Ardingly College
Haywards Heath, West Sussex · RH17 6SQ
Ardingly College is a well-established co-educational boarding and day school set on a spacious 120-acre Sussex campus, serving pupils aged 3–18 across both Prep and Senior divisions. Known for its 'Every individual, every future' philosophy, the school emphasises personalised education with small pastoral groups and strong pastoral care infrastructure. It combines academic rigour with extensive co-curricular breadth, positioning itself as a school that values individual development and enterprise readiness.
- →Strong pastoral care system with small tutor groups ensuring every pupil is known individually
- →Excellent boarding facilities and house system; compelling 'home from home' boarding experience
- →Broad co-curricular offer including music, drama, sport, and enterprise initiatives
- →All-through provision (Nursery to Sixth Form) allowing long-term continuity within one community
Who thrives here
Pupils who benefit from a supportive, individualised approach in a mixed-ability environment; boarders seeking a strong pastoral community; those wanting breadth alongside academic challenge and diverse enrichment opportunities.
Strengths at a glance
Percentiles within UK independent + grammar schools we track.
At a glance
Contact & visit
College Road, Haywards Heath, West Sussex
Haywards Heath, West Sussex
RH17 6SQ
Nearest stations
Notable alumni
Henry Blofeld
Broadcaster and cricket commentator (BBC Test Match Special)
Tanni Grey-Thompson
Paralympic athlete, Dame, and broadcaster
Recent investment
Frequently asked questions
What are the fees at Ardingly College?
Day fees at Ardingly College are approximately £28,500 per year (2025/26). Boarding fees are higher.
How do you get into Ardingly College?
Ardingly College admits pupils at 3+, 4+, 7+, 8+, 11+, 13+, 16+. Entry is assessed by Interview, Assessment. See the Admissions section above for open days and key dates.
What are Ardingly College's exam results?
At Ardingly College, 32.4% of A-levels were graded A*–B and 57.9% of GCSEs were grade 7/A or above. Full results are in the Results section above.
Is Ardingly College a boarding school?
Ardingly College offers boarding as well as day places.
What is Ardingly College's latest inspection rating?
ISI rated Ardingly College “Excellent” (2018).
What parents say
Frequently praised
✓Exceptional pastoral care and house system; strong sense of community and belonging
✓Individualised approach; pupils feel known and valued by staff
✓Excellent breadth of co-curricular opportunities; good balance between academics and enrichment
✓Supportive, non-pressurised academic culture with high expectations
✓Strong boarding provision and facilities; welcoming house life
✓Effective communication and parent engagement
Common concerns
!Fees at upper end of independent sector; bursary availability may be limited relative to overall cohort
!Campus can feel quite large; some day pupils report less integration with boarders
!Limited rail transport options on weekends may restrict day pupil mobility