
Sutton Valence School
SVSChristian, Founded 1576
Updated July 2026
Languages
Sutton Valence School is a co-educational day and boarding school for students aged two to 18, located on two rural sites in the heart of the Kent countryside. Founded in 1576, it provides a comprehensive education that balances academic stretch with character-building enrichment.
Curriculum
Term structure
Teaching approach
The school is built on a Christian Foundation with an ethos that 'each cares for all and individuality is cherished.' It seeks to foster confidence without arrogance, self-discipline, and a love of learning. The school encourages students to push beyond their comfort zones to discover their true potential within a supportive and respectful community.
Programmes
The school offers a 'Total Curriculum' starting in the Little Lambs Nursery, which focuses on learning through play, reading, writing, and specialist-led sessions in French, Music, PE, Dance, and Yoga. The Preparatory School (Reception to Year 6) prepares children for the Senior School and external grammar schools. The Senior School (First Form to Sixth Form) provides a broad academic programme, including GCSE and A Level subjects, supported by leadership opportunities and a vibrant boarding community.
Outcomes
The school aims to produce well-rounded, tenacious, articulate, and compassionate individuals who have outstripped expectations of their ability. Graduates are prepared for their next stages of learning, including entry to leading grammar schools or university destinations. The school's careers department supports students in achieving positive, clear directions for their future lives.
Student support
Learning support
The school emphasizes a supportive community where students feel guided and informed in their choices. Dedicated staff and an award-winning careers department provide guidance to ensure students have a clear direction for their future. The school's pastoral care system is designed to keep young people safe and happy, enabling them to succeed as adults.
Frequently asked questions(5)
- How much is tuition at Sutton Valence School?
- Annual tuition at Sutton Valence School is £47.4–£97.5. Fees vary by year group — confirm the current schedule with the school.
- What ages does Sutton Valence School teach?
- Sutton Valence School enrolls students aged 2 to 18.
- Is Sutton Valence School a day or boarding school?
- Sutton Valence School is a day and boarding school.
- Is Sutton Valence School co-educational?
- Sutton Valence School is a co-ed school.
- Where is Sutton Valence School located?
- Sutton Valence School is an international school in Sutton, United Kingdom.
Tuition & fees
Annual tuition by grade
2026/2027| Grade | Ages | Annual |
|---|---|---|
| Nursery - Full Day Session (Full Charge, per session) | 2–4 | £97.5 |
| Nursery - Full Day Session (Funded 15 Hours, per session) | 2–4 | £65.9 |
| Nursery - Full Day Session (Funded 30 Hours, per session) | 2–4 | £47.4 |
| Nursery - Morning Session (Full Charge, per session) | 2–4 | £59.6 |
| Nursery - Morning Session (Funded 15 Hours, per session) | 2–4 | £59.6 |
| Nursery - Morning Session (Funded 30 Hours, per session) | 2–4 | £59.6 |
| Nursery - Afternoon Session (Full Charge, per session) | 2–4 | £50.7 |
| Nursery - Afternoon Session (Funded 15 Hours, per session - Free 3:15-5:45pm) | 2–4 | £50.7 |
| Nursery - Afternoon Session (Funded 30 Hours, per session - Free 1:00-5:45pm) | 2–4 | £50.7 |
| Nursery - Ad-hoc Day Rate | 2–4 | £92.5 |
Other fees(3)
| Registration fee· One-off registration fee, non-refundable. Waived if accepting fully funded sessions only. | £100 |
|---|---|
| Deposit· Returned with final invoice. Waived if accepting fully funded sessions only. | £500 |
| Meals· Early Risers – 7.30am start (includes breakfast) | £10.5 |
Admissions
Sutton Valence School offers a co-educational environment for students aged two to 18. The admissions process is designed to respond to the needs of every student, with entry points available at the Nursery (age 2+), Prep School (age 4+), First Form (Year 7), Third Form, and Lower Sixth. Prospective families are encouraged to attend open mornings or arrange a visit to the school.
Calendar
The school operates on a three-term structure: Michaelmas, Lent, and Summer. Each term includes scheduled half-term breaks and exeat weekends for the Senior School. The academic year typically runs from early September through to early July, with specific dates provided for new pupil arrivals and boarders.
Facilities
About the campus
The school is spread across two rural sites in the Kent countryside. The Prep School and Nursery site features green spaces, mud kitchens, sensory gardens, sports fields, and playgrounds. The Senior School campus includes boarding facilities, sports pitches and courts, and a refectory. Both sites are equipped with learning environments designed to support the school's academic and co-curricular programmes.
Co-curriculars
The school provides a wide range of enrichment choices, including sports, creative arts, and leadership opportunities. Students can participate in activities such as rugby, music, drama, and public speaking. The school also offers a nationally-recognised Sports Leaders UK Level 3 Award, allowing Sixth Form students to coach younger peers and develop skills in teamwork and initiative.




Mr James ThomasHeadmasterJames became the 38th Headmaster of Sutton Valence School in August 2021. He holds an MA in Educational Leadership and the National Professional Qualification for Headship, with prior experience as Head of the Senior School at the British School in Tokyo and Director of Studies at Harrow International School, Hong Kong.
Mr David SansomHead of Senior SchoolDavid joined the School in 2007 and became Head of Senior School in 2015. He holds a BSc in Geography and is currently studying for a Masters in Educational Leadership and Management.
Mrs Becci BallDeputy Head (Teaching and Learning)Becci joined the school in 2013 and became Deputy Head Academic in 2015. She previously worked as a Head of English, Drama and Media in a state boarding school and as a Head of Year and Head of Film and Media in Bristol.
Mr Mark ScholeyHead of Prep SchoolMark joined Sutton Valence Preparatory School in September 2022. He previously spent five years as Deputy Head at Dulwich Prep London and has a master’s in Education from Cambridge.
Mr James WatkinsDeputy Head and Designated Safeguarding LeadJames has worked in state, international, and independent schools over the last two decades. He holds a degree in Chemistry and a PGCE.
Mrs Maja TrachonitisAssistant Head (Wellbeing)Maja joined in 2022, having previously worked for seven years at the British School in Tokyo as Head of Sixth Form, Wellbeing Co-ordinator, and Safeguarding Lead. She holds a professional certificate in positive psychology and is undertaking an MA through the University of Buckinghamshire.
Ms Lauren AustenAssistant Head (Safeguarding)Lauren joined in September 2022 from Brentwood School, where she was Director of Sixth Form and Deputy Safeguarding Lead. She holds an MA in English Literature and has previously served as Head of Year and Head of Lower School.
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