Francis Holland Prep, Chelsea

Francis Holland Preparatory School is a leading, two-form entry London Prep School for girls aged 4-11. The school was founded in 1881 by Canon Francis Holland, a visionary in philanthropy and education, and is part of Francis Holland Schools Trust with sister senior schools, Francis Holland, Sloane Square, and Francis Holland Regent’s Park.

The Prep moved to its current site, a 20,000 sq ft Grade II listed Victorian building on Manresa Road, just off the King’s Road, in September 2024. The building, which dates back to 1890, combines heritage with modern learning spaces. The wealth of impressive facilities includes the old Chelsea library, a spacious School Hall with staging, a specialist science lab, a dedicated art room and an extensive outdoor play area. 

Francis Holland Prep provides a warm environment where pupils thrive on exciting, rigorous and ambitious learning from inspiring teachers. A focus on the 8 Cs of curiosity, creativity, collaboration, communication, confidence, commitment, craftsmanship and compassion makes lessons fun and engaging, encouraging pupils to develop a lifelong love of learning.

The school offers a broad and balanced curriculum; resulting in a holistic education where academic excellence is complemented by a wealth of sporting, dramatic, musical and artistic opportunities. However, what really sets Francis Holland Prep apart is outstanding pastoral care and a strong sense of community which ensure that every child feels known, loved and therefore freed to achieve extraordinary things. All pupils are supported throughout their time at Francis Holland Prep by a comprehensive programme of wellbeing which builds resilience, confidence and character.

The Prep is a unique community that fosters an awareness of the needs of others and a desire to make a difference. This emphasis on what you can give rather than what you get results in an environment full of kindness, compassion, and a palpable warmth that all visitors comment on. Girls are encouraged to be brave and have a go, no matter how great the challenges before them. They learn to debate with gusto, reflect on the world around them with empathy, solve problems creatively, and appreciate the bigger picture.

Francis Holland Prep is easily accessible via bus routes from all over London as well as by tube (a 12-minute walk from South Kensington and a 15-minute walk from Sloane Square). Its central location makes it easy to reach by public transport and, for its pupils and staff, this facilitates fast and easy access to London’s many famous cultural and historic attractions.

The Prep’s central location provides an outstanding platform for entry into leading Senior Schools, including our two Francis Holland Senior Schools. We expect many of our Prep pupils to join our senior school at Francis Holland, Sloane Square in Year 7 and we offer a ‘no surprises’ approach in this regard. Our high teacher-pupil ratio along with our small class sizes enable a high level of individual attention, providing the best possible preparation for 11+ entry. By the time the girls leave Francis Holland Prep at the end of Year 6, they are intellectually ready and excited to embrace life in their chosen senior school. For details of our next Open Event, please contact the Registrar on +44 (020) 7352 7077 or registrar@francishollandprep.org.uk