A Senior Prep experience
that feels different.
At The Prebendal School, Years 7 and 8 are not an afterthought before senior school — they are two of the most formative years in a child's journey. Pupils are challenged academically, nurtured pastorally and encouraged to discover who they are becoming.
- 100% of pupils move on to their chosen senior schools
- Specialist teaching across Senior Prep subjects
- Exceptional music, chorister and boarding opportunities
- Extensive sport, leadership and co-curricular opportunities
- A nurturing environment where every child is known
Most schools treat Years 7 and 8 as a waiting room before senior school.
Prebendal treats them as two of the most important years in a child's educational journey.
These are the years where children begin to think more independently, discover new passions, develop confidence and prepare for the challenges of senior school life — while still benefiting from the warmth, reassurance and individual attention that younger teenagers need. That balance is what makes Prebendal so distinctive.
Specialist subject teaching
Strong preparation for senior school entrance & scholarships
Outstanding music and chorister opportunities
Leadership roles and responsibilities
Extensive sport and co-curricular programmes
Excellent pastoral care during key adolescent years
A close-knit community where every child is genuinely known
High expectations, without losing the personal touch.
Senior Prep combines ambitious academics with genuinely personalised support. Small classes allow teachers to stretch, challenge and support every pupil. Lessons are discussion-led and designed to develop curiosity — not simply teach to a test.
Subjects in Years 7 & 8
At The Prebendal School, academic success is built through high expectations, exceptional teaching and truly personalised support.
Although proudly non-selective, Prebendal pupils consistently achieve outstanding outcomes and move on to some of the UK's leading independent and selective senior schools.
"We are impressed with both her academic progress and the way her confidence has flourished."
A school with music at its heart.
As a cathedral school with a long musical heritage, Prebendal offers exceptional opportunities for pupils who love music — whether they are experienced performers or simply discovering a passion for it.
An outstanding musical education, fully woven into school life.
Prebendal is home to the Cathedral Choristers, who combine an exceptional musical education with academic excellence and full participation in school life. Choristers are not separate from the wider community — they balance music, academics, sport and friendships in a nurturing, supportive environment.
A curriculum designed for the future.
Created to prepare pupils not simply for exams, but for modern life — Quadrivium develops the broader skills children need to thrive in senior school and beyond.
Communication
Public speaking, debating and articulate self-expression.
Critical Thinking
Reasoning, analysis and intellectual independence.
Creativity
Original thinking, problem-solving and imaginative work.
Collaboration
Leadership, teamwork and emotional intelligence.
Preparing pupils for leading senior schools.
Prebendal has a long-standing reputation for preparing pupils for highly regarded senior schools across the South East and beyond.
Senior school transition success
Guidance through the application process
Interview, exam and pastoral support
Many pupils also achieve scholarships and awards across academics, sport, music and performing arts.
Sport that builds confidence and character.
Pupils compete regularly against local and regional schools while developing teamwork, resilience and confidence. We balance participation and performance — every child encouraged to compete, improve and enjoy.
- Specialist coaching
- Regular fixtures and tournaments
- Leadership in sport
- Extensive extracurricular clubs
- Opportunities for all abilities
Pastoral care that truly matters.
The transition into adolescence is exciting, challenging and emotionally significant. Senior Prep pupils are supported by teachers who know them exceptionally well — balancing independence with reassurance and guidance.
- Build confidence
- Develop resilience
- Form positive friendships
- Manage academic pressure
- Feel safe, valued and supported
“A school where children are genuinely known.”
Opportunities that help children discover their passions.
From performing on stage to competing in sport, singing in the cathedral choir or leading school initiatives, Senior Prep pupils develop confidence and character in every area of school life.
As a cathedral school in the heart of Chichester, Prebendal offers a unique sense of heritage, tradition and community that few schools can replicate.
Senior Prep that prepares children for more than just their next school.
Come and see Senior Prep in action. Walk our historic grounds, meet our pupils and discover what makes Prebendal different.
Admissions
Our admissions team would love to hear from you.