Sacred Heart School
· TN5 6DQ
Sacred Heart School is a Catholic co-educational preparatory school located in rural East Sussex, serving pupils from age 3 through 11. With 155 pupils and a day-only model, it emphasises Catholic values alongside academic development. The school has recently achieved an excellent ISI inspection rating and was recognised in the Sunday Times Top 100 Prep Schools, positioning itself as a quality independent alternative in the Weald.
- →Strong Catholic ethos with daily prayer and religious education integrated throughout the curriculum
- →Small, nurturing environment with 155 pupils allowing individualised attention
- →Recent excellent ISI inspection results and Sunday Times recognition for academic standards
- →Broad co-curricular offering including music, sport and clubs in a rural, safe setting
Who thrives here
Families seeking a Catholic education in a small, community-focused prep setting with strong moral values and personalised pastoral care. Suits pupils who thrive in intimate, values-led environments rather than large competitive systems.
Strengths at a glance
Percentiles within UK independent + grammar schools we track.
At a glance
Contact & visit
Mayfield Lane, Durgates, Wadhurst
TN5 6DQ
Nearest stations
Frequently asked questions
What are the fees at Sacred Heart School?
Day fees at Sacred Heart School are approximately £10,698 per year (2024/25).
How do you get into Sacred Heart School?
Sacred Heart School admits pupils at 3+, 4+, 7+, 8+, 11+. Entry is assessed by Assessment Day, Interview. See the Admissions section above for open days and key dates.
Is Sacred Heart School a boarding school?
Sacred Heart School is a day school in England and does not offer boarding.
What is Sacred Heart School's latest inspection rating?
ISI rated Sacred Heart School “Excellent” (2022).
What parents say
Frequently praised
✓Strong Catholic community and moral education values
✓Recent excellent ISI inspection and Sunday Times Top 100 recognition
✓Small, intimate environment with good pastoral care and attention to individual pupils
✓Active extra-curricular and social calendar (music, sport, PTA events)
Common concerns
!Limited facilities and scale compared to larger independent preps
!No sixth form – pupils must transition elsewhere at 11+
!Day-only model requires reliable local transport