Early Years Admissions

Our Pre-Prep is where the journey at Birkenhead School begins. It is our Pre-School setting for children aged 3 to 4, with pupils joining in the September following their third birthday. It is expected that children who join Pre-Prep will continue their journey into Prep.

Enquiries for Pre-Prep are welcome throughout the year. You can contact our Admissions team by phone or email, or join us at one of our Open Events.

From September 2026, Pre-Prep will operate as a five-day provision from 8.30am to 3.30pm during term-time. While the programme is designed around full weekly attendance, we recognise that, for some families, having one day each week at home – perhaps with a parent, grandparent, or enjoying special experiences before statutory school age – remains an important part of their child’s early years. Families may therefore choose a four-day pattern of attendance if they wish (the Pre-Prep fee remains the same as the staffing, resourcing and curriculum provision are planned on the basis of a full five-day offer.

Once an enquiry is received, we’ll invite you to visit Pre-Prep. Where possible, we encourage children to accompany their parents so they can explore the setting in a relaxed and natural way. Visits are available throughout the year.

Pre-Prep is the start of the journey at Birkenhead School, and it is expected that children who join Pre-Prep will continue their journey into Prep. During your visit, you will also have an opportunity to see our Reception classes and learn more about how children progress through the early years at Birkenhead School.

There is no formal assessment for children joining at Pre-Prep, instead, we gently observe your child at play and note how they interact with other children and members of our staff team.

Our Open Events are a fantastic opportunity to explore our Pre-Prep and wider school campus.

Upcoming Open Events:

• Whole School Open Day (Pre-Prep to Sixth Form) – Saturday 25th April, 9.30am – 12.30pm

Open Events