Clifton Lodge School
· W5 5BG
Clifton Lodge is a small, independent co-educational prep school in Ealing, West London, educating children from Nursery through to Year 6 (ages 3–11). Its deliberately intimate scale — around 116 pupils — is positioned as a deliberate strength, fostering a family atmosphere underpinned by a Christian ethos and the motto 'Optime' (be your best). The school holds ISI's highest double 'Excellent' rating for both academic achievement and pupils' personal development, and was commended in the 2024 Independent School of the Year awards in the 'Small Independent School' category, with a 'Rising Star' shortlisting in 2025. Strong leavers' destinations and 11+ preparation sit alongside a genuine focus on wellbeing and individual nurture.
- →Exceptionally small school size enabling genuine individual attention and a close-knit community feel
- →ISI double 'Excellent' rating for both academic quality and personal development
- →Strong 11+ preparation with track record of placing pupils at competitive London senior schools
- →Christian ethos that emphasises kindness, confidence-building and character alongside academics
- →Outstanding Early Years outcomes — 86% Good Level of Development vs 68% national average in 2025
Who thrives here
Children who thrive with close teacher-pupil relationships, plenty of individual encouragement, and a nurturing but academically purposeful environment will flourish at Clifton Lodge. It is particularly well suited to children who might be lost in a larger school but who respond well to high expectations delivered with warmth.
Strengths at a glance
Percentiles within UK independent + grammar schools we track.
At a glance
Contact & visit
8 Mattock Lane, Ealing
W5 5BG
Nearest stations
Recent investment
Frequently asked questions
What are the fees at Clifton Lodge School?
Day fees at Clifton Lodge School are approximately £21,087 per year (2025/26).
How do you get into Clifton Lodge School?
Clifton Lodge School admits pupils at 3+, 4+, 7+, 8+, 11+. Entry is assessed by Assessment Day, Interview. See the Admissions section above for open days and key dates.
Is Clifton Lodge School a boarding school?
Clifton Lodge School is a day school in England and does not offer boarding.
What is Clifton Lodge School's latest inspection rating?
ISI rated Clifton Lodge School “Excellent” (2023).
What parents say
Frequently praised
✓Warm, nurturing atmosphere where every child is known by name
✓Strong academic outcomes relative to school size, especially 11+ destinations
✓Excellent communication between staff and parents
✓Confidence-building: children described as leaving with strong self-belief
✓High-quality music and arts provision punching above the school's weight
Common concerns
!Limited on-site sports and specialist facilities compared to larger preps
!Very small peer group may not suit children who want a wide social circle
!Fees information is not publicly listed, creating uncertainty for prospective families