Age Range. 2–13.
Number of Pupils. 360 pupils: 70 boarders, 267 Prep School; 86 Pre-Prep.
Fees per term (2023-2024). Day £6,300–£7,365 (Years 3–8); Full Boarding £2,596 (7 nights/in addition to day fees); Pre-Prep £1,590–£4,405 (Nursery to Year 2).
“Fizzing energy, small family feel and top-drawer academics.” Talk Education
Westbourne House School, for children aged 2½–13, is set in 100 acres of parkland between the South Downs and south coast, just outside Chichester.
In 2022, Westbourne House was the inaugural winner of a special award: The Alice Rose Award in the Talk Education Awards for Innovation in Education. The judges were looking for “a school where children are allowed to be children, one that supports growth and learning but allows them to climb trees and get muddy knees, where confident, nurtured, happy children enjoy their childhood. A true home-from-home.”
The Westbourne Way
At Westbourne House, we uncover the character, dreams, potential - the magic - of each child. We ensure pupils make the most of the world of experiences offered to them - from canoeing adventures on our lake to awe-inspiring science experiments - building their confidence and sparking a love of learning. In our kind, happy and supportive environment, we cultivate curiosity, encourage wellbeing and prepare them with skills for the future. Our children leave with the tools they need to make brave and ambitious decisions on the way to their chosen future.
Celebrating Individuality
Focusing on every child as an individual is at the heart of everything we do, ensuring each pupil feels valued, supported and appreciated for who they are and their contributions to our community.
A World of Opportunities
Designed to be holistic and stimulating, the curriculum at Westbourne House is exceptionally broad and inclusive. Encouraging our children to have a go and persevere is a key part of our ethos. It gives children the opportunity to develop self-knowledge and an enviable adventurous attitude that is remarked upon time and time again by the heads of senior schools. Teachers make the most of the school’s extensive facilities, woods, grounds and lake as well as its location near Chichester, seaside and countryside.
Ready to Shape the Future
Throughout the school’s long history, our focus has gone beyond that of academic achievement to the growth of the whole child. Pupils develop key life skills, values and attributes and are rewarded for applying them. These skills empower our pupils to be open-minded, work well in teams, think flexibly and develop resilience.
The Wonderful Pre-Prep and Nursery
We place much emphasis on outdoor learning. Our teachers and pupils make the most of the gardens, play equipment, woods and lake for play and learning. Pupils enjoy an 'all round' experience sparking a love of art, drama, music and sport. “A huge shout-out to the splendid Pre-Prep. It offers a gentle transition from Nursery to Reception and is one of the loveliest, most uplifting Pre-Preps we’ve seen.” Talk Education
Boarding
Westbourne House is known for is its gentle introduction to the boarding experience. Supportive houseparents, family-style houses and a vibrant boarding community provide the perfect environment for children starting their boarding journey.
Exceptional results
We believe every child can succeed if given the right opportunities, encouragement and practice. Our pupils go on to some of the best senior schools including Bede's, Brighton, Canford, Churcher's, Cranleigh, Eton, Harrow, Hurstpierpoint, Lancing, Marlborough, Millfield, Portsmouth Grammar, Radley, Seaford, Sherborne, Wellington and Winchester. In 2023, Year 8 pupils were awarded 26 scholarships: academic (7), art (2), music (1), drama (1), dance (1), sport (11) and all-around ability (3).
“Westbourne House School is excellent preparation for a move to Brighton College in Year 9. Their pupils are adventurous, keen to get involved, responsible and academically they are extremely well prepared.” Leah Hamblett, Deputy Head Brighton College
“A deeply fun experience.” Tatler Schools Guide
“Best for Music.” The Week
“Westbourne House is brimming with original ideas.” The Week
"Boarding at Westbourne House School has been the best decision of my life so far." Isobel (Year 8 Spanish student)