THECROFT
Independent in thought. Invested in every child. Supportive in every step. At The Croft, childhood is cherished, individuality is celebrated and belief is nurtured - because when a child believes they can, they will. the croft preparatory school
A t The Croft, we believe that confidence is the foundation of success. When children feel secure, valued and understood, they f lourish - academically, socially and personally. Our school is a place where ambition is encouraged and kindness is instinctive. We nurture independence in learning and character, ensuring that every child develops the resilience and belief required not only to succeed at school but to thrive beyond it. Set within beautiful grounds, The Croft offers an environment where curiosity is ignited, talents are discovered and individuality is celebrated. Many of our former pupils ref lect: “The Croft gave me the belief to achieve.” That belief remains at the heart of everything we do. Marcus Cook Headmaster 1 dulce et forte
Our Story 1933 - The Beginning Founded by Miss M. G. Phillips, The Croft School started in Stratford-upon-Avon and quickly grew to 80 pupils. Miss Phillips became the town’s second female Mayor and a Justice of the Peace, reflecting the school’s early commitment to leadership and community. 1939–1945 - Supporting the Nation During World War II, The Croft contributed to the war effort through fundraising, campaigns and fire marshal training, while caring for boarders through rationing and uncertainty. 1944–1960s - Growing Education Post-1944 Education Act, The Croft focused on preparing pupils for 11-plus exams. Dedicated teachers like Miss Porter and Miss Thompson nurtured learning in games, art, geography and more. 1964–1980 - Clubs, Adventures and Tradition Under Rev. Gordon and Mrs Eileen Whitmore, the school introduced Friday clubs and Young Explorers, fostering outdoor learning and creativity. Mrs Whitmore also designed the school shield, featuring a “C” for The Croft over Stratfordupon-Avon, symbolising community spirit. 1981–1990 - A New Chapter with the Thorntons The Thornton family purchased The Croft, nearly doubling pupil numbers. A 30-acre farm outside Stratford-upon-Avon became the new campus, with spaces for art, sports, conservation and outdoor exploration. 1990–2007 - Modernising Learning Spaces Mrs Lorna Wolfe and later Dr Patricia Thompson enhanced the school’s facilities with the Clock Tower, the Pre-Prep area, the train room, the geology room and more. In 2007, Mundell Court was opened, providing a dedicated music space and a state-of-the-art STEM department. 2013–Present - Continuing the Legacy Mr Marcus Cook leads The Croft today, preserving its traditions while embracing 21st century learning. The school remains a place where curiosity, creativity and community spirit flourish. 2 the croft preparatory school
Our Ethos: Independent We nurture independence in thought, learning and approach. From the earliest years, pupils are encouraged to question, explore and take ownership of their progress. They learn how to critically think rather than being told what to think. Invested Every child is known. Every child matters. Our teachers are deeply committed to understanding individual strengths, aspirations and areas for growth. We bring out the very best in each pupil, fostering adaptability, resilience and intellectual curiosity. Supportive We are a natural extension of every family. Through close partnership with parents, we create a secure and trusting community where children feel safe to take risks, try again and grow in confidence. 3 dulce et forte
Preparing Young Minds for a Changing World Our Innovative Faculty Structure At our school, we believe that preparatory education should do more than teach - it should ignite curiosity, inspire creativity and build confident, resilient learners. That’s why we’ve reimagined learning through a dynamic faculty structure, designed to nurture the whole child and prepare them for the challenges of tomorrow. 4 the croft preparatory school
Our approach groups learning into five interconnected faculties, ensuring every child develops intellectually, emotionally, physically and socially: Creative Arts Imagine, Express, Create Through music, drama and visual arts, pupils explore creativity, collaborate with peers and bring ideas to life with confidence and innovation. Emotional & Physical Development Thrive Inside & Out Pupils build resilience, teamwork, articulate communication and self-expression - preparing them for life as well as learning. Humanities Understand, Reflect, Empathise Pupils cultivate empathy, perspective and critical thinking, helping them engage thoughtfully with people, cultures and the world around them. Language Connect Globally Pupils become confident communicators who connect across cultures, building global awareness and appreciating diverse perspectives. STEM Think, Investigate, Solve Pupils cultivate logical reasoning, problem-solving and investigative curiosity, equipping them with the skills to innovate and explore new ideas. By learning within these five faculties, pupils discover their passions, develop essential skills and gain the confidence to express themselves across every aspect of life. Lessons are purposeful, engaging and thoughtfully structured. Small class sizes allow teachers to know each pupil intimately - stretching the able, supporting where necessary and inspiring all children to achieve their potential. This is more than a curriculum, it’s a framework for growth. 5 dulce et forte
Strong Progress & Attainment We are delighted to report that our pupils consistently make excellent progress in English and Maths, reflecting the impact of our supportive, personalised learning environment. Across the school, children regularly meet or exceed expectations, building skills and confidence at every stage. Year 6 Achievements Outstanding Academic Success A significant proportion of Year 6 pupils secure Grammar School places with many receiving academic scholarships. Excellence Across Disciplines Pupils excel in their chosen disciplines across music, art, drama, sport and performing arts, earning awards and scholarships that reflect exceptional talent and highlevel achievement within each field. Celebrating Leadership and Talent Individual awards and scholarships recognise personal excellence, with the Headmaster’s Award and the Griffin Award serving as examples of the highest level of scholarship awards for broad achievement at some leading local independent schools. Developing Future Leaders Many pupils progress to leadership roles in secondary school (head girl, head boy, prefect), demonstrating character, maturity and responsibility. These outcomes reflect our ethos: academic excellence intertwined with independence, investment and support, equipping children not just to succeed but to flourish. It is always easy to identify pupils who have come from The Croft - they are distinguished by their quiet confidence, exemplary manners and steadfast approach to learning. Teacher, Local Grammar School 6 the croft preparatory school
Learning Beyond the Classroom in an Exceptional Setting Space to Explore. Freedom to Grow. Confidence to Thrive. At our school, education stretches far beyond the classroom. Our inspiring learning environment - with expansive 30acre grounds, dedicated learning spaces and specialist facilities for sport, music, drama and the arts - gives every child the freedom to explore, create and flourish. Hands-On Learning Every Day From forest adventures and team challenges to performances, trips and clubs, pupils experience learning that is active, engaging and treasured. Opportunities to Shine Children are given the space to: • Discover and develop new talents • Build teamwork, leadership and resilience • Experience the joy of participation Confidence in a Supportive Environment In a safe, stimulating and purposeful setting, children are encouraged to step beyond their comfort zones, celebrate achievements and grow into confident, capable individuals ready to embrace the future. 7 dulce et forte
40% 300–400 DULCE ET FORTE BACKPACK FOR LIFE CORE VALUES +90 YEARS EXCELLENT 20PUPILS awarded secondary scholarships on average Building Foundations for Life Community & Scale Academic Success* Whole-Child Approach Estate & Heritage Learning & Classes ISI Rated pupils every year Nurturing children who are both kind / joyful and resilient / strong of educational excellence Celebrating tradition while confidently shaping the future Nurturing generations of well-rounded children Focus on mind, body and soul Creative, hands-on learning wherever possible Many pupils assume leadership roles in secondary school Over 40 years on our 30-acre Alveston Hill Farm estate Happy, healthy children make confident, curious, empowered learners Small class sizes per class As a non-selective school: 1 in 4 pupils still gain grammar school places Experienced educators & proven teaching methods Skill & Innovation Personal Attributes Emotional Intelligence Developing Potential Society Friendship & Trust, Respect, Creativity, Growth Mindset, Excellence & Resilience *Based on secondary school places offered 2013-2025 Our School at a Glance 8 the croft preparatory school
Personal Development & Character Character education is part of everyday life. Our Core Values Resilience Embracing challenges and bouncing back stronger Respect Valuing ourselves, others and the world around us Friendship & Trust Building meaningful relationships and mutual confidence Excellence Striving for our best in all we do Creativity Exploring ideas and expressing imagination freely Growth Mindset Seeing mistakes as opportunities and believing in the power of effort Children learn to collaborate, to lead and to listen. They understand the value of effort and the importance of empathy. Mistakes are seen as opportunities. Challenges become stepping stones. Belief grows steadily, authentically and with lasting impact. At The Croft, safeguarding is at the heart of our community. We are committed to ensuring every child feels safe, valued, heard and supported to thrive in a caring and vigilant environment where well-being and protection are everyone’s responsibility. 9 dulce et forte
Preparation for the Future Primary education lays the foundation for lifelong success. By the time pupils leave The Croft, they are: • Academically prepared • Emotionally resilient • Socially confident • Ready for the next stage of education They leave not just with strong results but with something even more powerful: a belief in themselves. 10 the croft preparatory school
If we do not change the way we teach, in 30 years we’ll be in trouble. We teach our kids things from the past 200 years… We have to teach our kids something unique, so that a machine can never catch up with us: values, believing, independent thinking, teamwork, care for others - the soft skills - sports, music, painting, arts, to make sure humans are different from machines. Jack Ma, former English teacher and founder of eCommerce giant Alibaba Backpack for Life Backpack for Life, launched in September 2024, is a forward-thinking curriculum unique to The Croft. It complements the national curriculum, helping children prepare for a future where creativity, resilience and human values are more important than ever. Backpack for Life centres on: • Self-discovery: finding hidden talents and passions • Personal growth: developing confidence and independence • Understanding others: fostering empathy and awareness for collective success Pupils carry a ‘Passport’, earning a sticker in each of the five areas - or ‘Pockets’ - as they demonstrate skills. The goal: a complete “Backpack” by the time they leave The Croft. Skills: The Five ‘Pockets’ 1. Skill & Innovation Creative problem-solving and practical skills to overcome challenges. 2. Personal Attributes Doing the right thing at the right time for the right people. 3. Emotional Intelligence Understanding yourself and applying that insight to the world around you. 4. Society Awareness of the world to make informed, responsible decisions. 5. Developing Potential Unlocking and exploring inner abilities to thrive academically, socially and personally. 11 dulce et forte
A Community That Feels Like Family The Croft is more than a school - it is a community. Strong relationships between staff, pupils and families create an atmosphere of warmth and trust. Communication is open and partnership is valued. Parents are welcomed into school life through events, performances and shared celebrations of achievement. Together, we create a secure foundation from which children can confidently grow. These voices reflect what matters most - children who feel capable, valued and inspired. When my child came home talking about baking bread to understand where the Great Fire of London began, and building Tudor houses to see how easily they caught fire, I realised they hadn’t just learned history - they’d experienced it. And it’s not just in creative arts; creativity is part of everything they do. That’s what learning looks like here: hands-on, imaginative and alive every single day. Year 2 Parent An exceptional school that honours its traditions while embracing new ideas and opportunities. Kindness and care shine through everything they do, creating a community where children feel safe to take risks and grow. My son, once shy, proudly danced solo on stage - a moment that captured his growing confidence and love of learning. Year 4 Parent Every day, my child comes home excited to share stories about friends who cheer them on and teachers who truly listen. In this environment of trust and celebration, they feel safe to take risks, ask questions and explore boldly - finding joy in learning like never before. Year 5 Parent When my child first came here, they hid behind my legs, unsure and hesitant. But this school showed them that every mistake is a lesson and every challenge is a chance to grow. Today, they stand on stage, confident and proud, singing their heart out. I am grateful for a place that helped them believe in themselves. Year 6 Parent 12 the croft preparatory school
Raising Expectations, Realising Potential Inspection findings confirm a rich, ambitious curriculum, highly tailored teaching and pupils who are confident, motivated and independent learners. They also highlight strong well-being, values and an outstanding early years foundation - reflecting a school that consistently raises expectations and enables every child to achieve their best. ISI Inspection 2026 A rich, ambitious curriculum that prepares children for life Pupils experience a diverse, ambitious curriculum that underpins their high levels of interest and motivation to learn. Teaching that is tailored to every child Teachers know their pupils well. As a result, they plan lessons appropriately to meet pupils’ specific needs. Confident, motivated and independent learners They become ambitious, selfmotivated learners due to the resilience they develop in response to teachers’ skilful questioning. Strong focus on wellbeing, confidence and values Pupils show high levels of selfesteem and self-confidence. Excellent early years foundation Children achieve well as they build key skills, such as early reading and numeracy, due to the effectiveness of the teaching and learning they experience. 13 dulce et forte
Admissions We welcome families who share our belief in a well-rounded, values-driven education. Our admissions process is personal and thoughtful. We encourage prospective families to visit, experience the warmth of our community and see our pupils in action. Choosing a school is one of the most important decisions a family makes. We are here to guide and support you throughout that journey. Email admissions@croftschool.co.uk when you’re ready for the first step. 14 the croft preparatory school
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Alveston Hill, Loxley Road, Stratford-upon-Avon, CV37 7RL 01789 293795 croftschool.co.uk
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