Brighton College is a co-educational day and boarding school on England’s south coast, known for combining high academic standards with a strong emphasis on kindness. Here are five things to know.
1. It has a pioneering history
Founded in 1845 by William Aldwin Soames, Brighton College was the first independent school in Sussex. It was an early pioneer in teaching modern languages and science, and says it was the first school to have a science laboratory, a school magazine and a gymnasium. The school motto translates as “Let right prevail”.
2. It’s fully co-educational, from 3 to 18
Girls and boys learn together from the pre-prep years right through to sixth form, across the prep school and the senior college. Pupils can be day pupils, weekly or flexible boarders, or full boarders.
3. Kindness is at the heart of the culture
The school places great weight on a culture of kindness, making sure every pupil feels valued for who they are. It also wants pupils to see themselves as part of wider society, with initiatives such as an Entrepreneurship Challenge for all Lower Sixth students. Results are exceptional too: in 2025, 97.9% of A-level grades were A* to B.
4. The setting and buildings are striking
The college sits in central Brighton, within sight of the sea and walking distance of the South Downs. Its buildings have won numerous architecture awards, including a School of Science and Sport with 18 university-standard laboratories.
5. There’s a lot beyond the classroom
Brighton College excels in art, music, dance, drama and sport, with rugby, football, cricket and netball particularly strong. Entry points include 11+, 13+ and sixth form, through assessments, interviews and school references, and scholarships and bursaries are available.
Find out more
Brighton College, Eastern Road, Brighton BN2 0AL. Telephone 01273 704200. Visit brightoncollege.org.uk to book an open morning and see admissions details.