
Pulborough, West Sussex · RH20 4AY
Windlesham House is an established co-ed boarding and day prep school (age 4–13) set across 70 acres in the West Sussex South Downs, emphasizing a child-centred, countryside ethos that preserves childhood joy and outdoor discovery. The school combines traditional academic foundations with extensive land-based learning, including a working farm, forest school, nine-hole golf course, and 25m indoor pool. As part of the Charterhouse family of schools, it positions itself as a happy, kind community where space, nature, and experiential learning are central to its identity.
Who thrives here
Pupils who thrive in outdoor, experiential learning environments and benefit from a nurturing, unhurried approach. Families seeking a traditional prep with a progressive, land-based philosophy and strong boarding provision.
Percentiles within UK independent + grammar schools we track.
London Road, Washington
Pulborough, West Sussex
RH20 4AY
Nearest stations
Day fees at Windlesham House School are approximately £32,376 per year (2025/26). Boarding fees are higher.
Windlesham House School admits pupils at 3+, 4+, 7+, 8+, 11+, 13+. Entry is assessed by Assessment Day, Interview. See the Admissions section above for open days and key dates.
Windlesham House School offers boarding as well as day places.
ISI rated Windlesham House School “Met all standards” (2024).
Frequently praised
✓Outstanding grounds and outdoor learning environment; strong forest school ethos
✓Warm, nurturing pastoral culture emphasizing kindness, resilience, and emotional wellbeing
✓Smooth transition pathway into Charterhouse; supportive boarding provision for international and military families
✓Breadth of co-curricular provision (golf, swimming, farm, forest school) with high pupil engagement
Common concerns
!Not yet inspected by Ofsted; limited external validation of academic and pastoral standards
!Rural location may limit day-pupil accessibility and require substantial parental transport commitment
!Heavy reliance on Charterhouse pathway may narrow expectations for pupils not proceeding to that school