Gad's Hill School
Once the home of Charles Dickens, Gad's Hill School in Rochester has grown into a small independent day school taking pupils from ages three to sixteen. With around 357 children on roll, it offers a close-knit setting where families can expect to be known rather than counted. The Independent Schools Inspectorate rated the school good across both education and personal development, and confirmed that it meets the required compliance standards. There is no religious affiliation and no boarding, making it a straightforward day school for local families.
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Inspection reports
- ISI rating
- good
- ISI personal development
- good
- Last inspected
- 8 October 2024
Teaching & academics
Teaching runs through to GCSE, with a broad subject menu that spans the three separate sciences, humanities such as History and Geography, and creative and applied options including Drama & Theatre Studies, Design & Technology and Art & Design. Psychology and Statistics extend the choices for older pupils. Around 7.6 per cent of pupils receive SEN support, suggesting the school is set up to help those who need a little extra alongside the mainstream curriculum.
GCSE subjects
Head · Paul Savage
School life & ethos
- Religious character
- None
- Boarding
- No
- SEN support
- 7.56%
- EHC plans
- 1.68%
Fees & bursaries
- Day fees (per year)
- £13,908 - £15,396
Schools nearby
King's School, Rochester
Rochester, South East
Rochester Independent College
Rochester, South East
Ripplevale School Rochester
Rochester, South East
Helen Allison School
Gravesend, South East
Serenity School Maidstone
Maidstone, South East
St Helens Montessori School
Maidstone, South East
The last word
A small, all-through day school with a literary pedigree and a solid ISI report, Gad's Hill suits families wanting a personal scale and a wide GCSE choice through to sixteen.
The Passmate verdict
Start preparing for Gad's Hill School →Gad's Hill School 11+: frequently asked questions
Compiled from public data. Last checked 5 June 2026.