Elstree School
School summary
Founded in 1848, Elstree School is a small independent prep school in Woolhampton, near Reading in Berkshire, taking boys and girls from ages 3 to 13. With around 307 pupils, it offers a notably intimate setting, and its Church of England character runs through school life. The Independent Schools Inspectorate rated the school 'excellent' for both education quality and personal development, with all compliance standards met. Boarding is available, making this a school worth considering for families seeking a traditional prep experience with the option to board.
Where every mark matters.
Places are limited and demand is high, so exam performance is what sets candidates apart. Passmate turns the months ahead into ten focused minutes a day on the exact topics this school tests.
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Inspection reports
- ISI rating
- excellent
- ISI personal development
- excellent
- Last inspected
- 4 November 2025
Teaching & academics
The ISI's top 'excellent' rating reflects strong outcomes for a school of this size. Just over a quarter of pupils receive SEN support, suggesting a willingness to work with a range of learning needs rather than selecting only the most academic. Academic scholarships are among the awards available, alongside several other categories, which gives able pupils a clear route to recognition.
Headmaster · Sid Inglis
Beyond the classroom
Scholarships span sport, art, drama and music, pointing to a breadth of opportunity beyond the classroom. The combination of art exhibition, drama and music awards in particular signals that creative and performing arts are valued here.
School life & ethos
- Founded
- 1848
- Religious character
- C of E
- Boarding
- Yes
- SEN support
- 27.36%
- EHC plans
- 0%
Fees & bursaries
- Day fees (per year)
- £16,740 - £32,040
- Boarding fees (per year)
- £2,430 - £8,550
Schools nearby
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Tadley Court School
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The Grange School
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Brockhurst and Marlston House Schools
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Watch Passmate decide how to teach.
Answer as a child would. Left: what they see. Right: what it learns about them.
A small, all-through prep school with a top inspection rating and boarding on offer. Day fees range widely, so it pays to check where a given year group sits.
That’s where Passmate comes in. Tutoring is the most effective thing in a child’s preparation - a well-tutored child can outperform the vast majority of their peers. Passmate works alongside your tutor, not instead of them: it learns how your child thinks, finds the gaps, and shows the tutor exactly where to spend each session - so the limited time you have lands on what actually decides a place.
Works alongside your child’s tutor - not instead of them.
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Elstree School 11+: frequently asked questions
Compiled from public data. Last checked 5 June 2026.