What if I told you that Breaside Preparatory School has a story that involves military men and parent takeovers? This isn’t just any school. It’s a place with a unique history and a vibrant ethos.
Breaside Preparatory School is an independent school for children aged 2.5 to 11 years. It stands on Orchard Road in Bromley Kent. A second site is located on Widmore Road. The school commits to achieving the very best for each child. This commitment begins in Nursery and continues through preparation for secondary transfer at the end of Year 6.
Founded in 1950 by Colonel Chater, Breaside’s early days had a distinct military connection. Another military man Major Hudson then took over. This unusual beginning set the stage for a school with character.
Between 1973 and 1990, the Armstead family owned and ran Breaside. When they retired, a group of parents stepped in to take over. This shows a strong community commitment to the school’s success. Breaside needed investment at the time. Despite this, it enjoyed an excellent local reputation. Asquith Court Schools then acquired Breaside.
A significant change occurred when Beresford Girls School closed. Breaside invited its first girls to join. The school became co-educational. This marked a new chapter in Breaside’s history.
Later, Cognita Ltd bought Asquith Court Schools. Sir Chris Woodhead, the first Chief Inspector of Schools, chaired this new education company. This acquisition brought further changes and developments to Breaside.
In 2023, Breaside expanded significantly. A new site opened on Widmore Road. This new site is just a short walk from the Orchard Road location. This expansion allowed the school to welcome more pupils from Pre-Prep to Year 6.
The Widmore Road site features bright and spacious Early Years classrooms. It also includes play areas and expansive outdoor learning spaces such as a Forest School. This provides an engaging environment for hands-on exploration and playful learning.
Breaside prides itself on preparing students for the 11+ exams. It also prepares them for entrance exams for grammar schools and independent senior schools. The school has an enviable reputation for sport and music. It provides numerous extracurricular activities.
Breaside is known as a happy school with a kind and caring ethos. The school emphasizes the importance of celebrating individuality. It fosters the belief that all children can achieve their dreams. The school aims to inspire a lifelong love of learning. They achieve this through outstanding teaching and enrichment opportunities.
Executive Principal Karen Nicholson leads Breaside. She started as a teaching assistant and then earned a Bachelor of Education Degree. Before joining Breaside in 2008, she was Head of Infants at a primary school.
Breaside’s core values include resilience respect inclusivity and curiosity. These values shape the school’s approach to education and pastoral care. Breaside empowers children to become global citizens. It gives them a voice and an understanding of the world.
So, as you stand here remember the school’s journey. From its military roots to its parent-led era and its commitment to individual growth Breaside Preparatory School continues to evolve while staying true to its unique character.