A Guide to Choosing the Right Prep School for Your Child

A Guide to Choosing the Right Prep School for Your Child

Choosing the right prep school is a major decision for any family. This guide breaks down the essential factors you need to consider beyond league tables. We cover everything from academic philosophy and class size to specialist provision, pastoral care, and the importance of school culture.

Octopus Day!

Octopus Day!

Discover how CMP turned eight arms into endless learning on Octopus Day! Our students explored science, sustainability, and problem-solving, all while getting creative. From Year 6 sewing coffee sacks to Year 4 creating podcasts, see how this cross-curricular day celebrated curiosity and intelligence.

Why Our Extracurricular Clubs Matter

Why Our Extracurricular Clubs Matter

At Cricklade Manor Prep, we believe in a holistic approach to education, and our extensive range of extracurricular clubs is at the heart of this commitment. These clubs are an essential extension of the school day, providing a space for children to explore new interests, build lasting friendships, and develop important life skills. From languages to sport, our clubs offer a low-pressure environment for pupils to work as a team and support one another, fostering vital social skills and a strong sense of community. Each activity, whether it's learning a new instrument or playing a challenging sports match, teaches valuable qualities like discipline and resilience.

SENIOR SCHOOL AHEAD: REASSURANCE FROM FORMER PUPILS

SENIOR SCHOOL AHEAD: REASSURANCE FROM FORMER PUPILS

The move from prep school to senior school is a big step for every Year 6 pupil. With September drawing closer, it’s natural to feel both excited and nervous about this new beginning. To help ease those worries, and as part of Mental Health Awareness Week this year, our Cricklade Manor Prep invited five former classmates—now in Year 7—to return and share their experiences.

CELEBRATING YEAR 6: SCHOLARSHIPS, GRAMMAR SCHOOLS AND BEYOND

CELEBRATING YEAR 6: SCHOLARSHIPS, GRAMMAR SCHOOLS AND BEYOND

September is a month of fresh starts and new chapters in education. While some children are taking their very first steps into school life, our Year 6 pupils are preparing to embark on their exciting secondary school journeys. This year, we are thrilled to celebrate the brilliant achievements of our leavers and the bright futures that await them.

INSPIRING COLLABORATION: CHILDREN AND ARTIST PREPARE FOR WISHFORD ART EXHIBITION

INSPIRING COLLABORATION: CHILDREN AND ARTIST PREPARE FOR WISHFORD ART EXHIBITION

Children at Cricklade Manor Prep have been given a truly wonderful opportunity in the lead-up to this year’s highly anticipated Wishford Art Exhibition. The exhibition, which brings together artistic talent from across all 10 Wishford schools, will take place on Monday 24 February at the inspiring Roots + Seeds Kitchen & Café in Cirencester. Adding even more excitement, the event will be judged by our special guest artist, Jenni Stuart.

Digging into the Past: Year 4 Egyptian Discovery

Digging into the Past: Year 4 Egyptian Discovery

Year 4 had an amazing time on their recent trip to the Bristol Museum, where they explored the fascinating Ancient Egypt exhibition. The visit tied in perfectly with their current topic, Tomb Raiders, and gave the children a brilliant chance to bring their classroom learning to life.

RECEPTION 2025: EXPLORER MORNING AT CRICKLADE MANOR PREP

RECEPTION 2025: EXPLORER MORNING AT CRICKLADE MANOR PREP

We welcomed our Reception 2025 families to a fun-filled Reception 2025: Explorer Morning—and what a fantastic time we had! With their special explorer suitcases (sent through the post in advance), the children arrived ready to go, maps and magnifying glasses in hand.

Green Day 2025: Change And Adapt

Green Day 2025: Change And Adapt

Cricklade Manor Prep proudly embraced British Science Week’s theme of ‘Change and Adapt’ with an exciting Green Day packed full of hands-on learning and exploration. Led by our dedicated science lead, Mrs Jones, the day offered a rich variety of activities designed to engage pupils from Reception through to Year 6 in the wonders of science and the natural world.

Celebrating Culture Through Dance

Celebrating Culture Through Dance

Our Year 2 pupils were treated to an exciting and enriching Indian dance workshop, led by two wonderful parents from our school community. This vibrant experience was a fantastic opportunity for our children to learn about and celebrate a different culture in a joyful and engaging way.