Willington School is a renowned educational institution dedicated to providing an exceptional childhood experience for children aged 3 to 11.

Nestled in the heart of Wimbledon, this co-educational school offers a comprehensive curriculum that fosters academic excellence, creativity, and character development.

With a strong emphasis on kindness, honesty, respect, and humility, Willington Prep empowers its students to reach their full potential and prepares them for a bright future.

History of Willington School

Founded in 1885 by the Hale sisters, Willington Independent Preparatory School has a rich history of nurturing individual potential. Since its inception, the school has focused on guiding each child towards their unique path, fostering an environment where scholars, adventurers, entrepreneurs, and politicians have all thrived. This legacy of success inspires current pupils to aim high, knowing that they too can achieve their aspirations. The school's Honours Boards, showcasing the accomplishments of past pupils dating back to its founding, serve as a constant reminder of this tradition.

Among the notable Old Willingtonians are Captain Lawrence Oates, the polar explorer; Sir Maurice Bowra, Warden of Wadham College, Oxford; and Sir Basil Liddell Hart, a renowned military theorist.

The school's commitment to providing a top-class, traditional education continues to this day, ensuring that each child receives an individualized approach that encourages academic excellence, artistic expression, athletic prowess, and a spirit of adventure.

Willington School: A Nurturing Approach to Education

Willington School embraces a child-centered approach to education, prioritizing individual growth and potential. The school fosters a nurturing environment that encourages curiosity, creativity, and a love of learning. Through a blend of structured learning and imaginative play, children are empowered to develop their unique talents and abilities. A strong emphasis on character development ensures that students leave Willington well-rounded and prepared for the challenges of the future.

Nursery

The Nursery provides a stimulating environment where young children can explore and learn through play. The curriculum focuses on developing essential skills in communication, physical development, and social-emotional well-being.

Reception

Building on the foundation laid in the Nursery, Reception introduces a more structured approach to learning. Children are introduced to phonics, reading, writing, and basic mathematical concepts.

Pre-Prep

 As children transition to the Pre-Prep, they continue to develop their academic skills while exploring a wider range of subjects. A balance of teacher-led instruction and independent learning ensures a well-rounded education.

Prep

The Prep School at Willington offers a rigorous academic curriculum, preparing students for their future education. A strong emphasis is placed on core subjects like English and Mathematics, while also providing opportunities for exploration in areas such as Science, History, Geography, Art, Music, and Physical Education.

Willington Prep: A Day School

Willington Prep is a day school dedicated to providing a high-quality education in a caring environment. As such, they do not offer boarding facilities.

Facilities at Willington School

Willington Prep School offers a comprehensive education, combining academic excellence with a wide range of extracurricular activities.

The school's facilities are designed to inspire and support students' learning and development.

Music

• Diverse Ensembles: The school offers a variety of ensembles, including choirs, orchestras, and chamber groups.
• Individual Tuition: Students can receive individual music lessons on various instruments.
• Performance Opportunities: Regular concerts and performances allow students to showcase their musical talents.

Drama

• Creative Expression: Drama lessons encourage students to develop their imagination, creativity, and communication skills.
• Performance Opportunities: Students participate in school plays and productions.
• Cross-Curricular Learning: Drama is integrated into other subjects to enhance learning.

Art and Design Technology

• Creative Exploration: Students are encouraged to experiment with a variety of art techniques and materials.
• Practical Skills: Design and Technology lessons develop students' problem-solving and practical skills.
• Artistic Appreciation: The school organizes visits to museums and galleries.

Sports

• Diverse Sports Program: Students have the opportunity to participate in a range of sports, including football, netball, rugby, hockey, cricket, and athletics.
• Physical Fitness: The school promotes a healthy and active lifestyle through regular physical education classes.
• Competitive Sports: Students can represent the school in various sports competitions.

These facilities and activities provide a well-rounded education, fostering students' intellectual, creative, and physical development.

Application Process at Willington Prep School (Ages 3+ and 4+)

At Willington Prep, a nurturing environment that fosters academic excellence and personal growth for children aged 3 and above is offered. There are two main entry points: Nursery (age 3+) and Reception (age 4+).

Nursery (Age 3+)

• Early Registration is Key: Ideally, a child is registered at least 6 months before their desired start date. This ensures they're invited to the Discovery Morning held in March.
• Discovery Morning: Registered children attend a fun and informative Discovery Morning in March (Saturday) before their expected September start. Parents stay with their child during this session, where they participate in various activities led by experienced teachers.
• Preparation: Before Discovery Morning, a reference from the child's current nursery will be requested (if applicable).
• Late Applicants: If the registeration happens late, a one-on-one meeting with our Head of Pre-Prep (Mrs. Henery) to assess the child's suitability will be scheduled.
• Offers & Acceptance: Offers are made after the Discovery Morning based on the admissions policy. Priority is given to siblings of current students, and waiting lists may exist for full places.
• Willington Transition Programme: This program helps familiarize the child with the school environment and ease their transition. It includes open mornings, playtime sessions in the Nursery, a New Parents' Evening, and an individualized settling-in plan.

Reception (Age 4+)

• Guaranteed Entry: Children who complete Nursery at Willington are guaranteed entry to Reception (unless exceptional circumstances arise).
• New Students: For families new to Willington, the child is registered at least 18 months before their desired start date to be invited to the Discovery Morning.
• Registration Options:
  • Register online and schedule a visit (Open Morning or individual meeting with the Headmaster).
  • Late applicants can contact the school to check availability.
• Discovery Morning: Similar to Nursery, children attend a Discovery Morning 18 months before their Reception start. A reference from their current nursery will be requested.
  • Additional sessions may be offered throughout the year if places become available.
• Assessment: During the morning, the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) team assesses language, social skills, enthusiasm, and learning needs.
• Offer, Acceptance & Fees: Offers are made 18 months in advance, following the Discovery Morning and based on the admissions policy (priority to siblings). Waiting lists exist for full places.
  • Upon receiving an offer, parents have two weeks to accept by returning a signed Parent Contract, a non-refundable deposit (£2,000), and first term's fees (due by the preceding summer term).
• Willington Induction Programme: This program helps prepare the child for "big school". It includes playtime in the Nursery, a Meet the Teacher morning, and a New Parents' Evening.

Occasional Places (Other Year Groups)

These spots are less frequent and arise when families relocate. Here's the process:

• Contact & Visit: Contact the school to check for space availability. A tour will be offered (individual appointment or virtual call for relocation).
• Registration: The child is registered online with a £150 fee.
• Reports & References: Submit the child's last school report and authorize a reference request sent to their current school.
• The Taster Day: This assessment day varies by age group:
  • Pre-Prep (Ages 4-7): Spend a morning/day in class, participate in activities, and have numeracy/literacy assessments.
  • Prep (Ages 7-11): Spend a day in class, participate in activities, take online CAT tests (cognitive ability), and receive feedback from teachers.
  • Remote assessments might be arranged for overseas relocation.
• Offer & Acceptance: Offers are based on fulfilling admission requirements and suitability for the school environment. To accept, parents sign the Parent Contract, provide a child's passport copy (if applicable), and pay the £2,000 deposit.

It is recommended to explore the website or contact the school directly to learn more about the admissions process and what Willington Prep can offer children.

Fees at Willington Prep School

• Nursery fees are exempt from VAT

Additional Notes

• A 10% sibling discount is available for those children with an elder sibling in the School.
• Fees include lunches and mid-morning snacks.
• Nursery fees are published exclusive of the 15 hour nursery education grant, which is currently valued at £876 per term.