Address: Church Street, Rudgwick, West Sussex RH12 3HJ
Website: pennthorpe.com
Founded: 1930
Pupils: 172, coed aged 2-13
Termly Fees: £3,524-£8,127
Head Teacher: Mr Jon Marler
Religious Affiliation: None
Entrance Procedure: Non-selective
School Visits: Termly open days, with individual visits available
Contact: [email protected] or 01403 822391
The Curriculum
At Pennthorpe, learning is inspiring, supportive and rooted in strong relationships. A curriculum shaped by kindness, confidence and ambition blends academic rigour with creativity, sport and discovery. Small classes and specialist teaching help pupils feel known and supported, encouraging curiosity, resilience and self-belief as they prepare for the next stage of education and beyond.
Sport & The Arts
Sport and the arts are central to life at Pennthorpe. Through music, drama, art and a broad sport programme, pupils build confidence, teamwork and creativity. Every child has the opportunity to represent the school is competitive matches, learning to celebrate success and show resilience. Specialist teaching encourages children to try new challenges, build self-belief and develop interests that last well beyond the classroom.
Pastoral Care
Pastoral care is at the heart of Pennthorpe life. Children are known and supported through strong, trusting relationships, including their own Pennthorpe champion – an adult chosen by the child whose role is simply to listen, encourage and champion them. Wellbeing, confidence and personal growth are woven into everyday school life alongside clear expectations built on kindness and respect. This nurturing approach helps pupils feel secure, valued and confident to grow.
Exit Destinations
Pupils move on to a wide range of senior schools, with most joining local independent schools. Pennthorpe is part of the Hurst family of schools, so many pupils progress to Hurst as well as destinations including Worth, Ardingly, Seaford and Brighton College. In 2025, pupils secured nine scholarships, representing 30 percent of the cohort.
Head Teacher’s Philosophy
To ensure happy children can learn and succeed by placing wellbeing at the heart of school life. Every child feels known, valued and inspired; is supported by kindness, trust and strong relationships; and is enriched by an education that helps them discover their strengths and grow with confidence.
