Downsend School
Downsend School is a vibrant and nurturing environment that prioritises the holistic development of every child. With a strong emphasis on academic excelle...
About Downsend School
Downsend School was founded in 1891 as a prep school at Leatherhead, Surrey. The school is owned by the international Cognita schools group and operates today on a campus in central Leatherhead. The school is co-educational ages 2-13 with around 613 pupils. The Head is Ian Thorpe. The school is a member of the IAPS and is inspected by the ISI. The school is a strong feeder to top UK senior schools.
Programmes & strengths
University destinations
Memberships & accreditations
Pupil breakdown
- Boys
- 360 (59%)
- Girls
- 253 (41%)
- SEN support
- 205 (33.4%)
- SEN EHCP
- 3 (0.5%)
Notable alumni
Frequently asked questions
What type of school is Downsend School?
Downsend School is a co-educational independent mainstream school for pupils aged 7 to 18, located near Leatherhead in Surrey. The school offers education from Pre-Prep through to Sixth Form, with pathways leading to GCSEs and A Levels.
How do I apply to Downsend School?
Applications typically begin 1–2 years in advance and may include registration, assessments and interviews. Families can explore the UK private school admissions timeline to understand key dates and entry points. https://schoolscout.uk/posts/uk-private-school-admissions-timeline
What are the fees at Downsend School?
Fees at Downsend School are approximately £6,099–£9,440 per term, depending on the year group and whether pupils board. Families can learn more about UK private school fees and what is typically included. https://schoolscout.uk/posts/how-much-do-uk-private-schools-cost
Is Downsend School a day or boarding school?
Pupils at Downsend School can attend as day.
Is Downsend School selective?
Admissions to Downsend School may include assessments and interviews where applicable.