Chailey School
98%
Capacity
855
Pupils
2.7x
Demand
About Chailey School
Chailey School is a state-funded Does not apply secondary school serving the Lewes community, welcoming children from age 11 to 16. The school has 855 pupils on roll and is near full capacity (98% of 870 places).
Ofsted has rated Chailey School "Good", the school is led by headteacher Paul Holt, it falls under East Sussex local authority.
In terms of academic performance, its Progress 8 score of +0.36 is above the national average. Additionally, Attainment 8 is solid at 53.4. Additionally, placing it in the top 25% nationally. Additionally, ranked 727th out of 3,141 schools in England. Additionally, 3rd out of 6 in Lewes.
Chailey School is a popular choice with families — it received 482 applications for 178 places, making it 2.7x oversubscribed. Of these, 192 were first-preference applications.
For children with special educational needs, the school offers support across 10 areas, including Specific Learning Difficulty (Dyslexia), Moderate Learning Difficulty, Social, Emotional & Mental Health and 7 more. Parents should contact the school's SENCO for specific details about provision.
On-site facilities at Chailey School include Gymnasium, Sixth Form Centre, Astro Turf, Art Studios, Dining Hall, Theatre, Library, ICT Suite, Science Labs, Chapel.
Beyond the classroom, pupils can take part in sports such as Tennis, Swimming, Cross Country, Martial Arts and 6 more, as well as clubs including Debate, Newspaper, Gardening, Choir and 2 more.
The proportion of pupils eligible for free school meals is 12.8%, which is below the national average for secondary schools in England.
For families exploring secondary schools in Lewes, Chailey School is one of the options available in the South East region. Use Classpot to compare it side-by-side with nearby alternatives and find the best fit for your child.
Key Details
| School Type | Secondary (State) |
| Age Range | 11 to 16 years |
| Gender | Mixed |
| Religious Character | Does not apply |
| Address | Mill Lane, Lewes, Lewes, BN8 4PU |
| Headteacher | Paul Holt |
| Local Authority | East Sussex |
| Number of Pupils | 855 |
| Free School Meals (FSM) | 12.8% |
| School Capacity | 855 / 870 (98% full) |
Ofsted Inspection Breakdown
20 Jan 2022Overall Effectiveness
Good
Latest inspection (20 Jan 2022): School remains Good
Source: Ofsted, 5 Mar 2012. Ratings: 1=Outstanding, 2=Good, 3=Requires Improvement, 4=Inadequate.
League Table Position
Based on Progress 8 (+0.36)
727th of 3,141
Nationally
114th of 461
In South East
3rd of 6
In Lewes
Source: Classpot analysis of DfE Progress 8 data
GCSE Results
2023/24Progress 8 Score
Students make more progress than similar students nationally
Attainment 8 (vs national avg)
Students achieve significantly higher grades than the national average
Source: Department for Education, 2023/24. Progress 8 compares to students with similar Key Stage 2 results.
SEND Support
Source: Department for Education, 2024/25. Support availability based on current student population.
Facilities
10Facilities may vary. Contact the school for current availability.
Extracurriculars
16Sports
Clubs & Activities
Activities may vary by term. Contact the school for current offerings.
Admissions
2025/26Oversubscribed178
482
Good Demand
Popular school with more applications than places
192 families put this school as their 1st choice (40% of all applications)
Source: Department for Education, 2025/26. Data reflects national offer day applications and offers.
Frequently Asked Questions About Chailey School
Helpful Guides for Parents
Ofsted Ratings Explained
Understand the 4 Ofsted ratings and what they mean
Understanding Progress 8
Learn how Progress 8 measures pupil progress from primary to GCSE
SEN & EHCP: A Parent's Guide
Understanding SEN support, EHC Plans and your legal rights
Understanding School Catchment Areas
How admission distances work and tips for maximising your choices
Contact Information
Mill Lane, Lewes
Lewes, BN8 4PU
Journey to School
Journey times are estimates based on current conditions. Actual times may vary.
Opening Hours
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