Cheltenham College

Cheltenham College has been educating young people since 1841. Bestowed with stunning buildings and set in the heart of one of England’s most vibrant spa towns, we provide boys and girls with a modern first class all-round education that prepares them for their next step onwards into life. 

Learning is at the heart of what we do; we want our pupils to be inspired to achieve high academic standards, leaving College with exam results they can be proud of. In 2021 over 71% of GCSE grades at College were awarded grade 7 to 9 and at A level the College scored 91% A*-B. As well as these achievements in the classroom, all pupils developed resilience and a spirit of adventure along the way.  

The pastoral care at College is something that everyone here takes pride in. This is the foundation which enables our pupils to gain confidence in themselves. Similarly, the opportunities provided outside of the classroom are second to none. All pupils participate each week in at least one of the 20+ sports on offer, taught by our 19 full time Sports Professionals. Musicians benefit from our full symphony and chamber orchestras as well as advanced chamber ensembles and jazz bands. Vocalists can take part in choirs ranging from our Schola Cantorum to our pop choirs. There are also a range of trips, tours and exchange opportunities taking place each year across the globe that all help to ensure that our pupils are able to develop a range of interests that will last them a lifetime.

Our community service programme is a particularly important part of College life. This is an area in which our pupils gain an understanding of the importance of giving their time to benefit others, and in doing so, an appreciation of the value of service is gained.

Why choose a school out of London?

Easy access from many airports allows pupils to enjoy 72 acres of beautiful grounds set within the Regency town of Cheltenham. New and younger pupils feel secure within the confines of the school grounds with its lake, sports fields, tennis courts, Astros, swimming pool, squash and rackets courts. As students mature, at a pace that suits them, Cheltenham provides a safe environment in which to become independent and take advantage of the internationally acclaimed science, music, literature and jazz festivals as well the theatre, museum, cinemas, cafes and restaurants.

Why boarding?

College is one of the few full boarding, co-educational British schools with 80% of pupils boarding. This ensures that the weekend experience is shared by everyone, from academic lessons on Saturday morning through to sports for all in the afternoon. House trips, lectures, musical concerts or perhaps a school play punctuate the evenings and Sundays. Alternatively, Sundays can be a day to relax or visit a favourite café or even enjoy valuable additional study time. The warm and welcoming atmosphere in the Houses combined with close relationships with teachers makes school feel like a real home from home.

Why Cheltenham College?

Our aim above all is to inspire young people who are willing to learn, ambitious to achieve and keen to get involved. Boys and girls who join College at any age, will leave us as well-rounded young men and women, having fulfilled their true potential and gained a place at a top university of their choice both within the UK and abroad. They will have been prepared for life beyond school and be able to contribute positively to the global world of tomorrow.

Community life and friendship are hugely important at Cheltenham College. Founded on Christian principles with a strong house system, the school inspires loyalty, respect and integrity and is ambitious for all of its pupils. Pastoral care is exceptional with every pupil developing socially as well as academically. Most days start with a service in our beautiful Chapel and is the perfect place for staff and pupils alike to reflect on the value of being a part of the College community.