Highfield Priory School
Preston, Lancashire · PR2 5RW
Highfield Priory is an independent co-educational day prep school in Preston, Lancashire, educating pupils aged 2–11 across nine acres of grounds. Founded in 1937 to serve local business families, the school maintains a strong focus on academic excellence, traditional values, and all-round personal development. Recently expanded with a new purpose-built Early Years facility (The Barn, January 2025), it positions itself as the leading preparatory school in the North West.
- →Academic results consistently in top ten preparatory schools nationally
- →Extensive grounds (9 acres) with outdoor classroom, sports pitches and specialist facilities
- →Strong reputation and long history (since 1937) in the region
- →Integrated nursery to prep pathway with smooth Early Years transitions
Who thrives here
Academically ambitious pupils from families valuing traditional prep education, structured environment, and North West provenance. Families seeking day-only provision with continuity from age 2 through to 11.
Strengths at a glance
Percentiles within UK independent + grammar schools we track.
At a glance
Contact & visit
Fulwood Row, Fulwood
Preston, Lancashire
PR2 5RW
Nearest stations
Recent investment
Frequently asked questions
What are the fees at Highfield Priory School?
Day fees at Highfield Priory School are approximately £10,500 per year (2025/26).
How do you get into Highfield Priory School?
Highfield Priory 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 Highfield Priory School a boarding school?
Highfield Priory School is a day school in Preston and does not offer boarding.
What is Highfield Priory School's latest inspection rating?
ISI rated Highfield Priory School “Excellent” (2019).
What parents say
Frequently praised
✓Strong academic outcomes and position in national top-ten prep rankings
✓Excellent facilities and spacious grounds (9 acres) for outdoor learning and sport
✓Continuity of care from nursery (age 2) through to age 11, with thoughtful transitions
✓Traditional values emphasising good manners, work ethic, and whole-person development
✓Recent investment in Early Years with new The Barn facility demonstrating commitment to youngest pupils
Common concerns
!Not yet Ofsted-inspected, limiting independent validation of safeguarding and provision quality
!Limited publicly available detail on SEND support, pastoral systems, and co-curricular programme specifics
!No sixth form (pupils must move elsewhere at age 11), which may disrupt long-term relationships and require fresh admissions process