Drive Preparatory School
Hove, East Sussex · BN3 6GE
Drive Preparatory School was a small, independent co-educational day school in Hove serving ages 7–16 with an emphasis on tailored, personalized education and pastoral care. The school operated with small class sizes and positioned itself around individual pupil needs rather than one-size-fits-all curricula. However, the school has been closed following an Ofsted inspection, with the leadership appealing the decision while the lease expires in July.
- →Very small classes enabling individualized attention and customized learning programmes
- →Emphasis on pastoral care and holistic well-being alongside academics
- →Flexible, child-centered approach rather than rigid academic pressure
Who thrives here
Learners who benefit from smaller cohorts, personalized teaching, and a less pressurized environment; families seeking a nurturing, bespoke educational experience in a day-school setting.
Strengths at a glance
Percentiles within UK independent + grammar schools we track.
At a glance
Contact & visit
101 The Drive
Hove, East Sussex
BN3 6GE
Nearest stations
Frequently asked questions
What are the fees at Drive Preparatory School?
Day fees at Drive Preparatory School are approximately £10,500 per year (2024/25).
How do you get into Drive Preparatory School?
Drive Preparatory School admits pupils at 7+, 8+, 11+, 13+, 16+. Entry is assessed by Interview, Assessment. See the Admissions section above for open days and key dates.
What are Drive Preparatory School's exam results?
At Drive Preparatory School, 5.1% of GCSEs were grade 7/A or above. Full results are in the Results section above.
Is Drive Preparatory School a boarding school?
Drive Preparatory School is a day school in Hove and does not offer boarding.
What is Drive Preparatory School's latest inspection rating?
Ofsted rated Drive Preparatory School “Inadequate” (2024).
What parents say
Frequently praised
✓Small class sizes and personalized, tailored education
✓Strong emphasis on individual pupil well-being and pastoral care
✓Innovative, forward-thinking approach (e.g., educational technology, music synthesis)
Common concerns
!School closed following Ofsted inspection; significant instability and uncertain future despite leadership appeal