This London prep may achieve great academic results, with girls going on to top-ranking secondary schools, including St Paul’s, both Francis Hollands and Cheltenham Ladies’ College, but it’s no pushy feeder school. Emotional intelligence is valued just as highly as academics, and the pastoral care is exemplary. ‘Whenever I need help someone is always there and whenever someone is upset the teachers and our friends are always there to look after us,’ says one pupil. Bursaries of between 50 and 98 per cent of the fees are on offer, and the school is looking to increase means-tested assistance. The head, Nina Kingsmill Moore, has a warm manner coupled with quiet confidence, making her an excellent role model for her charges. She’s well-liked by the girls – as is the lunch lady who dishes out everyone’s favourite chocolate brownies, and gets up to perform a funny dance whenever it’s someone’s birthday.
Location: 86–87 Queen's Gate, SW7 5JX
Website: glendowerprep.org
Head: Nina Kingsmill Moore
Pupils: 251 day girls
Ages: 3–11
Term fees: £7,450
