
Ardingly College
Ardingly College
Ardingly, England
Ardingly College is beautifully situated in the countryside of Sussex, about an hour southwest of London. This school is the epitome of a modern, well-rounded English boarding school: strong academically, with many boarding students and an excellent range of extracurricular activities. Ben Figgis, the school's impressive headmaster, places great importance on teaching students to think critically, independently, and creatively. This ensures they are well prepared for life after school.

The Details
The Academics
Anyone who chooses Ardingly College is opting for a strong academic school. The students there are ambitious, and this is reflected in the exam results: in 2024, 72% of GCSEs were graded 9–7, 63% of A-Level results were A grades, and the average IB score was 38.9 points. Good grades are therefore important when applying, as the entrance exam can be challenging. But don’t worry — we’ll support you with the preparation! Once accepted, students can look forward to an exciting time.
Languages Taught
German, English as a Foreign Language, French, Latin, Mandarin, Russian and Spanish.
The Boarding
Ardingly College feels like a global village, with students from around 30 different nations. About half of the students board seven days a week. This diversity is reflected in open-minded conversations, shifts in perspective, and a community that is genuinely welcoming to different cultures and ideas. Students speak highly of the personal and individual support they receive. The boarding houses are modern, simply furnished, and well-managed — nothing is distracting, everything provides a sense of stability. Sixth form students move into their own house, with single rooms and private bathrooms.

Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths
Sport plays a central role at Ardingly College — not as a mandatory program, but as a passion. The elite coaching program is particularly strong in hockey, football, and cricket. Students who want to develop their skills further will find professional guidance, clear structures, and genuine commitment. At the same time, there's plenty of room for variety: riding, golf, water polo, or fencing — those who want to try something new are encouraged and supported.
Ardingly also has a lot to offer in the arts. The art department impresses with its unusual depth. The paintings and sculptures we saw during our last visit were not only technically impressive but also full of personality. Creativity here isn’t just for show — it’s lived and breathed.
The school's commitment to critical thinking goes far beyond the curriculum. One standout initiative is the *World Ready* program. Since 2018, students have been learning life skills that go beyond the classroom — from changing a tire to applying for an internship. Graduates of Ardingly leave not only with a diploma, but with confidence, knowledge, and practical tools for life.
Weaknesses
Ardingly College is located very close to London, making it especially popular with families from the British capital, whose children often leave the boarding school on weekends.
Location
The college is set on the edge of a beautiful reservoir in the county of Sussex, in the south of England.
Heathrow Airport - 1hr 10mins by car
London - 1 hr 30 mins by car
Ardingly is a fantastic boarding school, particularly well-suited for open-minded, ambitious, and well-rounded students.
If you arrange a visit, make sure to meet the very friendly and inspiring headmaster, Ben Figgis — it’s well worth it!
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