Dean Close Preparatory School
Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, South West · GL51 6QS
Set in Cheltenham, Dean Close Preparatory School is an independent, co-educational prep school for children aged 7 to 13, with around 320 pupils. It offers both day and boarding places and holds a Church of England and Evangelical character. Its Independent Schools Inspectorate report awarded the highest grade of 'excellent', a judgement echoed in the assessment of pupils' personal development. As a small school, it offers a close-knit setting for families seeking that scale.
320
Pupils
excellent
ISI
£28,155
Day fees / yr
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Open in Google Maps ↗Overview & data
- Gender
- Mixed
- Type
- independent (fee-paying) school
- Age range
- 7-13
- Pupils
- 320
- Location
- Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, South West
- Website
- https://www.deanclose.org.uk/
- Telephone
- 01242 512217
Headteacher
Head Mr P J Moss
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Teaching & academics
The ISI's 'excellent' rating across both the quality of education and personal development points to consistently strong provision. Around a fifth of pupils receive some form of SEN support, suggesting the school is geared to identifying and meeting a range of individual learning needs. With 11+ entry available, it is a natural staging post for families looking ahead to senior school.
Learning support & SEN
- SEN support
- 20.18%
- EHC plans
- 0%
Beyond the classroom
Boarding is offered alongside day places, giving pupils access to the rhythms and community of life beyond the classroom. A strict mobile-free ethos shapes the day: phones are handed in or left in boarding houses, with boarders regaining access only once lessons end.
Ethos & heritage
- Religious character
- Church of England/Evangelical
- Boarding
- Yes
Mobile phone policy
Mobile free zone. Phones should not be brought into school unless permission granted by deputy head. When permitted, phones are handed in at the beginning of the day. Boarders must leave mobile phones in their house during the day but are allowed access once school is over.
Money matters
- Day fees (per year)
- £12,000 - £28,155
- Boarding fees (per year)
- £29,010 - £37,170
Inspection reports
- ISI rating
- excellent
- ISI personal development
- excellent
- Last inspected
- 6 February 2024
The last word
A small, well-regarded prep with day and boarding options and top ISI marks. It suits families who value a focused, screen-light environment and a strong start before senior school.
The Passmate verdict
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Dean Close Preparatory School 11+: frequently asked questions
Where is Dean Close Preparatory School located?
Dean Close Preparatory School is located at Lansdown Road, Cheltenham, Cheltenham, GL51 6QS.
What type of school is Dean Close Preparatory School?
Dean Close Preparatory School is an independent (fee-paying) school in South West.
How many pupils attend Dean Close Preparatory School?
Dean Close Preparatory School has approximately 320 pupils on roll.
What is Dean Close Preparatory School's inspection rating?
Dean Close Preparatory School is inspected by the ISI and was judged "excellent" at its inspection on 6 February 2024.
Compiled from public data. Last checked June 2026.