Woodford Green Preparatory School Joins the Bancroft's Family of Schools

Published by Woodford Green Preparatory School on Tuesday 19th of May 2026

We are proud to share that, from September 2026, Woodford Green Preparatory School will join Bancroft’s and St. Aubyn’s School to form the Bancroft’s Family of Schools. 

This charitable merger brings together three exceptional schools in Woodford Green, united by a shared commitment to educational excellence, outstanding pastoral care and a broad, rounded education. 

Woodford Green Prep and Bancroft’s have enjoyed a close and long-standing relationship for generations. Many former pupils have gone on to thrive at Bancroft’s, and more than 100 Woodford Green Prep alumni are currently part of the Bancroft’s community. This next step builds on those existing bonds, establishing a clear framework for working together while protecting the distinctive character of each school. 

The formation of the Bancroft’s Family of Schools is a positive and forward-looking decision, made from a position of strength. It reflects a joint commitment to ensure that each school continues to flourish in a changing educational landscape, with the resilience, expertise and resources needed to support pupils, staff and families for generations to come. 

For our pupils and families, daily school life will continue as usual. Woodford Green Prep will remain on its current site and will retain its own leadership, staff, curriculum, routines, traditions, uniform and nurturing ethos. The close, personal environment that families value so highly will remain central to the school’s identity. 

Within this new structure, Woodford Green Prep will benefit over time from closer collaboration, shared professional expertise and access to a wider educational network. There may also be opportunities for pupils to benefit from specialist facilities and shared activities where this adds value to their experience. 

Importantly, we will continue to support families in considering the full range of senior school options for their children. As part of the new family structure, eligible pupils will also have access to the Bancroft’s Senior School Pathway, providing an earlier opportunity to be considered for a conditional place at Bancroft’s Senior School during their time with us. 

This is not a sale or takeover. It is a charitable merger designed to secure the long-term future of all three schools while preserving what makes each of them special. Woodford Green Prep will remain proudly itself, with the additional strength and support of a wider family.