Roedean School

Roedean Way, Brighton, BN2 5RQ

Pupils

700

Ages

11 - 18

Gender

Girls

Type

Secondary

Head Teacher

Mrs Niamh Green

Boarding / Day

Day, Weekly/Flexible Boarding and Full Boarding

Fees

£6,290 to £8,220

ISC Associations

HMC, GSA, AGBIS, ISBA

Religion

Church of England

Bursaries

Available

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About Roedean School

Roedean School, located on the picturesque cliffs to the east of Brighton, offers a unique educational experience for girls aged 11 to 18. With a strong emphasis on both academic excellence and personal development, the school provides a nurturing environment where students are encouraged to explore their interests and reach their full potential.

One of the standout features of Roedean is its innovative approach to learning. The school offers a variety of ‘experience days’ designed to engage prospective pupils, ranging from rockpooling to science challenges. This hands-on approach is reflected in the classroom, where teachers employ creative methods to stimulate critical thinking and problem-solving skills. For instance, in maths lessons, students are encouraged to use their initiative to tackle new topics, fostering a sense of independence and confidence in their abilities.

The school’s commitment to academic success is evident in its impressive exam results. In 2023, 74% of GCSE grades were 9-7, while 56% of A-level results were A*/A. These achievements are supported by a dedicated team of educators, including a new director of higher education who assists sixth formers in preparing for university applications through mock interviews and exam practice. The most popular university destinations for graduates include UCL, Edinburgh, and King’s College London, with a notable number pursuing STEM courses.

Roedean’s curriculum is designed to be both broad and balanced, with younger students benefiting from the Head, Heart, and Hands programme, which introduces them to diverse subjects such as philosophy and British Sign Language. In the sixth form, students engage in independent research projects and are encouraged to participate in community service, reflecting the school’s ethos of developing well-rounded individuals.

The arts and extra-curricular activities are a vital part of life at Roedean. The school boasts original art studios and offers a wide range of co-curricular options, from Lego engineering to astronomy club. Performing arts are also popular, with workshops and performances that challenge students to think creatively and work collaboratively. The school’s commitment to the arts is further demonstrated by its annual participation in the art foundation course at Central St Martins.

Sport is another key component of the Roedean experience, with 26 sports on offer, including tag rugby and golf. The school’s facilities include two dance studios, an indoor pool, and a new all-weather pitch, providing ample opportunities for students to stay active and healthy.

Boarding at Roedean is akin to staying in a boutique hotel, with modern and elegant boarding houses that celebrate the school’s heritage while incorporating contemporary design elements. The boarding experience is inclusive, with day pupils and boarders mixing in houses, and a strong sense of community is fostered through inter-house competitions and shared activities.

Pastoral care is a priority at Roedean, with a team of pastoral managers and counsellors available to support students’ wellbeing. The school has introduced vertical tutor groups to encourage a sense of familial support among pupils, and any incidents of bullying are swiftly addressed. The school’s inclusive environment is further enhanced by its commitment to diversity, with a significant number of pupils receiving means-tested financial support.

Roedean’s ethos is rooted in its history, having been founded in 1885 to prepare girls for entry to women’s colleges at Oxford and Cambridge. Today, the school continues to empower young women, providing them with the skills and confidence to succeed in a rapidly changing world. The school’s commitment to inclusivity and community engagement is reflected in its outreach programmes, which see pupils volunteering in local charity shops and supporting the Royal Institute for the Blind.

In summary, Roedean School offers a dynamic and supportive environment where girls are encouraged to excel academically, explore their passions, and develop into confident, capable young women. To receive updates about this school including exam results, senior staff changes and open days please book mark it using the button at the end of this review.

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ISI Review

Roedean School, an independent day and boarding institution for girls aged 11 to 18, is located in Brighton, East Sussex. Founded in 1885 and granted a Royal Charter in 1938, the school operates as a charitable trust overseen by a board of trustees known as the Council. The campus features six boarding houses, with recent refurbishments enhancing the boarding accommodations, theatre, and sports facilities, including a new all-purpose floodlit sports pitch.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the school adapted by providing remote learning materials while maintaining a focus on infection control. The inspection process for this report was conducted partly remotely and partly on-site to minimize contact. The school aims to inspire and challenge every student to develop her strengths and passions, fostering a strong foundation for future success. The student body is diverse, with pupils coming from various professional backgrounds, primarily from East Sussex and overseas. The school has identified 55 pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities, with additional support provided to those who require it.

The Regulatory Compliance Inspection revealed that Roedean School meets all standards set by the Education (Independent School Standards) Regulations 2014 and the National Minimum Standards for Boarding Schools. The quality of education provided is strong, with pupils making good progress in their academic pursuits. At GCSE and A-level, the school has consistently achieved high results, with teaching enabling pupils to excel. The curriculum is well-documented and covers a broad range of subjects, supported by effective behavior management and suitable resources.

The spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development of pupils is actively promoted, with an emphasis on fostering responsible and tolerant citizens. The school has effective measures in place to safeguard and promote the welfare of pupils, ensuring health and safety requirements are met. The suitability of staff is rigorously checked, and appropriate supervision is maintained for visitors to boarding accommodations.

The premises and accommodation provided are adequate, with suitable facilities for medical needs and outdoor activities. The school publishes a range of information for parents and stakeholders, including details about its ethos, curriculum, and policies regarding behavior and complaints. Complaints are handled effectively through a structured process, ensuring transparency and accountability.

Leadership and management at Roedean School demonstrate good skills and knowledge, fulfilling their responsibilities effectively. The quality of leadership in both the school and boarding provisions is strong, with policies and records maintained and monitored appropriately.

The Educational Quality Inspection highlighted the excellent quality of pupils' academic achievements. Pupils attain high standards at A-level and GCSE, with rapid progress in their knowledge and skills. Communication skills among pupils are outstanding, with a high level of engagement in lessons and group work. The school encourages physical exercise and outdoor pursuits, contributing to a strong sporting record.

Pupils exhibit considerable self-knowledge and moral understanding, demonstrating respect for diversity and other cultures. They are aware of current social issues and appreciate the support provided by the school in these areas. The school encourages pupils to reflect on their learning and personal growth, fostering resilience and maturity.

Pupils are adept at working collaboratively, showing empathy and inclusivity in their interactions. They articulate their understanding of ethical principles and demonstrate a clear sense of right and wrong. The school emphasizes the importance of kindness and compassion, with pupils actively contributing to the school community.

Overall, Roedean School provides a high-quality education that meets the needs of its diverse student body. The school’s commitment to academic excellence, personal development, and the well-being of its pupils is evident in its practices and outcomes. The leadership and management effectively promote a positive learning environment, ensuring that all pupils are supported in their educational journey.

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