Are you searching for a junior boarding school in West Sussex where your child will be cared for, inspired, and given the best possible start in life? Cottesmore School is an award-winning independent prep school for boys and girls aged 4–13, offering full, weekly, and flexi boarding from Year 3 (age 7).
Located near Horsham in the heart of the countryside, Cottesmore is one of the leading junior boarding schools in the UK. Combining academic excellence with outstanding pastoral care in a warm, family-style setting.
What is a Junior Boarding School?
A junior boarding school is an independent prep school that offers boarding for children typically aged 7 to 13, before they move on to senior school.
At this age, boarding builds confidence, independence, and emotional resilience in a gentle, supportive environment. It also allows children to make the most of school life, both academically and socially.
Cottesmore offers all of this and more, in a setting that feels like a second home to all children.
Why Choose Cottesmore?
Cottesmore has been preparing children for top senior schools for over 100 years. We offer an exceptional junior boarding experience designed to help young children feel secure, confident, and happy from the very beginning.
Flexible Boarding Options
- Full Boarding – for children who stay throughout the term
- Weekly Boarding – for pupils who go home at weekends
- Flexi Boarding – for occasional overnight stays when needed
Our boarding houses are warm and welcoming, run by experienced houseparents who create a supportive, family-like atmosphere.
Excellent Academics
At Cottesmore, children benefit from small classes, specialist teaching, and personalised support. We prepare pupils for Common Entrance and scholarships to leading schools such as Eton, Harrow, Marlborough, and Wycombe Abbey.
Learning is engaging and varied, all designed to help suit each child’s interests and abilities and maximise their potential in school.
Outstanding Pastoral Care
Pastoral care is at the heart of everything we do. Your child’s wellbeing is our priority. From day one, they’ll be supported by houseparents, tutors, and a full wellbeing team who are always there to listen, guide, and encourage.
We keep parents closely informed and work in partnership to ensure every child feels safe and supported.
Life Beyond the Classroom
Junior boarding at Cottesmore isn’t just about lessons, we are also about discovering passions, building friendships, and having fun.
Our boarders enjoy:
- Daily sports
- Extra-Curriculum clubs
- Weekend Trips
Every day is filled with adventure, creativity, and the chance to grow.
Admissions & Visits
We welcome applications for boys and girls aged 7–13 from the UK and overseas. If you’re considering a junior boarding school in West Sussex, we’d love to show you what makes Cottesmore so special.
We offer:
- Personal school tours with the Headmaster
- Taster boarding nights
- Scholarships and bursary support
Whether you’re new to boarding or looking for the right school for your second or third child, we’re here to help.
