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+.
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.
Percentiles within UK independent + grammar schools we track.
1-3 Loudoun Rd, St John's Wood
London
NW8 0LH
Nearest stations
Day fees at Arnold House School are approximately £31,536 per year (2025/26).
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.
Arnold House School is a day school in London and does not offer boarding.
ISI rated Arnold House School “Excellent” (2022).
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