friday (Flexible day for pre-school)

Early Morning Room and After School Club - Early Morning Room is from 8:00am. This is free of charge. The Afternoon School Club runs until 6:00pm (Sandwiches provided). There is a small half hourly charge for this.

167 Brighton Road, Purley, Surrey CR8 4HE