In July 1923 the first council meeting of the new school was held and 24 girls were registered. The new school had a temporary home in Bickley for the first term while the three founders set about finding a new permanent site, requiring at least 70 bedrooms and large grounds. In January 1924 Hemsted Park, near Benenden village in Kent, was leased to the Founders and the school was named Benenden School, to avoid confusion with Hemel Hempstead. In March 1924 The Benenden School (Kent) Limited prospectus was issued at £10 each; five shares entitled the holder to give a nomination to the school. Every parent was encouraged to pay a year's fees in advance. In September 1924 there were 126 girls on the school roll and in October 1924 the new Benenden School purchased Hemsted House for £20,000.