Roedean reports a ‘dramatic’ increase in applications of late. It could be the exodus of families leaving London for Brighton, or the chaperoned trains to and from the capital for weekly boarders, which have been a big success. Alternatively, prospective parents may be swayed by the compelling head Oliver Blond (‘I really look forward to his addresses,’ admits one fan), or the smart renovations he’s instigated to facilities. Or it could simply be that everyone’s cottoned on that Roedean, with its stunning clifftop views and welcoming atmosphere, is a lovely place to live and learn. ‘I am actually jealous when I drop my daughter off there every day,’ a mother admits to us. With more applications comes increased competition. However a parent is pleased to note that Mr Blond ‘seems to focus on the individual rather than academic results and doesn’t feel the need to shout about success.’ So we’ll do it for him – Roedean reported its best GCSE results ever last year (50 per cent A*), though A-levels are down a smidge at 80 per cent A*–B. Pastoral care is ‘exceptional’ says one mother: ‘Any issue that a child has is taken seriously.’ ‘I felt more at home at Roedean after one term than at my prep school after five years,’ a pupil confides. ‘No cliques, no atmosphere... Considering it’s all girls, everyone gets on so well.’

Click here for the article in The Tatler Schools Guide 2019