CATS Cambridge logo

CATS Cambridge

Part of CATS Global Schools, Secular, Founded 1952

Updated July 2026

Day & BoardingType
For-profitOwnership

CATS Cambridge is an established international boarding school for students aged 14+ located in the heart of Cambridge. It specializes in preparing students for entry into the world’s most prestigious universities through an immersive, all-round education.

Term structure

Three terms

Teaching approach

The school is committed to fostering mutual respect, resilience, curiosity, creativity, honesty, and hard work. It aims to develop confident, thoughtful individuals with deep subject knowledge and ethical awareness who are prepared to contribute meaningfully to the world. The educational approach emphasizes excellent pastoral care as the foundation for student success and encourages students to become effective, enthusiastic life-long learners.

Programmes

The school offers a range of internationally recognized qualifications, including GCSEs, Pre-A levels, A Levels, and a University Foundation Programme (UFP). It also provides a UK High School Term programme designed to introduce students to the British education system. These pathways are tailored to meet individual student needs and aspirations for university progression.

Outcomes

The school focuses on preparing students for entry into top-tier universities, including the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge. Graduates have progressed to a wide range of prestigious institutions to study subjects such as mathematics, natural sciences, law, and film production. The school maintains a strong track record of university placement and provides specialized support for high-achieving students aiming for competitive university applications.

Student support

EAL support
Unknown
Learning support
Dedicated department

Learning support

The school provides a dedicated Welfare Team that works alongside academic staff to ensure students receive appropriate support. Staff are noted for providing extensive academic intervention and additional nurture within the boarding environment to help students achieve their potential. One-to-one lessons and additional learning support sessions are available as optional services.

Frequently asked questions(5)
What curriculum does CATS Cambridge offer?
CATS Cambridge offers National Curriculum (England), IGCSE and Cambridge A-Level.
How much is tuition at CATS Cambridge?
Annual tuition at CATS Cambridge is £8.3K–£38.5K. Fees vary by year group — confirm the current schedule with the school.
Is CATS Cambridge a day or boarding school?
CATS Cambridge is a day and boarding school.
What accreditations does CATS Cambridge hold?
CATS Cambridge holds accreditations including British Schools Overseas.
Where is CATS Cambridge located?
CATS Cambridge is an international school in Cambridge, United Kingdom.

Tuition & fees

Annual tuition by grade

2026-2027
Annual tuition by grade
GradeAgesAnnual
A Level (3 subjects), GCSE, Pre-A level, University Foundation Programme (International)14–?£38.5K
A Level (3 subjects), GCSE, Pre-A level, University Foundation Programme (EU)14–?£31.7K
A Level (3 subjects), GCSE, Pre-A level, University Foundation Programme (Domestic)14–?£22.1K
Additional A level subject (International)14–?£8.3K
Additional A level subject (EU)14–?£8.3K
Additional A level subject (Domestic)14–?£8.3K
5-Term GCSE – January 25 intake (International)14–?£29.5K
5-Term GCSE – January 25 intake (EU)14–?£24.4K
5-Term GCSE – January 25 intake (Domestic)14–?£17K
Fast Track University Programme (UFP) (International)14–?£32.1K
Fast Track University Programme (UFP) (EU)14–?£26.4K
Fast Track University Programme (UFP) (Domestic)14–?£18.4K
Other fees(6)
Other fees
Registration fee· Non-refundable registration fee (£600 if no CAS required)£700
Deposit· Refundable deposit (reduced to £700 for High School Term students)£2.5K
Materials· Set Textbooks£400
Uniform· School Hoody and T-Shirt£60
Application fee· UCAS application fee£70
Boarding· Catered Premium single en-suite (Elizabeth House): £22,335/year; Catered Single en-suite: £21,510/year; Self-catered Single en-suite: £16,980/year

Admissions

The school welcomes international and domestic students, with an application process that includes submitting an online form, passport, and recent school reports. Successful applicants receive an offer pack, which may be conditional or unconditional, followed by an acceptance and enrolment process that includes securing a place with a deposit and obtaining necessary visa documentation. The admissions team is available to assist with inquiries, and the school provides a Student Hub resource to guide families through the transition.

Calendar

The academic year is divided into three terms: Autumn, Spring, and Summer. The Autumn term typically runs from early September to mid-December, the Spring term from early January to early April, and the Summer term from late April to mid-June. Half-term holidays occur in October and February, with additional breaks for Christmas and Easter.

Facilities

LibraryScience labsArt roomTheatre / auditoriumBoardingPlayground

About the campus

The campus is located a 15-minute walk from the historic centre of Cambridge and features purpose-built teaching and boarding facilities. On-campus boarding is provided in Elizabeth House, with Darwin House scheduled to open in June 2026, offering a mix of single and twin en-suite rooms. The school includes a canteen, 'The Hub,' which provides catered meals, and all boarding accommodation is supervised 24 hours a day.

Co-curriculars

The school offers over 30 extra-curricular activities designed to foster leadership, innovation, and teamwork. Key programmes include Coding Club, a Robotics Team, and Model United Nations (MUN), alongside opportunities for sports, STEM, and astronomy. Students are also encouraged to participate in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award scheme and various international field trips.

  • Dominic TomlinPrincipal

    Dominic Tomlin is the Principal at CATS Cambridge.

  • Dr Helen Barsham
    Dr Helen BarshamSenior Deputy Head – Interim

    Helen is in her thirtieth year of educating young people and the last fifteen have been in leadership roles with three school Headships behind her. She recently completed her Doctorate in Education with the University of Cambridge, focusing on cognitive science, and has published research on test preparation and self-confidence.

  • Dr Nicholas DennisSenior Deputy Head – Interim

    Dr Dennis brings extensive experience from leading independent and international schools, including roles as Senior Deputy Head at St Helen’s School and Deputy Head (Academic) at Kellett School. He holds a PhD from the University of Wales, Aberystwyth, and an MSc from the University of Oxford, with professional interests in curriculum design, cognitive science, and educational technology.

  • Mary MemarziaDeputy Head - Pastoral

    Mary brings a deep commitment to working with young people, supporting students as both a teacher and a pastoral leader. Her approach is rooted in care, empathy, and understanding, with a focus on promoting wellbeing, diversity, inclusion, and mutual respect.

  • Sarah MorganDeputy Head Co Curricular & Director of Key Stage Four

    Sarah is a dedicated education professional with over 20 years of teaching experience, including nine years at CATS Cambridge as a Geography teacher, House Director, and KS4 Coordinator. She has taught at notable institutions in the UK and abroad and is focused on developing the school's Co-Curricular programme.

  • Philip BondDesignated Safeguarding Lead

    Phil joined CATS Cambridge in August 2023 after 22 years working in educational settings overseas, primarily in Southeast Asia. He has held various leadership positions, including Director of Sport & Enrichment and Head of Experiential Learning, and currently serves as the Designated Safeguarding Lead and Senior House Director.

  • George LelandRegistrar

    George has worked for CATS Cambridge for 4 years, previously serving as an Activities Manager and Physical Education teacher. Prior to joining the school, he worked as a football coach for Norwich City FC and Barcelona Bay FC.