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catchment.school

The South Downs School Catchment Area

Reviewed by the catchment.school editorial team · Last updated 15 March 2026

The South Downs School is a academy special converter not applicable school in Eastbourne, East Sussex , serving pupils aged 4–11, with 178 pupils, and a capacity of 160 places. The school is currently at or above capacity, making catchment area proximity important for admissions.

4–11

Age range

178

Pupils

160

Capacity

111%

Fill rate

Outstanding

Ofsted 2014

The South Downs School Catchment Area Information

As an academy, The South Downs School sets its own admissions criteria, agreed with East Sussex. The catchment area boundary is defined in the school's annual admissions policy, which may differ from the LA's general school admissions arrangements.

Currently oversubscribed: 178 pupils enrolled against a capacity of 160 places. Living within the catchment area is especially important for this school.

Not getting a place? Learn how to appeal a school place →

The official admissions policy — including the catchment boundary map — is published by East Sussex before each admissions cycle. Always verify your address with the council before submitting an application, as boundaries can change year to year.

Find East Sussex catchment area documents →

The South Downs School — School Information

Full address
Beechy Avenue, Eastbourne, BN20 8NU
Local authority
East Sussex
School type
Academy special converter
Phase of education
Not applicable
Age range
4–11 years
Free school meals
35.9% of pupils
DfE URN
142745

Other Not applicable Schools in Eastbourne

If The South Downs School is oversubscribed, these not applicable schools in Eastbourne are the next closest alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions — The South Downs School

Is The South Downs School oversubscribed?

Yes — The South Downs School currently has 178 pupils enrolled against a capacity of 160 places. Catchment area proximity is an important admissions criterion when applying.

What is the admissions policy for The South Downs School?

Admission to The South Downs School is managed by East Sussex. When oversubscribed, places go to looked-after children first, then siblings, then catchment area distance. Always verify the current policy with the council before applying.

What age range does The South Downs School cover?

The South Downs School is a not applicable school in Eastbourne, East Sussex, serving pupils aged 4–11. For the latest information, visit the school's website or the DfE Get Information About Schools service.

What is the Ofsted rating for The South Downs School?

The South Downs School was rated Outstanding by Ofsted in 2014. Full inspection reports are available at reports.ofsted.gov.uk.