Francis Holland Preparatory School is a leading, two-form entry London Prep School for girls with 253 pupils aged 4-11; founded by Canon Francis Holland, a visionary in philanthropy and education, in 1881.

The Prep moved to its current site, a 20,000 sq ft Grade II listed Victorian building on Manresa Road, just off the King’s Road in the heart of Chelsea, in September 2024. The building, which dates back to 1890, combines heritage with modern learning spaces. The wealth of impressive facilities includes the old Chelsea library, a spacious School Hall with staging, a specialist STEAM facility and an extensive outdoor play area.

Francis Holland Prep provides a warm and caring environment where pupils thrive on exciting, rigorous and ambitious learning from dynamic teachers. A focus on the 8 Cs of curiosity, creativity, collaboration, communication, confidence, compassion, commitment and craftsmanship makes lessons fun and engaging, encouraging pupils to develop a lifelong love of learning.

The school cultivates confident girls who feel a strong sense of belonging within a supportive environment, as they know that when girls feel truly known, loved and valued for who they are, they go on to achieve extraordinary things. Experienced and inspirational teaching staff provide an environment which inspires, encourages and, above all, cares for their girls as individuals. They aim to empower them through a rigorous, but balanced, curriculum complemented by a wealth of sporting, dramatic, musical and artistic opportunities.

Francis Holland Prep is a unique community that fosters an awareness of the needs of others and a desire to make a difference. This emphasis on what you can give rather than what you get results in an environment full of kindness, compassion, and a palpable warmth that all visitors comment on. Girls are encouraged to be brave and have a go, no matter how great the challenges before them. They learn to debate with gusto, reflect on the world around them with empathy, solve problems creatively, and appreciate the bigger picture.

The Prep’s central location provides an outstanding platform for entry into leading Senior Schools, including their two Francis Holland Senior Schools. They expect many of their Prep pupils to join their senior school at Francis Holland, Sloane Square in Year 7 and they offer a ‘no surprises’ approach in this regard. Their high teacher-pupil ratio, along with their small class sizes, enable a high level of individual attention, providing the best possible preparation for 11+ entry. By the time the girls leave Francis Holland Prep at the end of Year 6, they are intellectually ready and excited to embrace life in their chosen senior school.

Francis Holland Prep is easily accessible via bus routes from all over London as well as by tube (a 12-minute walk from South Kensington and a 15-minute walk from Sloane Square). Its central location makes it easy to reach by public transport and, for its pupils and staff, this facilitates fast and easy access to London’s many famous cultural and historic attractions. The school is part of Francis Holland Schools Trust with sister senior schools, Francis Holland, Sloane Square (founded in 1881), and Francis Holland, Regent’s Park (founded in 1878).  The three schools share strong bonds and similar values. However, each school has its own individual characteristics and identity.