FAQs

Windlesham House accepts children from age four (Reception) through to age thirteen (Year Eight).

1. Pre-prep (ages four to seven)
   Reception, Year One and Year Two children learn in our dedicated pre-prep building with specialist early years staff.
2. Prep (ages seven to thirteen)
   Years Three to Eight pupils progress through our prep school with increasing independence and specialist subject teaching.
3. Main entry points
   We have main entry at Reception, Year Three and Year Seven, though we welcome applications for other years subject to availability.
4. Flexible timing
   Children can start at the beginning of any term, though autumn term entry is most common.
5. Individual consideration
   Each application is considered individually, taking into account the child’s age, ability and readiness for school.

Windlesham House is gently selective, meaning we look for pupils who will benefit from and contribute to our school community.

1. Whole child approach
   We assess academic ability, but also look at creativity, character, social skills and potential.
2. Age-appropriate assessment
   Younger children are assessed through play and observation, whilst older pupils complete more formal academic assessments.
3. Taster day
   The taster day allows us to see how children engage with learning and interact with others in a natural school setting.
4. Not just test scores
   We value curiosity, kindness, resilience and enthusiasm as much as academic achievement.
5. Right fit
   We want to ensure Windlesham House is the right fit for each child and family.

Windlesham House fees are all-inclusive, covering most aspects of school life with minimal extras.

1. All meals
   Three meals per day plus snacks and refreshments are included for all pupils.
2. Extended day care
   Day pupils can arrive at 7.30am and stay until 6.30pm at no additional cost.
3. Most activities
   Eighty-five per cent of our co-curricular programme is included in the fees.
4. Laundry service
   Daily sports kit washing for day pupils and full laundry service for boarders.
5. Saturday programme
   Our extensive Saturday enrichment programme is included in boarding fees.

Windlesham House offers flexible boarding to suit different family needs and lifestyles.

1. Full boarding
   Pupils board five or more nights per week, usually going home at weekends or staying for our weekend programme.
2. Weekly boarding
   Pupils board four nights per week, typically Monday to Friday, going home at weekends.
3. Flexi boarding
   Pupils can board for two or three nights per week, choosing which nights suit their family.
4. Occasional boarding
   Day pupils can occasionally stay for a night or two, subject to availability.
5. Try boarding
   Day pupils are encouraged to try boarding nights to experience our boarding community.

Families use various transport options depending on their location and circumstances.

1. School minibus service
   We operate minibus routes covering local areas, with stops in key towns and villages.
2. Parent drop-off
   Many parents drive their children to school, with convenient drop-off areas.
3. Train service
   The nearest station is Pulborough, approximately fifteen minutes from school by car.
4. London connections
   We can help arrange transport from London airports and stations for boarding pupils.
5. Start of term
   Many families coordinate travel with other school families, sharing journeys when convenient.

Small class sizes ensure every child receives individual attention and personalised support.

1. Pre-prep classes
   Maximum of sixteen pupils per class with additional teaching assistant support.
2. Prep school classes
   Average class size of fourteen to sixteen pupils, with some subjects taught in smaller groups.
3. Setting by ability
   For core subjects, pupils may be taught in ability sets, ensuring appropriate challenge and support.
4. Individual attention
   Small classes mean teachers know each child well and can tailor their approach.
5. Collaboration and independence
   Class sizes allow for collaborative learning whilst developing independent study skills.

One hundred per cent of our pupils gain places at their first-choice senior schools, with many winning scholarships.

1. Top schools
   Recent leavers have progressed to Eton, Harrow, Charterhouse, Brighton College, Hurstpierpoint, Lancing and many others.
2. Scholarship success
   Last year forty-five per cent of pupils won scholarships in academic, music, art, drama and sport.
3. Individual matching
   We help families identify schools that match their child’s strengths, interests and aspirations.
4. Thorough preparation
   Our curriculum prepares pupils for Common Entrance, scholarship exams and school-specific assessments.
5. Ongoing support
   We maintain relationships with senior schools and receive excellent feedback about our leavers.

Outstanding pastoral care ensures every child feels safe, happy and supported to flourish.

1. Form tutors
   Every child has a form tutor who knows them well and monitors their wellbeing and progress.
2. Boarding staff
   Experienced houseparents and matrons provide round-the-clock care for boarders.
3. Wellbeing team
   Specialist counsellors and mental health professionals support children navigating challenges.
4. Medical centre
   Qualified nurses staff our medical centre, managing health needs and coordinating with healthcare providers.
5. Open communication
   We maintain close contact with parents, keeping them informed and involved in their child’s school life.

Windlesham House offers scholarships recognising excellence and bursaries supporting families with fees.

1. Academic scholarships
   Awarded to pupils demonstrating exceptional academic ability and potential.
2. Music scholarships
   For talented young musicians who will contribute to our vibrant music programme.
3. All-rounder scholarships
   Recognising pupils who excel across multiple areas of school life.
4. Means-tested bursaries
   Available to families who would benefit from financial support with fees.
5. Application process
   Contact our admissions team for information about scholarship assessments and bursary applications.