

Cardiff Sixth Form College
CSFCPart of Dukes Education
Updated July 2026
Cardiff Sixth Form College is a leading co-educational boarding school for A Level and GCSE students, consistently ranked as the top school in the UK for academic results. It operates two campuses, in Cardiff and Cambridge, dedicated to preparing highly ambitious students for entry into the world’s most competitive universities.
Term structure
Teaching approach
The college culture is built on innovation, ambition, and a forward-looking approach to education. It prioritises academic excellence, independent thinking, and the development of skills such as communication, entrepreneurship, critical thinking, research, and leadership. The institution aims to provide a supportive, international community that prepares students for the challenges of the 21st-century global market.
Programmes
The college offers A Level and GCSE programmes, with the Cambridge campus focusing on a predominantly STEM-based curriculum including Mathematics, Further Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Economics, Computer Science, and Psychology. The academic offering is supplemented by a comprehensive UCAS programme, which includes personal statement guidance, interview preparation, and support for university admissions tests. Students also participate in the 'CSFC Careers Award,' which incorporates work observation, volunteering, and employability training.
Outcomes
The college has been ranked as the top school in the UK for A Level results for over a decade, with over 90% of students consistently achieving A* and A grades. Graduates frequently progress to leading universities worldwide, including Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial College, London School of Economics, and University College London. Students pursue competitive degrees in fields such as medicine, law, engineering, computer science, and economics.
Student support
Learning support
The college provides an award-winning pastoral care system designed to support student wellbeing and safety. Academic support includes one-to-one tutorials, specialist subject teaching, and tailored guidance for university admissions. Staff are trained to work collaboratively across academic, pastoral, and boarding departments to ensure individual student needs are met.
Frequently asked questions(5)
- What curriculum does Cardiff Sixth Form College offer?
- Cardiff Sixth Form College offers National Curriculum (England), IGCSE and Cambridge A-Level.
- How much is tuition at Cardiff Sixth Form College?
- Annual tuition at Cardiff Sixth Form College is £20.7K–£77.3K. Fees vary by year group — confirm the current schedule with the school.
- Is Cardiff Sixth Form College a day or boarding school?
- Cardiff Sixth Form College is a day and boarding school.
- Is Cardiff Sixth Form College co-educational?
- Cardiff Sixth Form College is a co-ed school.
- Where is Cardiff Sixth Form College located?
- Cardiff Sixth Form College is an international school in Cardiff, United Kingdom.
Tuition & fees
Annual tuition by grade
2026-2027| Grade | Ages | Annual |
|---|---|---|
| Cardiff - A Level Boarding | 16–18 | £77.3K |
| Cardiff - 1 Year GCSE Boarding | 15–16 | £63.4K |
| Cardiff - 2 Year GCSE Boarding | 14–16 | £62.2K |
| Cardiff - A Level Day | 16–18 | £31.1K |
| Cardiff - 1 Year GCSE Day | 15–16 | £34K |
| Cardiff - 2 Year GCSE Day | 14–16 | £32.8K |
| Cambridge - A Level Boarding (Cluster) | 16–18 | £74.9K |
| Cambridge - A Level Day | 16–18 | £31.1K |
| Cambridge - 18 Month A Level Boarding (Jan 2027 Start, 2 terms) | 16–18 | £49.9K |
| Cambridge - 18 Month A Level Day (Jan 2027 Start, 2 terms) | 16–18 | £20.7K |
Other fees(8)
| Registration fee· UK and EU Boarders / Day Students | £216 |
|---|---|
| Registration fee· International Boarders | £300 |
| Deposit· Acceptance Deposit - UK and EU Boarders | £3K |
| Deposit· Acceptance Deposit - International Boarders | £9.5K |
| Deposit· Acceptance Deposit - Day Students | £500 |
| Deposit· Second year top-up - Day Students | £500 |
| Uniform· GCSE sports kit purchased from college | £60 |
| Enrolment fee· Confirmation of Acceptance of Studies (CAS) single payment in August invoice for boarding students | £55 |
Admissions
The college welcomes applications from ambitious students and provides a dedicated admissions team to guide families through the process. Prospective students can apply online, and the college offers various resources including open days, visits, and international recruitment events. Admissions requirements include the submission of an application, and the college provides support regarding visas and immigration for international students.
Calendar
The academic year is divided into three terms: Autumn, Spring, and Summer. The calendar includes specific dates for student arrivals, term start and end dates, and designated Enrichment Weeks or Revision Weeks each term. Boarding houses typically close at the end of each term, with specific arrangements for Year 13 and Year 12 students during the summer period.
Facilities
About the campus
The college operates two campuses: one in the heart of Cardiff and another in central Cambridge. Facilities include university-style single ensuite boarding accommodation, common rooms, kitchens, music practice rooms, art rooms, and medical centres. The campuses are situated near city-centre amenities, parks, and, in the case of Cambridge, proximity to research institutes and the university.
Co-curriculars
Students participate in a wide range of activities including debating, music, drama, and the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. The college hosts various societies, competitions, and annual events such as graduation balls, cultural events, and house sports. Additionally, students engage in the 'Cambridge Edge' or general super-curricular programmes, which include research projects, academic societies, and industry exposure.






- Mr Tom ArrandPrincipal of CSFC (Cardiff)
Mr Arrand serves as the Principal of Cardiff Sixth Form College (Cardiff).
- Dr Julian DaviesPrincipal of CSFC (Cambridge)
Dr Davies serves as the Principal of Cardiff Sixth Form College (Cambridge).
National Curriculum (England)
IGCSE