St John's Preparatory and Senior School Review 2026: All-Through Excellence in the Green Belt

Set across 28 acres of green belt countryside where Enfield and Potters Bar meet, St John's offers families an independent education spanning nursery through sixth form. The school operates from two linked campuses connected by a short distance. Founded in 1988, this co-educational day school combines academic rigour with creative expression as core pillars. Recent achievement underscores this balance: the school ranks 219th in England for GCSE performance (FindMySchool ranking), placing it in the national high tier, whilst 85% of sixth form leavers secured places at Russell Group universities. The school's profile has risen significantly, with the 2019 Ofsted inspection awarding Outstanding, and it now features among the top 40 schools nationally for A-level results in 2025.

The school's identity rests on three pillars: academic achievement, creative expression, and character development. Mrs C. Tardios leads the school as Proprietor and Principal, with the senior school overseen by Mr A. Tardios as Head. The educational philosophy emphasises that communication, creative expression, and clarity of thought distinguish exceptional individuals — qualities cultivated through drama, music, and visual arts as integral elements rather than add-ons.

Walking through the campus reveals this commitment in action. Purpose-built facilities underpin the creative vision: multi-purpose music classrooms with specialist practice rooms, dedicated art studios described by staff as having an "electric" atmosphere, and performance spaces including the Wyllyotts Theatre. The school's newsletter, The Lamb, documents weekly activities across 26 different sports and over 50 individual clubs running throughout the week. This scale of provision reflects a deliberate design to match every child's interests and talents.

The school maintains genuine small-school characteristics despite its size. Class sizes average 16 pupils in the prep school and rise to around 20 in the senior school. Staff know pupils individually, a factor parents consistently highlight. The school council remains influential — pupils have shaped healthy lunch menus and drive charitable fundraising. Forest School integration for early years provision and outdoor learning features throughout the prep curriculum.

GCSE Performance

At GCSE, the school achieved a 100% pass rate for pupils securing a minimum of five grades 9-7 including English and mathematics in the most recent cohort reported. Overall, 68% of pupils achieved grades 9-7 across subjects, with 45% securing top grades 9-8. The school ranks 219th in England for secondary outcomes, placing it in the national high performance tier (FindMySchool ranking). Locally, it ranks 2nd among schools in the Potters Bar area.

The 2019 Ofsted inspection (the most recent formal report, although the school is now inspected by ISI for independent schools) confirmed that pupils "perform very well in national examinations at GCSE and A level." Progress 8 data indicates above-average pupil progress from starting points. Notable subject breadth is offered, with facilitating A-level subjects — including sciences, mathematics, further mathematics, history, geography, and languages — forming the curriculum core.

A-Level Performance

The sixth form delivered exceptional results in 2025, ranking the school 39th nationally. At A-level, 87% of pupils achieved grades A*-B, with 52% securing A* or A grades. Results place the school in the top 40 independent schools in the UK for A-level performance. In 2024, 47% of pupils achieved grades 9-7 at GCSE, and A-level figures show 8% achieved A* and 29% achieved A* or A, with 55% hitting A*-B or above. Over 85% of leavers progressed to Russell Group universities, a reflection of the academic calibre of the cohort.

The sixth form operates with clear university preparation integrated into the curriculum. Dedicated sessions cover personal statements, university applications, and interview techniques. Five Cambridge acceptances were recorded in recent years, reflecting the school's academic trajectory. Extended Project Qualifications (EPQ) remain available for students seeking additional challenge.

Teaching follows traditional structures with clear expectations and strong subject expertise. Specialist teachers deliver sport, music, drama, and languages from the earliest years. LAMDA (London Academy of Music and Dramatic Arts) forms part of English curriculum delivery, with all prep school pupils sitting examinations in dramatic interpretation as they progress through school levels. A 96% distinction rate for prep school pupils in 2022 reflects the quality of this provision.

Homework is compulsory from Year 3 upwards, managed through a supervised "Prep Time" session at school — a practical structure that ensures parents are freed from homework management battles. Regular assessment occurs through continuous evaluation and formal standardised testing in November and June. Teachers emphasise curiosity, investigation, and enquiry as learning drivers alongside rigorous academic basics.

The school's breadth of subjects reflects confidence in its educational offer. Classical languages are available at secondary level, responding to growing parental interest in this area. Sciences are taught separately, and computer science features prominently — practical coding and technology skills are embedded rather than isolated to ICT lessons.

From Prep School

Pupils typically progress to St John's Senior School at the end of Year 6, with internal progression near universal. The school's all-through structure means families choose once, and children move seamlessly through age phases. Those seeking alternative secondary destinations include local state grammar schools and independent alternatives, though the school's curricular continuity and established teaching relationships make staying the natural pathway for most families.

From Senior School

University destinations demonstrate the strength of academic outcomes. In 2024, 47% of the leavers cohort (30 students) progressed to university, representing a significant proportion of a smaller upper-school cohort. Beyond Oxbridge, pupils regularly secure places at Imperial College, Edinburgh, Durham, Bristol, and Warwick — the traditional Russell Group anchors for independent school leavers. In 2023/24, one Cambridge acceptance was recorded. Medical school placements occur regularly, with 18 students securing medicine places in recent years.

The school publishes specific university destination data, though detailed Russell Group breakdowns vary by cohort size. Non-university pathways including apprenticeships, further education, and direct employment feature for students pursuing vocational or technical routes post-GCSE.

Sports: 26 Disciplines Across School

Sport remains a defining feature, with 26 different activities available throughout the year. Football is central to the school's identity: the annual St John's Football Tournament hosts up to 32 schools, claimed as "the largest official football tournament in the area." Three boys football teams compete in the North London Independent Schools League and English Schools FA Cup, whilst the under-13s enter the Enfield Borough 5-a-side competition. Girls football has grown significantly, with U13 and U16 squads competing against established independent schools.

Netball, tennis, cricket, rounders, basketball, and athletics rotate through the terms. Competitive teams from Year 3 onwards indicate the progression from recreational participation to elite squads. Recent match reports document fixtures against Latymer School, Queen's College, and Hassenbrook Academy. One pupil, Leon Scarlett, represented Wales U16 in recent seasons, exemplifying the elite pathway the school supports.

Outdoor facilities include multiple sports pitches, tennis courts, and modern changing rooms recently upgraded as part of campus investment. Year 6 pupils undertake a residential ski trip to Morzine, France, blending winter sports development with residential experience.

Music: Orchestras, Choirs, and Instrumental Pathways

Music provision is substantial and structured. A dedicated suite of practice rooms allows pupils to study throughout the school day, whilst instrumental lessons are available across strings (violin, viola), woodwind, brass, drums, guitar, and voice. The First Access Programme introduces violin, viola, and recorder in early years; uptake of instrumental tuition remains high.

Ensembles include a full orchestra, choir, and the school's current ISA A Cappella Competition winners (as of 2023)—a significant honour that reflects the quality of singing tuition. Chapel choir tours have occurred, though specific destinations vary by year. An annual carol concert and young musicians' recital evening provide performance opportunities. Music technology features for older pupils in Year 5 and above, widening appeal beyond classical instrumental study.

Drama and Performing Arts

Drama is integrated into English curriculum through LAMDA examinations, and separate enrichment productions extend experience. The Wyllyotts Theatre hosts lower school (prep) Christmas productions — a recent example being "Ruby the Reindeer." Upper school Christmas Carol Concerts and full school productions occupy the theatre calendar. A Capella competition success demonstrates the profile of vocal performance. Drama, art, and musical workshops delivered by travelling companies feature termly, enriching experience beyond classroom study.

Visual Arts: Studios and Exhibitions

Art Departments operate dedicated studios designed to immerse pupils in creative practice. The school deliberately positions art as a primary form of communication and self-expression. Displays are prominent throughout both campuses; competitions at national and international level feature regularly, and pupils report high levels of confidence and pride in their artwork. LAMDA-style examinations in dramatic arts are mirrored by formal assessments in visual media.

Academic Clubs and Enrichment

Over 50 clubs run weekly during lunch and after school, ranging across chess, debating, coding, book club, and subject enrichment activities. Specific club names cited include the Music Technology club, the A Cappella ensemble, drama societies, and various sports-specific coaching groups. The breadth reflects deliberate curation by staff to encourage all pupils to find their niche.

Forest School and Outdoor Learning

Forest School integration in early years and key stage one emphasises hands-on learning in natural outdoor spaces. Pupils develop resilience, independence, and observation skills through seasonal outdoor activities. Regular trips to museums, galleries, and democratic institutions feature across the curriculum. Year 6 residential trips and the Morzine ski expedition provide adventure and team-building experiences beyond the campus.

Notable Achievements

The school hosts national competitions and tournaments, evidencing its status within independent school networks. ESFA (English Schools Football Association) success, including finals day participation, demonstrates competitive standing. The ISA A Cappella title is a high-profile recognition of musical excellence. Duke of Edinburgh Award schemes operate, with pupils completing Bronze and Silver awards. In the prep school, 100% of KS1 pupils met expected standards and 100% passed KS2, internally measured metrics that reflect the rigor of foundational teaching.

For the 2025/26 academic year, fees are charged per term and divided into three equal instalments for annual payment convenience. Pre-prep (early years) full-day fees are £4,500 per term, with morning-only or afternoon-only sessions at £2,850. Reception to Year 2 fees are £4,500 per term, rising to £4,750 for Year 3-6 (upper transitus). Senior school (Year 7-13) fees are £5,800 per term plus VAT at 20%. Fees include lunches as a longstanding tradition of the school. A tiered sibling discount applies: 5% for the second child, 10% for the third, and 15% for the fourth.

After-school care options extend the school day. Monday to Thursday sessions until 4:30pm cost £10 per session; extended care until 6pm is £25 per session if booked per term or £35 on an ad-hoc basis.

Admissions via the school's online registration system require a debit or credit card; a £120 non-refundable registration fee applies to secure an assessment slot.

Admission is selective. Prospective families register formally, paying a non-refundable registration fee. For early years and Reception entry (ages 3-4), informal, play-based group assessments determine suitability. Older applicants (primary and secondary entry) sit assessments in mathematics and literacy. A confidential pupil reference from current settings is requested as part of the process.

The school operates a rolling admissions model rather than fixed entry windows. Registration and assessment happen throughout the year, though most entry cohorts build in spring and summer terms before the September start. The admissions team can be contacted for specific timelines for each entry point (nursery, prep, senior school, and sixth form each have distinct pathways).

For sixth form entry, GCSE results inform decisions, and subject selection is conditional on prior attainment. Entry to the lower sixth (Year 12) is possible for external candidates, though internal progression from Year 11 is standard. A-level subject prerequisites vary; sciences typically require Grade 7 minimum at GCSE. Detailed entry requirements appear on the school website.

Form tutors provide personal oversight; tutor groups are small (6-8 pupils in many cases) to ensure individual attention. Pastoral curriculum covers PSHE (personal, social, health, and economic education) as a dedicated timetabled subject. The school council holds genuine influence, and staff responsiveness to pupil voice is noted in parents' accounts. Values-based discipline — referencing curiosity, kindness, and perseverance — grounds behaviour management.

The school emphasises that each child is "happy, safe and secure within the St John's family." Transition support from prep to senior school is structured; pupils visit, meet senior staff, and attend induction events. Year 6 to Year 7 is managed as a natural progression rather than a disruptive change. Wellbeing monitoring is ongoing; staff report concerns early and involve families in supporting pupils through difficulties.

School hours

The school day begins at 8am and finishes at 3:15pm for primary pupils. Senior school (secondary and sixth form) finishes at 3:30pm. A structured "Prep Time" hour (homework completed in school) extends the day for pupils aged 7 and above, with the exception of some senior cohorts where optional attendance applies.

Transport

The school is accessible by car via the Ridgeway (postcode EN6 5QT for prep, EN2 8BE for senior). Public transport connections include buses serving local routes; the school is positioned between Potters Bar and Enfield town centres, approximately 12 miles north of central London. Parking availability on campus is limited; families are advised to investigate car park provision when arranging visits.

Before and after-school care

Wraparound care operates from 7:30am (breakfast not provided on-site, though pupils may bring packed breakfast) through extended after-school supervision until 6pm, available at £10 per session (standard) or £25-£35 (extended). This flexibility supports working families.

Selective entry. The school is not open-access. Admissions assessments filter applicants; families should recognise that all-through education at St John's requires competitive entry at each key stage (nursery, prep, secondary). The school does not report specific pass rates or entry thresholds, so families should treat application as genuinely competitive and prepare children appropriately for assessments.

Commute and location. While situated on green belt countryside with pleasant grounds, the school is positioned between two town centres. Families living closer to central London or other south London independent schools may find commute time significant. Transport by car is practically necessary; public transport is available but requires careful journey planning, particularly for younger pupils in the primary phase.

Creative subjects are non-negotiable. The school's philosophy positions music, drama, and visual art as central to education, not peripheral. Families uncomfortable with compulsory participation in performances, instrumental learning, or drama exams should reconsider. The school makes genuine investment in these areas, and pupils are expected to engage, not opt out.

Smaller sixth form cohort. The sixth form is smaller than many independent schools, meaning limited subject breadth in some areas. Whilst 26 A-level subjects are offered, some options may have minimum cohort sizes. Families seeking extensive choice in specialist or unusual A-levels should verify availability directly. However, the smaller cohort also means more individual university guidance and smaller teaching groups.

St John's offers a carefully curated education that refuses to separate academics from the arts. Strong GCSE and A-level results (ranks 219th and 39th respectively, FindMySchool data) sit alongside a genuine commitment to creative expression and personal development. The school is not selective by accident; it is selective by design, expecting pupils to engage with challenge, curiosity, and creative courage.

Best suited to families seeking an independent, all-through education where results are strong but not obsessive, where music and drama are serious pursuits rather than hobbies, and where small-school care combines with broad curricular offer. Parents comfortable with creative risk-taking and performance-based learning will find a genuine cultural fit. The main constraint is entry itself; admissions are genuinely competitive, and families should verify their child's readiness for formal assessment before committing to the application process.