Discover the gorgeous grounds and family feel of a South Gloucestershire independent prep school at its open day

Families can experience the homely feel and nurturing ethos at South Gloucestershire independent preparatory school and nursery, Tockington Manor, on a pupil-led tour of its scenic grounds at its May open day.

By Jake Chown  |  Published
An independent co-educational nursery and preparatory school for children aged two to 13, Tockington Manor School prides itself on upholding traditional family values and allowing 'children to be children' for as long as possible.

Parents and prospective pupils are invited to discover the special sense of community at Tockington Manor School in South Gloucestershire, at its next open day.

Housed by a beautiful 18th century manor set in 28 acres of idyllic countryside, families can tour the facilities at the independent prep school and nursery while getting to know its friendly staff and pupils, at the welcoming event this May 2026.

Offering a breadth and depth in education that's backed by impressive results, it's an exciting time for pupils considering joining the school following its recent merger into the Clifton College Education Group, which has enabled it to forge stronger ties with its Bristol counterpart; and the appointment of a new headmaster – just the fifth in its 80 year history.

Many of its graduates have also been successful in attaining scholarships when they move on after Year 8, with some gaining acceptance to some of the country’s most prestigious senior schools, including Marlborough College, Winchester and Cheltenham Ladies' College.

When is Tockington Manor School's next open day?

Tockington Manor hosts its next open day event on Friday 8 May 2026, with prospective pupils and their families able to book onto private tours throughout the day.

What to expect from Tockington Manor School's open day?

More than just an opportunity to see the grounds and facilities, the school prides itself on the 'invisible embrace' visitors feel when they experience a day in the life of pupils at its open days.

Families will embark on a private tour of the school's interior learning spaces and extensive sports and outdoor facilities, accompanied by its 'polite, happy' Year 7 and 8 pupils.

On the tour, visitors will get a sense of what happens at the school on a daily basis, from learning in classrooms, hands-on discovery outdoors, games and music lessons, to ICT demonstrations and drama practice.

Parents and guardians can then chat one-on-one about their child with existing staff and the incoming head, Graeme Thompson, who is joining the school in September 2026.

There will then be a chance to ask further questions, with the school's registrar, staff and pupils on hand to talk to families once their tour is complete.

As an alternative to a private tour, there are also less formal, drop-in group sessions taking place after 2pm on the day.

How to book a place at Tockington Manor School's open day?

Entry to the open day is free, but places are limited and need to be booked in advance.

To book a place at the upcoming open day, visit tockingtonmanorschool.com/tockington-manor-school-open-day-friday-8-may-2026.

And for more information about the facilities, community and curriculum at Tockington Manor School, check out SoGlos's Gloucestershire independent schools guide

Event

Open day at Tockington Manor School

Venue

Tockington Manor School

Dates

Friday 8 May 2026

Times

9am till 4pm

Admission

Free, with places needing to be booked in advance

Telephone

01454 613229

In partnership with Tockington Manor School  |  tockingtonmanorschool.com

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