Introducing the Stepping Stones Awards

We have introduced Stepping Stones Awards, a new means-tested award offering up to 25% reduction in school fees for eligible families entering our early years and preparatory stages.

At Prince's Mead we understand that many families face uncertainty. The Stepping Stones Awards are about partnership; supporting parents who value independent schooling but who may need additional flexibility while financial circumstances evolve.

Designed to support families at the beginning of their journey with independent education, these Awards help ensure that a child’s potential can be nurtured early, even when financial circumstance make full fees a challenge at the outset.

Head of Prince's Mead, Adam King, spoke proudly of the innovative initiative:

“An exceptional education is rarely a single leap; it is a journey navigated step by step. Throughout our history, KES has sought to open doors and create opportunity, while evolving to reflect the needs of our families. The Stepping Stones Awards are a practical expression of that belief, offering meaningful support at the start of a child’s educational journey, when strong foundations matter most.”

The Stepping Stones Awards build on Prince's Mead's enduring commitment to access and opportunity within today’s educational and financial landscape. They are not full bursaries, but thoughtfully structured awards that provide meaningful support at a key moment in a child’s educational development.

Prince's Mead is part of the King Edward VI Schools, a leading education provider across Hampshire, with two highly respected preparatory schools feeding into a high-performing senior school, ranked among the top 10 schools in the South West by The Sunday Times Parent Power 2026.

The first steps in education matter and, by joining Prince's Mead in the early years, children benefit from small class sizes and personalised teaching, strong pastoral care and gentle transitions into school life, alongside a clear and continuous pathway through to preparatory and senior education.

A reduction of up to 25% of fees is available to eligible families joining Reception to Year 3, enabling children to take their next step with confidence. You can find out more about The Stepping Stones Awards here.