Handcross Park School: Reviews, Rankings, Fees, And More
Welcome to our in-depth exploration of Handcross Park School, where education meets excellence. In this article, we delve into the heart of what makes Handcross Park unique, from glowing reviews and impressive rankings to a transparent breakdown of fees and beyond. Join us as we uncover why Handcross Park is not just a school, but a nurturing community dedicated to shaping young minds for a bright future.
Table of Contents
Key Features of Handcross Park School
- Local authority: West Sussex
- Pupils: 406
- Ages: 2-13
- Religion: Church of England
- Fees: Day £11,820 – £22,425; Boarding £22,590 – £29,415 pa
Boarding Facilities in Handcross Park School
At Handcross Park School, the boarding experience is an integral part of student life, offering flexibility and a sense of community that enriches the educational journey. Approximately a quarter of students in years 5-8 participate in some form of boarding, with options ranging from full-time to weekly and flexible arrangements. This diverse boarding community extends globally, with students hailing from countries such as Spain, China, India, and beyond, adding an international dimension to the school’s atmosphere.
Weekends are filled with a varied activity schedule, ensuring boarders have ample opportunities for recreation and exploration. Popular outings include visits to Thorpe Park, laser quest adventures, and excursions to the local shopping centre, providing students with memorable experiences beyond the classroom.
The boarding facilities at Handcross Park are renowned for their high standards, offering students a comfortable and supportive environment to call home. With a focus on maintaining “sensible bedtimes,” parents commend the school for its thoughtful approach to student welfare. Additionally, the culinary experience at Handcross Park is equally impressive, with students enjoying a diverse array of cuisines from around the world, providing a taste of home for international boarders.
What sets boarding at Handcross Park apart, according to students themselves, is the sense of freedom it offers compared to home life. While initially challenged by the absence of phones (which were banned a few years ago), boarders quickly adapt, embracing opportunities for social interaction through sports, drama, or simply enjoying a movie together.
Extra Curricular Activities in Handcross Park
At Handcross Park School, the vibrant array of activities ensures that every student discovers their passion and thrives in an exciting and dynamic environment. From the lush green fields that set the scene for thrilling football, cricket, and rounders matches to the inviting indoor pool where students splash and play regardless of the weather, there’s never a dull moment.
Music echoes through the halls of Handcross Park, with the majority of students eagerly picking up instruments and belting out tunes with gusto. From lively music lessons to the buzz of LAMDA exams, the school’s musical tradition is alive and kicking. While some parents suggest adding a dash of street dance and hip hop to the mix, there’s no denying the infectious energy of the annual productions that showcase the students’ talents.
Art comes to life in the school’s sleek new art and design centre, where creativity knows no bounds. From pottery and textiles to photography and watercolour, students immerse themselves in a whirlwind of colours and textures, bringing their artistic visions to life.
But it’s not just sports and arts that make Handcross Park special. The eclectic range of clubs, including the quirky pig care club, adds an extra layer of excitement to campus life. Despite some initial hiccups, Thing One and Thing Two, the school’s resident pigs, have become beloved mascots, embodying the spirit of hands-on learning and adventure that defines Handcross Park School.
Admissions Process: Entering Handcross Park School
Handcross Park School prides itself on providing a welcoming and seamless admissions process for prospective students. As applicants embark on their journey, they are invited to partake in a one or two-day taster experience, where they engage in various activities and assessments, including English, maths, and reasoning evaluations, followed by a personal interview. Additionally, the school requests comprehensive reports and references from the candidate’s previous educational institution, ensuring a holistic understanding of their academic background and capabilities.
For international applicants, Handcross Park School offers the convenience of remote assessments and Skype interviews, facilitating accessibility and inclusivity regardless of geographical location. The school’s diverse student body comprises individuals from local nurseries and preps, with an expanding catchment area now reaching beyond traditional boundaries to include Brighton, Crawley, Haywards Heath, and London.
While the majority of boarders originate from London, Handcross Park School prides itself on its inclusivity, welcoming families from military backgrounds and a select few from Europe. This diverse blend of cultures and experiences enriches the school’s community, fostering an environment of mutual respect and appreciation.
SEN Support in Handcross Park School
Handcross Park School is fully equipped to cater to pupils with the following needs:
- Dyscalculia
- Dyslexia
- Hearing Impairment
- Moderate Learning Difficulty
- Social, Emotional and Mental Health
- Speech, Language and Communication
Handcross Park School Testimonials and Reviews
Honestly, the best years of my education. Can’t thank you guys enough! Shaped my future and I’m eternally grateful. I wish the best for the school and its students.
Been to this school before. It was an amazing experience
My daughter attended Year 8 as a boarding pupil in the year 2019-2020. I wish I had taken more courses there. They form an incredible, open and welcoming community, which makes them happy while they learn so many things and values. My absolute congratulations to all, the best option.
The school is great. I was a resident and they treated me very well, the service is great. And the facilities are unbeatable, the place is beautiful and well located for outdoor activities.
Frequently Asked Questions about Handcross Park School
It is never too early to think about your child’s education. Britannia is happy to hear from you at any stage of your child’s development.
The school’s Pre-Prep comprises Nursery, Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 (ages 2-7). Their Prep School is from Years 3-8 (ages 7-13).
The three stages of Prep School are known as The Lower School (Year 3-4), The Middle School (Year 5-6) and The Upper School (Years 7-8).
They have two forms in each year group from Reception to Year 6 and three forms in Years 7 and 8.
After Boarders’ Supper and completing Prep, there is a full programme of activities which balance relaxation and time spent within the Boarding community. In Redwood House, they offer activities for pupils which stretch and challenge their academic life and which enhance the extra-curricular. During the evenings, boarders are able to spend time together with their friends and take part in activities such as Pottery, Art, Drama, Swimming, Golf or Matron’s hugely popular Hot Chocolate Club.
For the full boarders there is a full programme of events and outings. They have the opportunity to visit places such as: The Tower of London, Greenwich, Stonehenge, Oxford Pitts River Museum, South Downs Planetarium, Thorpe Park and Windsor Castle. More local outings may include trips to the cinema, to the coast or shopping in Brighton.
In order to rest, they also take opportunities to relax at home and make full use of their fantastic facilities and beautiful school grounds.
Apply To A UK Boarding School Today!
Speak to us today for free application assistance and education advice. Our expert consultants are more than happy to help!
Subscribe For Our FREE Insider UK Study Advice
Apply To Your Favourite Boarding School Today!
Speak to us today for free application assistance and education advice. Our expert consultants are more than happy to help!