Quick summary of key school information
School details
| Number of students |
2000 |
| Number of nationalities represented in the school |
21 |
| Most common nationality |
Switzerland, Korea and China |
| Ratio of local students to international students |
72/2000 |
| Native English speaking teachers |
Yes |
| Language support for students not fluent in English |
Yes, General English and an IELTs certificate |
| Additional language classes offered by the school |
French, German and Spanish for both A-level and IB programmes |
| Max. number of students per class |
22 |
| Average number of students per class |
Average class size is 18. |
| Does the school employ teaching assistants? |
Yes |
| Use of technology in the classroom |
We have a bring your own device policy where we encourage students to bring laptops or iPad with a keyboard |
| Is the school ready to use virtual classrooms when needed? (e.g. teaching lessons online if the school is closed, e.g. during COVID-19 closures) |
We do have online facilties. Online lesson were offer during Covid but this is no longer possible. |
| Do students practice religion at the school? What religion? |
We are a multi faith school and have space availble for reflection. |
| How does the school accommodate non-religious students or students of a different religion? |
We have a multi faith space available |
| External examinations or assessments available |
A Levels, IB Diploma |
| Results in these examinations |
- 98% A Level pass rate
|
| Do teachers assign homework to their students? |
Yes |
| Approximate hours of homework given |
5 hours per week |
| Percentage of students who pursue further education post-graduation |
43% |
| Dedicated staff/programs for students with special learning needs |
Additional Learning Support |
| Learning support offered |
Additional Support is a supportive environment where Varndean's team of Learning Support Assistants work with students to achieve their potential. Varndean has experience working with learners with a range of learning needs, including autism, dyslexia, dyspraxia, ADHD/ADD, mobility issues and sensory needs. Varndean's goal is to support students to become as independent as possible in their studies and give them the tools they need to succeed at college and in life. |
| The school supports gifted, able and talented students |
We have an Aspire programme for students applying to top Universities including Oxbridge and Russell Groupo |
| Student access to education psychologist |
We have a wellbring team and a couselling service |
| Entry evaluation for students |
Yes |
| Brief description of entry evaluation required |
Mandartory English test (British Council English Score), some some subject also require an assignment or portfolio for assessment. |
| Waiting list |
No |
| Deadline for registration (new academic year) |
For International student our deadline is normally June each year, however sometime we close application early and this is displayed on our website |
| Students can join after academic year begins |
No |
| School start time |
8:40 |
| School finish time |
16:10 |
| Supervised care before/after school |
No |
| School bus service available |
No, they use the public bus service which is very good |
| School provided lunches |
We have a cafeteria |
| Food alternatives for special dietary needs (ie. vegan, kosher, halal etc) |
Yes |
| Uniform required |
No |
| Extracurricular activities or clubs offered |
Varndean offers many club and activities as part of our Enrichment programe |
| Sports activities included |
All sport is optional |
| Sports teams or sport competitions available for students |
Yes |
| Facilities at the school |
Cafeteria, library, STEM centre. |
| Sports facilities at the school |
Football, Netball, Rugby, Tabletennis, Badminton, Basketball |
| Qualities and characteristics best defining the school |
Situated on a beautiful hilltop location with stunning views of Brighton, Varndean College is a highly successful and unique sixth form college offering exceptional education. With an outstanding academic track record, students become academically accomplished and flourish as part of a welcoming, inspirational and close-knit family. Varndean ignites passion for learning, fostering curiosity and confidence, while empowering students to thrive, both academically and personally. |
| Teaching approach of the school |
The College offers over 30 traditional A Levels, a diverse range of Advanced Level Vocational Courses and Foundation Level courses, as well as the prestigious and internationally recognised International Baccalaureate Diploma. |