Independent Prep School & Nursery. Rated EXCELLENT by ISI Inspectors. Part of the Dean Close Foundation. Not a minute wasted, not a moment rushed. Childhood at Dean Close St Johns. It is more than an education, it is a profound feeling of freedom; a chance to climb trees, get muddy knees, light fires, to take risks and to be challenged, to laugh and to build lifelong friendships. Being given the independence to explore their learning, both inside and outside the classroom, is an essential ingredient to every child’s educational journey.