Cottesmore School is an award-winning preparatory school offering an outstanding education for boys and girls aged 4 to 13. Located near Horsham, Cottesmore combines academic achievement with strong pastoral care and an enriching co-curricular programme. All set within 140 acres of beautiful countryside.

Whether you’re considering full boarding, weekly boarding, or day school, Cottesmore provides a nurturing environment where every child is supported to thrive.

 

Why Choose a Private School in West Sussex?

West Sussex offers the perfect blend of peaceful surroundings, easy access to London, and some of the best independent schools in the UK.

  • Private schools in this region are known for:
  • Small class sizes and personalised learning
  • High academic standards and scholarship success
  • Excellent sports and arts facilities
  • Strong links with top senior schools
  • A well-rounded, values-led education

 

Why Cottesmore School Is The Leading Choice

Cottesmore has a proud history of preparing children for leading senior schools, including Eton, Harrow, Marlborough, and Wycombe Abbey.

Academic Excellence – Children at Cottesmore benefit from experienced teachers, focused attention, and a tailored curriculum that supports both Common Entrance and scholarship pathways. Our academic record speaks for itself, with pupils regularly achieving places and awards at top schools.

Outstanding Pastoral Care – We believe that happy, secure children are the best learners. Cottesmore offers exceptional pastoral care, with a strong support network of tutors, houseparents, and wellbeing staff. Every child is known and valued.

A Broad and Balanced Education – Outside the classroom, pupils enjoy a wide range of co-curricular activities, including but not limited to:

  • Rugby
  • Cricket
  • Tennis
  • Swimming
  • Music
  • Drama
  • Visual Arts
  • Netball

These experiences help children grow in confidence, creativity, and leadership.

 

Boarding and Day Options

Cottesmore offers flexible boarding, including full, weekly, and occasional stays. Day pupils enjoy a rich school life, with after-school clubs, prep, and meals included.

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
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