Leiston, United Kingdom Day & boarding · Co-ed Age range 5–18 53 pupils Founded 1921Summerhill School
Summerhill School offers a unique approach to education, prioritising the individual needs and interests of each student. Established with the belief that...
About Summerhill School
Summerhill School was founded in 1921 by A. S. Neill — the Scottish progressive educator — as the most internationally famous democratic / self-directed-learning school in the world. Neill's 1960 book Summerhill: A Radical Approach to Child Rearing became a foundational text of the 1960s counter-culture progressive-education movement and one of the most-influential English-language education books of the twentieth century. The school operates today on a rural campus at Leiston, Suffolk, and is co-educational ages 5-17 with a substantial boarding population. The Head is Zoe Readhead (A. S. Neill's daughter).
Programmes & strengths
University destinations
Memberships & accreditations
Pupil breakdown
- Boys
- 29 (55%)
- Girls
- 24 (45%)
- SEN support
- 11 (20.8%)
- SEN EHCP
- 4 (7.5%)
Notable alumni
Frequently asked questions
What type of school is Summerhill School?
Summerhill School is a co-educational independent mainstream school for pupils aged 5 to 18, located near Leiston in Suffolk. The school offers education from Pre-Prep through to Sixth Form, with pathways leading to GCSEs and A Levels.
How do I apply to Summerhill School?
Most families apply to Summerhill School 1–2 years before entry, with a process that can include tests, interviews and school reports. See the private school admissions timeline for when to apply and what to expect. https://schoolscout.uk/posts/uk-private-school-admissions-timeline
What are the fees at Summerhill School?
Fees for Summerhill School vary by year group, with typical termly costs around £3,144–£10,374.
Is Summerhill School a day or boarding school?
Summerhill School is a day and boarding school.
Is Summerhill School selective?
Summerhill School follows a non-selective admissions process, which may include interviews or entrance assessments.