• Dallington is independent, progressive and willing to do things differently, with flexi-schooling and forest-school language reinforcing that point. The school is creative, alternative and values-led.

• A potentially attractive option for families who want a more progressive London prep and are willing to test carefully whether the philosophy is matched by consistent practice.

The admissions process at Dallington School is warm, visit led and designed to build a rounded sense of the child and family rather than to stage-manage a hard sell. The admissions team emphasises ease, contact and discussion, which suits a school that markets itself as independent, progressive and slightly alternative.

Scholarships are not really the point in a school that sells itself on progressive education and flexibility. The more relevant question is whether the philosophy delivers in practice.

• The school does not publish bursary entry points, so families should ask directly.
• The school does not publish bursary award levels, so families should ask directly.
• Families should contact the school directly to ask whether any bursary, hardship support or discretionary fee assistance is available.

The latest inspection picture is mixed. Ofsted lists Dallington as requires improvement, with the latest report published in December 2022, so families should look beyond the school's attractive progressive language and ask practical questions about consistency and follow-through.

Assessment at Dallington is less conventional and more developmental than in a traditional London prep, but parents should still expect clear evidence of progress despite the school's progressive tone.