Sevenoaks School and Solefield School in Sevenoaks are coming together to form the new Sevenoaks Family of Schools.

Sevenoaks School is a co-educational day and boarding school for pupils aged 11 to 18. Solefield School is an academic day preparatory school catering for 200 children aged three to 13.

The schools already have close links and a long-standing relationship.

Sevenoaks Family of Schools stated it has record pupil numbers and healthy waiting lists. Both schools will continue to operate independently, led by their existing leadership teams, and retaining their own individual identity, character and uniforms.

Jesse Elzinga, headmaster of Sevenoaks School, said: “In an era where educational choice is more important than ever, this merger is designed to offer a broader, more cohesive, and more resilient approach to independent schooling.

“By joining forces, we are uniting two leading independent schools with a shared vision of providing the highest standard of education, with the flexibility to meet the needs of all our students.”

Helen McClure, headmistress of Solefield School, added: “Collaboration between our schools means a blending of the best practices from each institution. This includes sharing expertise in areas such as teaching, pastoral care, and facilities, to create a richer, more diverse learning environment for everyone involved.

“Together, we will continue to uphold the values that have defined our schools – academic rigour, character development, and a commitment to nurturing the individual needs of every child.”