Independent SeniorCo-educationalBoardingISI · Excellent
Bethany School logo

Bethany School

Cranbrook, Kent · TN17 1LB

AAB+ A-level

8.3%

9–7 GCSE

19.1%

Day fees

£30k

Inspection

Excellent

Read report
School website

Bethany School is a coeducational independent day and boarding school in rural Kent with 361 pupils across senior (11–16) and sixth form (16+) provision. The school emphasises 'the virtue of learning' and has secured CReSTeD recognition, indicating strong provision for dyslexic and specific learning differences. It combines academic rigour with substantive co-curricular breadth, including a notable football excellence pathway and strong performing arts offering.

  • Boarding and day flexibility in a supportive Kent location with strong pastoral systems
  • Recognised SEND/dyslexia provision (CReSTeD) integrated across mainstream curriculum
  • Broad co-curricular opportunities including football excellence pathway, performing arts, and DofE

Who thrives here

Pupils seeking a balanced, inclusive independent education with strong boarding options; those with specific learning differences who need mainstream integration with specialist support; creative or sporting pupils who thrive in a smaller school community.

Strengths at a glance

Exam results50th pctSports50th pctCo-curricular50th pctValue vs peers50th pctPastoral & wellbeing100th pct

Percentiles within UK independent + grammar schools we track.

At a glance

School typeIndependent Senior · Boarding
Founded1864
Number of pupils361
Day pupils285
Boarders66
Sixth form73
Age range11–18
GenderCo-educational
Day fees£29.7k/yr (inc. lunch)
Boarding fees£45.6k/yr (inc. meals)
AssociationsISC
Settingrural
LocationRural Kent location accessible by rail via Staplehurst; school operates its own bus service.

Contact & visit

Goudhurst

Cranbrook, Kent

TN17 1LB

www.bethanyschool.org.uk
01580211273
Mr Francie Healy, Headteacher

Nearest stations

Staplehurst8 min
Cranbrook town centre2 min

Notable alumni

Chris Hall

alumnus (recent reference on website)

Recent investment

3D printing facilities (recent expansion mentioned)
Boarding life enhancements

Frequently asked questions

What are the fees at Bethany School?

Day fees at Bethany School are approximately £29,670 per year (2025/26). Boarding fees are higher.

How do you get into Bethany School?

Bethany School admits pupils at 11+, 13+, 16+. Entry is assessed by Interview, Assessment. See the Admissions section above for open days and key dates.

What are Bethany School's exam results?

At Bethany School, 8.3% of A-levels were graded A*–B and 19.1% of GCSEs were grade 7/A or above. Full results are in the Results section above.

Is Bethany School a boarding school?

Bethany School offers boarding as well as day places.

What is Bethany School's latest inspection rating?

ISI rated Bethany School “Excellent” (2023).

What parents say

Frequently praised

Inclusive, supportive pastoral system with strong boarding community

Effective integration of SEND/dyslexia support without stigma

Broad co-curricular offer and genuine pupil voice in leadership

Personal attention and strong staff-pupil relationships in smaller cohorts

Common concerns

!Limited Ofsted or ISI inspection history may create uncertainty for some families