Lorenden Preparatory School
· ME13 0EN
Lorenden is a small, day-only preparatory school in rural Faversham, Kent, serving ages 3–11 with a strong Forest School ethos and access to forty acres of woodland. The school emphasises small class sizes, outdoor learning, and a nurturing environment. It is the only ISI top-rated 'Excellent' prep school in Swale, reflecting consistent quality across all age groups.
- →Forest School approach and direct access to forty acres of woodland for outdoor learning
- →Small class sizes and individual attention in a close-knit community
- →ISI 'Excellent' rating and proven academic rigour with broader developmental focus
- →Accessible location in Faversham yet drawing families from Canterbury, Ashford, Whitstable and Sittingbourne
Who thrives here
Families seeking a nature-informed, outdoor-rich education in an intimate setting; children who thrive with hands-on learning and woodland immersion rather than highly structured urban prep culture.
Strengths at a glance
Percentiles within UK independent + grammar schools we track.
At a glance
Contact & visit
Painters Forstal Road, Painters Forstal
ME13 0EN
Nearest stations
Frequently asked questions
What are the fees at Lorenden Preparatory School?
Day fees at Lorenden Preparatory School are approximately £18,990 per year (2025/26).
How do you get into Lorenden Preparatory School?
Lorenden Preparatory 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 Lorenden Preparatory School a boarding school?
Lorenden Preparatory School is a day school in England and does not offer boarding.
What is Lorenden Preparatory School's latest inspection rating?
ISI rated Lorenden Preparatory School “Excellent” (2018).
What parents say
Frequently praised
✓Forest School ethos and outdoor learning enrichment
✓Small class sizes and individualised attention
✓Warm, nurturing community feel
✓ISI 'Excellent' rating reflects quality teaching and pastoral care
Common concerns
!Limited specialist SEND provision compared to larger preps
!Rural location and dependency on school minibus may limit accessibility for some families
!Small pupil roll (112) may restrict breadth of co-curricular and social opportunities