Cheltenham College logo

Cheltenham College

Christian, Founded 1841

Updated July 2026

Co-edGender
DayType
1,105Students
Non-profitOwnership

Languages

English flagEnglish

Founded in 1841, Cheltenham College is a leading co-educational day and boarding school in the Cotswolds for pupils aged 3–18. It comprises Cheltenham Prep (ages 3–13) and Cheltenham College (ages 13–18), both sharing a campus in Cheltenham.

Term structure

Three terms

Teaching approach

Cheltenham College focuses on developing the whole person, encouraging pupils to take ownership of their own trajectory to foster self-understanding and self-confidence. The school aims to provide an excellent all-round education that enables pupils to discover and fulfill their potential, supported by the '5Cs' framework. It prides itself on being innovative and forward-thinking while maintaining its traditional roots.

Programmes

The academic offering spans from Nursery through to Sixth Form. The Prep School provides a broad education for ages 3–13, while the College (13–18) offers a varied curriculum including GCSEs, IGCSEs, A Levels, and Cambridge Technical (CTech) qualifications. The curriculum includes core subjects like English, Maths, and Science, complemented by a wide range of electives and the Foundation Project Qualification (FPQ).

Outcomes

Pupils are prepared for a range of future destinations, including top universities, with dedicated support for Oxbridge preparation. Recent achievements include national success in academic competitions, such as the Imperial College Science in Medicine School Teams Prize. The school aims to equip pupils to lead purposeful and fulfilling lives.

Student support

EAL support
Included in fees
Learning support
Dedicated department

Learning support

The school provides inclusive, pupil-focused learning support delivered by specialist teachers to address a range of learning needs. International pupils receive dedicated English as an Additional Language (EAL) support, including small group lessons and preparation for the IELTS examination for those aiming for university.

Frequently asked questions(6)
What curriculum does Cheltenham College offer?
Cheltenham College offers National Curriculum (England), IGCSE and Cambridge A-Level.
How much is tuition at Cheltenham College?
Annual tuition at Cheltenham College is £4.8K–£63.2K. Fees vary by year group — confirm the current schedule with the school.
Is Cheltenham College a day or boarding school?
Cheltenham College is a day school.
What accreditations does Cheltenham College hold?
Cheltenham College holds accreditations including COBIS.
Is Cheltenham College co-educational?
Cheltenham College is a co-ed school.
Where is Cheltenham College located?
Cheltenham College is an international school in Cheltenham, United Kingdom.

Tuition & fees

Annual tuition by grade

2026-27
Annual tuition by grade
GradeAgesAnnual
Nursery two days3–4£4.8K
Nursery three days3–4£7.1K
Nursery four days3–4£9.4K
Nursery full time3–4£11.8K
Reception4–5£13.7K
Year 15–6£13.7K
Year 26–7£15.1K
Year 3 (Day)7–8£20.2K
Year 3 (Weekly Boarding)7–8£26.9K
Year 3 (Boarder)7–8£30.8K
Year 4 (Day)8–9£21.6K
Year 4 (Weekly Boarding)8–9£28.4K
Year 4 (Boarder)8–9£32.1K
Year 5 (Day)9–10£30.2K
Year 5 (Weekly Boarding)9–10£37K
Year 5 (Boarder)9–10£39.6K
Year 6 (Day)10–11£30.2K
Year 6 (Weekly Boarding)10–11£37K
Year 6 (Boarder)10–11£39.6K
Year 7 (Day)11–12£30.8K
Year 7 (Weekly Boarding)11–12£37.6K
Year 7 (Boarder)11–12£40.2K
Year 8 (Day)12–13£30.8K
Year 8 (Weekly Boarding)12–13£37.6K
Year 8 (Boarder)12–13£40.2K
Lower College (Years 9 - 11) (Day)13–16£46.1K
Lower College (Years 9 - 11) (Boarder)13–16£61.7K
Upper College (Years 12 - 13) (Day)16–18£47.6K
Upper College (Years 12 - 13) (Boarder)16–18£63.2K
Other fees(4)
Other fees
Boardingper term· Day boarding supplement£3.5K
Boardingper night· Occasional boarding£66
Boardingper additional night· For day boarding pupils whose overnight stays exceed each academic term's entitlement£68.4
Meals· Included in day and boarding fees (break-time snacks and lunches for day pupils, all meals for boarders)

Discounts

  • Sibling discount: 10%

Admissions

Cheltenham College and Cheltenham Prep offer a structured admissions process with dedicated teams for each stage of education, from Nursery through to Sixth Form. Prospective families are encouraged to attend open events or arrange individual tours to learn more about the school. The admissions team provides guidance for entry points including Third Form (Year 9) and Sixth Form (Year 12).

Calendar

The school operates on a termly basis. Pupils are advised to contact the Health Centre at least 8-12 weeks prior to any planned travel to receive necessary vaccinations and health advice. Medication management during term time is coordinated through the school's Matron and Health Centre.

Facilities

LibraryDining hallScience labsArt roomMusic roomTheatre / auditoriumBoardingPlaygroundGymnasiumSports field

About the campus

Located in the heart of Cheltenham, the campus features outstanding facilities for academics, sports, the arts, and boarding. The site includes a Health Centre, dining facilities, and specialized spaces for various subjects. The Prep School is described as having a country-style campus within the town.

Co-curriculars

The school offers an extensive range of co-curricular activities, including an award-winning club programme at the Prep School. Opportunities include sports such as polo and rugby, as well as academic societies like the Business Society. Pupils also engage in enrichment programmes, leadership modules, and public speaking.

  • Mr Chris TownsendHead

    Chris Townsend is the Head of Cheltenham College and is passionate about developing pupils' potential through the school's 5Cs.

  • Mr Tom O'SullivanHead

    Tom O'Sullivan is the Head at Cheltenham Prep and is responsible for welcoming families to learn more about the Prep School.

  • Mrs Anna CuttsSenior Deputy Head (Pastoral)

    Anna Cutts serves as the Senior Deputy Head (Pastoral) for Cheltenham College.

  • Mr Nick DrakeSenior Deputy Head

    Nick Drake serves as the Senior Deputy Head for Cheltenham Prep.

  • Mr Timothy BrewisDeputy Head (Academic)

    Timothy Brewis is the Deputy Head (Academic) at Cheltenham College.

  • Mr Steve McQuittyDeputy Head (Co-curricular)

    Steve McQuitty is the Deputy Head (Co-curricular) at Cheltenham College.

  • Dr Mary PlintDeputy Head (Learning and Wellbeing)

    Dr Mary Plint is the Deputy Head (Learning and Wellbeing) at Cheltenham College.