Our school was founded in 1980 by John Connor and continues to be a family-run school today.

Mr. Connor Snr. started teaching in 1962 and worked across a number of large state secondary and independent schools across the Northwest before opening Hale Prep in 1980.

During this time, he learned about the importance of creating the right learning environment so that children from all backgrounds and abilities can flourish, and he wanted to put this learning and experience into practice.

When Hale Prep School opened in September 1980 there were just 32 pupils, but numbers quickly grew due to our hard work and determination to build a welcoming and friendly school with a family atmosphere that also delivered the highest educational standards. Pupils enjoyed small classes, specialist teaching, and a broad curriculum.

By the mid-90s, the school had grown to almost 200 pupils and was awarded the Sunday Times 'Prep School of the Year.

Mr Connor Sr founded the school on the principle of welcoming children without the need for entrance exams or assessments, knowing that it is the teachers' responsibility, with parents' support, to help them maximise their potential.

We have five core aims that have guided our decision making since our earliest days;

1. To provide a relaxed and secure environment for its pupils, one in which pupils are happy coming to school.

2. To ensure that every child achieves their full academic potential.

3. To provide a well-rounded education, ensuring that the broader academic curriculum and extracurricular activities are regarded as crucial in a child's education.

4. To achieve a harmonious and positive working relationship with parents based on confidence and trust.

5. To create a school where the pupils are aware of and respect the beliefs and values of others.

Our founding aims remain in place today, as does the strong family connection in our school. All four of Mr Connor's children are now owners of the school, and two are very familiar faces in our classrooms - Mr Connor Jr, and our Headteacher Mrs Busby.

Led by Mrs. Busby, our aims are supported by and delivered through our experienced teaching and support team, and you can find out more about them on Our Staff page.