Headmistress Rebecca Smith says: 'We actively incorporate the skills which form our 'Stroud Spirit' into teaching and learning. The ‘Stroud Spirit’ curriculum strand encompasses six elements: resilience, curiosity, collaboration, independence, leadership, and communication. We always encourage our students to build and reflect upon these traits. This is why Stroud is truly a preparatory school, because we equip students with the tools for success.'

'Our provision for a personalised education, situated within 22 acres of rural Hampshire, allows for exploration. We hope that catering to the individual student will inspire, and develop a love of learning. We have created a wide curriculum that carefully balances academic rigour and focus with the sort of opportunities and experiences that remain with our pupils for the rest of their lives.'

Attain asked the school, what makes Stroud School different – and why should parents consider it?

Stroud School is an exciting, independent preparatory school where boys and girls aged 3 to 13 years old thrive in its unique family environment.

When you visit, expect to see pupils who are happy, respectful and honest. These three fundamental attributes ensure that school leavers are fully prepared to move on to the next stage of their education and the start of their young adult lives.

There is plenty to please at Stroud. The school has expanded beyond the traditional building, with modern wood-and-glass classrooms in blocks around the site for Nursery, KS1 and KS2. Additionally, there is an outdoor pool (weekly swimming lessons for all year groups April-Sept), huge sports hall, riding paddock, dance studio, music practice rooms, a science lab, dedicated ICT suites for both KS1 and KS2/3 plus a brand new Masterchef-style food tech kitchen and a newly-expanded Wellbeing centre.

Stroud achieved 'Excellent' – the highest possible grading – in its latest Focused Compliance and Educational Quality Inspection report from the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI). The top grading was achieved in both academic achievement and personal development, and was recognised as such from Nursery to Year 8.

As the preparatory school for King Edward VI School in Southampton, its curriculum is designed to achieve the highest academic standards, without compromising the key skills its children need to be successful in the workplace and in life.