Guide to the Best Schools in Surrey

Are you searching for the best schools in Surrey?

Surrey is a charming, upmarket county in South East England, known for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and convenient proximity to London.

The county’s attributes cover many tick boxes—it makes for an ideal location for city workers and families seeking a high-quality education while enjoying the security of suburban life outside the often hectic capital.

The high quality of education is one of the top reasons parents consider moving to this beautiful area.

Surrey is home to many educational institutions, from top-performing state schools to prestigious private and international schools.

This variety ensures that every child can find a school that meets their academic needs and personal preferences.

Surrey has consistently been recognised for its excellent education standards in recent years.

The county has numerous schools rated as “Outstanding” by Ofsted, the UK’s school inspection body.

From nursery to university, this guide will highlight some of the top schools in Surrey, categorised into state, private, and special needs institutions, providing a comprehensive overview for parents and guardians living in Surrey to follow.

Top State Schools in Surrey

Surrey is home to some wonderful state schools with outstanding reputations.

1.) Gordon’s School

Location: West End, Surrey Heath

Age Range: 11-18

Ofsted Rating: Outstanding

Overview: Known for its high academic standards and strong extracurricular programs, Gordon’s School offers a balanced education with a focus on students’ personal development. Find out more by visiting the Gordon’s School Website.

2.) St Andrew’s Catholic School

Location: Leatherhead

Age Range: 11-18

Ofsted Rating: Outstanding

Overview: An outstanding school with a strong Catholic ethos, known for its academic excellence and the supportive environment it offers its students. Learn more about the school by visiting the St Andrew’s Catholic School Website.

3.) Hoe Valley School

Location: Woking

Age Range: 11-18

Ofsted Rating: Outstanding

Overview: A relatively new but fast-growing school known for its modern facilities and innovative teaching methods. Check out the Hoe Valley School Website for all the information you need.

Best Private Schools in Surrey

Private Schools in Surrey are of a very high quality, with the three listed below being stand outs.

1.) Hampton School

Location: Hanworth Road, Middlesex

Overview: Hampton School is a leading independent school for boys in Surrey, offering excellent academic results and a wide range of extracurricular activities. Find out more about the school at the Hampton School Website.

2.) Hurtwood House

Location: Dorking

Overview: A specialist sixth-form boarding school known for its creative arts program and strong academic results. Head over to the Hurtwood House Website for more information about what the school has to offer its students.

3.) Reigate Grammar School

Location: Reigate

Overview: A co-educational independent school with a reputation for academic excellence and a wide range of sports and arts programs. Visit the Reigate Grammar School Website for more information.

Noteworthy Special Needs Schools

Surrey caters to students with special requirements with some excellent schools.

Limpsfield Grange School

Location: Oxted

Age Range: 11-16

Overview: An outstanding school for girls with communication and interaction difficulties, including autism. The Limpsfield Grange School Website provides more about the school’s curriculum as well as its latest ‘Outstanding’ Ofsted report.

Sunnydown School

Location: Caterham

Age Range: 11-16

Overview: A boys’ school specialising in providing education for students with communication and interaction needs. View the Sunnydown School Website for more information about the school.

Moving Your Child to a New School

There are plenty of things to consider when moving your child to a new school.

Finding the right school is just the start of your child’s educational journey.

Once you have identified a suitable school, you will need to arrange their admission.

For parents living in or considering a move to Surrey, it’s essential to understand the application process as well as the key dates.

The application window typically opens in September, with offers being sent out in April.

Each school has its own admission criteria, which may include a catchment area, sibling attendance, or religious affiliation.

You need to ensure that your child meets these criteria for them to be accepted to your chosen school.

Complete the in-year transfer application form

This can usually be done online via your local authority’s website or through the school directly.

You’ll need to provide details about your child’s current school, reason for transfer, and any special educational needs.

It is important to note that each authority and school may have slightly different procedures and timelines; however, these are the six main points to consider:

1.) Notify their Current School

Once you’ve secured a place at the new school, inform your child’s current school of the transfer. This will help them prepare your child’s academic records for the transfer.

2.) Prepare for the Transition:

If possible, visit the new school with your child to familiarise them with the environment, meet teachers, and understand the school’s expectations of them when they eventually arrive.

3.) Gather Documents

Prepare any necessary documents, such as proof of address, previous school reports, and any specific medical or educational plans that apply to your child.

4.) Confirm Start Date

Coordinate with both the current and new schools to establish a start date. Ensuring both schools are well informed will allow for a smooth handover of academic records and any other relevant information.

5.)Attend Induction

Some schools offer induction days or meetings to help new students settle in. Take advantage of these opportunities to ease the transition for your child.

6.) Monitor Progress

Keep in touch with the new school, especially in the initial weeks, to monitor your child’s adjustment and progress.

For more details on applying to Surrey schools, visit the Surrey County Council Education page, which is packed with helpful advice for parents to follow.

School Term Dates in Surrey

Make sure you are aware of the term dates for your child’s chosen school.

For those new to Surrey, it’s essential to be aware that school term dates and inset days can differ significantly depending on your previous location.

Understanding term dates is crucial for working parents planning childcare before school breaks.

Notably, inset days in Surrey’s schools are not standardised, so checking with your child’s specific school is particularly important.

Additionally, term dates, such as Academy, Voluntary Aided, and Foundation schools, can vary from school to school.

You can download the full term schedule from the Surrey Government website for a comprehensive list of school closure dates for the academic year 2024-2025.

This will help you stay informed and prepared for any school-related scheduling needs.

It will also ensure that there are no dramas on the first day of school!

To Conclude

Planning ahead is vital when aiming to secure a school place in your preferred location.

If you’re considering a move to Surrey, you’ll find that the county offers a consistently high standard of education, regardless of where you decide to settle.

We hope this guide has provided a helpful overview of the diverse range of schools available in the county!

With thoughtful preparation and an understanding of the options, you can confidently navigate the process of transitioning to a new school in Surrey that meets your child’s specific educational needs and personal preferences.

Moving to Surrey

If you are planning a move to Surrey, you will need to arrange the transportation of your household effects.

Don’t fall into the “any old removal company will do” trap.

Not all removal companies are as experienced or have the enviable reputation that White & Company has.

We have been in the removal industry for well over 150 years, during which time we have moved thousands of people around the UK, Europe, and globally.

When you move with White & Company, you know you are in safe hands.

To further enforce our exemplary reputation, we are founder members of the prestigious BAR (British Association of Removers), the removal industry’s regulator.

Becoming and maintaining membership is an ongoing process. Movers must pass an extensive external audit each year and uphold a rigorous code of practice.

Give us a call today to arrange a free, no-obligation house move survey.

Alternatively, you can book a virtual survey with one of our friendly surveyors.

Whether you call or email us for a quick quote or request an in-person or virtual survey, we can get your move to Surrey underway quickly.

Max Peterson

Max is a seasoned writer and blogger in the real estate and home moving sectors, as well as a knowledgeable source of information for expatriates living and working abroad. His detailed insights have helped thousands of people move and live abroad with greater simplicity and ease.