Age range. 3–7.
Number of pupils. 150.
Ethos. We aim to awaken a thirst for learning, helping children to develop an understanding and enjoyment of the world around them. The children are enthusiastic and inspired by the opportunities on offer, and delight in meeting challenges and taking risks while benefitting from a safe and secure environment. They learn through a range of play-based activities as well as more formal methods of learning and have many opportunities to develop their independence.
Our aim is to ensure that the children in our care are sociable, rounded, confident and inquisitive. We are proud of our broad, challenging, enticing curriculum and the spirit with which our pupils approach their learning.
Admissions. The main entry point for the Pelican is Nursery, which is for children who are three years old by 1 September in the year of entry. There are also a few spaces available for new children in Reception.
History. The buildings of the Nursery and Pre-Prep began life in 1911 as a boarding house for the Upper School. The School has been sympathetically extended inside and out, so that it provides exceptional space and excellent facilities, yet still feels like a home from home.
School life. Our pastoral care is second to none. Every single child in the School is known to all and is valued for their individual characteristics. All achievements are celebrated.
Classroom routines are quickly established from the start of a child’s time at the Pelican, and from day one they feel they belong. Every class benefits from a full-time teaching assistant who works alongside the teacher.
Dance, Games, Languages and Music are all taught by specialist teachers. An inclusive choir is open to everyone in Years 1 and 2 and a range of music ensembles are formed each year appropriate to the needs of the children in those year groups at the time. Our musicians regularly perform in regional and national festivals.
The children relish challenge and aim high, knowing that there is always someone to support them. We work in partnership with parents to nurture children’s interests and provide opportunities to develop their potential. Pupils begin to acquire essential skills through play, topic work and a wide range of experiences and activities.
A rounded education. Regular school trips bring learning to life and being close to the centre of Cambridge, the School is able to take advantage of trips to local museums and wildlife parks.
Out-of-school care. Children may be dropped at school from 8.00 am and may stay until 5.30 pm each day. We run an extended range of after-school clubs catering to all tastes, from ballet to science, chess to football, and drama to gymnastics. In addition, children may attend our own holiday club, known as Club Pelican, which runs for 7 weeks of the year: five weeks in the summer holidays and one week in each of the Christmas and Easter holidays.
Moving on. By the end of Year 2, children are ready to move onto the Prep with confidence and enthusiasm. Their move is gradual and carefully managed.
Fees per term (2024-2025). Full time (Reception, Years 1 and 2): £5,849 per term; Part time (Nursery – three full days per week): £3,941 per term; Additional Nursery sessions: £106.30 per day (all prices exclude VAT).
Charitable status. The Perse School is a charitable company limited by guarantee (company number 5977683, registered charity number 1120654) registered in England and Wales whose registered office is situated at The Perse School, Hills Road, Cambridge CB2 8QF.