Eastbourne College
Eastbourne College is a co-educational senior school offering day and boarding options with a strong house system and excellent pastoral care.
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Our take
Independent co-ed senior school in East Sussex for ages 13–18, day or boarding. Selective entry, top-tier London fees.
- Families seeking a senior school for ages 13–18, with thinking already on 11+ or 13+ entry.
- Families who prefer a co-educational setting over single-sex.
- Families weighing day vs boarding — both are offered.
- Children who can demonstrate strong academics at entry assessment — this is a selective school.
- Families comfortable with top-tier London independent fees in exchange for the level of provision.
- Fees sit at the top of the London market. Factor in extras (uniform, trips, lunches, music tuition) before committing.
- Selective entry — assume some form of assessment at the relevant entry point. Plan tutoring or familiarisation early if needed.
- SEND provision isn't documented in our profile. If your child has an EHCP or specific learning needs, ask admissions about case-by-case capacity before applying.
About the head
“Ex Oriente Salus”
Striking the right balance that encourages pupils to commit to developing every aspect of themselves is paramount at Eastbourne College, preparing young people to live fulfilled and successful adult lives.
Distinctive features
strong university progression including Oxbridge
blend of day and boarding pupils
excellent sports and arts opportunities
supportive and healthy learning environment
Saturday revision sessions
Activities & co-curricular
sport
music
drama
academic club
service
other
Facilities
sports
arts
boarding
academic
wellbeing
Latest exam results
In 2025, , with and ; in GCSEs, and 18 pupils achieved all grades 7–9
Where leavers go
| 2025 | |
|---|---|
| Cohort | 141 |
| Oxbridge | 3 |
| Russell Group | 10 |
| US Ivy | 0 |
| Medicine | 3 |
Recent coverage
In August 2025, Eastbourne College reported that 52% of its GCSE grades were awarded at levels 7 to 9, surpassing the national average of 21.9%. Notably, 18 pupils achieved a clean sweep of grades 7 to 9 in every subject, with two securing ten or more grade 9s. In March 2025, the college's boys' swimming team made history by winning both the Aldenham Cup (freestyle relay) and the Dunelm Cup (medley relay) at the Bath Cup, marking back-to-back double victories. The college's Project 150, a £30 million development, was completed with the opening of the Nugee and Winn buildings. The Winn Building, part of this project, includes a 25-metre six-lane competition-standard swimming pool, a five-badminton court sports hall, two glass-backed squash courts, a fitness suite, a dance studio, and a dining hall seating 450. This facility won a Sussex Heritage Trust Award. In 2024, the college's Attainment 8 score was 41.7, with 0% of pupils achieving a grade 5 or above in both English and maths. (schoolsinfo.uk)
Notable alumni
Open-day dates not yet published
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How well does Eastbourne College match?
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Check fit for my childApplication timeline
1 of 8 admissions stages have confirmed dates. Save this school to be notified when dates are published.
Open events
Private tours and additional visits available by arrangement — contact admissions to arrange.
Talks & tasters
| Thu, 17 Sept 2026 | Sixth Form Open Evening for Year 12 Entry | Sixth Form Open |
| Thu, 17 Sept 2026 | Sixth Form Open Evening | Sixth Form Evening |
| Sat, 3 Oct 2026 | Open Morning for Years 9–12 Entry | Open Morning |
Fees
Bursaries & Scholarships
House system
Wellbeing
Eastbourne College offers a supportive house system with dedicated housemistresses, fostering a home-from-home environment. Pastoral care includes comfortable common areas, various house events, and encouragement for full participation in college life, promoting pupil welfare and mental wellbeing.
Inspection
Isi — 18 May 2023
One inspection report on file. Worth reading before booking a visit — covers safeguarding, leadership and overall standard.
Term dates 2026
Schools like Eastbourne College
Ranked by semantic similarity across curriculum, ethos, intake and admissions style. Most parents shortlist 4–6 schools before applying.
Questions parents ask
Common questions about Eastbourne College, answered from this school’s structured profile data. Always confirm specifics with admissions before applying.
What kind of child is Eastbourne College best for?+
Independent co-ed senior school in East Sussex for ages 13–18, day or boarding. Selective entry, top-tier London fees.
How does admissions work?+
Admissions are selective — expect an entrance assessment at the relevant entry point. Plan tutoring or familiarisation early. See the admissions timeline above for confirmed dates.
Are fees published?+
Yes — see the Fees table further down the page. Add extras (uniform, trips, lunches, music tuition, registration fees) on top of the base figure before budgeting.
Does the school support SEND?+
Yes — the school states support for dyslexia, ADHD, autism, anxiety. Always confirm case-by-case capacity with admissions if your child has an EHCP.
Are there open days?+
2 upcoming open days or tours — see the admissions timeline. Booking is usually required.
How do I contact admissions?+
email at admissions@eastbourne-college.co.uk or phone on +44 (0) 1323 452300. Reference your child's age and intended entry year in the first message.
What similar schools should I compare?+
We've ranked 6 schools by semantic similarity to Eastbourne College — see the "Schools like Eastbourne College" grid below. Most parents shortlist 4–6 schools before applying.
Reviews
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