The Cavendish School
About The Cavendish School
The Cavendish School in Eastbourne is a state secondary that operates across an unusually wide age range, from 2 to 16, and includes a sixth form. Its pupil count of 1,372 far exceeds its stated capacity of 90, which suggests the school is heavily oversubscribed and operating well beyond its original design. The proportion of pupils eligible for free school meals stands at 67.5%, which is significantly higher than the national average and indicates a catchment with considerable socioeconomic need. Despite this, the school has maintained a strong reputation locally, and the demand for places appears robust given the mismatch between capacity and actual numbers on roll. The school is mixed gender and has no religious character, making it a genuinely comprehensive option for families across Eastbourne. Its headteacher is Peter Marchant, who leads a large institution that clearly draws pupils from a wide area.
Key Details
Ofsted Inspection Breakdown
28 Jun 2023Latest monitoring visit (28 Jun 2023): School remains Outstanding
Source: Ofsted, 17 Mar 2011. Ratings: 1=Outstanding, 2=Good, 3=Requires Improvement, 4=Inadequate.
Facilities
12Facilities may vary. Contact the school for current availability.
Extracurriculars
18Sports
Clubs & Activities
Activities may vary by term. Contact the school for current offerings.
SEND Support
Source: Department for Education, 2024/25. Support availability based on current student population.
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Frequently Asked Questions About The Cavendish School
Helpful Guides for Parents
Ofsted Ratings Explained
Understand the 4 Ofsted ratings and what they mean
Understanding Progress 8
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SEN & EHCP: A Parent's Guide
Understanding SEN support, EHC Plans and your legal rights
School Admissions Timeline 2026/27
Key dates for primary, secondary and nursery applications