Founded in 1933, and set back off the A217 in Tadworth Surrey, Aberdour is something of a surprise. Currently there are 333 pupils from 2 – 13, although the school is reducing its intake to Yr 6 in response to local Independent schools starting to take students at 11+.

Set in 12 acres, the school buildings are conveniently located close to each other allowing for plenty of space for sport and outdoor play for the children and also to include the now ‘obligatory’ Forest school area, which no self-respecting Prep school would be without these days.

What is particularly impressive however is not only the pride that the school takes in being Independent; they are not affiliated with any particular senior school, nor do they see themselves as a ‘feeder’ school, but they are also non-selective and yet out of 40 children last year, 29 were awarded scholarships from their destination schools. Part of the reason for this is the introduction of their Personalised Achievement Learning programme

Communication with parents is good and children are ‘dismissed’ to their parents at the end of every day. There are no school buses as there is no demand for them.

Breakfast club starts at 07.30 and the clubs go on to 18.00hrs if children want/ need to stay on.

The children can play golf at the local club, and Chelsea FC coaches come in to help with coaching.

Very impressive integration of creativity and STEM. They are recent award winners of ICT innovation. The children are able to  use technology, 3D printers, green screens etc.