Head of Learning Support

Longacre School is a thriving, co-educational preparatory school for boys and girls aged 2 to 11 years. Set in a beautiful rural location on the outskirts of the picturesque village of Shamley Green, between Guildford and Cranleigh, the school offers a wonderful environment for young children.

The school buildings comprise the original large 1902 house plus modern, purpose-built classrooms standing in nine acres of grounds. Facilities include a new dining room, sports hall and Astroturf, sports fields, woodland and an adventure playground. Longacre has a proud history and the motto of the school’s founder, Ursula Fairfax-Cholmeley, “A happy heart goes all the way” is still very much part of the school’s ethos.

The cheerful and purposeful atmosphere at Longacre is apparent as soon as you enter the school. Here, children are valued as individuals and are encouraged to fulfil their potential in every facet of school life. Personal and social development is highly valued, enabling pupils to grow in confidence as they mature.

At Longacre, we believe that children learn more effectively when they are happy, and that excellent academic results can be achieved without subjecting pupils to hothouse pressure. The fact that our pupils gain a range of scholarships, and that they transfer successfully to their senior school of choice, is evidence that this approach works.

Academic progress is closely monitored and regularly tested. Small class sizes enable pupils to be taught at an individual level, with increasing subject specialist tuition as children progress through the school. Alongside the core curriculum, Longacre offers a wide range of activities, sporting opportunities, stimulating off-site visits and exciting workshops. There are after school clubs every day, ranging from cooking to judo, and regular masterclasses for able pupils.

Longacre is a community where parents are welcome. The school has a thriving and supportive PTA and parents are kept well informed about school events and their children’s progress through a weekly newsletter, formal and informal meetings and written reports. The Head and staff work closely with parents to ensure that their children are happy, successful and fulfilled.