Bede's

About Us

Introduction from the Head

Leigh-Anne

For over 130 years, Bede’s Prep has evolved while remaining steadfast in our commitment to "finding joy in the pursuit of brilliance." Today, we are evolving that mission to meet the needs of a changing world, and most importantly, the needs of your family. We are delighted to announce a landmark development: the extension of our Eastbourne provision to Year 11.

From September 2027, we are extending the Eastbourne provision to Year 11, creating a seamless, boutique educational pathway through to GCSE - offering a high-impact academic experience within the nurturing “village” atmosphere that our community values so highly.  This provision will run alongside the Senior School at Upper Dicker, which from September 2027 will educate children from Years 7 to 13.

Leigh-Anne Morris
Head of Bede's Upper School

Why Choose the Upper School at Eastbourne?

Our new model is designed to offer choice, flexibility and value.  Whether your child is a budding scientist, has a creative spirit or is a future entrepreneur, our “Step Up” curriculum in Year 9 and hybrid GCSE/BTEC model in Years 10 and 11 ensure that pupils are not just “exam-ready” but “life-ready”.  

  • Innovative Academics: From STEM Excellence to our bespoke financial literacy course, we will bridge the gap between the classroom and the modern world. 
  • Leadership Skills: Through our accredited Environment, STEM and Language Leader awards, every pupil will have the change to find their voice and lead with purpose.
  • Individual mentorship: The personalised support we provide our pupils ensures that they are truly recognised as individuals, helping form their characters and drive their ambitions. 

Investing in the Future

As we grow, so does our campus. We are investing in our facilities to ensure that older pupils enjoy an environment that reflects their maturity.  Developments will include:

  • A premium senior hub: A new common room designed to foster independence and community among Upper School pupils.
  • Modernised learning spaces:  Refurbished classrooms featuring upgraded fixtures and state-of-the-art IT resources, including interactive whiteboards tailored for GCSE level study, which will benefit all of our pupils.  
  • Campus zoning: For clarity and safeguarding, Years 4-11 will be hosted in the Main Prep School building with age-specific form zones alongside specialist teaching areas for Science, Music, Computing, Robotics, Swimming, Cookery, Art and Drama.

These infrastructure enhancements will be complemented by careful and purposeful design of the school day ensuring that all of our pupils access facilities like the dining hall, astro and specialised suites, in age-appropriate groupings.