Dallington School
United Kingdom · EC1V 0BW
Dallington School is a progressive, alternative prep founded in 1978 in central London (Clerkenwell), serving 3–11 year-olds in a small, family-owned setting. It champions child-centred, unhurried learning with emphasis on creativity, independence, and natural developmental progression rather than early acceleration. The school explicitly rejects conventional frenetic education culture, offering an informal, holistic environment where children are encouraged to question, make mistakes, and develop intrinsic curiosity.
- →Progressive, alternative pedagogy emphasising creativity and independence over conventional early academics
- →Intimate family school (66 pupils) with bespoke, child-centred approach
- →Forest School and arts-rich curriculum alongside literacy, numeracy, and STEM
- →Flexibility: part-time nursery, flexi-schooling, and wraparound care options
Who thrives here
Creative, curious children who benefit from gentle-paced, exploratory learning and parents seeking an alternative to conventional prep culture. Suited to pupils who thrive with autonomy, artistic expression, and play-based early learning.
Strengths at a glance
Percentiles within UK independent + grammar schools we track.
At a glance
Contact & visit
8 Dallington Street, London, Greater London
United Kingdom
EC1V 0BW
Nearest stations
Frequently asked questions
What are the fees at Dallington School?
Day fees at Dallington School are approximately £17,325 per year (2025/26).
How do you get into Dallington School?
Dallington 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 Dallington School a boarding school?
Dallington School is a day school in United Kingdom and does not offer boarding.
What is Dallington School's latest inspection rating?
Ofsted rated Dallington School “Requires improvement” (2022).
What parents say
Frequently praised
✓Child-centred, creative approach nurturing curiosity and love of learning
✓Small, intimate family environment with bespoke pastoral attention
✓Unhurried philosophy reducing parental and pupil anxiety
✓Flexibility in schooling arrangements (part-time, flexi-schooling) suitable for modern families
✓Strong focus on independence, resilience, and emotional literacy
Common concerns
!Not yet Ofsted-inspected; limited external validation of educational outcomes
!Progressive pedagogy may not align with parents seeking traditional academics or early acceleration
!Small size (66 pupils) may limit facilities, specialist teaching, or peer diversity
!Limited public information on GCSE/secondary preparation outcomes