Summerhill School

URN: 124870 • Leiston IP16 4HY

Overview

Name
Summerhill School
URN
124870
Type
Other independent school
Phase
Not applicable
Status
Open
Gender
Mixed
Religious
None
Admissions
Non-selective
Trust
Private
Yes
Ofsted rating
n/a
Ranking score
55.7 / 100
School thumbnail

Leadership & Contact

Headteacher
Zoe Readhead (since 2025) , Principal
Telephone
01728830540
Website
Visit
Address
Westward Ho, Leiston IP16 4HY

Summary

Summerhill School, located in Leiston, Suffolk, is an independent mixed school founded by A.S. Neill over a century ago. It operates on a progressive educational philosophy that prioritises the individual needs and freedoms of children, allowing them to learn in a ‘free-range’ environment. With a current enrolment of 53 pupils and a capacity of 90, the school fosters a community atmosphere where children can grow socially and emotionally, engaging in self-directed learning without the constraints of traditional educational structures.

The curriculum at Summerhill is not fixed; instead, students choose their activities and subjects, promoting autonomy and personal responsibility. This approach encourages children to develop their interests and skills at their own pace, supported by a dedicated staff who facilitate learning rather than dictate it. The school also emphasises the importance of play and social interaction, viewing these as essential components of a child's development.

Summerhill is more than just a school; it is a community where companionship and real feelings are integral to the experience. The ethos of self-governance and mutual respect creates a unique environment that many students find profoundly meaningful. The school also engages with parents and the wider community through initiatives that promote children's rights and well-being.

Key details

LA
Suffolk
Age range
5 - 18
Boarders
Boarding school
Sixth form
Has a sixth form
Trust
Capacity
90
Pupils
53
Boys
29
Girls
24
FSM %
Open date
1921-03-13
Close date
Last Ofsted
Next inspection
Data snapshot
2025-07-14
County
Suffolk

Trends

DatePupilsBoysGirlsCapacityFSM%
2025-07-14 53 29 24 90
2024-09-11 51 25 26 90
2023-09-11 53 28 25 90 0.00
2022-09-11 53 28 25 90 0.00
2021-09-11 59 31 28 90 0.00
2020-09-11 67 37 30 90 0.00

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