Located on the edge of the Ashdown Forest in East Sussex, Greenfields School offers a distinctive educational model for boys and girls aged 2 to 19. Occupying an 11-acre woodland site in Forest Row, the school combines a broad curriculum with the specific pedagogical methods of Study Technology.
Established in 1975, the school is small by design, with a capacity of around 250 students, allowing for high levels of individual attention. It serves a diverse mix of local day pupils and international boarders, creating a global community in a quiet corner of Sussex. The educational approach emphasises self-paced progress and the mastery of fundamentals before moving forward, a philosophy that permeates every aspect of school life.
The setting is undeniably peaceful. The main building, a converted country house, looks out over extensive grounds that merge into the forest beyond. Students describe a friendly, almost familial atmosphere where everyone knows everyone else. The lack of uniforms for Sixth Formers and the use of first names for some staff contribute to a relaxed, less hierarchical feel than many traditional independent schools.
Central to the school's identity is its use of Study Technology, an educational method developed by L. Ron Hubbard. This approach focuses on identifying three primary barriers to study and uses specific tools—such as "checksheets" and practical demonstrations—to overcome them. Families will notice a unique lexicon here; students talk about "clearing words" and using "demo kits" to model concepts.
The school is non-denominational but its methodology is derived from the works of the founder of Scientology. While the school states it accepts students of all faiths and none, the educational philosophy is deeply rooted in these specific techniques.
Mr Andrew Hodgson leads the school as Head Teacher. His leadership focuses on maintaining the purity of the Study Technology method while navigating the requirements of the modern British curriculum.
Greenfields is non-selective, and its small cohort sizes mean that examination results can fluctuate significantly from year to year. Parents should view the published data with this context in mind.
In the 2024 academic year, the school's performance metrics place it in the lower tier of schools nationally. The average Attainment 8 score at GCSE was 11.1, significantly below the England average of 45.9. This places the school in the bottom 40% of schools in England (lower 40% of schools in England). It is ranked 4,006th in England for GCSE outcomes (FindMySchool ranking).
At A-level, the picture is similar. The school ranks 2,609th in England, placing it in the lower 40% of schools in England. In 2024, 0% of grades were recorded at A*-B in the official metrics.
It is important to note that the school prioritises "understanding over memorisation" and often allows students to take exams when they are ready rather than with their age cohort. This can sometimes skew standard performance tables. However, families focused purely on high-grade percentages and league table positions may find the statistical outcomes here lower than at neighbouring independent selective schools.
England ranks and key metrics (where available)
A-Level A*-B
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% of students achieving grades A*-B
GCSE 9–7
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% of students achieving grades 9-7
The academic approach at Greenfields is distinct. Classes are small, often with fewer than 15 students, allowing teachers to monitor individual progress closely. The curriculum covers the standard range of GCSEs and A-levels, but the delivery is unique.
Lessons are structured around Study Technology principles. Students often work through "checksheets"—lists of steps required to complete a course of study—at their own pace. The emphasis is on ensuring a student fully understands a word or concept before moving to the next. If a student stumbles, they are guided to look back, define terms, and demonstrate understanding using clay or blocks (demos) to represent the concept physically.
This method aims to produce independent learners who can study any subject. The 2024 ISI inspection noted that the school's aims to use Study Technology were evident in lessons, complementing the curriculum coverage.
Destinations are varied, reflecting the diverse international intake. Leavers progress to a range of universities in the UK and abroad. In 2024, the cohort size was small (recorded as 3 students in some datasets), which limits meaningful statistical analysis of destinations.
Recent leavers have gone on to study subjects including Arts, Humanities, and Business. The school provides guidance for university applications, though the non-standard academic profile means students are supported carefully to find courses that match their specific qualifications and interests.
Greenfields is inclusive and non-selective academically. The admissions process is designed to determine if the student and family are a good fit for the school's specific methodology rather than to test for high academic baseline.
Applications are accepted throughout the year, and students can join at any time if places are available.
Pastoral care is organised through a vertical house system, which encourages friendships across age groups. The small size of the school ensures that no student slips through the net. Staff know the students well, and the atmosphere is generally described as supportive and anti-bullying.
The school's approach to behaviour and ethics is also influenced by its founding philosophy, utilising a moral code known as "The Way to Happiness" (also written by L. Ron Hubbard). This is a common sense guide to better living which promotes values such as honesty, industriousness, and safeguarding one's environment.
The location on the edge of Ashdown Forest allows for plenty of outdoor activity. Students engage in a range of sports including football, netball, and athletics. The grounds include sports pitches and an adventure playground for younger pupils.
The Arts are a pillar of the school. The theatre on site hosts regular productions, and there is a strong tradition of performance. Music and art are integrated into the curriculum, and the flexible nature of the school day often allows students to pursue these passions deeply.
Clubs vary by term but typically include options like drama, art, choir, and various sports. The school also runs a "Life Skills" programme that includes practical tasks and community service.
Fees at Greenfields are competitive for the sector.
Fees cover tuition, books, and most stationery. Additional costs apply for uniform, exam fees, and some extracurricular trips. Parents should note that fees are quoted excluding VAT; families should confirm the final tax position with the bursar.
The school offers a limited number of bursaries for families who may struggle to meet the full fees, subject to means-testing. Scholarships may be available for exceptional talent in specific areas; families should contact the bursar for current availability.
Fees data coming soon.
Greenfields offers boarding for students aged 10 and above. The boarding houses are located on campus, providing a home-from-home environment.
Boarding is flexible, with full, weekly, and flexi-boarding options available. The community is heavily international, giving the boarding house a cosmopolitan feel. Weekends include organised trips to London, Brighton, and local attractions, as well as time for study and relaxation.
Facilities in the boarding house are functional and comfortable, with younger students sharing rooms and older students often having single or twin study-bedrooms. House parents live on-site and provide 24-hour supervision.
Greenfields operates a nursery for children aged 2 to 5. The nursery is integrated into the main school site, allowing for a smooth transition into Reception.
The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum is delivered with the same Study Technology principles adapted for younger children, focusing on vocabulary development and sensory understanding. The nursery accepts Early Years Funding (15 and 30 hours) for eligible families, making it an accessible option for local parents. Sessions are flexible, with morning, afternoon, and full-day options.
8:45am to 3:30pm (varies slightly by age).
Breakfast club and after-school care are available for younger pupils.
The school operates minibus routes from nearby towns including East Grinstead, Tunbridge Wells, and Crawley.
Priory Road, Forest Row, East Sussex, RH18 5JD.
Unique Methodology: The use of Study Technology is the defining feature of Greenfields. It is quite different from mainstream education. Families should ensure they are comfortable with the methods, the terminology (checksheets, clearing words), and the pace of learning before applying.
Connection to Founder: The school uses the educational methods of L. Ron Hubbard, the founder of Scientology. While the school is distinct from the Church of Scientology, the philosophical link is explicit and pervasive in the teaching methods and moral codes used.
Small Peer Groups: With a total roll of around 150-250 across all ages (2-19), year groups can be very small. This offers great individual attention but limits the size of sports teams and the breadth of the social circle compared to larger schools.
Exam Results: Standard performance metrics (Attainment 8, A-level points) are consistently below national averages. Parents seeking a high-pressure academic hothouse with top-tier league table rankings will likely find the pace and outcomes here different to their expectations.
Greenfields School offers a truly alternative independent education. It provides a nurturing, small-scale environment for children who may not thrive in large, pressurised mainstream schools. Best suited to families who specifically align with the Study Technology ethos or those seeking a flexible, non-selective environment where their child can learn at their own pace. The main challenge is determining if the specific pedagogical method is the right fit for your child's learning style.
Greenfields offers a bespoke educational experience using Study Technology. It is inspected by the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI). The 2024 inspection noted positive aspects regarding the school's ethos and values, though recent performance data shows results below England averages (Attainment 8 score of 11.1 in 2024), reflecting its non-selective nature and small cohorts.
Day fees range from approximately £2,100 per term in the lower school to £5,400 per term in the senior school. Boarding fees range from £7,990 to £10,350 per term. For exact figures, please consult the school bursar.
Greenfields is an independent school that is licensed to use Applied Scholastics, which utilises the educational methods (Study Technology) developed by L. Ron Hubbard, the founder of Scientology. The school states it welcomes students of all faiths and none, but the teaching methods and moral codes are derived from Hubbard's works.
Yes, the school offers full, weekly, and flexible boarding for students aged 10 and over. The boarding community is diverse, with many international students.
Applications are made directly to the school. The process involves a visit, a taster day to experience the learning method, and an interview. There is no academic entrance exam, but assessments are used for curriculum placement.
Get in touch with the school directly
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