Sunningdale School

Focus

Resilience, friendship and self-discipline

Day fees 2025/26

$42,700

Boarding fees 2025/26

$54,600

Term dates

• Term 1: 3 September to 10 December 2025
• Term 2: 7 January to 27 March 2026
• Term 3: 22 April to 3 July 2026

Ages

7-13

Pupil count

110

Spear's Review

Set in the Berkshire countryside yet within easy reach of London, Sunningdale School is a small preparatory school for 110 boys aged 7 to 13. Family-owned since 1967 and having celebrated its 150th anniversary in 2024, the school combines tradition with a notably warm and close-knit atmosphere.

Most boys board (but a day option is also available), and the school’s size ensures that each pupil is known and supported as an individual. Academically strong but non-selective, Sunningdale offers pupils specialist staff, small classes, well-equipped facilities and a personalised approach that enables boys to thrive.

Beyond the classroom, a wide-ranging programme of sport, creative arts and outdoor pursuits, alongside busy, well-attended weekends, fosters confidence, camaraderie and resilience in equal measure.

Head teacher

Tom Dawson has been the headmaster at Sunningdale School for over two decades, having taken up the position in 2005. Prior to that he taught modern languages at Harrow School. 

Senior school destinations

Sunningdale boys go on to some of the most prestigious senior schools in the UK, including Eton, Sherborne, Charterhouse, Harrow and Winchester.

Admissions

Boys may be registered from birth, and a visit to the school is an essential part of the admissions journey. Families are encouraged to attend one of the regular open mornings, or arrange a private tour with the headmaster or a senior member of staff. While there is no assessment for entry into Year 4, boys applying for Year 5 and above are asked to sit an assessment. 

Notable alumni

• Prince Michael of Kent 
• Henry Blofeld (sports journalist and broadcaster)
• Freddie Stroma (actor)

Accessibility

Heathrow Airport: 20 minutes

Location

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