A traditional, academic little prep with an inclusive and nurturing ethos. Perhaps not the school for the uber sporty or musical, but drama is clearly thriving. Some parents might be put off by the compact site with ‘few bells and whistles’ but, say parents, they ‘bring out the best in your child’, producing happy, well rounded high achievers ready to move confidently onto the next stage of their education.
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Overview & data
- Pupil numbers
- 198 ·
- Religion
- None
- Fees
- £13,327 - £14,101 pa
- Local authority
- Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council

Headteacher
Headmaster
Mr Dominic Smith
Since 2018, Dominic Rhys Smith MA. Raised in Neath, Wales, attending St Joseph’s secondary in Port Talbot where he ‘plugged away’ at rugby, but his real penchant was for drama and history. Awarded an exhibition during his time at New College, Oxford
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Learn what pupils and parents really think of this school, along with our expert opinion on the headteacher’s leadership style, the school’s academic results and facilities, the focus on pastoral care, and the range of extra-curricular activities.

Entrance
The majority start in nursery (15 pupils, rising to 24 by end of year as they turn 3). A few join in kindergarten, when pupils attend a trial day, with assessments to check they can access the curriculum. ‘Healthy, not full’ with occasional spaces

Exit
At 11+, between half and three-quarters usually head to local grammar schools including King Edward VI Stratford, Stratford Girls, Alcester, King Edward VI Camp Hill (girls and boys). The rest to independents, including King Edward’s School

Latest results
There are no results to show for this school. Find out more.

Learning support & SEN

Mobile phone policy
A clear mobile phone policy is a really important part of modern schooling. This school has provided us with their policy.
Mobile phone policy
The school does not allow pupils to use mobile telephones. Teachers are only allowed to use phones in designated areas.

Pupils

Money matters
Fees notably lower than other local preps.
- Fee information
- £13,327 - £14,101 pa

Our view
Founded in 1909 as co-ed and non-denominational, Ruckleigh has been owned by the Carr-Smith family since 1940 when it moved to its current location in central Solihull. The redbrick Edwardian building is fronted by a narrow car park adjacent to a

The last word
A traditional, academic little prep with an inclusive and nurturing ethos. Perhaps not the school for the uber sporty or musical, but drama is clearly thriving. Some parents might be put off by the compact site with ‘few bells and whistles’ but, say
