The Croft Preparatory School
Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire · CV37 7RL
The Croft is a day-only preparatory school in Stratford-upon-Avon serving children aged 2–11 across a spacious 30-acre estate. It combines traditional values with contemporary pedagogy, emphasizing a 'Backpack for Life' ethos centred on growth mindset, resilience and creativity. The school has not yet received an Ofsted inspection but has been assessed against independent standards and reports strong early-years provision and pastoral care.
- →Substantial rural campus (30 acres) offering forest school, outdoor learning and space for exploration in a market town setting
- →Emphasis on confidence-building and personal development alongside academic progress, with particular strength in early years
- →Strong community culture with explicit focus on kindness, trust and belonging, appealing to parents seeking nurture-first approach
Who thrives here
Independent-minded children who benefit from space, outdoor learning and a culture that prioritizes emotional wellbeing and self-belief alongside academics. Families valuing a smaller, close-knit community in a historic location.
Strengths at a glance
Percentiles within UK independent + grammar schools we track.
At a glance
Contact & visit
Alveston Hill, Loxley Road
Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire
CV37 7RL
Nearest stations
Frequently asked questions
What are the fees at The Croft Preparatory School?
Day fees at The Croft Preparatory School are approximately £12,600 per year (2024/25).
How do you get into The Croft Preparatory School?
The Croft 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 The Croft Preparatory School a boarding school?
The Croft Preparatory School is a day school in Stratford-upon-Avon and does not offer boarding.
What is The Croft Preparatory School's latest inspection rating?
ISI rated The Croft Preparatory School “Excellent” (2023).
What parents say
Frequently praised
✓Nurturing, kindness-centred culture that helps shy or anxious children gain confidence
✓Spacious, rural setting with extensive outdoor learning and forest school provision
✓Strong early-years practice and pastoral continuity from entry through Year 6
Common concerns
!Limited public track record and no Ofsted inspection yet completed may concern some parents seeking independent validation