Preparatory (8 - 11 yrs)

Preparing children for education and for life

The St Mary's Preparatory School comprises of Years 4 to 6 and builds on the strong foundations laid by the EYFS and Pre-Preparatory School. We have high expectations and a strong moral code which produces pupils we can be truly proud of.

At this stage, children are encouraged to become more independent learners and thinkers, and to help them in this they enjoy specialist teaching across the whole curriculum, moving around the school to the different designated classrooms. All pupils have a dedicated Form Teacher for their pastoral care who also monitors their academic progress and communicates regularly and effectively with parents. Indeed, parents are a crucial part of our school and our open-door policy means you are welcome to visit us and discuss your child's progress.

The curriculum is designed to give a good balance of academia, sport and the arts. Thinking skills are taught as a separate subject, as well as being interwoven throughout the whole curriculum, and we offer a variety of enrichment opportunities to inspire, engage and challenge. 

Children are encouraged to take part in the whole school community: joining in full school assemblies and cathedral services with the Senior School helps to foster this family school ethos; we have an excellent house system which unites the whole school; and we encourage older children working with younger children.

A strong leadership programme is in place for Year 6 pupils, with areas of responsibility including House Captains, and Head Boy and Girl, and Year 5 pupils have the chance to become librarians. The Preparatory School also provides choristers for Lincoln Cathedral Choir and offers residential trips, including a visit to France.

Lunch is an important part of the school day which pupils and staff enjoy together. Healthy eating is established from an early age so that all children understand the need for a balanced and healthy way of living.

We are proud to be an eco-friendly school with pupils achieving eco stars: we have already achieved a Bronze Award for eco-friendly status and are striving for Silver.