The Downs Preparatory School Logo
Debbie 2
walking with debbie headteacher

Meet the Headteacher

Why choose The Downs?

The first time I visited our school I knew it was unique. Its warmth surrounds you – you feel it running through everything. The setting we have ­– expanses of peaceful nature, state-of-the-art facilities and our historic buildings – enhance every aspect of learning.

Our children excel academically, but that alone isn’t enough. I want them to leave our school with the values, drive and resilience to be themselves, and make bold, courageous choices to explore the world around them.

Our vision

To succeed in the 21st Century workplace requires collaboration, resilience and perseverance. We look to encourage these qualities, interweaving them throughout our curriculum and everyday school life.

It’s our job to nourish and unlock the full potential of every child, and to make sure they feel valued as part of our community. They build confidence through engaging in our expansive extra-curricular programme which we constantly strive to evolve.

Signature

Mrs Debbie Isaachsen

Headteacher

Welcome sign

Meet the Headteacher

The truth is out

Featuring the naughtiest thing Mrs Isaachsen did at school and other fantastic anecdotes, this is a chance for our children to do the asking and our headteacher to do the talking.

Striding towards the future

We’ve already made great leaps forward and I feel incredibly proud of the school we have. We combine traditional values – kindness, mutual respect and good manners – with our forward thinking curriculum and exceptional modern facilities (we recently covered our swimming pool so swimmers can train all year round).

Celebration Day is a renewed event and a highlight of the year for me. It’s a chance to celebrate each child from Reception to Year 8 and captures the ethos at the heart of our school. Where each child has the freedom to explore, the confidence to express and the ambition to excel.

Why choose us The top six

Back lawn
1

Our setting

60 acres of stunning grounds and parkland for our children to explore and enjoy. Plus unbeatable on-site facilities.

Find out more
All values characters
2

Our values

Three honest values at the core of everything we do. Explore. Express. Excel.

Find out more
science explosion fire lab prep school learning
3

Inspired teaching

Our teachers and support staff are passionate and committed. They bring energy and a little bit of magic to each classroom, igniting a love of learning in every child.

Find out more
head boys handover celebration day
5

Senior success

As a truly independent school, we value and nurture individuality. We’ll help find exactly the right senior school to fit your child.

Find out more
Minibus 16 9
6

Our community

A network of people ready to welcome every family that joins. You'll feel right at home.

Find out more

Testimonial

From Mrs Isaachsen to all the staff - everyone knows who you are, who your child is and are always present, supportive and collaborative.

Katie Hall – Parent

Forest School

Keep your finger on the pulse