Why choose Downey?

Downey House pupils painting in classroom

We believe that at Downey House we provide a unique educational experience where your child will develop a love of learning in a happy, safe and encouraging environment. These are the key reasons why we feel you should choose Downey House:

Co-educational learning

We are the only co-educational preparatory school in the Belfast area.

Small class sizes

There is a maximum of 24* pupils in each class which means that teachers have more time to spend with your child, giving them the attention they need to flourish.

*In exceptional circumstances this may be increased.

Academic excellence

We have an excellent reputation for our academic high standards. With 98% of our P7 pupils transferring to grammar school (2021/2022).

Diversity & inclusivity

We welcome children of all backgrounds, irrespective of race, nationality or religion. Your child will flourish in a diverse and inclusive educational setting.

Specialist teaching

Your child will benefit from a range of specialist teaching in Drama, Languages, Learning Support, Music, PE & Games and Swimming.

Wrap around care

We recognise the needs of working parents and therefore provide a comprehensive wrap around care service.

Pastoral care

This is of utmost importance within the school and we pride ourselves on the exceptional levels of pastoral care that we provide. 

Extra-curricular

We aim to provide a fulfilling and enjoying educational experience with our wide range of extra-curricular activitites from table tennis to drama adn athletics to scripture union and much more...

Preschool

We provide a preschool facility for children from the age of 3. We have excellent indoor and outdoor space for children to learn through play.

Location

Downey House is located in a convenient and easy to reach location in the heart of Belfast. The school is situated on 40 acres of Methody's playing fields in East Belfast near the Ravenhill Road in BT6.

Take a tour of Downey House

We chose Downey in part because of family ties with Methody but also because we wanted our children to attend a co-ed and non-denominational school. When we toured the school we were very impressed with the articulate, polite, confident and happy pupils. The grounds are quite amazing and it's great to see the children being able to play in so much green space. Downey's small class sizes create an environment where the children all know each other and play amongst year groups; there's a real family feel to the school. We're pleased to say that our children are very settled and thriving at Downey!
Michael & Susan McNeill, Downey House parents.