Twin Schools Combining the Best of Single-Sex & Co-Education 51 Week a Year Nursery 'The Most Exciting Schools In Berkshire'

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Welcome

Brockhurst and Marlston House are twin preparatory schools for boys and girls aged 2 to 13, set within a beautiful Berkshire estate.

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.

Brockhurst and Marlston House children are cheerful enthusiasts, well mannered, and fearless in their willingness to try new things.

David Fleming, MA (Oxon), MSc

Headmaster

Why the Diamond Model?

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

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.

The Perfect Start

Our 51-week nursery, starting from age 2, offers the ideal foundation for your child’s educational journey.

Flexible Fees for a Tailored Education

We offer a core prep day fee starting at £5,750 per term, with the flexibility to customize an education package that suits your family’s needs.

Leading Edge Technology

From Year 3 onwards, our classrooms are equipped with online video conferencing, ensuring your child never misses a lesson—no matter where they are.

Endless Opportunities

With up to 80 exciting co-curricular activities available every day from 3:00 pm, there’s no shortage of ways for your child to explore their passions.

A Bespoke Afternoon Schedule

You can design a flexible afternoon timetable for your child, with convenient collection times to suit your family’s routine.

Weekends are Family Time

No Saturday school! We believe weekends are for family time, and an opportunity for us to run fun-packed optional activities open to everyone: like our famous Harry Potter weekend.

Boarding Options That Work for You

We are the only prep schools in West Berkshire offering full, flexi, and ad-hoc boarding to suit a variety of family needs.

A Beautiful 500-Acre Estate

Our stunning 500-acre estate, nestled on the River Pang just one mile from Bucklebury, offers ponies to ride, acres of woodland to explore, and endless outdoor adventures.

A Hidden Gem in Berkshire

This is what makes us the most exciting prep schools in Berkshire—a unique blend of tradition, innovation, and the perfect environment for your child to thrive.