Ardingly College

Awful school. No other way of putting it. I was previously a student there right up until year 10 when I left due to the multiple issues with this so-called ‘Outstanding’ school. Firstly, the pastoral care is shocking. I, amongst many others, were bullied online and in person on college premises, and nothing was done except the bully getting a ‘slap on the wrist’. They DO NOT prioritise mental health and wellbeing, and unfortunately the school has turned into a business ever since the arrival of the new headmaster, and the departure of the prep-school headmaster. Students are pushed to their limits, with many becoming burnt out and struggling with severe mental health issues. If your grades do not meet the impossibly high standards they expect, you will not be supported and will instead be politely asked to leave the school because your grades would affect the yearly average. Let’s talk about LGBTQ+ education. More like the lack of it. There was NO mention of LGBTQ+ sex-ed, and what was mentioned was very much directed towards white, cisgender and heterosexual individuals. LGBTQ+ related bullying incidents were not properly dealt with and were brushed under the carpet. It is apparent to myself, and other previous students, that Ardingly only care about two things - looking good to the public and making money. It has turned into a business, which actively favours white, privileged able-bodied students. The lack of inclusivity is appalling. Of course, there will be issues in any school or college you go to, however Ardingly is one of the worst I have ever experienced. It left me with trauma from being bullied, as well as complex mental health issues from the lack of support and early intervention they state they promote. The school do not listen to the student body. The school do not care for your mental health. The school only care when your grades drop, or you become a liability so they ask you to leave. I could go on forever about the endless list of issues with this place. Sincerely, A disappointed student who was let down by this school.

A school that is lacking in compassion and pastoral care. Bullying is a huge issue. The bullying is serious and goes largely unpunished. The pressure on the students from the teachers is enormous. Grades are the most important thing, not the students happiness.Avoid Artdingly College at all costs.

A hugely pressurised environment with appalling pastoral care.Problems are not dealt with but swept under the carpet - parents are not listened to but literally told to go away. A shocking experience.The wellbeing of children is not at the forefront. Grades are the main concern of this school. It is not a kind and caring atmosphere...there is the odd lovely teacher but the ethos appears to be to climb the performance tables no matter the cost to the children. Mental health is in my opinion an issue at the school that is largely ignored. There is a merky side to the polished facade.