In 1896, sisters Edith and Mary Buller founded a school with a vision of opportunity and Christian education, naming it after the village of Farlington near Portsmouth where their parents were buried. Today, that legacy endures across 33 acres of Sussex parkland, where a thriving all-through community spanning nursery through sixth form has transformed from an all-girls institution into a genuinely co-educational school. With 56% of GCSE grades at 9-7 and 69% of A-level grades at A*-B, Farlington achieves academic results that place it in the top tier of independent schools in England (FindMySchool ranking). The school's recent February 2024 ISI inspection confirmed it meets all required standards, with inspectors notably observing that "everyone looks out for one another in this small, caring school." The combination of solid academic performance, extensive pastoral support, and a genuine sense of community makes this school particularly attractive for families seeking a personalised education within a supportive environment. Boys and girls study together throughout, from Reception through sixth form, making Farlington a rare independent all-through co-educational school serving the Horsham area.
Farlington School in Strood Park, Horsham has a clear sense of identity shaped by its setting and community. The main building, parts of which date to the Jacobean and Georgian eras, sits comfortably alongside modern extensions that include purpose-built science facilities, a dedicated sixth form centre, and specialist buildings for design and technology. This architectural blend reflects the school's broader philosophy: respect for tradition married with forward-thinking development.
The atmosphere is purposeful but warm. Students move with obvious engagement between lessons, and the various school houses, Luther King, Hawking, and Parks, renamed in 2020 following a student vote, create smaller communities within the larger whole. The emphasis on individuality, opportunity, and community is not merely promotional language but genuinely evident in daily interactions. Staff know pupils by name across all age groups, a feat made possible by careful pastoral structures and genuinely small class sizes.
Headmaster James Passam has led the school since 2022, arriving at a pivotal moment in Farlington's evolution. His tenure has coincided with consolidation of the school's transition to full co-education and significant capital investment, including a brand-new Wellbeing Centre opened in early 2024. This facility reflects the school's explicit commitment to mental health support, offering guided meditation, counselling, and restorative practices to the entire community from Lower School through sixth form.
The school's Church of England character is genuine but inclusive. Weekly chapel services, Christian values woven throughout the curriculum, and explicit attention to spiritual development are standard, yet the school explicitly welcomes families of all faiths. The recent carol service, held at St Mary's Church in Horsham, featured performances from the Boys' Choir, Chamber Choir, Contemporary Choir, Concert Orchestra, Guitar Ensemble, and Telemann Strings, illustrating both the musical reach and community integration.
Farlington's GCSE results demonstrate consistent, above-average attainment. In 2024, 56% of grades awarded were 9-7 (A*-A equivalents), compared to the England average of 54%. While the gap is narrow, it reflects sustained performance in the top tier. All pupils achieved at least grades 9-4 in five or more subjects, indicating strong foundational achievement across the cohort. The school ranks 338th (FindMySchool ranking), placing it in the top 7% in England, a position classified as top 10% of schools in England
Within the GCSE cohort, particular strength is evident in sciences, languages, and humanities. The curriculum offers clear breadth, with pupils typically sitting eight or more subjects. Results translate meaningfully into sixth form progression, with the vast majority of pupils continuing to A-levels at Farlington or transferring to sixth form elsewhere.
A-level outcomes are notably strong. In 2025, 51% of grades awarded to sixth formers were A*-B, compared to the England average of 47%. This represents performance in the upper half of independent schools. The school ranks 353rd (FindMySchool ranking), placing it in the top 13% in England, classified as top 25% of schools in England 100% of sixth form candidates achieved a pass grade, and 90% of leavers securing their first-choice university place speaks to both the academic calibre and the school's effectiveness in guidance and support.
The sixth form offers over 25 A-level subjects, providing genuine breadth and allowing pupils to specialise while maintaining flexibility. Performance data suggests particular strength in humanities and sciences, with consistent uptake across languages, social sciences, and STEM disciplines.
England ranks and key metrics (where available)
A-Level A*-B
69.44%
% of students achieving grades A*-B
GCSE 9–7
56%
% of students achieving grades 9-7
Academic rigour is balanced with genuine engagement. The ISI inspection noted that "curriculum leaders are innovative and diligent in their approach to promote pupil learning," and this is evident in the school's emphasis on developing confident, curious learners rather than merely teaching to examinations. The school operates in three distinct phases, Lower School (Reception to Year 4), Middle School (Years 5-8), and Senior School (Years 9-13), each with a carefully designed curriculum appropriate to developmental stage.
Teaching follows traditional structures in terms of subject specialism and clear expectations, but with creative application. Teachers hold high expectations and provide structured support to ensure that different learning styles and paces are accommodated. The Learning Support Department works closely with pupils requiring additional academic support, recognising that individualised approaches are essential to sustained progress.
Specialist teaching begins early. In the Lower School, subjects like French and science are taught by specialists, ensuring that children benefit from expert knowledge from the earliest stages. By Middle School, departmental structures strengthen this, and by Senior School, subject expertise becomes paramount. The curriculum itself is broad, including traditional humanities alongside practical and creative disciplines. Design and technology has been significantly invested in, with a modern facility supporting everything from traditional materials to 3D printing and electronics.
A-level leavers in 2025 achieved a striking 100% progression to university. Of these, every single student who applied secured a place at a Russell Group university, a remarkable statistic that speaks to both the calibre of applicants and the school's effectiveness in guiding them toward ambitious destinations. Popular universities include those within the Russell Group tier: Durham, Edinburgh, Bristol, Exeter, and Warwick feature prominently among destinations.
Beyond the high-performing cohort, destinations data shows 46% of recent leavers progressing to university and 46% entering employment, reflecting the all-through nature of the school's cohort and the fact that not all pupils continue through sixth form. The university outcomes reflect genuine academic attainment rather than inflated claims; these represent pupils who have excelled across a broad curriculum and who are genuinely capable of managing selective university courses.
Medicine remains a popular choice, with the school reporting regular success in competitive medical school applications. STEM disciplines more broadly, humanities, and social sciences attract balanced numbers of applicants, suggesting that the school's curriculum develops genuine breadth of interest and capability.
Progression from Year 11 to Year 12 is not automatic. The school operates a selective sixth form entry, requiring pupils to meet specific academic thresholds. Typically, pupils are expected to achieve grades 6 or above in subjects they wish to study at A-level, ensuring that students arrive in the sixth form with secure foundations in their chosen disciplines.
The extracurricular provision at Farlington is extensive and genuinely embedded into school life. This is the school's longest section, the foundation upon which daily experience at Farlington is built.
Music is exceptional. Over 70% of pupils learn an instrument or study voice, making instrumental tuition nearly universal. The school houses multiple choirs: the Boys' Choir, Chamber Choir, and Contemporary Choir operate alongside a full Concert Orchestra, Guitar Ensemble, and Telemann Strings (a specialist ensemble focused on string repertoire). These are not token activities; they are vibrant, touring ensembles. The school regularly participates in local and national events, with performances at major venues in Horsham and beyond.
Miss Nimmo, the Head of Music, oversees a department that clearly takes pupil musical development seriously. Students are prepared for university and conservatoire entrance where appropriate, suggesting that the school is supporting genuine musicians, not merely providing activity. The annual carol service, held in partnership with St Mary's Church in Horsham, draws the entire community and showcases the breadth of musical talent.
Drama is thriving. The school operates multiple theatrical venues and stages productions throughout the year. The ISI inspection noted the "busy and thriving" drama department, and recent productions suggest professional ambition, scenery, lighting, sound design, and casting are all pitched at a level that goes well beyond amateur dramatics. Students regularly gain experience in LAMDA and ISTD examinations, and the majority of pupils are involved in at least one production annually.
Dance is integral to the performing arts offering. Recent achievements include a Year 6 pupil selected as a finalist in the ISA Dance Competition 2026, competing at national level. The school values ballet, contemporary dance, and movement more broadly, with dedicated teaching and external partnerships supporting development.
The STEM provision has been substantially invested in and is clearly central to the school's forward-facing identity. A modern D&T Centre provides workshop facilities for traditional materials alongside digital fabrication. Recently, pupils participated in a Mindstorm Coding camp where they designed, 3D-printed, and soldered their own programmable lightsabers using Raspberry Pi Pico and AI-generated code, this is STEM education pitched at engagement and genuine problem-solving, not mere decoration.
Science is taught separately from age 7, with dedicated science teaching that progresses through increasingly specialised facilities. The Middle School science building is purpose-built, and Upper School pupils access A-level sciences with appropriate laboratory infrastructure. Chemistry, Biology, and Physics are offered at A-level, with particular support for those pursuing medical and veterinary pathways.
Computer Science and coding are integrated throughout. The school runs a Chinese Club alongside language offerings, recognising that modern education must develop linguistic capability. Computing facilities are modern and well-maintained.
Farlington's sporting offer is genuinely broad. Football, rugby, hockey, netball, and cricket form the core games programme, with each sport represented by multiple year-group teams. Recent social media posts highlight consistent fixtures and impressive performance, including an U13A football team that remains undefeated. The school emphasises that physical activity is crucial for mental wellbeing, and most sports are compulsory within the PE curriculum.
Beyond traditional games, volleyball, swimming, rounders, judo, fencing, dance, and aerobics are all available. From age 14, pupils choose between games and aesthetics pathways, allowing those less inclined toward competitive sport to pursue dance, fitness, and movement-based activities without feeling marginalised.
County representatives compete in hockey, netball, and athletics. The school fields riding teams for those pursuing equestrian competition, with regular success at local jumping events and NSEA (National Schools Equestrian Association) Championships. This breadth, from grassroots participation to county-level competition, reflects a philosophy that sport serves all learners.
Beyond these pillars, extracurricular life includes substantial offerings in visual arts (painting, stained glass, printing, graphics, sculpture, ceramics, and textiles), Duke of Edinburgh's Award Scheme (which engages pupils across all year groups and supports progression to Gold level), and Young Enterprise Scheme.
Recreational clubs and societies meet regularly. Language clubs, including the Chinese Club mentioned above, support modern foreign language development beyond the curriculum. Debating societies, academic competitions, essay prizes, and Olympiad preparation ensure that intellectually ambitious pupils find outlets for deeper engagement.
Boarders participate in activities throughout weekends and evenings, with creative trips including ceramic painting, kayaking, climbing, abseiling, theatre visits, and cinema outings. The annual ski trip (most recently to Pila in Italy) is an established highlight, with pupils ranging from total beginners to confident skiers all developing skills together.
As an independent school, Farlington charges tuition fees for all pupils. Day fees vary by year group, with Lower School (Reception to Year 4) at one rate, Middle School (Years 5-8) at another, and Senior School/Sixth Form at the highest rate. Boarding adds substantially to annual costs, with both full weekly and flexible boarding options available.
The school provides meaningful financial assistance. Multiple scholarship schemes exist: Academic Scholarships (up to 20% discount for Year 7 and 9 entry, with the prestigious Vive Scholarship offering 50% discount for one exceptional pupil per year); Music Scholarships (up to 20% for those demonstrating instrumental or vocal talent); Sport Scholarships (up to 20% for competitive athletes); Art Scholarships (up to 20% for those with portfolio-demonstrated talent); and Drama Scholarships (up to 20% for those with performance experience). Additionally, Vive Parva Scholarships offer up to 25% discount for Year 3 entry.
Beyond scholarships, means-tested bursaries are available, though specific percentages and income thresholds are not published in readily accessible sources. Families with genuine financial need are encouraged to contact the Admissions office to discuss possibilities. The school's commitment to financial access is evident, though real costs remain substantial for families without external support.
For detailed current fees information and to explore specific financial assistance, parents should contact the school directly via its website or telephone line, as fee information updates annually.
Fees data coming soon.
Farlington operates selective admissions across all entry points. Prospective pupils sit entrance examinations in English, Mathematics, and Verbal Reasoning (Year 7 entry also requires Science). The school explicitly states that the process is selective, places are not guaranteed for all applicants.
Multiple entry routes exist. Reception entry (age 4) requires early assessment and discussion with the Admissions team. Progression from Year 4 to Middle School is selective but less intensely tested than external entry at 11+. Year 7 represents the major external entry point, with competitive examinations determining offers. Year 9 entry provides a second opportunity for those seeking to join the Senior School. Sixth form entry, as noted, requires grades 6 or above in intended subjects.
The school explicitly welcomes international pupils and offers boarding to support those unable to commute daily. This creates a genuinely global community, particularly in the sixth form, with families from across the UK and beyond.
The admissions calendar follows the standard independent school timeline. Open events are held regularly throughout the year, and the school actively encourages visits before application. Prospective families should check the school website for exact dates, as these vary termly.
Pastoral care is a genuine strength. The Wellbeing Centre, opened in early 2024, provides drop-in counselling, guided meditation, mindfulness sessions, and woodland-based wellbeing activities. All students from Lower School through sixth form have access, normalising wellbeing support across all ages.
House systems operate in the Senior School, creating smaller communities where pupils develop stronger relationships with year-group peers and older mentors. Teaching staff take on pastoral roles alongside their academic responsibilities, creating continuity of care. The school has invested in staff training in resilience-building and mental health awareness, recognising that contemporary young people face genuine pressures.
The ISI inspection praised the school's caring character, noting that pupils are supported in developing confidence and self-belief both inside and outside the classroom. Bullying is taken seriously, with clear policies and responsive follow-up. For those requiring learning support, the Learning Support Department offers tailored programmes that are truly individualised rather than generic.
School days run from 8:50am to 3:20pm for main school. Breakfast club operates from 7:45am, and after-school care extends until 6pm, providing genuine wraparound care for working parents. Holiday care is also available, offering flexibility for families with complex working arrangements.
Transport is available through the school's own coach network, serving areas across West Sussex, Surrey, and beyond. The school's location three miles northwest of Horsham town centre is accessible by car, with modest on-site parking available. Horsham itself is well-connected by train to London Victoria (approximately 50 minutes) and the South Coast, making the school convenient for families with London connections or holiday homes in Sussex.
The school building occupies 33 acres of parkland, providing genuine space and outdoor learning opportunities. The grounds include dedicated teaching gardens, forest school areas for Lower School pupils, and sports pitches for games lessons and fixtures.
All-through structure with selective entry: Whilst Farlington is all-through, entry is selective at multiple points. Families should be aware that admission is not guaranteed, even at Reception level. The entrance examinations at Year 7 are competitive, and families considering external entry should be prepared for the possibility of rejection. The school is not suitable for those uncomfortable with competitive selection.
Fees: As an independent school, costs are substantial. Whilst scholarships and bursaries exist, they are not universally available, and families without external support will find fees challenging. Day fees across the school are significant, and boarding substantially increases costs. This is not an accessible option for all families.
Boarding commitment: For day pupils, the school operates effectively as a largely traditional day school, with pupils returning home each day. For boarding pupils, commitment is expected, boys and girls live on campus for weeks at a time, with exeats typically every three weeks. This requires genuine family alignment with the boarding model and is not suitable for children who need frequent parental contact or who struggle with separation.
Academic pace: Whilst support is available, the school's academic standards are high, and the pace of study is swift. Pupils joining at 11 or 13 from mainstream state schools may initially find the independent school curriculum more demanding. Similarly, those with significant learning needs may find that the general support offered through the Learning Support Department is insufficient, and parents should discuss specific needs carefully with the school before entry.
Church of England character: The school is explicitly Church of England in character. Whilst genuinely welcoming to all faiths, Christian teaching, chapel attendance, and explicitly Christian values are central to daily life. Families uncomfortable with this atmosphere should consider alternatives.
Farlington School offers a genuinely warm, supportive all-through education set within serious academic standards and excellent facilities. The recent shift to full co-education sits comfortably; boys and girls learn together throughout, creating a more realistic social experience than single-sex alternatives. Academic results are strong without being stratospheric, and the school's investment in pastoral care, wellbeing, and extracurricular breadth creates a genuine all-rounder education.
The school is best suited to families seeking selective independent education with a supportive, community-oriented atmosphere. Boarding families will find a genuine home-from-home experience; day pupils will benefit from a well-run day school with strong facilities and broad curriculum. Financially, families must have secure resources or access to external scholarships to make fees manageable. For those who fit this profile, Farlington represents excellent value and a genuinely warm community that balances academic ambition with pastoral care.
Yes. The school was rated as meeting all required standards by the Independent Schools Inspectorate in February 2024, with inspectors praising its caring character and innovative curriculum. Academic results are strong: 56% of GCSE grades are 9-7, and 51% of A-level grades are A*-B. The school ranks in the top 7% in England for GCSE outcomes (FindMySchool ranking). A-level leavers achieve a 100% university progression rate, with 100% of those applying to Russell Group universities securing places.
Entry is selective at all points. Prospective pupils sit entrance examinations in English, Mathematics, and Verbal Reasoning (Science is added for Year 7 entry). Reception and Year 3 entry involve assessment and group interview alongside parental discussions. Sixth form entry requires grades 6 or above in intended A-level subjects. The school explicitly welcomes applications from all backgrounds, including international families, and supports applications through its admissions office.
Yes. Scholarships are merit-based and available in multiple disciplines: Academic (up to 20%, with the flagship Vive Scholarship offering 50% for one exceptional candidate per year); Music (up to 20%); Sport (up to 20%); Art (up to 20%); and Drama (up to 20%). Additionally, Vive Parva Scholarships offer up to 25% discount for Year 3 entry. Means-tested bursaries are also available, though specific percentages are not publicly published. Families should contact Admissions to discuss financial assistance options.
Boarding is genuinely integral to school life, with approximately 100 pupils boarding at any time. Boarders live in two dedicated boarding houses (one for boys, one for girls), typically in single or double rooms for older pupils and dormitories for younger children. Weekends include creative activities, trips, and social events. Exeats (home weekends) are provided every three weeks. The school emphasises that boarding creates a family atmosphere, with housemasters, matrons, and staff living on site. Boarders integrate fully with day pupils during school hours, creating a genuinely mixed community.
Music is exceptional. Over 70% of pupils learn an instrument or study voice. Ensembles include the Boys' Choir, Chamber Choir, Contemporary Choir, Concert Orchestra, Guitar Ensemble, and Telemann Strings. These are active, touring ensembles that perform locally and further afield. The annual carol service showcases this talent. Drama is equally strong, with regular major productions, access to LAMDA and ISTD examinations, and dedicated teaching across all year groups. Dance is integral, with recent pupils achieving success at national dance competitions.
The Learning Support Department works closely with pupils requiring additional academic support, offering tailored programmes suited to individual needs. However, the school is mainstream rather than specialist. Pupils with moderate learning needs can be well-supported; those with profound or complex needs may find the provision insufficient. Parents of children with SEND should discuss specific requirements with the Learning Support Department before entry to ensure the school can appropriately support their child.
Breakfast club runs from 7:45am, and after-school care extends until 6pm, providing genuine wraparound care. Holiday care is also available during main school holidays. The school operates a school coach network serving areas across West Sussex, Surrey, and beyond, collecting and returning pupils daily. This substantially eases the burden on working parents.
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