The Next 125 Years
A whole world to explore
At The Downs Malvern, we offer the best in independent education for children aged 6 months to 13 years, set within a picturesque 55-acre campus in the Malvern Hills. We are proud to be part of the Malvern College Family of Schools, and recently won the title of Small Independent School of the Year 2024 in the Independent Schools of the Year Awards.
Inside The Downs Malvern
This is just the beginning
We support our young people to grow by encouraging them to explore the world with curiosity.
An independent prep school where children grow in confidence
The Downs Malvern is an independent prep school for children aged 6 months to 13 years, offering a warm and nurturing environment where every child is encouraged to discover their strengths and fulfil their potential. Across our Nursery, Pre-Prep and Prep School, children benefit from being known and valued as individuals, with staff who take the time to understand what helps each child thrive. It’s one of the reasons we were named Small Independent School of the Year 2024.
We believe a strong education should inspire a genuine love of learning. As an independent preparatory school, we combine ambitious teaching with thoughtful pastoral care, giving children the confidence to ask questions, explore new ideas and have a go at something unfamiliar. As they progress through the school, they are encouraged to take greater responsibility for their learning and develop a growing sense of independence.
There is plenty to do beyond the classroom, too. Our beautiful setting in the Malvern Hills offers space to explore the outdoors from Forest School to our smallholding, and learn through experience, while sport, music, drama and a wide range of extra-curricular activities give children the chance to discover new interests and talents. These experiences help them build confidence, develop new skills and find the things they love.
For families exploring prep schools in the UK, The Downs also offers weekly and flexi boarding. This gives children the opportunity to experience boarding life within a welcoming school community and the chance to build independence at a pace that feels right for them. With the support of staff who know them well, children are encouraged to feel at home, embrace new experiences and make the most of every opportunity.
As children approach the end of their time at The Downs, we help them prepare with confidence for senior school, whether they continue their journey at Malvern College or move on elsewhere. They leave with a strong academic foundation, the self-belief to take on new challenges and the independence to make the most of what comes next. For families considering independent prep schools or private preparatory schools, The Downs offers an environment where children are given the encouragement, opportunities and space to grow into confident young people, ready for the next chapter in their education.
Find out more about joining The Downs Malvern.
Accommodation and Grounds
Around 40 of our 200 pupils board with us from Year 3 onwards, either on a flexi, weekly or full-boarding basis, and they can join at any time.
Latest News
From community events to eco initiatives, keep up to date with the latest news from The Downs Malvern.
Admissions
From enquiry to enrolment, at The Downs Malvern you will receive a warm welcome and an effortless transition into the school.
FAQs
What is the best age to start at a private prep school?
There’s no single “right” age, but many families choose to start in Reception or earlier so their child can build strong friendships, confidence and academic foundations in a setting that feels like home. At The Downs Malvern, most pupils join in the early years and grow up with us from Mini Malvern Nursery through to Year 8. However, we also welcome children into later year groups, including at Year 7, for a focused transition to senior school.
Are private schools better than state schools?
Both sectors have excellent schools. What makes independent prep schools like The Downs Malvern distinctive is our smaller class sizes, greater curriculum flexibility and high levels of pastoral care. This allows us to tailor each child’s education, ensuring they are supported and challenged in equal measure.
What age can my child join The Downs Malvern?
Children can join The Downs Malvern from as young as 6 months in our nursery, Mini Malvern, and continue through to age 13 in our Prep School. Reception starts at age 4; however, we welcome enquiries for any year group and can advise on current availability and the admissions process.
Do you offer Taster Days for younger children?
Yes, we do. Taster Days are the perfect opportunity for children to experience life at The Downs Malvern. Each child is paired with a buddy from their class and joins in with the normal routine, from lessons and playtimes to lunch, so they can feel at home and make new friends.
What is the class size in Pre-Prep?
Class sizes in our Pre-Prep at The Downs Malvern are deliberately small, typically around 12 to 15 children. This allows us to offer highly personalised support, both academically and pastorally, while giving each child the space to grow at their own pace.
Is there wraparound care or after-school provision?
Yes. We offer wraparound care from 7.30am to 6.00pm, including breakfast club, after-school clubs and supervised activities. Our flexible provision is ideal for busy families, with engaging options that children love.
What curriculum is followed in Pre-Prep?
In Pre-Prep at The Downs Malvern, we follow the National Curriculum for Key Stage 1 in core subjects such as English, maths, science and humanities, giving children a broad foundation of skills and knowledge. This is enriched by topic-based learning, specialist teaching in areas like music, French, drama, swimming and outdoor adventure, and regular trips and visitors that bring topics to life.
For more detail, please see our Pre-Prep day school information.
Can my child board at The Downs?
Yes. Boarding at The Downs Malvern is available from Year 3 (age 7) and can be full, weekly or flexi. Our boarding house is a real home from home, helping children grow in independence while feeling fully supported and part of a close-knit community.
How does the school work with parents to support early development?
At The Downs Malvern, we see parents as partners in their child’s early development and education. From daily updates and regular parent meetings to workshops, events and informal check-ins, we keep communication open throughout the nursery and Pre-Prep years. Our shared goal is to nurture happy, confident learners and ensure every child feels supported both at home and at school.
What enrichment activities are offered in Prep School?
Prep School pupils at The Downs Malvern take part in a rich enrichment programme that includes Forest School, outdoor adventures, sport, music, drama, art and a wide range of clubs. Our Saturday morning Hobbies programme and hands-on experiences in the Smallholding add even more depth, helping children discover new interests, develop practical skills and build real-world confidence.
Is it worth sending a child to private school?
It depends on each child and family, but independent prep schools like The Downs Malvern can offer several advantages, from smaller class sizes and high levels of pastoral care to enhanced facilities, broader opportunities and more personalised teaching. We focus on developing the whole child – academically, socially and emotionally – in an environment where children are known, supported and inspired. State schools have many strengths too, but what sets us apart is the time and space we can give to each individual child.
Why choose a Prep School?
Prep schools offer a nurturing environment focused on whole-child development. Alongside strong academic teaching, pupils enjoy music, drama, sport, outdoor learning and a wide range of enrichment activities, all within a community that values character and kindness. At The Downs Malvern, we also provide extensive wraparound care, a Saturday Hobbies programme for pupils in Year 3 and above, and a vibrant calendar of events and experiences that help prepare children for senior school and life beyond.
How do you support shy or nervous children starting school?
We get to know each child as an individual and work closely with parents to ease the transition. With warm staff, small classes and a friendly atmosphere, children quickly feel safe and settled. We take things at their pace, building confidence gradually through encouragement, routine and kindness.
Are meals, snacks and rest time provided for younger children?
Yes. In Pre-Prep at The Downs Malvern, children enjoy healthy snacks and a nutritious hot lunch and younger pupils have rest time if needed. We support their wellbeing throughout the day, and mealtimes are a relaxed, social part of school life shared with friends and staff. Food is provided for Mini Malvern Nursery children at a supplement.
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