IT’S been a tough year for schools but they are rising to the challenge.

One school is going so far as go to celebrate success.

Windlesham, a small, independent school in Dyke Road, Brighton, has been praised by parents and pupils for its online teaching during lockdown, with more than 90 per cent attendance for its live classes.

Pupils recent achievements include reaching the finals of the ISA National Young Musicians Competition, winning the ISA National Poetry Writing Competition, the ISA regional Arts competition, being the reigning champions of the English School’s Swimming Association and reaching the finals of the BBCs 500 word competition earlier this year.

The Argus: Windlesham School's new buildingWindlesham School's new building

The school has also just opened a new building, adding a sports hall to complement the swimming pool, as well as several new large light classrooms. The installation of a modern, new kitchen has enabled the school to serve hot and nutritiously balanced meals for all the pupils and staff.

Headmaster John Ingrassia said: “The new building is a great addition. Often people don’t know we are here as we are tucked away, which gives us the feel of a small village school, but our site is quite large.”

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Windlesham School is planning to open its doors in September to children joining in Year 7 and Year 8 in September 2022.