Open Day Information

Pennthorpe April Open School Day

Event date: 29 Apr 2026

Event time: 9:30 am

"Excellence underpins all that we do at Pennthorpe, and all that we strive to be together."

About Pennthorpe

Set within 25 acres of beautiful countryside in Rudgwick, on the Surrey/Sussex border, Pennthorpe has been nurturing childhood since 1930. Now partnered with Hurstpierpoint College, the school combines a warm, family-centred prep experience with the opportunities of a leading senior school group.

Pennthorpe is a co-educational day school for children aged 2 to 13, where children come first and kindness, respect and openness underpin everything. Small class sizes and a close-knit community ensure every child is known, valued and supported to feel confident, safe and ready to learn.

A broad and balanced curriculum fosters curiosity and encourages pupils to explore and develop their unique strengths, whether in the classroom, on the sports field, on stage or in the woods. Forest School, sport, swimming, art and performing arts sit alongside trips, visits and co-curricular opportunities, helping children build confidence, resilience and independence.

Pastoral care is central to life at Pennthorpe. Every child has a trusted adult Champion, while cross-year activities foster responsibility, collaboration and a sense of contributing to something greater, living the school motto, “Born not for ourselves alone.”

Pennthorpe has an excellent record of pupils moving on to their chosen senior schools, including Brighton College, Hurstpierpoint College, Seaford College, Ardingly College and Worth School.

With strong relationships between staff, pupils and parents, Pennthorpe is a happy, ambitious school full of warmth, energy and optimism, where curiosity, engagement and a love of learning inspire children every day.

Head of School’s Philosophy

At Pennthorpe, our philosophy is simple: when children feel happy, valued and understood, they flourish. We place the child at the heart of everything we do, nurturing a love of learning within a culture of kindness, respect and belonging. We believe in celebrating individuality and recognising that each child’s journey is unique, supporting them to discover their strengths, embrace challenges and grow in confidence. By combining high-quality teaching with exceptional pastoral care, and by not rushing childhood, we create the space for children to develop curiosity, resilience and a strong sense of self. Guided by our principle, “Born not for ourselves alone,” we aim to shape not only capable learners, but thoughtful, compassionate young people ready to contribute positively to the world around them.

To register for an Open Morning, please click on either of the following links:-

Pennthorpe Nursery Pre-Prep and Prep are part of the Hurst Family of Schools