About Us

Part of the Malvern College Family of Schools, The Downs Malvern is an award-winning independent Prep School for children aged 6 months - 13 years, nestled within the western slopes of the Malvern Hills.

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Established in 1900 and situated on a breathtaking 55-acre campus amongst the Malvern Hills, we provide the best in independent education for children aged 6 months – 13 years.

Our offerings include day, full, weekly and flexi-boarding options to suit all requirements.

Cultivating Confidence

We place particular emphasis on delivering a broad, diverse, yet balanced curriculum.

With small class sizes and specialist teachers, the children in our care feel happy, supported and inspired to achieve their very best. Our commitment extends beyond academics to encompass a rich offering of co-curricular and extra-curricular pursuits, providing ample avenues for personal growth and fulfilment.

A Prep School in the truest sense, our mission is to prepare and empower pupils with a surefooted confidence, tenacity and zest for life. These skills underscore the academic journey, equipping our children for life beyond school.

Facilities

Our “big school” facilities effortlessly rival those of much larger senior schools, enabling pupils as young as seven to access specialist science labs, DT workshops, a superb art studio, and a music school. Our sports provision is equally impressive, featuring a state-of-the-art sports complex, extensive outdoor games fields, an all-weather astro pitch, and shared use of Malvern College’s outstanding indoor swimming pool. In addition, many of our large-scale drama productions are held in Malvern College’s Rogers Theatre, allowing the children ample opportunity to perform in a professional environment.

A young boy in a dark school uniform plays the trombone against a black background. He holds the instrument with both hands and looks focused. His blazer, representing our school's values, has an embroidered crest on the pocket, and he has a striped tie—embodying what About Us stands for.
Four actors are on stage in period costumes, performing a scene. The set resembles an illustrated backdrop of a grand house with detailed architectural elements. A woman in a teal dress, two children in school uniforms, and another woman with a floral bag are conversing, embodying the essence of
Two children, wearing school uniforms, are in a greenhouse. One is smiling at the camera while holding a watering can, and the other child is smiling in the background. They are tending to rows of potted plants supported by bamboo sticks.
A man and two boys, dressed in winter clothing, sit beside a small steam train. The man is giving instructions while the boys, one of whom is turning a lever, listen attentively. This scenic moment perfectly captures the essence of our
A classroom scene with several students in uniforms sitting at desks. In the foreground, a blonde boy is focused on writing in a notebook. Beside him, another student is also working diligently. Textbooks, stationery, and other supplies are scattered on the desks, showcasing the dedication found in our
A young man with glasses is playing a red electric guitar on stage. He is wearing a white dress shirt and black pants. The background, reminiscent of an

From our smallholding, which is home to pigs, sheep, chickens, Guinea fowl and quail, to our thriving market garden, orchard and Forest School, we’ve made considerable strides in educating our students about the wonders of the natural world and fostering sustainable living practices.

We are proud recipients of the ‘Eco Schools Green Flag’ status and winners of the prestigious ‘Best Eco Initiative’ at the Muddy Stilettos Best School Awards 2023.

Support for Busy Families

We recognise that wraparound care is a much-needed necessity for many of our families therefore we offer early drop-off and late pick-up, included in our fees. Additionally, we offer flexi-boarding options to fit in with ever-changing family schedules, or to simply fulfil the request for a sleepover with friends in the boarding house!

Our after-school provision includes both extra-curricular activities and homework sessions, helping to maximise all-important family time in the evenings. In addition, our Saturday morning Hobbies programme is beloved by families, negating need to commute to a variety of locations to support their child’s interests throughout the week.

Wraparound Care

Community

Community forms the beating heart of our school. An education at The Downs Malvern is a truly international experience and we warmly welcome children from across the globe. This dynamic tapestry of cultures provides a rich and unique experience for pupils and staff alike.

Community spirit doesn’t stop at the pupils either- upon joining the school, parents are welcomed to ‘The Friends of The Downs Malvern’, an enthusiastic, supportive family cohort that organises a roster of social events and fun activities throughout the school year.

It’s impossible for all but the hard of heart not to get swept along in the magic of The Downs. It has all the very best ingredients of a rural prep, somehow keeping these children young while also prepping them for next steps.

The Good Schools Guide, 2023
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