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What says..

Class sizes are small – appreciated by parents, along with the fast pace of learning. Homework ‘keeps us on our toes’, say pupils, but they like that it is often cross-curricular and fun – recently creating a planet, then presenting on it in front of a green screen to sell trips there. ‘Lots of sport,’ say pupils – with the more inclusive approach praised by parents for ‘turning reluctant boys into eager sportsmen’. The excellent facilities help. Sports hall, swimming pool, astro, rifle range and enough fields to shake a stick at – which many do...

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What the school says...

The New Beacon is an independent day and weekly boarding prep school for boys aged 3-13, with a co-ed nursery. We deliver an academically ambitious education, personalised pastoral care and a wide-ranging co-curricular programme. Set within 22 acres of grounds, we inspire lifelong passions and nurture creativity. Each boy is given the time and support he needs to fulfil his potential in an environment where character is valued as the greatest strength. While benefiting from a unique relationship with Tonbridge School, the New Beacon remains a dedicated prep school, renowned for academic success and producing well-rounded, compassionate individuals.

Ready for Discovery: In the early years, boys begin their educational journey in a nurturing environment that fosters curiosity, creativity and kindness. Play-based activities, both indoors and outdoors, encourage independence and confidence. These foundational experiences cultivate a love of learning and support social, emotional development.

Ready for growth: As boys move into pre-prep, they transition to a more structured learning environment enriched by exploration. Specialist teaching and the guidance of class teachers ensure boys thrive academically and socially. A focus on kindness, respect and tolerance provides the groundwork for lifelong learning and personal growth.

Ready for independence: In junior school, boys take on greater responsibility for their learning and personal development. With small class sizes and specialist teaching, they explore new subjects and build critical thinking skills. Trips and hands-on study days enhance the curriculum, fostering independence, confidence and curiosity.

Ready for challenge and exploration: Middle school offers opportunities for growth and self-discovery. Boys enjoy specialist teaching across all subjects and take advantage of the school’s 22-acre campus to explore their interests. Residential trips, sports and extracurricular activities build resilience and teamwork, preparing boys for the challenges ahead.

Ready for leadership and endeavour: In the final prep years, boys step into leadership roles and take responsibility for their learning and contributions to the school community. Mentoring younger students, engaging in community service and balancing independent study with collaboration prepare them for senior school. These years develop confident, resilient leaders ready to thrive academically and personally.

Ready for support: One-to-one, small group or integrated classroom support ensures that all boys fulfil their potential. Whether that is extension for the most able or scaffolding to ensure a diagnosed need is being met.

Ready for action: A vibrant co-curricular programme enables boys to explore diverse interests, from drama to sport and music to coding. Clubs like sailing, cookery and Warhammer help boys discover passions, develop skills and build a sense of belonging and achievement.

Ready for a school day that fits with family life: Flexible arrangements, including home-to-school minibus routes and extended day options from 7:30am to 6:3pm, support busy families. For older boys, flexi-boarding offers a balance of school life and personal commitments.

The New Beacon prepares boys for their next educational stage and beyond, fostering academic excellence, resilience, and confidence. By nurturing their individual strengths and character, we ensure every boy is ready to embrace future challenges with enthusiasm.
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What The Good Schools Guide says

Head

Since April 2024, Sarah Brownsdon, previously senior deputy head of Dulwich Prep, London. It felt like ‘coming home’, she says of returning to her childhood locale, having been educated at Walthamstow Hall just around the corner. She studied French at the University of Southampton before completing her master’s and PGCE at Cambridge and Université Stendhal in Grenoble.

Parents are impressed by the initiatives she has introduced and feel confident that her experience is ‘spot on’ for the school. ‘She knows what she’s doing’, ‘is highly accomplished’ ‘smart’ and ‘emotionally intelligent’. ‘She gets the ethos of the school,’ added one. We found her open and welcoming – passionate about the school and the areas she has developed, especially pastoral tracking and counselling. Parents also appreciate her introduction of a free extended...

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