Roedean School Overview
Roedean School is an independent day and boarding school for girls aged 11 to 18, located just outside Brighton. The campus sits on a clifftop with sea views and offers quick access to London and Gatwick, making it convenient for both UK and international families.
Founded in 1885, Roedean has a solid academic record. Students benefit from small classes, specialist teachers, and a broad curriculum. GCSE and A Level results are strong, with many girls going on to top UK and international universities.
The school also runs a wide co-curricular programme. Girls take part in sport, music, drama, debating, and STEM activities, helping them build skills and confidence outside the classroom.
Pastoral care is a clear priority. A strong house system and dedicated staff ensure that each pupil feels supported and part of the community.
In a nutshell, Roedean offers a well-rounded education in a scenic and practical location, combining good academics with strong personal development.
Table of Contents
Roedean School Courses And Programmes
Sixth Form
In the Sixth Form, students follow the A Level curriculum. They usually take three subjects, with some choosing a fourth. Roedean offers a wide range of A Level subjects, including sciences, humanities, languages, and the arts. Popular choices include Maths, Biology, Chemistry, English Literature, History, and Psychology.
Alongside A Levels, students complete an Extended Project Qualification (EPQ), which allows them to research and write in-depth on a topic of personal interest. This helps develop skills in critical thinking, independent learning, and academic writing – all of which support university applications.
Years 10 and 11
In Years 10 and 11, pupils follow a two-year GCSE programme. Most take nine or ten subjects, including core subjects like English, Maths, and Science, plus options such as Art, Drama, Computer Science, Modern Languages, and Classical Civilisation.
Roedean School Fees
| Year Group | Day | Flexi Boarding | Weekly Boarding | Full Boarding |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Year 7 | £8,100 | £11,975 | £14,725 | £16,125 |
| Year 8 | £9,105 | £13,095 | £14,800 | £16,920 |
| Year 9 | £10,140 | £13,395 | £14,850 | £17,825 |
| Year 10–13 | £10,585 | £14,480 | £16,420 | £19,350 |
Fees are per term and include tuition, accommodation (for boarders), meals, and most extracurriculars. Additional charges apply for optional extras like music lessons and learning support.
Roedean School Boarding And Pastoral Care
Roedean offers a strong and distinctive boarding experience that combines comfort, independence, and community. There are six boarding houses – Houses 1 to 4 for Years 7–11, and Lawrence and Keswick for Sixth Form – all within walking distance of the main school buildings. Each house blends traditional features with modern design, creating welcoming, well-equipped spaces. Girls enjoy common rooms, floor-level kitchen snugs, and private or shared bedrooms, depending on age.
Younger boarders in Years 7 to 9 usually share rooms and benefit from a structured, supportive environment that includes supervised prep, pastoral workshops, and regular activities. From Year 10 onwards, most students move into single rooms. The houses are mixed-age up to Year 11, encouraging a strong sense of community. Boarding staff are praised for their attentiveness and ability to help girls settle quickly.
Sixth Form boarders live in their own houses with more independence. They have access to their own dining spaces, co-working areas, a library-style common room, and quiet study zones. This setup helps prepare them for university life.
Weekends are active, with a busy programme that includes trips to Brighton, London, escape rooms, and more. Flexi, weekly, and full boarding options are available, and day pupils are integrated into the house system, joining in social and co-curricular activities. Boarding at Roedean is designed to feel like a second home, offering structure, support, and freedom as pupils grow.
Roedean School Extracurricular Activities
Roedean School offers a diverse and engaging co-curricular programme, featuring over 140 activities each week that span across year groups. This extensive selection allows students to explore new interests, develop existing talents, and acquire valuable life skills.
In the realm of performing arts, students have opportunities to participate in various ensembles such as choirs, orchestras, and bands. These groups not only enhance musical abilities but also foster teamwork and discipline. Dance and drama are also integral parts of the programme, with students engaging in performances that build confidence and creativity.
For those inclined towards sports, Roedean provides a comprehensive range of athletic activities. Students can engage in team sports like hockey, netball, and cricket, or pursue individual pursuits such as tennis and swimming. The school emphasises both competitive and recreational participation, ensuring that every student finds a suitable outlet for physical activity.
Beyond arts and sports, the co-curricular offerings include academic clubs, leadership opportunities, and community service initiatives. Students can join societies that align with their academic interests, take on leadership roles within the school community, and participate in outreach programmes that instil a sense of social responsibility.
