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Compare Independent Schools in Surrey

For many families, Surrey offers a compelling alternative to schools in central London. The county is home to some of the UK's most respected independent schools and is one of the most popular regions for families researching private schools near London.

For many families, Surrey offers a compelling alternative to schools in central London. The county is home to some of the UK's most respected independent schools and is one of the most popular regions for families researching private schools near London.

Featured Schools in this Comparison

Side-by-side key details for the schools featured on this page.

Charterhouse

Charterhouse

Godalming, Surrey

Age range
12–19
Gender
Co-ed
Pupils
996
Type
Day & Boarding

Fees (per term, inc. VAT)

Day £15,592
Boarding £20,016
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Epsom College

Epsom College

Epsom, Surrey

Age range
11–19
Gender
Co-ed
Pupils
1,143
Type
Day & Boarding

Fees (per term, inc. VAT)

Day £9,727 - £12,472
Boarding £16,708 - £18,864
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Cranleigh School

Cranleigh School

Cranleigh, Surrey

Age range
5–19
Gender
Co-ed
Pupils
961
Type
Day & Boarding

Fees (per term, inc. VAT)

Day £11,550 - £15,600
Boarding £19,130
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Amesbury School
Age range
2–13
Gender
Co-ed
Pupils
350
Type
Day & Boarding

Fees (per term, inc. VAT)

Day £5,292 - £8,167
Boarding Not provided
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Danes Hill School

Danes Hill School

Surrey, Surrey

Age range
2–14
Gender
Co-ed
Pupils
633
Type
Day

Fees (per term, inc. VAT)

Day £6,370 - £9,010
Boarding Not provided
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Why Families Choose Independent Schools in Surrey

  • Excellent choice of high-performing schools.
  • Easy access to London combined with larger campuses.
  • Strong academic outcomes and pastoral care.
  • Extensive sporting and co-curricular opportunities.
  • Popular with families relocating from London.

School Summaries

Charterhouse

With a long-standing reputation for combining academic achievement with character development and a broad boarding experience, Charterhouse attracts families seeking a senior school that offers far more than examination success alone. Pupils are encouraged to pursue their interests across academics, sport, music, drama, leadership and wider school life, helping them develop confidence, independence and resilience. The school's distinctive culture, extensive campus and strong sense of community appeal to families looking for an education that prepares young people for life beyond school as well as future academic success. Families often compare Charterhouse with Cranleigh School, Epsom College and St John's School Leatherhead when considering boarding provision, educational approach and overall school experience.

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Epsom College

Known for offering a balanced and well-rounded educational experience, Epsom College appeals to families seeking strong academic outcomes alongside extensive opportunities beyond the classroom. Pupils are encouraged to develop their interests across sport, music, drama, leadership and a wide range of co-curricular activities while benefiting from a supportive and ambitious school environment. The school's combination of academic achievement, pastoral care and vibrant school life attracts families looking for an education that supports both personal development and future success. Families often compare Epsom College with Charterhouse, Cranleigh School and Reigate Grammar School when considering educational approach, boarding provision and overall school culture.

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Cranleigh School

Set within a large countryside campus, Cranleigh School appeals to families seeking a co-educational environment that combines academic ambition with a strong sense of community. Pupils benefit from extensive opportunities across sport, music, drama, outdoor education and wider school life, with participation encouraged throughout the school. The school's blend of boarding and day provision, together with its emphasis on personal development, attracts families looking for a balanced education that extends well beyond the classroom. Families often compare Cranleigh School with Charterhouse, Epsom College and St John's School Leatherhead when considering boarding provision, school culture and opportunities for all-round development.

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St Catherine's School, Bramley

Known for combining academic excellence with a broad and modern educational approach, Reigate Grammar School attracts families seeking high achievement without sacrificing wider opportunities. Pupils are encouraged to challenge themselves academically while also participating fully in sport, music, drama, leadership and co-curricular life. The school's emphasis on developing confident, well-rounded young people appeals to families looking for an environment where academic success sits alongside personal growth and wider participation. Families often compare Reigate Grammar School with Royal Grammar School Guildford, Epsom College and City of London Freemen's School when considering academic reputation, school culture and opportunities beyond the classroom.

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Guildford High School

Set within an expansive countryside campus, St Catherine's School, Bramley appeals to families seeking a girls' education that combines academic ambition with a strong sense of community and personal development. Pupils are encouraged to pursue their interests across academics, sport, music, drama and a wide range of co-curricular activities while developing confidence, independence and resilience. The school's supportive environment and focus on nurturing individual potential attract families looking for an education that balances achievement with wellbeing. Families often compare St Catherine's School, Bramley with Guildford High School, St Teresa's School and Prior's Field School when considering girls' education, school culture and opportunities beyond the classroom.

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Amesbury School

Known for combining academic achievement with a vibrant and supportive school community, Guildford High School attracts families seeking a girls' education that encourages both ambition and individuality. Pupils are encouraged to pursue their interests across academics, sport, music, drama, leadership and a wide range of co-curricular activities, helping them develop confidence and independence throughout their school years. The school's balanced approach and strong culture of participation appeal to families looking for an environment where girls can thrive both academically and personally. Families often compare Guildford High School with St Catherine's School, Bramley, Godolphin & Latymer School and Wimbledon High School when considering girls' education, school culture and opportunities beyond the classroom.

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Danes Hill School

A strong emphasis on childhood, curiosity and individual development makes Amesbury School a popular choice for families seeking a nurturing preparatory education in Surrey. Pupils are encouraged to explore their interests across academics, sport, music, drama and outdoor learning while developing confidence and independence from an early age. The school's supportive environment and broad educational offering appeal to families looking for a prep school that balances academic preparation with opportunities for personal growth. Families often compare Amesbury School with Danes Hill School, Feltonfleet School and St John's Beaumont School when considering school culture, destination schools and overall prep school experience

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best private schools in Surrey?
Surrey is home to a wide range of highly regarded private schools, including day and boarding schools, co-educational schools and single-sex options. The best school for any child will depend on age, academic profile, personality, interests and family priorities. Some families focus on academic outcomes and university destinations, while others place more weight on pastoral care, boarding provision, sport, music, drama or the overall feel of the school community. Comparing schools side by side can help parents understand how options differ and build a shortlist that reflects both their ambitions and their child's individual needs.
Why do families choose private schools in Surrey?
Surrey's proximity to London, strong transport links and concentration of respected schools make it one of the most popular areas for families considering private education. Families are often attracted by the combination of academic opportunity, pastoral support, facilities and co-curricular breadth available across the region. Schools differ significantly in character, selectivity and educational philosophy, so parents should consider more than reputation alone. For many families, the appeal lies in finding a school that offers strong teaching, a supportive culture and opportunities beyond the classroom while remaining practical for location, travel and family life.
Are there boarding schools in Surrey?
Yes, Surrey includes private schools with boarding provision, although the range of full, weekly and flexible boarding options varies between schools. Boarding can be an important consideration for families looking for greater independence, access to wider activities or a more immersive school experience. Parents should compare boarding accommodation, house structure, weekend provision, pastoral care, location and fees before deciding whether a school is the right fit. Visiting boarding houses and speaking to boarding staff can be particularly helpful when evaluating options.
How much do private schools in Surrey cost?
Private school fees in Surrey vary depending on the school, age group and whether pupils attend as day students or boarders. Prep school fees are usually lower than senior school fees, while boarding fees are typically higher because they include accommodation, meals and residential care. Families should also consider additional costs such as registration fees, deposits, uniform, trips, transport and extracurricular activities. Fee levels can change annually, so parents should always check the latest figures directly with each school when comparing options.
Which private schools in Surrey achieve strong academic results?
Several private schools in Surrey are known for strong GCSE, A Level or equivalent outcomes, but academic results should not be viewed in isolation. Families should also consider teaching style, subject choice, university destinations, pastoral care and the level of support provided to pupils. A school with excellent results may not necessarily be the best environment for every child. Comparing academic performance alongside school culture and wider opportunities can help parents identify schools where their child is most likely to feel challenged, supported and motivated.
Do private schools in Surrey offer scholarships and bursaries?
Many private schools in Surrey offer scholarships, bursaries or both, although availability and eligibility criteria vary. Scholarships may recognise achievement or potential in academics, music, sport, drama, art or other areas. Bursaries are usually means-tested and designed to support families who may not otherwise be able to afford full fees. Parents should review each school's admissions and financial assistance information carefully, as deadlines, assessment processes and award levels can differ significantly.
What age can children join a private school in Surrey?
Private schools in Surrey usually offer a range of entry points, often including nursery, Reception, 7+, 11+, 13+ and 16+. The available entry stages depend on whether the school is a prep, senior or all-through school. Some schools may also accept occasional place applications in other year groups where spaces are available. Families should check admissions timelines carefully, as popular entry points can require registration well in advance and may involve assessments, interviews or school references.
How can families compare private schools in Surrey?
Families comparing private schools in Surrey should consider academic approach, admissions requirements, fees, location, school culture, pastoral care, facilities, co-curricular opportunities and destination outcomes. It is also important to think about how well the school matches a child's personality, interests and learning style. Open days, school visits and comparison tools can help parents move beyond reputation and understand the practical differences between schools. The best choice is usually the school where a child is most likely to thrive academically, socially and personally.

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