MixedIndependentBoarding

The Downs Malvern

Malvern, Herefordshire, West Midlands · WR13 6EY

A small Church of England prep school taking children from the age of two right through to thirteen, The Downs Malvern combines day and boarding places for just over 200 pupils. Its pupil-to-teacher ratio of around seven is notably low, allowing close attention to each child during these formative years. The Independent Schools Inspectorate rated the school 'excellent' in both education and personal development, with compliance requirements met. It suits families seeking an intimate, all-through preparatory setting in Malvern, with the option of boarding.

204

Pupils

excellent

ISI

£25,635

Day fees / yr

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Overview & data

Gender
Mixed
Type
independent (fee-paying) school
Age range
2-13
Pupils
204
Pupil:teacher ratio
7
Location
Malvern, Herefordshire, West Midlands
Website
https://www.thedownsmalvern.org.uk/
Telephone
01684 544100

Headteacher

Head Mr A Nuttall

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Teaching & academics

An ISI 'excellent' judgement points to strong teaching and outcomes across the prep years, supported by a generous staffing level that gives pupils individual attention. As an all-through prep school ending at thirteen, the focus is on preparing children thoroughly for their next senior schools. Academic scholarships are among the awards on offer.

Arts & extracurricular

Scholarships

AcademicSportArtDramaMusic

Beyond the classroom

The breadth beyond the classroom is reflected in scholarships available for sport, art, drama and music, signalling genuine investment in the arts and physical pursuits. Boarding provision allows pupils to take fuller advantage of school life across the day and week.

Ethos & heritage

Religious character
C of E
Boarding
Yes

Mobile phone policy

Mobile phones not allowed at school. Pupils welcome to bring them but must be handed into reception upon arrival

Money matters

Day fees (per year)
£10,665 - £25,635
Boarding fees (per year)
£22,650 - £33,915
Bursaries up to
100% of fees

Means-tested bursaries of 100 per cent available

Inspection reports

ISI rating
excellent
ISI personal development
excellent
Last inspected
14 June 2023
Read the full inspection report ↗

The last word

A small, nurturing C of E prep with boarding and a strikingly low pupil-to-teacher ratio. Means-tested bursaries of up to 100 per cent widen access to a school where fees otherwise run high.

The Passmate verdict

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The Downs Malvern 11+: frequently asked questions

Where is The Downs Malvern located?

The Downs Malvern is located at Brockhill Road, Colwall, Malvern, Malvern, WR13 6EY.

What type of school is The Downs Malvern?

The Downs Malvern is an independent (fee-paying) school in West Midlands.

How many pupils attend The Downs Malvern?

The Downs Malvern has approximately 204 pupils on roll.

What is The Downs Malvern's inspection rating?

The Downs Malvern is inspected by the ISI and was judged "excellent" at its inspection on 14 June 2023.

Compiled from public data. Last checked June 2026.