Cheltenham College

Independent Schools Inspectorate Inspection 2023 found both Cheltenham College and Cheltenham Prep ‘excellent in all areas’. The report stated, “The school wholeheartedly fulfils its aim to equip pupils to lead purposeful and fulfilling lives by providing an excellent all-round education”.
For Cheltenham Prep it was noted, “Pupils thrive on challenge, viewing mistakes as learning opportunities in a learning environment in which governors, leadership and teachers have successfully fulfilled the school’s aim to foster intellectual curiosity, academic rigour, independent learning and interests beyond the academic, which brings enjoyment and enrichment.”

At Cheltenham College we stretch, challenge and inspire all our pupils to achieve continuous excellence. With a focus on developing the whole person, ensuring pupils not only gain the qualifications they need but also the skills and character to open doors later in life. Boys and girls who join the College at any age leave as well-rounded young adults, having realised their potential. They will be prepared for the next stages in life beyond school and keen to contribute positively to their community.

The 11 Houses at College, nine Boarding and two Day, and Cade House at The Prep are at the heart of College life and are all located around the Cheltenham College campus. Accommodation and pastoral care are outstanding for both boys and girls. “Pupils feel safe within the school, especially in their boarding houses, and in the virtual world” ISI Report 2023.

Cheltenham College has much more to offer than purely academics. Whilst completing the Tatler Schools
Guide 2024 Parents’ Questionnaire, a parent of a Cheltenham College pupil said, “College manages to create
a strong family atmosphere as well as encouraging achievement and excellence. My daughter has
flourished, as a person and as a student and has been brilliantly supported in every aspect of her school life.”

The arts are central to the life of Cheltenham College, pupils are encouraged to attend concerts, plays, films and lectures not only in Cheltenham but in nearby Oxford, Stratford, Bristol and London. Cheltenham College is one of the strongest schools nationally in a wide cross-section of sports and benefits from top-level sports professionals and coaches. Up to 30 co-curricular clubs operate weekly, including shooting, dance, pottery, filmmaking and drama, highlighting the broad range of experiences to discover at Cheltenham.

Cheltenham College was recently recognised as Independent Boarding School of the Year by Independent School Parent. The award, published in ‘The Guide to Independent Schools’ Autumn 2022, commended the boarding school that demonstrates that it provides pupils with a vibrant and life-enhancing experience which meets the needs of pupils and their families.

Entry to College is into Third Form (Year 9) at 13+, Fourth Form (Year 10) at 14+ or Lower Sixth at 16+. All entry points also require an interview and a testimonial from the previous school. Full details, prospectuses and application forms can be obtained from the Admissions Office.