Bede’s School to Open New Year 7 & 8 Lower School at Senior School Campus

Bede’s School is delighted to announce a significant strategic development that will enhance the educational options for pupils transitioning into Years 7 and 8.

From September 2027, the School will introduce a brand-new, purpose-built Lower School at its Upper Dicker Senior School campus, running alongside the established provision at Bede’s Prep School in Eastbourne. The cornerstone of this new development is the construction of a brand-new purpose built facility which will be a true “school within a school” featuring:

• Modern Classrooms and Science Laboratory: Tailored learning spaces, including a state-of-the-art science lab.
• Dedicated Social Hubs: A large common room and a flexible dining space, fostering community and collaboration.
• Purpose-Built Outdoor Space: Dedicated outdoor areas designed around the developmental needs of this age group.

Pupils will benefit from enhanced access to the Senior School’s outstanding facilities, including the extensive sports centre, arts and DT rooms, dance and drama spaces, and music rooms. In addition, pupils will benefit from being taught by subject specialists from across the Senior School academic faculties.

Architects and a construction company have been appointed, and the planning process for the new facility is currently underway.

Commitment to Existing Provision:

The new Lower School at Upper Dicker will operate alongside the current, successful provision for children in Years 7 and 8 at the Prep School, which will continue to provide a nurturing environment for pupils.

Bede’s School looks forward to sharing further detailed information over the coming months to help parents explore these exciting opportunities and determine the best approach for their child’s future development.

Peter Goodyer, the CEO and Headmaster of Bede’s Senior School, commented on this news by saying, “We are delighted to announce this significant strategic development. Crucially, the new Lower School will run alongside our highly successful existing provision at Bede’s Prep School in Eastbourne, which will continue to operate unchanged. This means we are offering families complementary options at the critical Year 7 entry point, ensuring parents can choose the environment that is perfectly matched to their child’s unique needs and personality. Whether pupils thrive on the continuity of the Prep community or benefit from earlier integration into a Senior School environment, we are truly offering the best of both worlds.”