Welcome to the Prep

Our average class size is 14, maximum class size 18

Welcome To
St Columba’s Prep

We welcome you most warmly to the Prep School, a unique and happy place to learn in the heart of St Albans. We are proud of our reputation for high academic achievement with first-rate pastoral care. With the legacy of Father Coindre and his mission to help form young people of character and value, we aim to launch pupils on their individual journeys to becoming well-rounded, socially aware young people who are equipped and confident for twenty-first century society. Our Prep gives children the opportunities to flourish and grow.  Your child will be known, valued and treasured. Relationships are at the core of our modus operandi. 

As you explore our website, we hope you will be inspired by a sense of what makes our school so special. We extend a warm invitation for you to visit us on a working day: come and meet our wonderful pupils, chat to members of our friendly parent body, tell our caring staff all about your child and how we can give them the best possible start. We look forward to meeting you.

Mr Richard McCann – Head of Prep

Why St Columba's College Prep?

  1. We believe that beginning an independent education early provides children with the strongest possible foundation for future success, both academically and personally.

  2. SCC Prep is more than a school. It is a close-knit community where families build lasting friendships through events such as coffee mornings, music recitals, our annual Columban Fayre, the Winter Ball and many more.

  3. With an average class size of just 14 pupils, every child is known, valued and supported. There is no ‘silent middle’ here. We tailor learning to ensure every child is challenged, encouraged and nurtured.

  4. Our pupils benefit from an excellent academic education from the very beginning. The outstanding GCSE and A-Level results achieved in the Senior School are often built on the strong foundations established in the Prep School.

  5. From Sport and Music to Drama, STEM and clubs, pupils are encouraged to discover new passions, develop talents and grow in confidence.

  6. Alongside academic excellence, we place great emphasis on leadership, communication, resilience and teamwork, helping children develop the skills they will need in a rapidly changing world.

  7. Our pupils enjoy spacious classrooms, extensive sports pitches, a dedicated drama studio and a wonderful Forest School, all on a beautiful 4–18 campus overlooking St Albans Cathedral.

  8. Our devoted and highly skilled staff, including specialist subject teachers, provide expert guidance and genuine care, helping every child to flourish.

  9. As part of a through-school education, SCC Prep pupils benefit from a smooth transition to Senior School without the added pressure of 11+ entrance examinations.

  10. Our values of Open Heart, Respect, Compassion & Trust, Missionary Spirit and the Formation of the Whole Person are at the heart of everything we do. As part of the global network of Brothers of the Sacred Heart schools, we are committed to developing confident, compassionate and purposeful young people.

Prep

Curriculum

Overview

Forest School

Wrap

Around

Care

For more information about our fees, bursaries, scholarships and use of childcare vouchers in reception, please click on the link here.

Book your visit here

Discover more about St Columba’s in our prospectus

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