Westbourne House School

Described by Tatler as a “deeply fun experience”, Westbourne House offers the best of both worlds – an extraordinary track record of Year 8 scholarships and destination schools, in an inspiring environment where children can grow up in their own time.

We believe children should enjoy an idyllic childhood, with opportunities for independence and adventure, while engaging in an outstanding holistic education that produces excellent results. Our exceptional staff build children’s confidence and resilience to help them achieve their individual best.

Exceptional results

Our pupils go on to some of the most prestigious schools in the country, including Benenden, Brighton College, Canford, Eton, Harrow, Marlborough, Wellington, Winchester and Wycombe Abbey. Our scholarship record is second to none, with 123 scholarships awarded in the past five years for extraordinary academic, sport, music, choral, dance, art, drama and all-round achievement.

An idyllic setting

“Pupils here stay kids for longer than those in more urban schools.” – Good Schools Guide

Westbourne House is located in 100 acres of parkland in a picturesque location between the sunny South Downs and the south coast, just outside the beautiful market town of Chichester and close to the famous Goodwood Estate. Chichester is located 1.5 hours south of London and attracts many families who enjoy the coastal lifestyle. It is easily accessible by train from London and only 45 miles from Gatwick Airport.

We give children free time to explore our grounds, returning to lessons with muddy knees and renewed spirit; it’s key to life here because we know that children who spend time outside are happier, healthier and more creative.

Learning tailored to the individual

“Teachers have detailed knowledge of the children, allowing carefully-focused support to be provided.” – Independent Schools Inspectorate Report

Thanks to small class sizes, our pastoral approach and an exceptional SEN team, we keep a close eye on each child’s progress to identify when a child is ready for a challenge and to ensure that extra support is given where needed.

Broad curriculum

“Exceptional creative talents are evident in many areas…especially in art, music and drama.” – Independent Schools Inspectorate

We give children endless opportunities to find their strengths and shine.  Designed to be holistic and stimulating, our curriculum is an unforgettable journey of discovery: science experiments, outdoor adventure, drama, debates, chess, cooking, ceramics, poetry, music, kayaking and a variety of team and individual sports.

Taking children out of their ‘comfort zone’ by allowing them to experience this wide variety of activity builds confidence to take on new challenges with enthusiasm and a ‘can do’ attitude.

Confident, pro-active, collaborative leaders

We believe in developing personal qualities in children that empower them to thrive at school and at home: resilience, learning from setbacks, appreciating their good fortune and thinking of others. It is our belief that this positive mind-set will guide them towards success throughout their lives.

A recent Independent Schools Report found Westbourne House pupils to “have exemplary leadership skills”, to “demonstrate exceptional confidence” and to “show initiative” and “work remarkably well on their own, collaboratively and with their teachers”.

Family-style boarding

“Founded as a family school and the atmosphere remains.”

– Good Schools Guide

There is a deeply-felt sense of community here. Boarders live in one of seven family-style boarding houses. They enjoy a range of activities, but their favourite time is when they get to take advantage of the grounds in the long summer evenings, playing tennis and cricket, and creating life-long bonds with their friends.

“A deeply fun experience” – Tatler, 2018

Further information, including details about Open Days can be found on the website (westbournehouse.org), and the Admissions Office can be contacted on +44 (0)1243 782739 or [email protected].