In brief
Prep school fees can look similar at first glance, but what those fees include can vary significantly from one school to another.
Some schools include lunches, clubs and educational visits within their fees, while others charge separately for some or all of these. There may also be one-off costs, such as registration fees, deposits or uniforms.
The key isn't simply comparing the headline fee. It's understanding the overall cost and what your child will receive in return.
A closer look
Every school structures its fees differently
One of the biggest misconceptions about independent schools is that they all charge in the same way. In reality, every school sets its own fee structure.
Some charge by the term, while others offer monthly payment plans. Some have one fee throughout the primary years, while others increase fees as children move into older year groups.
That's why it's important to compare schools like for like rather than focusing on a single number.
What is usually included?
Every prep school is different, but fees often include:
Teaching across the full curriculum
Pastoral care and wellbeing support
Most classroom resources
Access to school facilities
A wide range of clubs and activities
Sports provision
Many schools also include additional opportunities such as educational visits, swimming or certain enrichment activities, while others charge separately.
The best approach is to ask each school exactly what's included, rather than assuming every school offers the same package.
What might cost extra?
Alongside tuition fees, some schools may charge separately for certain items. These can include:
Registration fees when applying
Acceptance deposits
School uniform
Individual music lessons
Residential trips
Optional educational visits
Wraparound care before or after school
Lunches
Examination fees in some year groups
Not every school charges for all of these, but they're worth asking about so there are no surprises later.
Questions worth asking when comparing schools
When visiting a prep school, consider asking:
Are lunches included?
Which clubs are included in the fees?
Are curriculum trips included?
What optional extras are available?
Is wraparound care included or charged separately?
Do fees increase as children move through the school?
Are there any compulsory additional costs?
Are sibling discounts available?
Can fees be paid monthly?
These questions will give you a much clearer picture than simply comparing headline prices.
How does The Mount structure its fees?
At the time this article was published (30 July 2026), The Mount School charges:
£1,104 per month, including VAT
Payable by monthly Direct Debit
Sibling discounts are available:
5% discount for a second child
10% discount for a third child
20% discount for a fourth child
Any additional children attend free of charge
Unlike many independent schools that request payment termly, monthly Direct Debit allows families to spread the cost across the year.
Please note: These fees were correct when this article was published on 30 July 2026. Fees are reviewed periodically. For the latest fees, funding information and payment options, please visit our Fees & Funding page.
Looking beyond the price
It's understandable that parents compare fees. Independent education is a significant investment. However, comparing schools on price alone rarely gives the full picture. Instead, ask yourself:
What opportunities will my child have?
Will they be inspired and challenged?
Will they be known as an individual?
What experiences are included?
Are there additional costs I'll need to budget for?
Sometimes a school with lower headline fees can become more expensive once additional charges are added. Equally, a school with higher fees may include far more within that price.
The aim isn't to find the cheapest school. It's to understand exactly what you're paying for and decide which environment feels right for your child.
Key takeaway
Prep school fees vary widely, and so does what they include. Before comparing prices, make sure you understand what's covered, what may cost extra and how each school structures its fees. Looking beyond the headline figure will help you make a fair comparison and choose the school that's the best fit for your family.
