Age range. 2–13.
Number of pupils. 350 pupils: 70 boarders, 252 Prep School; 98 Pre-Prep.
Fees per term (2024-2025). Day: £6,545–£7,650 (Years 3–8); Full Boarding: £2,700 (7 nights/in addition to day fees); Pre-Prep: £1,590–£4,575 (Nursery to Year 2).
'Fizzing energy, small family feel and top-drawer academics.’ Talk Education
The Westbourne way. At Westbourne House, we uncover the character, dreams, potential – the magic – of each child. Through exciting opportunities, from canoeing adventures on our lake to awe-inspiring science experiments, we spark a love of learning and life. Our community is kind and happy and we support each child to be their best self. At the end of Year 8, our pupils move on to top senior schools with the life skills and attributes they need to carve their own path.
Location. Westbourne House School is set in 100 acres of parkland in Chichester, between the South Downs and the sea.
Exceptional results. High standards without pressure. Our pupils consistently achieve highly and gain entrance to their senior school of choice including Bede’s, Brighton, Canford, Churcher’s, Cranleigh, Eton, Harrow, Hurst, Lancing, Marlborough, Millfield, Portsmouth Grammar, Radley, Seaford, Sherborne, Wellington and Winchester. Over the last five years, our pupils have received an average of 25 scholarships across a wide range of disciplines.
‘Westbourne House School pupils are adventurous, keen to get involved, responsible and academically they are extremely well prepared.’ Leah Hamblett, Vice Principal of the Brighton College Group of Schools.
‘Our children moved from leading independent schools in London where the pressure was significant, and they have absolutely blossomed on arrival at Westbourne House. We are convinced they have excelled far more than had they stayed.’ Parent
Reviews and awards. Independent Schools Inspectorate: 'Excellent' (highest rating). Westbourne House was the inaugural winner of Talk Education’s Alice Rose Award. The judges looked 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.’ Westbourne House was named ‘Best for Innovation’ and ‘Best for Music’ by The Week and is a 'Top 50' cricketing school.
Celebrating individuality. Focusing on every child as an individual is at the heart of everything we do. We ensure each pupil feels valued, supported and appreciated for who they are and their contributions to our community. Small class sizes and dedicated teachers guarantee first-class academic and pastoral support.
A world of opportunities. Our curriculum is exceptionally broad and inclusive, and every pupil is encouraged to make the most of each new experience. Drama, art, music, sport, robotics, IT, ceramics, food tech, debating are all part of the school day. Encouraging pupils to have a go and persevere is a key part of our ethos. It gives children the opportunity to learn about themselves, develop self-knowledge and an enviable can-do attitude. Teachers make the most of the school’s extensive facilities, as well as local opportunities such as Chichester Festival Theatre, Pallant House Gallery and West Wittering. From Year 5, pupils are taught by passionate subject specialist teachers, who inspire and help pupils to reach higher academic heights.
‘A deeply fun experience.’ Tatler Schools Guide
Ready to shape the future. Open-mindedness, empathy, self-motivation, creativity and resilience are just a few qualities our children will need in the future. We teach these systematically inside and outside the classroom as part of our High Performance Learning curriculum. Pupils benefit from daily opportunities to practise essential skills, such as presenting ideas with confidence, performing in front of others and seeing both sides of the story with empathy.
Inspiring Pre-Prep and Nursery. The Pre-Prep is buzzing with energy and creativity and is an outstanding start to a child’s education. We champion the wonder of enquiry-led learning and our happy, curious children spend over half their day outside, engaged in natural exploration, problem-solving and enriching learning experiences. Years 1 and 2 teachers create endless opportunities for pupils to learn through experience, giving learning context.
‘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.
‘Boarding at Westbourne House School has been the best decision of my life so far.’ Isobel (Year 8 Spanish student)