[5][6] The school held dual specialist Science College and Arts College status before converting to academy status in September 2013, when the number on roll was 1463 including over 400 students in the sixth form, which was already fully integrated with Chichester High School for Boys.

[7][5] The South Downs Planetarium, which is situated at the back of the site, opened in April 2002.

the school has carried out a considerable building programme including: a purpose-built building for languages, English, science and design technology, a new Learning Resources Centre, a new administrative and reception area with wireless network.

[9] The South Downs Planetarium, supported by Sir Patrick Moore, a local resident, was opened on the site on 5 April 2002.

[5] The school has extensive sporting facilities, including an international-standard irrigated all-weather hockey pitch, a large sports hall, tennis courts, a gym hall, a dance studio, and extensive grounds for a whole range of competitive sports, such as netball, hockey, rugby, football, tennis, squash, athletics, and badminton.