West Lodge School

West Lodge is a co-educational preparatory school for 3 - 11 year olds, providing a caring, secure and intellectually challenging environment in which our pupils feel valued and are able to learn successfully.

Founded in 1940 by the late Margery Corke with just 6 pupils on roll, today West Lodge School is an educational trust with over 170 pupils on roll. The School is non-selective at our main point of entry in the Nursery class, which children join in the September following their 3rd birthday.

At West Lodge we recognise the clear need to invest in a high standard of primary education. We aim to provide excellent and positive teaching in a working atmosphere that will foster the overall development of each child during the time that he or she is with us.

The National Curriculum is at the core of the School’s curriculum but it is enhanced and enriched by the inclusion of a wider range of experiences.  Subjects taught at present include: English, Mathematics, Science, Computing, Religious Education, Music, Drama, French, Spanish, History, Geography, Design Technology, Art, Cookery, PE, PSHE and Swimming.

Great emphasis is placed on a thorough grounding in basic learning skills, with literacy and numeracy seen as key elements in the foundation upon which future learning will be built.  Particular care is taken to extend the most gifted children and support the less able.  The School has a consistent record of a high entry to independent schools and local selective schools.

We have a strong focus on metacognition and children are challenged to use their 'learning powers' to be the the best learners they can be: https://www.westlodge.org.uk/growth-mindset

Our latest inspection by the Independent Schools Inspectorate was in April 2022 and rated West Lodge as excellent in all sixteen areas.  You can read the full report here:https://www.westlodge.org.uk/inspection-report

The main building is a beautiful Victorian house that has been sympathetically updated and extended for 21st century teaching and learning. Facilities include:

• Brand new all weather sports pitch.
• A light and bright Art Room, nestled in the eaves of the building.
• Fully equipped Computer Suite with three 3D printers, plus a bank of iPads, full set of micro:bits!, Raspberry Pis and full set of Crumble Programming Units.
• A multipurpose space for specialist teaching, that can be transformed into a space for Food Technology and Science.  As well as an additional school hall, rehearsal and performance space. It is also the base for our wraparound care provision.
• New outdoor learning area for Nursery and Reception children.
• Well-stocked Library.
• Hall for performances, assemblies, lunch and indoor PE.
• A music room and practice room, providing space for peripatetic music lessons.
• Outdoor climbing area and play equipment.
• Sensory area.
• Use of full sports facilities - football/rugby pitches, tennis courts, running track, cricket nets.  Additionally, children swim at a local pool.