Great Ballard School

Since 2020, Matthew King. Previously head at Framlingham College Prep, Suffolk, and before that Pennthorpe. Grew up in West Sussex attending Hurst then studied history at Nottingham before pursuing his teaching career.

A keen sportsman, he played

Main entry points are reception, year 3, year 7 and year 9, but registration is welcome for any year group that has space and mid-year and even mid-term starts can be accommodated. Taster days and assessments for all children, with the pre-prep

Majority of children now stay the whole way through with no leavers until after year 11, most then head off to the excellent local state sixth form colleges, notably Collyer’s, Godalming and Chichester. A small handful to nearby independent schools

In 2025, 42 per cent 9-7 at GCSE. The first cohort of year 11s took their GCSEs in 2024.

The curriculum and wider provision have been completely overhauled in recent years, in line with the school’s expansion up to GCSEs. There is now a whole school approach, heads of department working across the school from early years all the way up.

Strong learning support for pupils with a range of needs, led by a qualified SENCo supported by specialist staff based in the cheerful ‘Shine Hub’. Children monitored closely through regular assessments, those who need extra help receive tailored

The creative arts are clearly thriving. Engaging, enthusiastic art department is led by a charismatic and popular head of department and growing team, with ambitions to introduce additional GCSE options in the near future – currently just art &

Solid range of sports facilities for a small, rural school, including 30 acres of playing fields, woodland, tennis/netball courts, and a heated covered pool used all year round. Only a small Astro, not suitable for competitive hockey for the senior

Every member of staff is mental health first aid trained and there is a dedicated mental health lead. Access to trained counsellors as well as pupil mental health ambassadors all help contribute to a robust pastoral care network.

Resoundingly

A clear mobile phone policy is a really important part of modern schooling. This school has provided us with their policy.

Families travel from as far afield as Worthing, Loxwood, Bognor Regis and Birdham, with popular minibus routes serving each area. There are a number of German families at the school due to the nearby Rolls Royce factory.

Highly active parent

Small number of scholarships for entry into year 7 and year 9, including the ‘Brian Jay’ award for all-rounders, offer from up to 20 per cent fee reduction. Means tested bursaries also available.

Great Ballard is an excellent fit for children who enjoy learning by doing, who need a warm and nurturing community, and who want opportunities to develop independence, resilience and life skills alongside the usual academics. It is a school that