Benenden School
Cranbrook Road, Benenden, Cranbrook, TN17 4AA
Age range
11 to 18
Gender
Girls
Pupils
550
Headteacher
Ms Rachel Bailey
Type
Independent
Inspection
Inspected by ISI
Faith
Church of England
Local authority
Kent
Sixth form
Yes
Boarding
Yes
About Benenden School
Benenden is one of the leading boarding schools in Britain. Founded in 1923, we are situated in 250 acres of attractive parkland in Kent, the Garden of England, just an hour from London. There are 550 girls in the School, aged 11-18.
At Benenden School, we are experts in educating young women. Above all, we want our students – whether boarders or day students – to relish all that life in a boarding school has to offer, to enjoy their learning, develop intellectual curiosity and be ambitious, while learning to achieve balance in their lives.
Through our Complete Education, we shape future generations of successful, visionary women.
This mission is supported by our values of confidence, compassion, courage and courtesy which are underpinned by our focus on community.
Inspection
Inspected by the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI)
Last inspection: 9 October 2025
Benenden School admissions and catchment area
This is an independent school
Benenden School runs its own admissions process. You apply directly to the school, usually with a registration fee, an assessment or taster day, and often an interview. As a Church of England school, faith-based criteria may apply in oversubscription - a supplementary information form is usually required. Boarding places have a separate application and interview process - start early. Bursaries and scholarships may be available - ask early.
Official links
Applications go direct to the school - you do not apply through your local council.
How to apply
1. Book a visit or open day
Most independent schools want you to visit before you apply - open days and private tours are both usually offered.
2. Register with the school
Complete the school's registration form and pay the registration fee. Some schools have a waiting list a year or more ahead.
3. Assessment / taster day
Depending on age, this can be an informal assessment, a taster day in class, or a formal entrance test with an interview.
4. Offer and deposit
The school makes an offer directly. A deposit secures the place; check the terms and notice period carefully.
5. Bursaries & scholarships
Ask about means-tested bursaries and scholarships. Deadlines are often earlier than main entry.
Didn't get a place? Ask about waiting lists
Independent schools manage their own admissions. If you are not offered a place at Benenden School, ask about the waiting list and whether a late application is possible.
Benenden School results and attendance
KS2 results
N/A
A-Level results
Average grade · 2024/25
Attendance
N/A
Free school meals
N/A
SEND support at Benenden School
SEND setting
Mainstream school
For full details, visit the school's SEND information page.
Wraparound care and nursery at Benenden School
Nursery
No
Breakfast club
Please check with the school
After-school club
Please check with the school
Benenden School term dates: Benenden School term dates
Autumn 1
1 Sep to 23 Oct
Autumn 2
Autumn term 2: 2 Nov to 18 Dec
Spring 1
Spring term 1: 4 Jan to 12 Feb
Spring 2
Spring term 2: 22 Feb to 25 Mar
Summer 1
Summer term 1: 12 Apr to 28 May
Summer 2
Summer term 2: 7 Jun to 21 Jul
Benenden School: frequently asked questions
What type of school is Benenden School?
Benenden School is an independent secondary school. It is a girls' school.
What age range does Benenden School cover?
Benenden School serves pupils aged 11 to 18.
What SEND support does Benenden School offer?
Benenden School is a mainstream school. Check the school's SEN information report or contact the SENCO for current support details.
Who inspects Benenden School?
The Independent Schools Inspectorate inspects Benenden School rather than Ofsted. Use the inspection link to view the latest report.
Where is Benenden School?
Benenden School is at Cranbrook Road, Cranbrook, Kent, TN17 4AA.
About this information. Compiled from published sources including the Department for Education, Ofsted and the school's own website. Last reviewed Summer 2026.
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Get my profile builtSchools near Benenden School
The closest schools to TN17 4AA, measured from each school's own location.
Cranbrook · Grammar · 2.1 miles
Cranbrook School
Cranbrook · Independent · 2.4 miles
St Ronan's School
Tenterden · Secondary · 5.3 miles
Homewood School & Sixth Form Centre
Cranbrook · Independent · 5.7 miles
Bethany School
Sutton Valence · Independent · 9.7 miles
Sutton Valence School
Tonbridge · Secondary · 10.3 miles
Mascalls Academy
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Tell us what needs updating on Benenden School and we'll review it before the page changes.Last updated Summer 2026.