Do you want more for your child, an education which focuses on finding their brilliance? Children leave Aberdour going on to a variety of different schools and not take the same path as everyone else. We recognise that one size does not fit all, which is why our key focus is about nurturing each child’s passions, uniqueness and strengths. We challenge them to achieve more and we work collaboratively with parents to find a next school which is right for them.

In the last academic year, our Year 6 pupils, consisting of 48 children received a total of 125 offers to Independent Senior Schools and 48 scholarships were awarded. Together with our record-breaking 61 scholarships in 2023 and continued success in 2024, in the last three years, our pupils have been awarded 148 scholarships between them. This is truly an outstanding achievement, particularly for a non-selective school. With places offered at 30 different independent schools and Grammar Schools (between 2023-2025), Aberdour continues to stand out as a truly independent Prep school. 

"Aberdour pupils are fabulous. They are kind, thoughtful, enthusiastic and always willing to get involved with everything on offer here at Epsom. They approach school life with a positive, 'can-do' attitude and a sense of fun.  They have been really well-prepared for the move to senior school and are determined to excel in and out of the classroom.  We can't get enough of them!"MARK LASCELLES - HEAdMASTEr, EPSOM COLLEGE

 

"We have also had a number of Aberdour pupils who have been House Captains and Aberdour has been a good grounding for those leadership opportunities. 

 

They also tell me that Aberdour has been an excellent preparation for life in the Lower School. They cite the facilities and opportunities afforded to them as the ideal springboard into life in the Lower Third." 

Richard Harvey – Head of Lower School, St John’s

 

"What stands out is their character: they are thoughtful, respectful, and supportive  - they are good friends in every sense. Whether in the classroom, on the sports field, or in co-curricular activities, they bring a quiet determination and a joyful spirit that enriches RGS.  Our School Captains team usually has at least one student from Aberdour, elected by merit. 

 

It is clear that Aberdour has prepared them not only academically but also socially and emotionally. They transition with ease, contribute with purpose, and uphold the values that both our schools hold dear. We are proud to have them with us and grateful for the strong foundation they bring from Aberdour."

SHAUN FENTON - HEADMASTER, RGS

 

Why are we successful? 

We prepare children not just for the next stage of their education, but for a world that is constantly changing — even one that doesn’t yet exist. Next schools are not looking for a tutored child. They want learners who are confident, curious, and ready to take risks. They value team players with a strong sense of self, who have experienced a rich and varied education, developed passions, and can speak about them with pride.

We send children forward who are not afraid to ask questions, to take part, and to stand out — children who are equipped not just to fit in, but to make a difference

We send children on to their next school as an Aberdorian, a child who is a resilient, confident, and happy individual — someone who can adapt with ease, connect with others, and proudly express their unique personality. 

How do we prepare the children? 

Please remember that you do not need to plan for your child’s entry into Senior schools until the beginning of Year 5. We will be there to support you and your child throughout this process. We have been doing this for over 95 years!

Aberdour pupils have always shown to excel in critical thinking and reasoning. We offer support in a number of ways and ensure the children are at the heart of everything that we do, as such the sessions are designed to enhance the children’s self-esteem and confidence, to prepare them for their next stage.

• We meet with you to discuss the right school for your child, together with the various entry requirements for your chosen schools.
• We ensure regular exam practise from Year 5 onwards, and integrate 11+ homework from the spring term (this includes a subscription to BOFA to support with online examinations).
• We build weekly 40-minute reasoning sessions into the school timetable from Year 2 onwards.
• PAL tutors focus their lessons on developing both your child’s exam techniques and their skills in interview situations.
• Your child will receive a number of practise interviews with their Tutor, Headmaster and Deputy Head.
• References are prepared for each school that your child has applied to (this normally takes place in the November of Year 6).
• The Headmaster has discussions with numerous senior schools regarding individual pupils.

Over the past 3-5 years, Aberdour has fed into the following schools. The information is provided to help with your Senior School selection and entry process. Please click on the logos below to be redirected to their websites.