Overview of Bede’s Senior School

Bede’s Senior School, located in Upper Dicker, Sussex, UK, is an independent HMC day and boarding school catering to students aged 13-18. The school upholds a holistic philosophy, valuing academic, co-curricular, and pastoral aspects of education equally to bring out the academic potential of all students.

Student Body and International Presence

Approximately 760 students attend Bede’s Senior School, with around 300 students residing in five boarding houses. The school boasts an international presence, with about 18% of students coming from diverse backgrounds, creating a rich, multicultural community.

Academic Offerings and Class Sizes

Bede’s offers a comprehensive range of academic programs, including GCSEs, A-Levels, and select BTECs, yielding consistently commendable academic results without being excessively selective. Class sizes average around 15-20 students, allowing for personalized and attentive learning experiences.

Arts, Sports, and Facilities

The school emphasizes the arts, offering a wide array of subjects and specialist classes, evidenced by a substantial number of students pursuing art-related degrees. Moreover, Bede’s boasts a formidable sports reputation, featuring a wide range of activities and high-level coaching programs. The campus is equipped with impressive facilities, including a performing arts center, sports hall, swimming pool, fitness suite, and a unique on-campus zoo housing over 70 species.

Pastoral Care, Boarding, and Extracurricular Activities

Bede’s is renowned for its exceptional pastoral care and house system, providing support and activities for both boarding and day pupils. Boarding houses, accommodating approximately 40% of students, are modern and subdivided into smaller family groups. The school offers a broad spectrum of extracurricular activities, ranging from sustainable gardening to caring for animals in the on-campus zoo.

Location, Fees, and Accessibility

Nestled in approximately 100 acres of Sussex countryside and situated near London, Bede’s is a popular choice for families in the area. For the 2023/2024 academic year, the fees per term are £14,080. The closest international airport, London Gatwick, is conveniently located about 30 minutes away by car.

Unique Aspects and Final Remarks

Bede’s Senior School distinguishes itself through its commitment to nurturing individual talents, fostering a caring and inclusive community, and providing a rich learning environment that encourages students to pursue their passions and achieve their potential. Notably, the school’s commitment to ecological sustainability is exemplified through the operation of a zoo, setting it apart as an institution dedicated to holistic education and environmental awareness.