There are four applications for every place at Sevenoaks, the world-leading IB school with a reputation for being ‘very academic, forward-thinking and international’. And given that the current intake numbers 70 nationalities, its reputation is evidently global. Being part of such a diverse student body prepares the children to be world citizens, who head off to first-choice universities ranging from Oxbridge and Ivy League to Sciences Po in Paris, Bocconi in Milan and the National University of Singapore. Students are ‘confident, high-achieving and motivated’, making the most of inspirational teaching and top-notch facilities to achieve stellar results. In 2021, the IB cohort secured an average of 41.3 points – more than eight above the world average – with 30 awarded the maximum 45 points. The school’s glorious grounds are put to good use for outdoor activities and sports offerings now include archery, wild swimming and American football. A focus on wellbeing and a balanced lifestyle are paramount, with sound- baths and mindfulness and Qigong sessions, while a ‘yellow button’ function on the school’s intranet is a one-click route for students to raise concerns or seek support.
Location: Sevenoaks, Kent TN13 1HU
Website: sevenoaksschool.org
Head: Jesse Elzinga, MSt, since 2020; previously Head of Reading Blue Coat School
Pupils: 1,168. Day: 387 boys, 391 girls; boarding: 216 boys, 174 girls
Ages: 11–18
Term fees: Day: £9,471; boarding: £14,451
Oxbridge: 11%
Admission: School’s own exam, interview and previous school’s report
Alumni: Actor Charlie Higson, biographer and academic Sir Jonathan Bate
