PrepCo-educationalOfsted · Not yet inspected
Clevelands Prep School logo

Clevelands Prep School

Bolton, Greater Manchester · BL1 5DH

Pupils

126

Day fees

£11k

Inspection

Not yet inspected

School website

Clevelands Preparatory School is a small, day-only coed prep school in Bolton serving pupils aged 3–11, with an integrated nursery (Little Gems). The school emphasises a family-oriented, nurturing environment combined with strong academic outcomes, and has been rated 'Excellent' by the Independent Schools Inspectorate. With 126 pupils and deliberately low class sizes, it positions itself as a personalised alternative to larger preps, celebrating individual talents whilst maintaining rigorous preparation for 11+ entry.

  • Excellent ISI rating and strong local reputation within Greater Manchester
  • Small class sizes and low pupil-to-teacher ratios enabling personalised attention
  • Integrated forest school provision and emphasis on wellbeing alongside academic excellence
  • Convenient day-only model in suburban Bolton location

Who thrives here

Children who benefit from a nurturing, family-style environment with strong academic scaffolding; pupils with diverse talents who may thrive when individual gifts are actively celebrated; families seeking small-school intimacy without boarding.

Strengths at a glance

Exam resultsno dataSportsno dataCo-curricularno dataValue vs peers50th pctPastoral & wellbeingno data

Percentiles within UK independent + grammar schools we track.

At a glance

School typePrep · Day
Number of pupils126
Age range3–13
GenderCo-educational
Day fees£11.1k/yr
AssociationsISC
Settingsuburban
LocationLocated on Chorley New Road in Bolton, BL1 5DH; easy access via local bus network and approximately 15 minutes from Bolton railway station.

Contact & visit

425 Chorley New Road

Bolton, Greater Manchester

BL1 5DH

www.clevelandsprepschool.co.uk
01204843898
Mrs Dawn Critchley, Headteacher

Nearest stations

Bolton15 min
Chorley New Road (local bus services)5 min

Frequently asked questions

What are the fees at Clevelands Prep School?

Day fees at Clevelands Prep School are approximately £11,055 per year (2025/26).

How do you get into Clevelands Prep School?

Clevelands Prep School admits pupils at 3+, 4+, 7+, 8+, 11+. Entry is assessed by Assessment Day, Interview. See the Admissions section above for open days and key dates.

Is Clevelands Prep School a boarding school?

Clevelands Prep School is a day school in Bolton and does not offer boarding.

What parents say

Frequently praised

Caring, family-oriented culture and small-school community feel

Strong academic outcomes and effective 11+ preparation

Low class sizes enabling personalised attention and recognition of individual talents

Experienced, dedicated teaching staff

Common concerns

!Not yet Ofsted inspected (only ISI-rated); limited public independent accountability record

!Limited sporting and co-curricular facilities due to small school size

!Day-only provision may not suit families requiring wraparound care or structured evening activities