Arnold House School
London · NW8 0LH
Arnold House is a day-only boys' preparatory school founded in 1905, located in the leafy St John's Wood area of central London. The school combines traditional values with modern, boy-centred pedagogy across ages 3–13, emphasizing whole-child development and strong pastoral care. A distinctive feature is access to Canons Park, a rare amenity for a London prep school that provides outdoor learning and wellbeing opportunities. Boys typically progress to leading independent senior schools at 11+ and 13+.
- →Specialist all-boys education with teaching methods tailored to how boys learn
- →Unique access to Canons Park for outdoor learning and character development alongside city-centre convenience
- →Established track record of successful senior school placements to top independent schools
- →Strong pastoral care and commitment to nurturing confidence and values alongside academic rigour
Who thrives here
Boys who benefit from single-sex education and active outdoor learning; families seeking a traditional prep school ethos with modern boy-centred teaching; pupils who thrive in a well-resourced, community-focused environment with clear pathways to leading senior schools.
Strengths at a glance
Percentiles within UK independent + grammar schools we track.
At a glance
Contact & visit
1-3 Loudoun Rd, St John's Wood
London
NW8 0LH
Nearest stations
Recent investment
Frequently asked questions
What are the fees at Arnold House School?
Day fees at Arnold House School are approximately £31,536 per year (2025/26).
How do you get into Arnold House School?
Arnold House School admits pupils at 3+, 4+, 7+, 8+, 11+, 13+. Entry is assessed by 11+ Selective Examination. See the Admissions section above for open days and key dates.
Is Arnold House School a boarding school?
Arnold House School is a day school in London and does not offer boarding.
What is Arnold House School's latest inspection rating?
ISI rated Arnold House School “Excellent” (2022). This grading is no longer issued — both inspectorates have since changed how they report outcomes.
Further reading
What parents say
Frequently praised
✓Strong pastoral care and individual attention to each boy's development
✓Unique outdoor learning at Canons Park sets school apart; excellent for wellbeing
✓Successful track record of senior school placements to leading independent schools
✓Boy-centred teaching approach; specialist staff who understand how boys learn
✓Friendly, inclusive community with strong parental engagement
✓Excellent facilities and prime central London location
Common concerns
!Not yet inspected by Ofsted; limited independent validation of quality compared to inspected peers
!All-boys education not suitable for families preferring co-education
!Day-only model may not suit families requiring flexibility or extended hours