PrepCo-educationalISI · Excellent
Forest School logo

Forest School

Altrincham, Cheshire · WA15 6LJ

Pupils

210

Day fees

£10k

Inspection

Excellent

Read report
School website

Forest School is an independent co-educational day prep in Timperley, Cheshire, serving children aged 2–11 within the Bellevue Education group. The school emphasizes a happy, stimulating environment with strong discipline and a focus on reaching each child's full potential across all areas of school life. It offers a curriculum that exceeds the National Curriculum, with particular emphasis on 11+ entrance exam preparation for independent and state grammar schools.

  • Broad age range (2–11) allows siblings to progress through the school together
  • Explicit focus on 11+ exam preparation aligned with strong secondary school destinations in the area
  • Refurbished, dedicated nursery building with all-year-round provision (48 weeks)
  • Character education and pastoral care woven into daily school life

Who thrives here

Children whose parents value a structured, disciplined environment with clear academic progression and 11+ preparation. Families seeking a nurturing day prep with strong local secondary school links in Greater Manchester.

Strengths at a glance

Exam resultsno dataSports50th pctCo-curricular50th pctValue vs peers50th pctPastoral & wellbeing100th pct

Percentiles within UK independent + grammar schools we track.

At a glance

School typePrep · Day
Founded1924
Number of pupils210
Age range3–13
GenderCo-educational
Day fees£9.8k/yr
AssociationsBellevue Education
Settingsuburban
LocationLocated in Timperley on the Altrincham border; accessible by rail (Timperley station) and local bus routes. Limited mention of on-site parking details.

Contact & visit

Moss Lane, Timperley

Altrincham, Cheshire

WA15 6LJ

www.forestschool.co.uk
01619804075
Mr Graeme Booth, Headteacher

Nearest stations

Timperley5 min
Altrincham10 min
Stockport Road (buses)3 min

Recent investment

Nursery relocation and refurbishment (2022) with dedicated standalone building
All-year-round nursery provision introduced (48 weeks annually)

Frequently asked questions

What are the fees at Forest School?

Day fees at Forest School are approximately £9,762 per year (2025/26).

How do you get into Forest School?

Forest 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 Forest School a boarding school?

Forest School is a day school in Altrincham and does not offer boarding.

What is Forest School's latest inspection rating?

ISI rated Forest School “Excellent” (2018).

What parents say

Frequently praised

Happy, stimulating environment with strong discipline

Effective 11+ exam preparation with successful secondary school destinations

Long continuity from age 2 through Year 6 with secure pastoral relationships

Strong parent satisfaction evidenced by recent parent survey (May 2026)

Common concerns

!No Ofsted inspection yet limits external validation of educational standards

!Limited detail on SEN provision and pastoral support infrastructure on public-facing website

!Day-only provision may not suit families requiring wraparound or boarding care