Colchester, Essex · CO6 4JR
Pupils
315
Day fees
£18k
Inspection
Not yet inspected
Littlegarth is a well-established independent preparatory day school in Colchester serving pupils aged 3–11 across nursery and main school. The school positions itself as one of the region's leading preps, emphasising broad curricula, pastoral care, and enrichment opportunities. With around 315 pupils, it maintains a community-focused approach whilst offering specialist provision in music, drama, and creative subjects.
Who thrives here
Pupils who benefit from a nurturing, broad-based prep education in a smaller community setting; families seeking a springboard to selective senior schools or local independent secondaries with a balanced academic and creative emphasis.
Percentiles within UK independent + grammar schools we track.
Horkesley Park, Nayland
Colchester, Essex
CO6 4JR
Nearest stations
Day fees at Littlegarth School are approximately £17,982 per year (2026/27).
Littlegarth 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.
Littlegarth School is a day school in Colchester and does not offer boarding.
Frequently praised
✓Reputation as one of the finest independent schools in the region
✓Strong enrichment provision (music, drama, clubs) woven into school day
✓Caring, pastoral ethos with emphasis on wellbeing and community
Common concerns
!Not yet inspected by Ofsted; parents must rely on school reputation, open days, and word-of-mouth rather than formal inspection judgement