Charterhouse

Founded in 1611, Charterhouse is a coeducational school committed to unlocking academic potential and preparing pupils as future-ready young adults. The school’s philosophy centers on developing decent human beings who contribute positively to society, guided by the motto 'Deo Dante Dedi' (God having given, I gave). It emphasizes a culture of kindness, collaboration, and service, aiming to instill a lifelong appetite for learning.

The school offers a flexible curriculum designed to develop deep knowledge and skills such as critical thinking and problem-solving. Pupils can pursue the Higher Project Qualification (HPQ) at GCSE and the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) at A Level to foster independent research. The academic program is enriched by the FutureU initiative, which prepares pupils for the digital demands of the future and university-level study.

The school aims to prepare pupils for elite universities worldwide and for future professional and personal success. Pupils achieve strong examination results, with over half of pupils typically achieving AAB or better at A Level, and a significant portion of the IB cohort achieving 37+ points. The Futures Team provides personalized guidance on university pathways, including specialized support for Oxbridge and international applications.

The school provides a high-challenge, high-encouragement learning environment that emphasizes intellectual ambition and curiosity. Support is integrated into the academic vision, with teachers collaborating to share best practices and utilizing modern tools like the Microsoft Learning Suite and AI. The library serves as a central hub for research and independent study, supported by an expert Research Librarian.

Charterhouse is an academically selective school that admits pupils through a competitive process involving the ISEB Common Pre-test, interviews, and activity assessments. Prospective families are encouraged to visit the campus, and the school offers various entry points, including 11+, 13+, 14+, and 16+ entry. Successful applicants are invited to join the community, and those demonstrating exceptional academic potential may be invited to the Academic Scholars Pathway. Merit-based scholarships are available, which can be supplemented by means-tested bursaries.

The school operates on a three-term structure: the Oration Quarter (Autumn), the Long Quarter (Spring), and the Cricket Quarter (Summer). Each term includes scheduled leave weekends and half-term exeats, with specific arrival and departure times for boarders and day pupils. The academic year concludes with Leavers' Day and the Leavers' Ball in the summer.

Charterhouse is situated on a 250-acre campus in the Surrey Hills, featuring Victorian Gothic architecture and extensive green spaces. On-site facilities include 15 pupil houses, the Hunt Health Centre, a library with over 30,000 books and digital resources, and an Art and Design Engineering Centre. Sports facilities include an athletics stadium, swimming pool, multiple pitches, tennis courts, and a golf course.

Pupils participate in a wide range of activities, including ten Pupil Action Committees (PACs) focused on areas such as sustainability, wellbeing, and inclusion. The school offers extensive opportunities in performing arts, music, and sports, with facilities including 17 grass pitches, three Astroturf pitches, an athletics stadium, a swimming pool, 27 tennis courts, and a 9-hole golf course. Service and volunteering are central to school life, with pupils engaging in local outreach, charity campaigns, and mentoring.