Westbourne (founded 1885) is now the only traditional boys' Preparatory School in South Yorkshire. The emphasis is on the needs of the individual; the pupil:staff ratio is 11:1 and from the age of 9 most lessons are in classes of about 10.
Our aim is to provide an excellent foundation in academic skills, sport and personal development so that each child may achieve his true potential.
We know the learning patterns for later life are set at this early age. We believe our care, commitment and expertise can make a measurable difference in performance, attitude and achievement. We are proud of Westbourne's reputation for providing a supportive, happy, family environment - the ideal atmosphere for learning. We are committed to working in partnership with parents to ensure their son receives the tuition and encouragement he needs.
We are not tied to any particular senior school or form of secondary education. In the last five years, boys have moved on, at age 13, to: Abbotsholme, Birkdale, Gordonstoun, Malvern, Mount St Mary's, Oundle, Pocklington, Queen Elizabeth's G.S. (Wakefield), Repton, Rugby, St Peter's (York), Sedbergh, Shrewsbury, Stonyhurst, Trent, Uppingham and Worksop, as well as to local day and boarding maintained schools.
In the same period, 24 academic, sporting and art awards have been gained to Birkdale, Greshams, Mount St Mary's, Pocklington, Repton, Rugby, Rydal-Penrhos, Shrewsbury, St david's, Trent, Uppingham and Worksop.
Since 1986, ALL the classrooms have been re-designed and re-equipped: the younger pupils (aged 4 to 9), are taught by class teachers, the older ones (9 to 13) by 'subject' teachers. There is a well-equipped Science Laboratory, Art Room, Computer Room (with Computer per pupil), Music Rooms (one with 18 electronic keyboards), Reference and Fiction Libraries.
Cricket, Rugby, Football and Athletics are the main sports; coaching is also given in Fencing, Tennis, Swimming, Short Tennis and Cross Country. All boys in the Upper school (age 9 to 13) are members of Abbeydale Sports Club.
There is a Choir, Orchestra and Instrumental Groups. A variety of extra-mural activities is available - eg Badminton, Volleyball, Photography - and the School has its own mini-bus.
