Dame Catherine Harpur's School
Derby, Derbyshire · DE73 7JW
Pupils
40
Day fees
£8k
Inspection
Not yet inspected
Dame Catherine Harpur's is a small, child-centred independent prep and nursery (ages 3–11) in Derby offering an unconventional, flexible approach to primary education. The school's ethos—'Include, Ignite, Innovate'—prioritises creativity, individuality and stress-free learning over conventional academic pressure. Known for innovative curricula, flexi-schooling options, and home-school partnerships, it appeals to families seeking a boutique alternative to mainstream provision.
- →Flexible attendance models (part-time, flexi-schooling, home-school partnerships) suit diverse family needs
- →Child-centred, creativity-first approach that values individual development over league-table metrics
- →Warm, intimate community feel with low pupil numbers (40 total) enabling personalised attention
Who thrives here
Families who value creative, play-based learning and flexibility; independent-minded parents willing to challenge conventional schooling; children who thrive in nurturing, low-pressure environments where curiosity is prioritised over early formal testing.
Strengths at a glance
Percentiles within UK independent + grammar schools we track.
At a glance
Contact & visit
Rose Lane, Ticknall
Derby, Derbyshire
DE73 7JW
Nearest stations
Frequently asked questions
What are the fees at Dame Catherine Harpur's School?
Day fees at Dame Catherine Harpur's School are approximately £7,500 per year (2024/25).
How do you get into Dame Catherine Harpur's School?
Dame Catherine Harpur's 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 Dame Catherine Harpur's School a boarding school?
Dame Catherine Harpur's School is a day school in Derby and does not offer boarding.
What parents say
Frequently praised
✓Warm, welcoming staff and reception
✓Freedom for teachers to teach creatively without excessive standardisation
✓Children treated as individuals; encouragement to 'be children'
✓Inspiring topics and activities that nurture individuality
✓Flexible schooling options suit working parents and alternative educational preferences
Common concerns
!No Ofsted inspection record (not yet inspected); limited external quality assurance
!Very small cohorts may limit peer diversity and opportunities for inter-year socialisation
!Transition to larger secondary schools may be jarring for pupils used to intimate, flexible environment