Prep is a fundamental part of the school day and is instrumental in preparing the pupils for their chosen senior schools. Each academic subject will set one prep per fortnight.

Prep is set for pupils in Forms 5–8 and takes place on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday for 40 minutes. Pupils generally complete it in their form rooms. In Forms 5–7, prep is set as per the timetable below, creating a clear and manageable weekly routine.

 Form 8 pupils follow a model that more closely reflects the style that they will encounter at their senior school. Subject teachers set prep at appropriate points throughout the fortnight, helping pupils develop the organisation and independence needed for senior school.

Prep is explained during lesson time, and pupils are expected to record the task and due date in their diary. Teachers may also post details on Microsoft Teams, although pupils’ diaries should be their first port of call.

If a pupil is absent when prep is set, they should speak to the relevant subject teacher. Teachers will clarify the task, provide any necessary resources and offer support.

When prep is completed at home, pupils should spend no longer than 40 minutes on the task and work with minimal adult assistance. This gives teachers an accurate picture of each pupil’s independent work and helps them identify where further support may be needed. If a pupil has any difficulty completing a task, they should speak to their subject teacher.