Explore Cheltenham College: Reviews, Rankings, Fees, And More
Cheltenham College, founded in 1841, is a leading independent school in Gloucestershire. Known for its strong academics and competitive sports, the school focuses on preparing students for higher education and beyond. Its longstanding tradition of excellence makes it a top choice for families seeking quality education.
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Key Features of Cheltenham College
- Boarding: Yes
- Local authority: Gloucestershire
- Pupils: 736; sixth formers: 326
- Gender: Co-ed
- Ages: 13-18
- Religion: Church of England
- Fees: Day £15,269.40 per term; Boarding £20,165.40 per term (inclusive of VAT)
Cheltenham College Results in 2025
2025 A-Level League Ranking: 116
Latest Results
- A-Level Results (2025): 51% A*/A
- GCSE results (2025): 60% 9-7
Past Results
- A Level Results (2024): 41% A*/A
- GCSE results (2025): 73% 9-6
Teaching and Learning at Cheltenham College
Lower College (Years 9–11)
In Year 9 (Third Form), pupils follow a wide curriculum that includes English, Maths, Sciences, two modern languages, Latin, Computing, and the Arts. They also take part in leadership and public speaking modules. Moreover, they complete the Foundation Project Qualification (FPQ), which builds early research and independent study skills.
From Year 10 (Fourth Form), pupils usually study ten GCSE or IGCSE subjects. Core subjects include English Language, English Literature, Maths, at least two sciences, and one modern foreign language. In addition, pupils choose four optional subjects, allowing them to focus on their strengths and interests.
Upper College (Sixth Form)
In the Sixth Form, students typically take three or four subjects from over 30 qualifications, including A Levels, BTECs, and CTechs. The school allows students to build personalised subject combinations, as there are no fixed option blocks. Alongside this, all Sixth Formers complete the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ), which enhances research and critical thinking.
Furthermore, the Academic Extension programme adds depth to the curriculum. Through subject-based extension classes, academic societies, lectures, debates, and trips, students are encouraged to explore topics beyond the standard syllabus and prepare for university-level learning.
Boarding Experience in Cheltenham College
At Cheltenham College, 80% of students are boarders, creating a vibrant and close-knit community. The school operates a house system, where each boarding house is led by a dedicated Housemaster or Housemistress, fostering a supportive and homely atmosphere. The houses are a mix of younger and older students, helping to build a strong sense of family and camaraderie.
Boarders enjoy a wide range of activities and events, both during the week and on weekends. From watching rugby matches to participating in weekend socials, there’s always something going on. One of the highlights of the year is the annual house performance evening, where nearly every student takes part, showcasing their talents in front of their peers.
Cheltenham College’s boarding experience is designed to give students a sense of belonging, personal growth, and lasting friendships.
Extracurricular Activities in Cheltenham
Cheltenham College offers a wide range of extracurricular activities aimed at providing students with a well-rounded education. Pupils are encouraged to participate in various clubs and activities regardless of skill or experience. The school has a full programme, including sports, music, drama, and academic societies.
Key extracurriculars include the Combined Cadet Force, the Duke of Edinburgh Award, and the Third Form Challenge, which helps new students settle in. Monday afternoons are dedicated to clubs like cooking, debating, and squash, while academic societies cover subjects like Maths, Philosophy, and English Literature.
Students also have opportunities to develop leadership skills, particularly in the Sixth Form, where they help run societies and clubs. Whether it’s playing polo, joining the choir, or taking part in community service, Cheltenham College ensures students can engage in activities that enhance their overall education.
Full List of Co-curricular Activities in Cheltenham
| Category | Activities |
|---|---|
| Sports | Athletics, Equestrian, Football, Girls' Cricket, Jogging, Polo, Rackets, Rounders, Rowing, Rugby Sevens, Running, Speed Training, Squash, Tennis, Ultimate Frisbee, Volleyball, Water Polo |
| Music | Brass Ensemble, Canticum, Choir, Glee Club, Guitar Group, Jazz Band, Jazz Group, Music Practice, Music Tech Ensemble, Orchestra, Schola Cantorum, Symphony Orchestra (Brass, Percussion, String, Wind Sectional), U6 Pop Ensemble, Girls’ Pop Choir |
| Arts & Crafts | Art, Design, Papercraft, Photography, Textiles, Life Drawing |
| Drama & Performance | Drama, Theatre Productions |
| Leadership & Adventure | Combined Cadet Force, Duke of Edinburgh (Bronze, Silver, Gold Awards), Third Form Challenge |
| Academic & Societies | Book Club, Business Club, Computer Coding, Crest (Science) Awards, Diversity Society, Chess, Debating, Rubik's Cube, Sudoku, Philosophy, Psychology, Maths, English Literature, Film Studies, Global, Immersive Labs, Introduction to Securities and Investments, Leadership, Mini MBA, Music, Sports Leadership Group |
| Miscellaneous Activities | Board Games, Dungeons and Dragons, Mah-jong, Pottery, Community in Action, Community Service, Cooking, Explore Club, Chess, Clay-Pigeon Shooting |
Admissions Process: Entering Cheltenham College
Cheltenham College has a selective admissions process. About 1/3 of Year 9 students come from Cheltenham College Prep, with the rest joining from over 50 different prep schools, including well-known ones like Cothill House, Hatherop Castle, and Beaudesert Park. Some students come from London preps, such as Thomas’s and Fulham Prep, often because their families have second homes in the Cotswolds.
For Year 9 entry, students take school tests in English and Maths during Year 6. Those from Common Entrance schools must achieve 55% at CE, while those from non-CE schools take Cheltenham’s own exams. Approximately 10-15 spots are available for Year 10.
In the Sixth Form, around 30 to 40 students are admitted each year. Applicants need at least five grade 6s at GCSE, including grade 5s in English and Maths. Some A-level subjects may require grade 7s. Entrance exams are held in the subjects chosen, along with CAT tests, references, and an interview.
SEN Support in Cheltenham College
Here is a list of the supported special educational needs in Cheltenham College:
- Autistic Spectrum Disorder
- Aspergers
- Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorders
- Dyscalculia
- Dysgraphia
- Dyslexia
- Dyspraxia
- Hearing Impairment
Cheltenham College Testimonials and Reviews
Loved that school.
Fantastic school which excels at sports and music.
This is my favourite college.
Good teachers!
Frequently Asked Questions about Cheltenham College
With a brilliant reputation for academic excellence and developing pupils beyond the classroom, Cheltenham College is one of the country’s leading co-educational independent schools for boarding and day pupils aged 13–18.
Mrs Nicola Huggett
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