Welcome to Cottesmore School, a leading prep school offering outstanding academics, pastoral care, and character development in a stunning countryside setting. Located just outside Horsham, Cottesmore serves boys and girls aged 4–13, preparing them for top senior schools across the UK.

With over a century of excellence, Cottesmore is proud to be one of the most respected independent schools in the region.

 

Why Choose an Independent School in West Sussex?

West Sussex is home to some of the UK’s finest independent schools, combining academic rigour with natural surroundings that support wellbeing and creativity. Families choose schools in this area for:

  • High academic standards
  • Small class sizes and personalised teaching
  • Extensive outdoor space and sports facilities
  • Boarding and day options to suit modern family life
  • Excellent access to London and surrounding counties

Independent schools in West Sussex offer more than just academics. They focus on the whole child, providing a safe, inspiring environment where pupils thrive.

 

Why Cottesmore School Is A Leading Prep School for Ages 4–13

Set within 140 acres of beautiful countryside, Cottesmore offers children the opportunity to learn, grow, and explore in an environment that balances tradition with innovation.

Academic Excellence
Cottesmore delivers a robust curriculum tailored to the needs of each child. Whether preparing for Common Entrance or scholarships, pupils benefit from small classes, subject specialists, and an engaging approach to teaching.

Our pupils regularly win places at the UK’s top senior schools, including Eton, Harrow, Winchester, and Benenden. Every pupil is encouraged to reach their full academic potential.

Outstanding Pastoral Care
Cottesmore is known for its exceptional pastoral care. We believe happy children learn best. Our dedicated staff support each child’s emotional wellbeing, ensuring they feel safe, valued, and confident.

Boarders enjoy a warm, family-style atmosphere, while day pupils are fully integrated into school life. All children are supported by form tutors, houseparents, and a strong wellbeing programme.

Enrichment Beyond the Classroom
A true education goes beyond academics. At Cottesmore, children enjoy a wide-ranging co-curricular programmes. We have included a snippet of some of our programmes but you can check all of our programmes out by scrolling through our site.

Four children are on a golf course, each with golf clubs and bags. They appear to be talking or preparing to play. The background features green trees and a bright sky. A yellow flag is visible nearby.

Sport at Cottesmore
In a warm, wood-paneled library, three students in school uniforms play chess, their laughter echoing softly. One boy makes a thoughtful move as two girls sit nearby, smiling and immersed in the games gentle challenge against a backdrop of towering bookshelves.

Chess
A man in a suit walks outside with four children wearing school uniforms, each holding a book. They are smiling and appear to be having a conversation near a brick building and greenery.

Music
A man in a suit walks outside with four children wearing school uniforms, each holding a book. They are smiling and appear to be having a conversation near a brick building and greenery.

Design Technology
A man in a suit walks outside with four children wearing school uniforms, each holding a book. They are smiling and appear to be having a conversation near a brick building and greenery.

Arts
Three children in school uniforms walk outside, holding books and smiling. The uniforms include dark sweaters, ties, and shirts. They appear to be enjoying a conversation in a green area with blurred trees in the background.

Drama

Flexible Boarding and Day Options

Cottesmore offers full, weekly, and flexi boarding to suit different family needs. Our boarding programme is welcoming and structured, helping children grow in independence and confidence.

For local families, the extended day for day pupils includes clubs, prep, and meals—offering the full Cottesmore experience.

 

A School With Values

Cottesmore places strong emphasis on character development. Our values—kindness, respect, responsibility, and humility—are woven into everyday life. We aim to produce not only successful learners, but also kind and capable young people who are prepared for life beyond school.

 

Admissions & Visits

We welcome applications throughout the year for boys and girls aged 4–13. The admissions process includes:

  • A personal tour of the school
  • A meeting with the Headmaster
  • Informal assessments
  • A taster day or overnight stay

We also offer scholarships and bursaries, helping more families access the benefits of a Cottesmore education.

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