🏆 We’re delighted to share some exciting news! The Prebendal School has been commended in the Independent Schools of the Year Awards 2026, receiving recognition in the Independent Pre-Prep School of the Year category. This national commendation comes in a year that saw a record number of entries from independent schools across the UK, making this recognition especially meaningful. Founded in 1497, Prebendal has been nurturing young minds for over 500 years. We believe the best start in education is about far more than academic success. It’s about inspiring curiosity, building confidence, encouraging kindness and helping every child flourish in a caring, supportive environment. This recognition reflects the dedication of our exceptional staff, the enthusiasm of our wonderful pupils and the support of our families. Thank you to everyone who makes Prebendal such a special place to learn, grow and belong. We now look forward to the next stage of the awards, with finalists announced on 10 September. 🤞 There’s no better way to experience The Prebendal School than by visiting us. We warmly invite prospective families to book a personal tour, meet our wonderful pupils and staff, and discover how our nurturing environment helps every child flourish from their very first day. https://lnkd.in/e6ge8uXa Alison Napier #ThePrebendalSchool #ISOTY2026 #IndependentSchools #PrePrep #EducationExcellence #Chichester #ProudToBePrebendal
The Prebendal School, Chichester
Education Management
A leading independent preparatory school. “One of the best value private schools." - The Telegraph, Jan 2020.
About us
The Prebendal School is a leading independent school based in Chichester, West Sussex, United Kingdom. The Prebendal School is the oldest school in Sussex and dates back to the foundation of Chichester Cathedral in the eleventh century when it would have been a ‘song school’ responsible for teaching the choristers. The first Head in 1121 is listed simply as ‘John’. It was re-founded as a grammar school in 1497 by the then Bishop of Chichester, Edward Storey, who attached it to the Prebend of Highleigh, after whom the school was named. The school is now a leading co-educational day and boarding preparatory school educating children between the ages of 3 and 13 years. Like many other Cathedral Choir Schools, the school occupies a range of buildings in and around the Cathedral Close dating from the original, fourteenth century song school to the brand new Pavilion opening in 2022. Whilst Music is a focus, the school enjoys sporting success in all disciplines, and a strong Academic record with a large number of pupils gaining scholarships to their senior schools. Outdoor Learning is embraced, and the Pre-Prep pupils enjoy frequent visits to the coast as part of the school’s award-winning “Beach School” programme. In 2021, the school’s 900th year it joined Alpha Schools, a leading group of schools across the UK.
- Website
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http://www.prebendalschool.org.uk
External link for The Prebendal School, Chichester
- Industry
- Education Management
- Company size
- 11-50 employees
- Headquarters
- CHICHESTER
- Type
- Educational
- Founded
- 1121
- Specialties
- Music Education, Senior School Preparation, Sporting Excellence, and Outdoor Education
Locations
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Get directions
West Street
CHICHESTER, PO19 1RP, GB
Employees at The Prebendal School, Chichester
Updates
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A wonderful experience for our Pre-Prep Choir this week, performing in the cathedral in such a beautiful and inspiring setting. Alison Napier
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At The Prebendal School, success is about more than exam results—it’s about the kind of person a child becomes. Rooted in a rich heritage dating back to 1497, Prebendal offers a truly distinctive education where character, confidence and curiosity are nurtured every day. As a Cathedral Choir School, music sits at the heart of school life, while experiences such as Beach School encourage exploration, independence and a strong connection to the world beyond the classroom. For many pupils, boarding further builds resilience, friendships and a deep sense of belonging. Our exceptional teachers know every child as an individual—guiding their strengths, supporting their growth, and helping them develop the self-belief to thrive. Because at Prebendal, education is not just preparation for exams—it’s preparation for life. We warmly invite you to visit and experience it for yourself. Book a personal tour today. https://lnkd.in/e6ge8uXa #PrebendalSchool #IndependentSchool #BoardingSchool #MusicEducation #BeachSchool #StudentSuccess #Chichester #Education #FutureReady
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A home for learning — and a place where talent flourishes. At Prebendal, being “a home for learning” means more than a welcoming environment. It means academic ambition supported by small class sizes and individual attention — alongside a rich musical tradition that builds confidence, discipline and joy. From strong preparation for senior school from Year 9 to opportunities in choirs, ensembles and performances, our pupils grow intellectually, creatively and personally. A community where children are known. A culture where excellence is encouraged. ‘A Home For Learning’ ❤️ #PrebendalSchool #IndependentEducation #PrepSchool #MusicEducation #AcademicExcellence Alpha Schools Alison Napier
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This is how we do feedback. - purposeful - peer-to-peer - positive Year 7 students loved this ‘musical chairs’ style approach (with the help of Glenn Miller). Alison Napier Alpha Schools
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A proud moment. It is great to see our pupils thrive at their senior schools.
On Holocaust Memorial Day, one of our pupils Isaac H, has taken the lead in exploring and performing music composed and performed int he concentration camps. Forming his EPQ, and six months in the making, curiosity, compassion and commitment have shaped every part of this project - from research to rehearsal to performance. Through this work, Isaac has found a thoughtful and meaningful way to honour the past, using music to deepen understanding and keep memory alive. A truly pupil‑driven journey of learning and remembrance. #HolocaustMemorialDay #StudentLedLearning #LearningThroughMusic
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IT’S SHOW WEEK! Our talented students from Years 6-8 have put together the most magical version on ‘Annie Jr’. A HUGE well done to all involved. #prebendalperformances
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