St Margaret's is a co-educational day preparatory school for boys and girls ages 3-11. The Headmistress is a member of The Independent Association of Prep Schools (IAPS). The school was established in 1873 and moved to its present premises in 1941. The school is fortunate to share a 25 acre site with St Mary's School, Calne and a close association is maintained. The children benefit from a wide range of facilities not usually available to preparatory school pupils. These include: an indoor swimming pool and sports centre, tennis courts and sports pitches, gymnasium, Chapel, dining hall, theatre and medical centre. St Margaret's provides a happy environment for all children in a friendly, caring community. Within this context, we hope that boys and girls will learn the value of hard work and how to accept discipline and responsibility. During their time with us we hope to develop every aspect of each child's character. Good manners and consideration for the needs of others are deemed to be important.

Children aged 3-4 years

In line with the current educational developments for children in the Foundation Stage, St Margaret's offers a structured introduction to nursery education.

Children enter the Kindergarten in the September after their third birthday and it is via this route that they then progress into full-time education at St Margaret's.

It is well recognised that while an introduction to learning is beneficial to commence at the age of 3, this is best achieved within a restricted timeframe. Consequently, children attend for five morning sessions per week. Optional afternoon day care is available as required.

The Kindergarten is staffed by qualified Early Years specialists and is managed by the Head of Early Years & Key Stage 1, to ensure a smooth transition through the essential first years in education.

Structured play and activities provide the foundation for reading, writing and number work. Creative skills are nurtured and encouraged through painting, drama and musical activity.

There are opportunities to swim, dance and play games,
thereby promoting healthy physical development.

Children move up to a new class every year, changing from Early Years and Key Stage 1 classes - where one class teacher takes a broadly integrated timetable for most of the day - to Key Stage 2 classes, where specialist teachers broaden curriculum areas.

Children are thoroughly prepared for entrance examinations to Independent Senior Schools. St Margaret's has an impressive record of success in academic and specialist subject scholarships, and entry to first choice schools.