Next Open Morning
Exciting
Young
Minds
Twin Schools Combining the Best of Single-Sex & Co-Education 51 Week a Year Nursery 'The Most Exciting Schools In Berkshire'
Next Open Morning - tbc
Welcome
Brockhurst and Marlston House are twin preparatory schools for boys and girls aged 2 to 13, set within a beautiful Berkshire estate near Newbury.
As the oldest family-owned and family-run prep schools in England, we have been inspiring children for more than 140 years. Today, families from Newbury, Hermitage, Bucklebury, Chieveley, Cold Ash and across Berkshire choose Brockhurst & Marlston House for an education that combines academic ambition with outstanding pastoral care.
We offer a unique Diamond Model of education, combining the best of single-sex and co-education, with single-sex teaching from Year 3 to 7. This approach allows children to reach their full potential in a safe and nurturing environment. A co-educational sport, music and co-curricular programme runs for three hours each afternoon, helping every child flourish as an individual.
Whether you are seeking an Independent Prep School, a Private Prep School or a Preparatory School that offers something genuinely different, Brockhurst & Marlston House provides an environment where children are encouraged to be curious, confident and fearless in their willingness to try new things.
David Fleming, MA (Oxon), MSc
Headmaster
The Best of Both Worlds – Our Diamond Model
At Brockhurst and Marlston House, we understand that boys and girls learn differently. That’s why, from Year 3 to Year 7, we teach them separately in single-sex classes while maintaining a fully co-educational environment beyond the classroom.
This approach, supported by academic research, allows us to tailor teaching to their distinct learning needs. Girls tend to be more mature in the primary years, often excelling in literacy, independent work, and written presentation. Boys, on the other hand, are often visual learners who thrive on variety, practical activities, and a dynamic pace. They may struggle with handwriting and focus but respond well to structured, engaging lessons. In mixed classes, boys can sometimes find it discouraging when their presentation skills affect their ranking, while girls may lack confidence in maths.
By adapting our teaching methods to suit these differences, we help every child build confidence and reach their full potential. In Years 7 and 8, pupils return to mixed classes, well-prepared for both co-ed and single-sex senior schools.
With the social benefits of a co-ed school and the academic advantages of single-sex teaching, our ‘diamond model’ truly gives children the best of both worlds.
Why Brockhurst & Marlston House Schools
51 week nursery
BOYS & GIRLS, 2 - 4 YEARS
PRE-PREP
BOYS & GIRLS, 4 - 6 YEARS
Brockhurst
BOYS, 6 - 13 YEARS
Day & Boarding
Marlston House
GIRLS, 6 - 13 YEARS
Day & Boarding
A Legacy of Excellence
As the oldest family-owned and family-run prep schools in England, we've been dedicated to the success of our children for over 140 years. Our heritage is matched by a commitment to providing a modern, forward-thinking education that prepares pupils for the opportunities and challenges ahead.
The Perfect Start
Our 51-week nursery, welcoming boys and girls from the age of two, provides an exceptional foundation for future learning. Children benefit from a nurturing environment where confidence, independence and curiosity are encouraged from the very beginning.
The Best of Single-Sex and Co-Education
Our Diamond Model is what makes Brockhurst & Marlston House unique. As a Co-Educational Prep School with single-sex teaching during key developmental years, we combine the academic advantages of focused classroom learning with the social benefits of learning and growing together.
A Beautiful 500-Acre Estate
Set within 500 acres of stunning Berkshire countryside on the banks of the River Pang, our estate offers an exceptional environment in which children can learn, play and explore. Located just outside Hermitage and close to Bucklebury, the grounds provide endless opportunities for outdoor learning and adventure.
Flexible Education for Modern Families
Every family is different. From flexible boarding options to tailored afternoon timetables and wraparound care, we offer an approach that allows parents to choose what works best for their child and family life.
Leading Edge Technology
From Year 3 onwards, our classrooms are equipped with hybrid learning technology and online video conferencing facilities, ensuring children can remain connected to their learning wherever they are.
Endless Opportunities
With up to 80 co-curricular activities available each day from 3.00 p.m., there is no shortage of opportunities for children to discover new interests, develop existing talents and build confidence beyond the classroom.
Weekends Are Family Time
We believe childhood should be balanced. That's why there is no Saturday school. Instead, families can enjoy valuable time together while pupils can choose from a range of exciting optional activities and special events throughout the year.
Boarding Options That Work For You
We are the only prep schools in West Berkshire offering full, flexi and ad-hoc boarding. Our boarding community provides a warm, supportive home-from-home environment for children and valuable flexibility for parents.
Destination Schools
A Prep School Serving Families Across Berkshire
Situated in Hermitage near Newbury, Brockhurst & Marlston House welcomes children from across Berkshire and the surrounding area. Many of our families travel from Bucklebury, Chieveley, Cold Ash and neighbouring villages to benefit from an education that combines academic excellence, exceptional pastoral care and outstanding opportunities beyond the classroom.
As both an Independent Prep School and Private Prep School, we are proud to provide a learning environment where children are known as individuals, encouraged to pursue their interests and supported to achieve their full potential.
Choosing the right Prep School is one of the most important decisions you will make as a parent.
We warmly invite you to visit Brockhurst & Marlston House and experience the atmosphere of the school for yourself. Book an Open Morning, arrange a personal tour or speak with our admissions team to discover what makes our Preparatory School such a special place for children to learn, grow and thrive.
