Downsend Pre-Prep School, Ashtead, UK
SCHOOL ADDRESS
22 Oakfield Road, Ashtead, Surrey, KT21 2REABOUT Downsend Pre-Prep School, Ashtead, UK
Downsend is an independent day school in Leatherhead, Ashtead and Epsom, Surrey, for children aged 2-16 years, offering a broad-based curriculum leading to outstanding academic success. Younger children aged 2-6 years attend one of the school’s three pre-preparatory departments situated on each site, and children aged 6-16 years attend the main, preparatory school site in Leatherhead.
We provide each child with a broad education through the experience of a vibrant school life that extends beyond the classroom and provides outstanding academic development. The core curriculum offers children a solid framework which prepares them for a wide range of examinations.
The school enjoys an enviable record of success in the Common Entrance and scholarship examinations to a wide range of independent senior schools.
It is Downsend’s broader curriculum, however, that sets it apart from other schools, with its strong emphasis on practical subjects such as Information Technology, Textiles and Food Technology.

“This is an outstanding school. The oldest pupils’ attainment is above the local average. Progress is outstanding. The pupils develop excellent reading and numeracy skills. Speaking skills are outstanding and the pupils confidently discuss their work.”
School Inspection Service, November 2014
The organisation into an Upper and Lower School allows us to better prepare our pupils for their transition to their chosen senior school at 13. This co-ordinated response is already having a positive impact, as evidenced by an outstanding set of 11+ results in Pre-Testing and Entrance Examinations.
Over 95% of pupils who sat examinations to gain entry to selective schools have been offered places. 41 Scholarships were claimed by Downsend pupils in 2015, 17 of them Academic Awards or Exhibitions.

Head/Principal
Tessa Roberts
Head
Tessa gained her BEd at Cheltenham College and began teaching in both infant and primary schools in Cornwall and Surrey, UK. Following her appointment as Deputy Head of the outstanding West Ewell Infant School, Tessa had the opportunity to work alongside the Surrey advisory team, supporting school development.
She then lectured on the BEd course at Kingston University. After raising a family, Tessa returned to teaching, joining the Downsend group and taking responsibility for Key Stage 1. She began her Headship at Pre-Prep Ashtead in September 2015.
At a Glance
- Ages Taught
- 2-6 yrs
- Curricula
- English National Curriculum
- Type of School
- Day School
- Main Language
- English