Independent SeniorCo-educationalBoardingISI · Excellent
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Christ's Hospital

Horsham, West Sussex · RH13 0LJ

AAB+ A-level

20.8%

9–7 GCSE

37.6%

Day fees

£26k

Inspection

Excellent

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School website

Christ's Hospital is a historic co-educational boarding and day school founded in 1552, located in rural West Sussex. Known for its distinctive blue coat uniform and progressive approach to education, it combines centuries of tradition with contemporary innovation. The school emphasises academic ambition, character development, and opportunity for pupils from all socioeconomic backgrounds, underpinned by a strong ethos of service and social responsibility.

  • Prestigious boarding environment with strong academic outcomes and a 470-year heritage
  • Genuine commitment to socioeconomic diversity through substantial bursary and fee-assisted day provision
  • Exceptional breadth of co-curricular opportunities including Royal Mathematical School, CCF, and extensive expeditions
  • Iconic school identity and strong alumni network (Old Blues)

Who thrives here

Academically ambitious, resilient pupils who thrive in a structured boarding community and value tradition alongside innovation. Particularly suited to those seeking a full co-curricular experience and from families prioritising character development and social responsibility.

Strengths at a glance

Exam results50th pctSports56th pctCo-curricular50th pctValue vs peers50th pctPastoral & wellbeing83rd pct

Percentiles within UK independent + grammar schools we track.

At a glance

School typeIndependent Senior · Boarding
Founded1552
Number of pupils866
Day pupils71
Boarders836
Sixth form281
Age range11–18
GenderCo-educational
Day fees£25.6k/yr
Boarding fees£46.2k/yr
AssociationsHMC, ISC
Settingrural
LocationRural Sussex location with good rail access to London Victoria (45 mins); school operates coach services to main transport hubs for boarding pupils.
EthosChristian (Anglican foundation, non-denominational)

Contact & visit

Christ's Hospital

Horsham, West Sussex

RH13 0LJ

www.christs-hospital.org.uk
01403247432
Mr Simon Reid, Headmaster

Nearest stations

Horsham Railway Station15 min
London Victoria45 min
Gatwick Airport20 min

Notable alumni

William Ewart Gladstone

Prime Minister of the United Kingdom

Douglas Haig

British Field Marshal, World War I

Roald Dahl

Author

David Hockney

Artist and painter

John Profumo

Politician and war hero

Recent investment

Investment in science facilities and STEM provision
Enhanced boarding accommodation and facilities
Digital infrastructure and remote learning capability demonstrated during pandemic

Frequently asked questions

What are the fees at Christ's Hospital?

Day fees at Christ's Hospital are approximately £25,554 per year (2026/27). Boarding fees are higher.

How do you get into Christ's Hospital?

Christ's Hospital admits pupils at 11+, 13+, 16+. Entry is assessed by 11+ Selective Examination. See the Admissions section above for open days and key dates.

What are Christ's Hospital's exam results?

At Christ's Hospital, 20.8% of A-levels were graded A*–B and 37.6% of GCSEs were grade 7/A or above. Full results are in the Results section above.

Is Christ's Hospital a boarding school?

Christ's Hospital offers boarding as well as day places.

What is Christ's Hospital's latest inspection rating?

ISI rated Christ's Hospital “Excellent” (2018).

What parents say

Frequently praised

Genuine commitment to socioeconomic diversity and bursary provision; real integration of day and boarding pupils

Strong pastoral care and safeguarding; boarding staff highly responsive to welfare concerns

Exceptional breadth of co-curricular opportunities and genuine space for all ability levels to participate

Historic identity and alumni network create lasting community and life opportunities

Academic rigour without excessive pressure; balance between aspiration and wellbeing

Common concerns

!Rural location can feel isolated; limited immediate access to larger town facilities for day pupils

!Boarding fees at upper end of independent sector; bursary availability variable year-to-year

!Uniform policy and formal ethos not appealing to all families; less flexibility than some day-focused competitors

!Not yet Ofsted inspected post-pandemic; limited recent external validation of provision quality

!Music and drama excellent but can dominate co-curricular profile; STEM facilities investment ongoing