Prep School Prospectus
Fulfilment Through Challenge
Headteacher’s Welcome:
At Wellingborough, we create an environment where children feel safe, supported, and inspired. It’s a place filled with energy and warmth, where friendships flourish and individuality is embraced. Our pupils are encouraged to be curious, to ask questions, and to take pride in their efforts—both in and out of the classroom.
At Wellingborough School we are passionate about nurturing the whole child. We believe that a broad and balanced education not only inspires a lifelong love of learning but also helps children grow into kind, responsible, and thoughtful young adults. Our commitment to a holistic approach ensures your child is well-prepared to thrive in the wider world, both academically and personally. Through every experience in our Prep School — whether it’s a classroom discussion, a team challenge, or a moment of quiet reflection—they begin to build independence, resilience, and a strong sense of self.
There’s something very special about the atmosphere here. It’s hard to put into words, but you’ll feel it when you walk through the door and explore our grounds. I hope this prospectus gives you a clear sense of our ethos, but nothing can replicate meeting us in person. I warmly invite you to visit us so we can show you around the School and experience for yourself the spirit, care, and ambition that define a Wellingborough education. Please join us at an upcoming open day or book a personalised tour with our Admissions Team.
Simon Hawkes Headmaster
Prep School: A Foundation for Life
At Wellingborough Prep School, we believe that every child’s journey should begin in a nurturing, inspiring environment where they feel known, supported, and encouraged to flourish.
Small Classes, Individual Attention
With an average of just 15 pupils per class, every child receives individual attention and personalised teaching.
Guided Growth from Lower to Upper Prep
Pupils are gently guided through the growing challenges of their education with increasing subject specialism and personalised support.
A seamless Journey from Nursery to Sixth Form
Wellingborough offers a consistent, nurturing experience from Nursery to Sixth Form. Our pupils grow in confidence and character within a familiar, supportive environment.
A Co-Curricular Programme of Distinction
Our broad co-curriculum programme offer enriching experiences to ignite imaginations and broaden horizons.
Creative Expression Every Day
Creativity is central to life at Wellingborough Prep. All pupils learn an instrument in Year 2, while drama, music, and art are part of daily learning.
Digital Growth for a Modern World
Our Pupils thrive in an increasingly digital and fastchanging world through early teaching in Computing.
Early Specialist Teaching
From the start, pupils are taught by subject specialists in areas like Spanish, music, and the arts - laying strong foundations in both academic and creative disciplines.
Outstanding Facilities
Children benefit from access to superb facilities, including a state-of-the-art technology centre, and extensive grounds that support sport, exploration, and outdoor learning.
Uncovering Talent with Sport for All
Our ‘sport for all’ ethos supports personal growth, uncovers talent, and contributes to our proud and respected sporting reputation.
Belonging Through House Identity
Prep pupils join our Club System, this leads into our unique Senior House System, a tradition for over 100 years.
Our School Ethos
Rooted in Tradition, Ready for the Future
With more than 400 years of history, Wellingborough School is proud of its rich heritage and enduring traditions. Founded in 1595, our legacy is visible in our architecture, our House system, and, most importantly, in the values we uphold every day.
Yet while our foundations are historic, our mindset is thoroughly progressive. We embrace innovation and change where it enhances learning, encourages curiosity, and prepares our pupils for the fast-moving world they will inherit.
At the heart of our ethos is the wellbeing, happiness, and development of every child. Our motto, Salus in Arduis — Fulfilment Through Challenge — reflects our belief in nurturing independence, resilience, and leadership from the earliest years.
Our History:
Excelling Since 1595
Wellingborough School stands proudly among the oldest schools in the country, founded in 1595 with a vision to educate young minds for a changing world. Over four centuries later, that vision remains at the heart of everything we do. Our rich history is woven into the fabric of school life – from the architecture of our heritage buildings to the enduring traditions that shape our school community.
The House system, a cornerstone of school identity for over 100 years, continues to foster belonging, leadership and pride. Established as a boys’ boarding school, it became fully co-educational in 1979 and generations of pupils have walked these grounds. Our longstanding commitment to academic excellence and personal growth has stood the test of time, evolving with each new generation.
A Warm Welcome from the Head of Prep
I am delighted to offer you a glimpse into the vibrant life of Wellingborough Prep. Whether this is your first introduction to our school or you are already familiar with us, I hope these pages convey the warmth, energy, and sense of purpose that define our community.
Our pupils are not only enthusiastic learners but also kind, thoughtful individuals who support one another and take pride in their school. With kindness as our core value, pupils learn the life skills which prepare them for a world beyond the school gates. The mutual respect shared between pupils and staff creates a nurturing environment where children feel safe to be themselves, to take risks, and to grow in confidence. The International Primary Curriculum enables every individual to develop an understanding and knowledge of the interconnectedness of subjects, as well as the importance of having a global perspective as they progress through their learning journey.
This prospectus offers a flavour of the many opportunities available both in and beyond the classroom. However, nothing compares to experiencing the school in person. I would be delighted to welcome you for a visit and introduce you to the pupils and staff who make Wellingborough Prep such a special place to begin a lifelong learning adventure.
Katharine Owen Head of Prep
An Ambitious and Well-Rounded Education
We offer a broad and ambitious curriculum that supports academic achievement while developing the whole child. Our approach combines strong subject teaching with hands-on, cross-curricular learning that encourages pupils to think critically, work collaboratively, and apply their knowledge in meaningful ways.
Children benefit from the expertise of specialist teachers who bring depth, passion, and real-world insight to their subjects and learning is further enriched through a wide range of trips and experiences. Our activities programme is exceptionally wide-ranging with a focus on the development of pupils’ teamwork and leadership skills. Our programme is frequently updated and is developed in response to pupils’ needs and interests.
A Space for Exploration
Our co-curricular programme offers a wealth of opportunities for pupils to explore their interests and discover new passions.
With over 50 activities available each week, there is something for everyone, and Wellingborough School’s Co-curricular provision sets us apart. Our recent ISI report recognises that our school not only delivers academic excellence but also fosters an environment where pupils thrive.
“The curriculum is complemented by a well-resourced co-curricular programme, which benefits pupils of all ages and abilities. The programme is wide-ranging and well-coordinated and is designed to support pupils’ skills, interests and personal development – This is a significant strength of the school”
Independent School Inspectorate Report (ISI) 2025
“Both of our children relished the opportunity to play a musical instrument. Our son in Year 5 has just achieved his Grade 3 violin - an interest that was truly sparked by the School.”
Wellingborough School Parent’
Confidence Through Performance
Our pupils benefit from opportunities to build lifelong enjoyment and creativity. They participate in a variety of musical ensembles, including the Prep Orchestra, Choirs, string quartets, and Recorder Groups. Annual performances include offerings such as the Spring Concert, Teatime Recitals, and Rock Pop and Blues.
Alongside Music, our Drama programme inspires young actors through individual and group LAMDA lessons, as well as a dramatic performance by each year group throughout the academic year.
Sport for All
At Wellingborough Prep, our sports programme balances inclusive participation with a drive for excellence.
Our pupils enjoy a wide range of opportunities with an extensive fixtures list, swimming gala and inter-school tournaments - developing teamwork, resilience, and sportsmanship along the way. Our outstanding facilities and strong sporting tradition help uncover hidden talents and nurture confident, capable athletes. For many, it is the beginning of a lifelong love of sport, inspired by expert coaching, a supportive environment, and the joy of active achievement.
A wide range of sports are covered, including Rugby, Football, Cross County, Cricket, Athletics, Netball, Tennis, Gymnastics and Hockey.
As children move up through Prep School, our pupils enjoy more use of our extensive facilities across the whole site and have increasing interaction with our Senior School Student Sport Leaders.
Sporting Alumni
“Sport at Wellingborough School shaped my life in ways I’m deeply grateful for. I was lucky enough to enjoy a 16-year career in professional rugby, and I know that wouldn’t have been possible without the grounding I received at school. The encouragement, belief, and guidance from the teachers and coaches gave me the resilience and discipline I needed to pursue my dream. Some of my happiest memories come from being part of the school’s sports teams, and the friendships I built through those shared experiences remain some of the closest and most meaningful in my life today.”
William Chudley: Former professional Rugby Player: Premiership Winner. (2002-2006, Platt’s)
Beyond the School Gates
At Wellingborough Prep, we believe that education is a holistic journey—one that extends far beyond the classroom. Through a rich programme of educational visits and cocurricular clubs, our pupils are encouraged to explore, discover, and grow in every direction.
Pupils take part in many educational visits, carefully designed to broaden their horizons and bring learning to life. From hands-on farm experiences and adventurous residentials to visits to historical landmarks, museums, and zoos, our pupils enjoy a wealth of opportunities to connect with the wider world.
Our activities programme offers something for every interest and personality. Pupils can immerse themselves in creative pursuits like art and cookery, challenge their minds with chess and tech club, or enjoy active options such as multi-sports, dodgeball and gardening.
Whether planting seeds, solving puzzles, or performing on stage, our activities make every day at Wellingborough Prep full of opportunity and discovery.
Join the Club
The Club and House systems are a defining feature of a Wellingborough education. Every pupil is assigned to a Club when they join us in our Prep School, this forms the foundation for their experience of our House system in Senior School. These Clubs are more than just groups; they are nurturing communities that offer strong pastoral support and a sense of belonging.
Throughout each academic year, pupils take part in a wide range of collaborative activities and challenges as part of their Club, working together towards shared goals. As they move from Lower Prep to Upper Prep, children take on greater responsibility, preparing them for leadership roles and a smooth transition into the Senior School House System.
“The transition from Lower Prep to Upper Prep is brilliant, from move up mornings to Club meetings, our children have felt supported, prepared and confident to take on the next stage of their school journey.”
Wellingborough School Parent
“For us, Wellingborough is about nurturing the whole child, in the classroom, during outdoor rangers, on the sports pitches. The opportunities afforded across the curriculum provide plenty of challenge for personal growth, which we know will provide them with the skills they will need for later life.”
Wellingborough School Parent
Personal Development
At our school, personal development is a central part of our ethos. We believe that every child should grow not only academically, but also emotionally, socially, and spiritually. Our award-winning wellbeing team works alongside a strong pastoral system to ensure that each pupil feels supported and heard from the moment they join us.
Pupils transition through school with warmth and care, becoming part of a close-knit school family.
Being one school on one site, with many pupils staying from infancy through to Sixth Form, fosters strong relationships and a deep sense of belonging. New joiners are warmly welcomed into a diverse and inclusive community that celebrates individuality while promoting mutual respect.
Our Facilities
At Wellingborough School learning is brought to life through our outstanding facilities, which support every aspect of a child’s development – academic, artistic, and athletic.
Children are taught in spacious, well-equipped classrooms, with specialist spaces for art and music – including a state-of-the-art Technology Centre, a large art studio and a dedicated music school. Our Prep Library offers a calm, welcoming space where pupils can explore books, research topics, and develop a lifelong love of reading.
Our pupils thrive in an environment designed to spark curiosity, creativity, and confidence.
Our sports provision is second to none, with access to:
• A floodlit rugby pitch
• 8 rugby/football pitches
• 5 cricket squares and 8 artificial nets
• 2 full-size floodlit artificial pitches for football/hockey/netball
• 5 hard tennis courts
• 12 artificial courts for football/hockey/netball
• 2 athletics tracks
• A modern, fully equipped Sports Hall
Pupils also benefit from a natural Outdoor Learning Area, where they can explore nature and discover the world around them.
As part of the wider Wellingborough School community, Prep pupils also enjoy access to all the exceptional facilities of the Senior School.
Life in Year 6
Pupils in Year 6 have opportunities to develop their independence and leadership skills before they make the move into our Senior School.
Two Heads of School are appointed, as well as a Club Captain for each Club. These pupils develop confidence in public speaking, act as role models for younger pupils and take on responsibilities as leaders. In addition, our Year 6 Pupil Council representatives meet regularly, helping to shape the future of the Prep School. These roles, amongst others, provide our pupils with the opportunity to stretch and challenge themselves, whilst gaining valuable experience in taking responsibility for their actions – key skills which they will continue to develop throughout their educational journey.
“Upper Prep is where the magic happens. This is where hard work and independence is encouraged and rewarded. They can shine in their areas of interest and benefit from exposure to different teachers and teaching styles. We are absolutely delighted with their progress at school and we are proud of the individuals they are growing into.”
Wellingborough School Parent
A Partnership for Success
At Wellingborough Prep, we believe that a child’s education flourishes when there is a strong, supportive partnership between the pupil, their parents, and the School. This three-way relationship forms the foundation of everything we do - when it is strong, there’s no limit to what our children can achieve. Our guiding principle is simple: we thrive together.
Parents are welcome to arrange meetings with Form Tutors at any time to discuss their child’s progress or wellbeing. Senior staff are on hand at the school gates each morning, warmly welcoming pupils as they arrive.
We keep parents fully informed through regular updates, including assessment grades, test results, detailed reports, and parent-teacher meetings.
Our school community is enriched by the active involvement of parents. Whether attending school events, performances, or sports fixtures, their presence adds to the vibrant, welcoming atmosphere that defines Wellingborough Prep.
We also understand the demands of modern family life. That’s why we offer a flexible extended school day, running from 8.00am to 6.00pm, giving parents the support they need and children the opportunity to enjoy a wide range of enriching activities.
“Positive reinforcement, alongside supportive and constructive feedback from teachers, enables pupils to be increasingly secure in their understanding of curriculum content and to acquire additional knowledge and problemsolving skills”
Independent School Inspectorate Report (ISI)
Stepping into Senior School
A Confident Transition into Year 7
As pupils come to the end of their Prep School years, they are well prepared to join our Senior School.
Pupils anticipate joining our historic House system, which has been at the heart of Wellingborough life for over a century.
By the time pupils begin Year 7, they are already familiar with many aspects of Senior School life - having taken part in lessons, sports, chapel services, and performances in Senior School facilities. This familiarity, combined with the warm welcome of the House system, ensures that the move from Prep to Senior is smooth and exciting.
The Heart of England
Originally named ‘Wendelingbourgh’, the town was founded in the early 6th century Saxon period by a Saxon leader called Waendel and is mentioned in the Domesday Book under the name of ‘Wendelburie’. The town was granted a royal market charter in 1201, by King John of England.
Our Location and Excellent Transport Links
Wellingborough School is situated in the heart of the historic market town of Wellingborough. The school offers a calm and focused environment for
a child’s formative years, with excellent transport connections that make it easily accessible from across Northamptonshire and beyond.
For those travelling by rail, Wellingborough Train Station is just a ten-minute walk or five-minute bus journey from the School, and we provide a regular private shuttle service to and from the station at the beginning and end of each school day. The station offers direct services to London St Pancras and journey times from Kettering are 7 minutes, 13 minutes from Bedford, and 17 minutes from Market Harborough. This makes us a convenient option for families commuting from the capital or surrounding areas.
Come and See Us
We warmly encourage you to visit our school to see what we have to offer and all that makes a Wellingborough education so special.
Open Events
We would love to see you at one of our Open Mornings, where you can explore our facilities, meet our dedicated staff, and talk to current pupils.
Book a Private Tour
We would be delighted to arrange a private tour during term time. This offers the best opportunity to meet the Head of Prep, discuss your individual needs and explore the Prep School during a busy school day.
If a term-time visit isn’t possible, we are more than happy to welcome you during the school holidays at a time that suits you.
To arrange a visit, please email our dedicated Admissions Manager, at admissions@ wellingboroughschool.org or call the team directly on: 01933 222427
Admissions Process
Our main points of entry are Nursery, Reception, Years 3, 7 and Sixth Form. We also welcome children at every stage of their education.
1. Initial Enquiry
Please contact us to discuss your child’s education and check availability in your required year group.
Complete enquiry form on our website, Email Admissions at admissions@wellingboroughschool.org or call 01933 222427.
2. Visit the School and Meet the Head of Prep
Following your inquiry, you will be invited to visit the school for a private tour with the Head of Prep.
3. Register your child
Register your child by completing our registration form and pay the registration fee of £120*. We will request a reference and a school report from your child’s current school to support their application for a place.
*The registration fee is non-refundable
4. Come for a Taster Session/Sit the Entrance Examination
Following completion and receipt of your registration form your child will be asked to either attend an introductory session, or sit an entrance exam (depending on their age).
5. Offer of a Place
Following a successful entrance examination and the receipt of a reference from your child’s current school we will offer a place.
6. Acceptance of A Place
Completion and return of the Acceptance Form, together with the acceptance deposit of £600 will secure your child’s place. Your £600 deposit can be returned to you when your child leaves the School*.
*You will be given the option to donate your deposit to the Wellingborough School Foundation. This helps fund bursaries for pupils requiring assistance, or supports school improvements such as building projects, maintenance, and educational initiatives.
7. Welcome Induction
If your child is due to start at the beginning of the academic year, they will be invited to an induction day.
“The
school engenders a sense of belonging, mutual support and respect. Consequently, pupils enjoy kind relationships with other pupils and adults alike. This is evident in the classroom and in the wider life of the school.”
Independent School Inspectorate Report (ISI)
Bursaries
We are proud to be a diverse and inclusive community. We believe that our fees should not be a barrier for children who would benefit from a Wellingborough education.
We offer means-tested financial assistance (bursaries) to eligible families, primarily for entry into the Senior School—typically in Year 7 or Sixth Form.
As the bursary fund is limited and demand is high, it is essential that applications are submitted on time.
We are proud to be one of the few Independent Schools in the UK to offer parents the option to spread the cost of school fees through monthly instalments – completely interest-free. By covering the cost of the interest ourselves, we ensure that families can benefit from greater financial flexibility at no additional expense. This service is provided through School Fee Plan, a trusted provider with over 20 years of experience in supporting parents with school fee payments.
If you would like further information, please ask our Admissions team.
Credit is subject to status. Terms and conditions apply. Applicants must be over 18.
Get in Touch
At Wellingborough School, we offer children and young adults a world of opportunity. We warmly invite prospective families to visit us, experience our environment, and discover what makes a Wellingborough education so distinctive.
Before making the important decision of where to send your child to school, we encourage you to get to know us.
Contact our Admissions Team: 01933 222427 admissions@wellingboroughschool.org
Wellingborough School, London Road, Wellingborough, NN8 2BX
