Address: Cranbrook, Kent TN17 4AA
Website: benenden.school
Founded: 1923
Pupils: 550, all girls aged 11-18
Termly Fees: £14,165-£19,738
Head Teacher: Ms Rachel Bailey
Religious Affiliation: Church of England
Entrance Procedure: Selective; ISEB, entrance tests and interview
Contact: 01580 236601 or [email protected]
School Visits: Information on upcoming open days and events can be found on the school website
The Curriculum
Benenden’s unique academic programme aims to encourage a lifelong enthusiasm for learning and discovery. The curriculum blends the very best of educational tradition with an innovative, enquiry-based, cross-curricular approach that allows students to make connections, synthesise knowledge and develop advanced research skills. Benenden offers every student a complete education in which she realises her academic potential, grows as an individual and is well prepared for life beyond school.
Sport & The Arts
The co-curricular programme is a key pillar of the complete education provided at Benenden. With more than 150 different weekly activities to choose from, the provision is extensive. There are plenty of ways for pupils to try something news, extend their enthusiasms and develop lifelong interests. Participation in sport is encouraged and traditional barriers to engagement addressed so that the proportion of students who take part in some form of sport is particularly high. Music and drama are highly regarded, supported and valued and there are multiple performance and enrichment opportunities.
Pastoral Care
Benenden prides itself on giving bespoke pastoral care to all students and on supporting their family ties. Pastoral care begins with an underlying ethos of consideration and kindness and is promoted when the staff work collaboratively for the good of the students. Pupils have a team of staff who offer them emotional, academic, social and practical support. Staff set out to develop firm, meaningful, nurturing relationships, beyond the normal realm of adult/student contact seen in many schools.
Scholarships Achievements
In 2025, two students were awarded Oxbridge choral scholarships and one received an organ scholarship.
Head Teacher’s Philosophy
To work with every girl to discover and nurture the passion that will drive whatever path she might want to follow. We will support her in achieving more than she would have thought possible when she first entered the school, and by that, instil within her the self-belief that she can embrace her future with confidence.
