If you’re searching for an exceptional boarding school in West Sussex, welcome to Cottesmore. Nestled in 140 acres of peaceful countryside near Horsham, Cottesmore is one of the region’s leading independent prep schools for boys and girls aged 4–13.

With a strong reputation for academic excellence and outstanding pastoral care, Cottesmore is a place where children grow in confidence, build lifelong friendships, and truly thrive—both in and outside the classroom.

 

Why Choose Cottesmore School?

At Cottesmore, we offer flexible boarding options for children aged 7–13. Whether you’re looking for full, weekly, or flexi boarding, we tailor the experience to suit your family’s needs.

Flexible Boarding Options

We understand that every child and family is different. That’s why we offer:

Full Boarding – for pupils who stay with us throughout the term

Weekly Boarding – for children who return home at weekends

Flexi Boarding – for occasional stays when needed

Our boarding houses are warm and welcoming, run by experienced houseparents who treat every child like one of their own. Evenings are filled with activities, shared meals, and a sense of belonging that helps children feel completely at home.

 

A Strong Academic Foundation

We prepare children for entrance and scholarships to top senior schools like Eton, Harrow, Marlborough, and Wycombe Abbey. Small class sizes, dedicated teachers, and a supportive environment help every child achieve their best.

 

Unrivalled Pastoral Care

Cottesmore is known for its exceptional pastoral care. We focus on your child’s emotional wellbeing as much as their academic progress. Each pupil has a team of people supporting them—from houseparents and tutors to friends and mentors.

 

Life Outside the Classroom

Boarders at Cottesmore enjoy a rich, active life beyond lessons, with access to a wide range of activities:

  • Wide variety of sports incl. Rugby, Netball, Swimming, Hockey, Tennis, Football and much more.
  • Art
  • Music
  • Drama
  • Design
  • Weekend Trips

These experiences help children develop confidence, resilience, and new passions.

 

Building Character and Confidence

At Cottesmore, we teach values that last a lifetime—kindness, responsibility, good manners, and self-discipline. Boarding gives children the chance to become more independent while always knowing they have support when they need it.

 

Come and See for Yourself

We welcome children from across the UK and around the world. Whether you’re new to boarding or looking for a school where your child can continue their journey, Cottesmore offers a caring, inspiring place to grow.

 

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
Video Wall