Choosing a Prep School in Staffordshire: What Parents Say

Choosing a prep school in Staffordshire: what Prep parents told us

Choosing a prep school is one of the biggest decisions a family makes. At The Prep at Denstone College, on the Staffordshire and Derbyshire border, we asked our parents a simple question: when did you know this was the right choice? Their answers are part of our 2026 to 27 Denstone Difference parent survey, and they say more than any brochure could.

It often starts with an open day
For many families the decision was made before they had left the building. One Prep 4 parent told us:

"When we attended the open day and spoke to the teachers and children there."

The same parent went on to describe the taster days, where their child could have a say in the choice: "The taster days allowed our child to also have her views. The Prep staff were brilliant and supportive."

If you would like to see it for yourself, you can book a place at our next Open Morning, or arrange a private tour of The Prep at a time that suits you.

Children who are happy to be here
Parents keep coming back to how their children look and sound once they are part of the school. A parent with children in both Prep 4 and First Form said:
"Both my children have been there 3 years now, just from walking round to being shown round they both had a smile on their faces. They both love going to school now have motivation and love every second of every day."

A Prep 3 parent put it like this:
"She comes out of school every day with a big smile and happily wakes up early every morning excited for the day ahead."

In the survey, families rated their children's happiness at Denstone 4.8 out of 5 on average (early results, 14 families so far). Our pastoral care and wrap around care is built to keep it that way.

Leadership that cares about education
Parents also notice what happens behind the scenes. A Prep 3 parent said:
"There was a clear genuine passion across the leadership across Prep and The College to ensure that a high quality and consistent quality of education is provided to the pupils."

Being part of one school from age 4 to 18 means that consistency carries through. You can read more about how learning works in The Prep.

Challenge, community and sport
A Prep 6 and Third Form parent summed up what they value in six words: "Challenged academically and on sports field." Our sport in the Prep is a big part of that. Another Prep 3 parent told us:

"The parent community is strong within school hours and outside of it."

That community is a quiet but important part of the Denstone Difference. Parents tell us it is part of what makes the school feel like home.
"The best thing we have ever done"

The words that stay with us come from a parent of a Prep 4 and First Form pupil:
"We make it work, starting both my children to Denstone is the best thing we have ever done, just seeing them happy makes us parents happy."

Next steps
If you are choosing a prep school near Uttoxeter, Ashbourne or across Staffordshire and Derbyshire, we would love to meet you. Read about our admissions process, see all the ways to visit us, or get in touch and we will be happy to help.

Quick answers
What ages does The Prep at Denstone College cover? The Prep welcomes children from age 4 to 11, as part of Denstone College, which is a day and boarding school for ages 4 to 18.

Where is it? On the Staffordshire and Derbyshire border, near Uttoxeter.

Can we visit?  Yes. Book an Open Morning or a private tour of The Prep