Our School

Welcome to Stratford School Los Gatos Kensington Way

At our school, we don’t just teach—we transform how children learn and grow. As one of Los Gatos’ best private preschools and elementary schools, our school is like no other. Our strong focus on exceptional academics and student-centered learning means every child is seen, supported, and empowered. Our teachers create a welcoming space where our students feel safe, cared for, and ready to learn. Through hands-on activities, exciting lessons, and the latest technology, we prepare your child for the future. We are proud to be fully accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).

Just as important as academic success is the strong sense of community we foster. We believe that children thrive best when families, teachers, and school leaders work in partnership. Here, your child won’t just meet expectations, they will exceed them… with a community cheering them on every step of the way.


Our Facilities

Every corner of our school is thoughtfully designed with students in mind, ensuring a safe and enriching place where your child can learn and grow. One of the original Stratford campuses, our Los Gatos school is nestled in a beautiful green valley in a quiet residential neighborhood. An “outdoor campus” with no interior hallways, our students enjoy learning and playing against the stunning backdrop of the forested Almaden Valley hills.


Charitable Giving

We are more than a school; we are a community. Through our Stratford Cares initiative, students develop an appreciation for what they have, increase their self-esteem, show gratitude toward others, build leadership skills, and see the positive impact of their actions. From supporting local food banks to organizing toy drives, our efforts span a wide range of causes. Most notably, Stratford School has donated over $2 million to the American Heart Association, a remarkable lifetime contribution that reflects the power of compassion and collective action.


FAQs

What grades do you serve?
We offer a private school education for children from 2.5 years through 4th grade.

What are the hours of operation at your school?
Our academic day is 7:45 am–3:45 pm. Extended hours are 7:00 am–6:00 pm.

What is Stratford School Los Gatos Kensington Way’s uniform policy?
All students in kindergarten and above must wear a school uniform. Uniforms can be purchased from Flynn O’Hara. We do not require P.E. uniforms. Children should wear or bring sneakers to ensure they can take part in sports and P.E. activities.

Does Stratford School Los Gatos Kensington Way provide lunch?
Lunch is available for purchase through Choice Lunch. Snacks are provided for our Preschool and Pre-K students.

Is your school accredited?
Yes. We are fully accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).

Can children who are not enrolled in school-year programs join Stratford School Gatos Kensington Way summer camps?
Yes! We are excited to welcome children from the community to our summer camps, whether they are enrolled at our school or not. All summer camp programs are filled on a first-come, first-served basis.

How does Stratford School Los Gatos Kensington Way compare to the surrounding schools?
We stand out from other schools because we are committed to offering a challenging STEAM curriculum where tradition meets 21st-century learning to give students the tools to succeed in our ever-evolving world. We focus on helping students master the core subjects, creating a safe and nurturing school environment, and motivating students through high expectations in a collaborative and fun learning environment. Our private school education helps our students learn, grow, and be ready for what comes next. We are proud to be one of the best private schools in Los Gatos, as recognized by Niche.

What safety measures are in place at Stratford School Los Gatos Kensington Way?
You will notice our security measures from the moment that you step into our school. We restrict access to our enrolled families, our staff, and registered visitors. All visitors to our school are required to check in at the front desk, present their ID, and wear a visitor badge during their visit. We have a security officer on site, and only authorized adults are allowed to pick up a child in our care. Our facility includes monitored entry points and secure perimeters.

What are the qualifications for teachers?
Our teachers are carefully chosen and highly qualified. Before they are approved to teach with us, all staff go through background checks and interviews. We ensure they meet our standards and genuinely enjoy working with young children. All teachers receive training in emergency preparedness and response. All office staff and early childhood education teachers are certified in CPR and First Aid. We have an AED on campus to support emergency response. Staff are also trained in child abuse awareness and prevention, supervision techniques, and behavior management. Our teachers grow through ongoing professional development workshops and a supportive mentorship program.

How do teachers at Stratford School Los Gatos Kensington Way communicate with families?
We know that communication is one of the most important factors when selecting a school for your child. That is why we prioritize communication between families and staff members. PowerSchool provides access to real-time information like grades and attendance. Schoology provides information, including assignments, school updates, and photos. Our teachers and administrators communicate regularly through email, phone calls, and in-person conferences. Weekly newsletters from the Head of School and classroom updates from teachers help keep families engaged and informed.

Do Stratford campuses participate in the CAASPP testing, or do they use a different form of academic assessment?
At our school, we use tests from the Educational Records Bureau (ERB). These help us see how each child is doing and how to best support their growth. We specifically use the CTP (Comprehensive Testing Program).

How is technology used in the classroom?
At Stratford, we believe that purposeful use of technology enhances both teaching and learning. In our classrooms, we use age-appropriate tools, including Chromebooks, to support instruction, foster creativity, and build skills that students will carry with them into the future. We also incorporate digital citizenship lessons to help our students use technology responsibly and safely.

How does Stratford foster social-emotional learning and character development?
We believe it is important for students to grow not only in their schoolwork, but also as kind and caring people. Our teachers help develop empathy, resilience, problem-solving skills, leadership, and a growth mindset in our students. They also promote positive peer relationships and conflict resolution strategies. We incorporate character education throughout the school day and celebrate our students’ positive behavior and accomplishments.

What leadership and enrichment opportunities are available for students?
At Stratford Los Gatos, we encourage students to be leaders and take part in their school community. Our 3rd and 4th-grade students are eligible to join the Student Council. They help plan school events and share ideas with teachers and staff. They learn how to be leaders, work as a team, and take responsibility. They can also take part in student committees, such as the Kindness Committee and the Environment Committee. In these groups, students work on projects that make our school a better and more welcoming place. We also have more than 35 after-school clubs for all students. These clubs allow our students to try new things, build confidence, and become leaders while having fun.

 

Learn More About Our Programs

Contact us to learn more about our private school and how your child can thrive here.

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