Our Prep School (5-10yrs)
Welcome to Dollar Academy’s Prep School, where young learners in Primary 1-5 embark on an exceptional educational journey.
In our Prep School, we nurture curiosity, build foundational skills, and instil a love of learning that lasts a lifetime. Small class sizes ensure that each child receives the support and attention they need to thrive, while our dedicated teachers bring learning to life through engaging lessons that blend the best of traditional methods with innovative, interactive approaches.
Our pupils enjoy unique access to the outstanding facilities of our Senior School, from science labs and arts studios to our 25m swimming pool. This early introduction to high-quality resources enriches their learning experiences and gives them a true taste of what’s possible as they grow. We believe there is no better way to begin a child’s education—fostering not only academic success but also confidence, creativity, and a sense of belonging within a vibrant community.
At Dollar Academy, we’re dedicated to inspiring young minds and building the skills and values that will guide our pupils throughout their lives.
– Kate MacNish, Head of the Prep and Junior Schools
Academic Curriculum
Our Prep School emphasises strong and effective teaching across core subjects: English, Mathematics, Health and Wellbeing, Science, Social Studies, and Technologies.
By combining traditional methods with digital and interactive strategies, we ensure a well-rounded approach. High-quality teaching is supported through detailed planning, creative and engaging instruction, and continuous, reflective assessment.
Co-curricular
Participation in our co-curricular programme provides pupils with valuable opportunities to develop transferable skills that will support them through each stage of their education.
These activities help foster a well-rounded development, allowing children to explore their interests and build new skills in a supportive environment.
Joining in Prep 1
We understand that starting school is a huge milestone for any child.
We host a number of Come and Play sessions each academic year for children aged 3 and 4. In addition, we collaborate closely with local nurseries, inviting children to participate in events like nativities and carol services, easing their transition into Prep 1.
For more information, please contact our Admissions Team.
Boarding at Dollar
Our boarding community is at the very core of Dollar Academy, and it has been for over two hundred years.
We are rightly proud to be the world’s oldest co-educational day and boarding school, and we like to think that we have learnt more than a thing or two about looking after our boarders over the years. As such, boarding at Dollar Academy looks and feels different to many other schools.
Transition to the Junior School
By the time our oldest pupils reach Prep 5, they are ready to embrace new challenges, and it is at this point that they transition to the Junior School (Primary 6-7) on the main campus.
We carefully manage the transition between year groups and from the Prep School to the Junior School, ensuring a smooth and supportive experience for every child. All Prep and Junior School teaching staff are well known to pupils of all ages through interactions during clubs, breaks, lunchtimes, and team-teaching opportunities. Our teachers collaborate in detailed meetings to discuss each child’s strengths and developmental needs, ensuring that each pupil is fully supported. Teachers also meet with their new pupils before the start of the next academic year, offering a warm welcome. Any specific support for learning seamlessly follows the child, maintaining continuity.
