The urban guide to the countryside -
Schools
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Swanbourne House School, Swanbourne
Muddy says: A dynamic new head and a strong ambition to rouse this 'sleeping giant' of a lovely rural prep school on the Bucks/Beds borders puts Swanbourne onto my must-see list.
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Royal Masonic School for Girls, Rickmansworth
A nurturing girls' day and boarding school with stellar results, that's perfectly placed for Herts and Bucks but also close to London.
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Are we pushing our Junior School kids too hard too early?
Is our obsession with exams equipping our kids for the competition of life, or pushing them to an early breakdown? 5 Heads of prestigious local prep schools give their views.
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The 8 most important things to look for in a school
... and nope, exam results are not one of them! Here's the insider scoop on choosing the best school for your child from Emma Goldsmith, national Prep Head of the Year.
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Chesham Prep School, Chesham
Muddy says: This rural co-ed prep school pulls off the near impossible - amazing results for both 11+ and next schools while retaining a village school vibe.
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Bloxham School, nr Banbury
Muddy says: Bloxham School is an impressive co-ed day/boarding for kids 11-18 in a pretty North Oxfordshire, with a reputation for all-rounder education.
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Our Lady’s Abingdon, South Oxon
A nurturing, pastorally outstanding co-ed catholic day school in a compact central Abingdon setting, for kids from 3-18.
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Ashfold School, Dorton, Mid Bucks
Muddy says: This bucolic co-ed prep school for day pupils and boarders in the rolling hills of Buckinghamshire is family-oriented with a deserved reputation for its all-rounder offering.
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The Manor Preparatory School, Abingdon
Check out my update on this highly-regarded day school in Abingdon with fantastic ISI reports (excellent across the board) for kids 2-11 years old.
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Thorpe House School, Gerrards Cross
Muddy says: A small, friendly day school for boys aged 3-16 between Gerrard's Cross and Chalfont St Peter, set in 7 stunning acres and high on inclusivity.
