Dulwich College Review, Ranking, Fees, And More
This comprehensive review explores Dulwich College, a leading independent boys’ school with a long and respected history. We take a closer look at the school’s academic profile, rankings, and fee structure, while also examining the traditions, teaching approach, and opportunities that continue to shape its reputation. By bringing these elements together, the article offers a clear picture of what makes Dulwich College a distinctive choice for boys’ education.
Table of Contents
Key Features of Dulwich College
- Boarding: Yes
- Local authority: Southwark
- Pupils: 1,401; sixth formers: 474
- Religion: Church of England/Christian
- Fees: Day £10,206 per term; Boarding £21,422 per term (inclusive of VAT)
- Ranking: 52 (2024)
Dulwich College Results
2025: 93.5% 9-7 at I/GCSE; 70% A*/A.
2024: 91% 9-7 at I/GCSE; 63% A*/A at A level.
2023: 92% 9-7 at I/GCSE; 64.8% A*/A at A level.
2022: 93% 9-7 at I/GCSE; 82% A*/A at A level (95% A*-B).
Teaching and Learning at Dulwich College
At Dulwich College, academic success goes hand in hand with a love of learning. The focus isn’t just on top grades. Instead, the school promotes curiosity, inquiry, and independent thinking.
Some subjects stand out for strong results. Science, English, maths, history, and art perform particularly well at GCSE and A level. Among A level subjects, maths is the most popular, followed by physics, history, economics, and chemistry. Students also achieve high grades in subjects like chemistry, Latin, English literature, geography, and further maths.
The college takes pride in its “free learning” approach. Students often research topics independently before class. In lessons, they then take part in guided discussions. This flipped model helps students understand subjects more deeply and encourages ownership of their learning.
Most subjects are taught in mixed-ability classes. Only maths and languages are grouped by level. The school believes that early setting can limit progress and confidence. For those seeking extra academic challenge, the Scholars’ Programme between Years 7 and 11 offers more advanced opportunities.
Language teaching is broad and inclusive. French, Spanish, Chinese, and Latin are taught in the lower years. As students progress, they can also study German, Italian, and Ancient Greek. Other language options include Japanese, Arabic, Russian, and Turkish.
In the Sixth Form, students have access to unique academic experiences. The Dulwich Diploma combines A level depth with broader learning, similar to the IB. Students complete independent research and write essays to build critical thinking. The A level Plus programme offers cross-departmental electives and subject extension classes like Further Physics.
Beyond core subjects, liberal studies are offered in partnership with JAGS and Sydenham. Courses include modern poetry, bookbinding, Italian cinema, and ballroom dancing – adding a creative and cultural dimension to student life.
Boarding Experience in Dulwich College
Dulwich College boasts a vibrant and diverse boarding community that plays a significant role in the institution’s fabric. One of the key strengths is the successful integration of overseas boarders with their day counterparts. This harmony is evidenced through a range of engaging social activities that foster camaraderie. Notably, fun-filled events such as Chinese New Year dinners offer a unique opportunity for cultural exchange and shared celebrations.
Dulwich College’s boarding houses, which are conveniently located on campus, provide a sense of community and belonging. These modernised period houses are adorned with photographs commemorating the achievements of the college’s Old Alleynians (OAs) in various sporting endeavors, creating an inspiring atmosphere for the current generation.
The accommodation, while modest in some aspects, is well-suited to the needs of ambitious teenage boys. The rooms offer a comfortable environment conducive to both focused studying and energetic recreation. Ensuite bathrooms provide convenience without distracting from the primary pursuit of academic excellence and camaraderie.
Common rooms within the boarding houses are lively hubs of activity, equipped with amenities to facilitate relaxation and bonding. Large screens transform movie nights into cinematic experiences, fostering shared moments of entertainment. Table football and other engaging diversions provide avenues for friendly competition and leisure. The presence of toasters allows students to prepare simple, comforting snacks, contributing to a sense of autonomy and comfort.
A notable addition to Dulwich College’s boarding options is the introduction of flexi-boarding, catering to the evolving needs of students and their families. This flexible approach allows students to blend their boarding experience with the demands of their academic pursuits and extracurricular activities, offering a balance that aligns with individual preferences.
Extracurricular Activities in Dulwich College
Dulwich College stands as a testament to the profound impact of a well-rounded education, where the arts, music, and co-curricular activities intertwine to nurture students’ talents and passions. This commitment to holistic development has driven the college to continuously refine its offerings, fostering an environment where voluntary participation is driven by genuine enthusiasm and dedication.
The theatrical realm thrives with an impressive array of offerings, from London theatre excursions to an annual cascade of drama festivals and performance showcases. The diverse repertoire, ranging from thought-provoking puppetry addressing pertinent issues to high-energy productions such as Guys and Dolls and Grease, reflects a commitment to both artistic depth and crowd-pleasing entertainment.
Artistic exploration extends beyond the stage to the sophisticated art department, where academic rigour converges with contemporary innovation. A harmonious blend of traditional hand drawing and modern technology underscores the college’s artistic pedagogy. The light-filled studios brim with exuberant classes, where students explore film, photography, printmaking, sculpture, and canvas work. The results, consistently thoughtful and often thought-provoking, mirror a commitment to nurturing individual creativity.
The musical landscape at Dulwich College resonates with harmony and accomplishment. A remarkable 45% of lower school students embrace musical instruments, with each musician celebrated regardless of their level. From aspiring beginners to National Youth Orchestra leaders and principal performers at prestigious venues like Glyndebourne and the ENO, the college’s musical journey reflects inclusivity and excellence.
Debating, a powerful tool for cultivating influential voices, holds a pivotal role in the co-curricular tapestry. The college’s debaters tackle issues of global and local significance, honing the art of meaningful influence.Interestingly, Dulwich College has a proud tradition of producing world-class debaters who excel in major tournaments and often earn positions in the England team.
In the realm of sports, Dulwich College’s expansive playing fields provide a canvas for athletic exploration. Beginning with skill-building in Year 7, students are exposed to a spectrum of sports, including rugby, football, hockey, and cricket. Whether it’s skiing, rowing, squash, or cross-country, the college offers an array of opportunities for students to discover and pursue their sporting passions.
Admissions Process: Entering Dulwich College
Dulwich College’s admissions process embodies a commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals who combine academic prowess with a passion for co-curricular engagement. While not ultra-elite, the college maintains a high academic bar, targeting the top 15% of students who bring diverse strengths to their educational journey, fully embracing the enriching co-curricular offerings.
For entry at the age of 11, Dulwich College draws from a pool of candidates, with approximately half of the 75 boys hailing from the Dulwich College Junior School, while the remainder are admitted from a mix of primary schools and preparatory institutions. Admissions are determined through the school’s own entrance exams and interviews, ensuring a holistic assessment of a student’s potential and suitability.
At the age of 13, the college predominantly welcomes students from preparatory schools, further broadening the diversity of perspectives and talents within the student body. This stage marks a pivotal transition, where students are guided towards embracing the academic rigour and co-curricular vibrancy that define the Dulwich College experience.
For those seeking entry into the sixth form, the college sets a minimum entry requirement of 14 points, with a clear expectation that candidates will achieve even higher. This rigorous criterion underscores the college’s dedication to fostering intellectual excellence and preparing students for the challenges of advanced studies.
GCSE results hold a pivotal role in the admissions process at the sixth form level. Candidates are expected to include English and maths in their GCSE repertoire, highlighting a foundational grounding in these core subjects. Furthermore, a grade 8 attainment in the three chosen A-level subjects is an integral component of the admissions criteria, ensuring that incoming students possess a strong foundation in their intended areas of study. For candidates whose first language is not English, the admissions process incorporates an English as an Additional Language (EAL) exam.
SEN Support
The school has an SEN unit that can support pupils in many different ways. This includes developing reading comprehension and spelling skills, personal organisation, study and revision strategies, and social skills.
Dulwich College Testimonials and Reviews
My work has brought me to this college. My first visit on a real English college, one that has lot of history behind. Beautiful architecture, plenty of green grounds: football field, rugby. Today is Saturday, no students around, so this place it feel really peaceful now, although the south circular gets right by the front entrance, it makes me feel like I’m outside of London.
My son is here, and I am really impressed by the professionalism of the staff. Things happen, things go wrong but the staff do their utmost to protect the children and address any issues that arise. There is an emphasis on growing the boys as well rounded individuals as well as academic performance which I think is missing in some of the other top schools. There are a lot of after school clubs which the kids can join which allows them to learn stuff outside the curriculum too. The grounds themselves are absolutely beautiful which I think is important when your son lives in the inner city. The school meals are amazing and free for the first two years. I think my son liked them a little too much at first, but the sports programme helped keep that in check. Finally, I was a bit worried about snobbery, but from what my son says, there’s very little of that going on there.
Great place. Has Great scenery, beautiful flowers, very clean. Service was splendid
Best school. Great people. Lovely teachers. Immense surroundings
Frequently Asked Questions about Dulwich College
Pupils from the College join the most competitive of universities across the word, including Oxford and Cambridge in the UK, and Yale and Berkeley in the USA, and thereafter enter all the major professions with a high number choosing to work in engineering, the health services and the law.
The College produced Bishops, Archbishops, leading scientists, actors, film directors, entertainers, politicians, a Governor of the Bank of England and eminent members of the judiciary.
This all boys’ school is based in London with impressive architecture and rural character. It has been a popular location for filming (Harry Potter, Tomb Raider, The Importance of being Earnest).
Dulwich College International (which is owned by Education in Motion), owns and operates a network of schools with more than 9,000 pupils that includes the Dulwich College International Schools and High Schools in China, South Korea, and Singapore.
Apply To A UK Boarding School Today!
Speak to us today for free application assistance and education advice. Our expert consultants are more than happy to help!
Subscribe For Our FREE Insider UK Study Advice
Apply To Your Favourite Boarding School Today!
Speak to us today for free application assistance and education advice. Our expert consultants are more than happy to help!