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City of London School

Updated July 2026

BoysGender
DayType

City of London School is a leading academic day school for boys aged 10-18, located in the heart of London. It provides a broad education that combines academic rigour with exceptional pastoral care and an outward-looking, forward-thinking approach.

Term structure

Three terms

Teaching approach

The school is guided by three core principles: to be Kind, Aware, and Ready. It aims to foster a happy, inclusive community that cherishes individuality and shuns stereotypes. The educational approach balances academic excellence with pastoral care, encouraging pupils to be inquisitive, resilient, and prepared for a fast-changing world.

Programmes

The curriculum is designed to be robust and forward-looking, covering traditional subjects alongside innovative courses in Design, Computing, and Robotics, which includes modules on Artificial Intelligence. The school offers A-Level studies and supports pupils through extended projects and academic enrichment opportunities. It maintains a strong focus on critical thinking, problem-solving, and research skills across all stages.

Outcomes

The school is highly academic, with 75% of A-Level grades at A*-A in 2025. Approximately 92% of leavers progress to Russell Group or top 10 universities, including Oxbridge, medical schools, and global institutions such as Harvard, Stanford, and the University of California. Pupils also achieve success in national and international competitions, including the Conrad Challenge, International Linguistics Olympiad, and VEX Robotics Championships.

Student support

EAL support
Unknown
Learning support
Dedicated department

Learning support

The Learning Support Department provides tailored assistance to pupils with special educational needs. Support is determined in consultation with parents and may include individual or group lessons, study skills training, or specialist tuition to help pupils work with greater independence.

Frequently asked questions(4)
How much is tuition at City of London School?
Annual tuition at City of London School is £28.4K. Fees vary by year group — confirm the current schedule with the school.
Is City of London School a day or boarding school?
City of London School is a day school.
Is City of London School co-educational?
City of London School is a boys school.
Where is City of London School located?
City of London School is an international school in London, United Kingdom.

Tuition & fees

Annual tuition by grade

2025-2026
Annual tuition by grade
GradeAgesAnnual
Ages 10-1810–18£28.4K

Admissions

The school admits boys aged 10-18, with primary entry points at 10+ (Year 6) and 11+. The competitive admissions process includes online and written assessments, an interview, and a group activity. Candidates are assessed on English, Maths, reasoning (verbal and non-verbal), puzzles, and creative writing. The school offers means-tested transformational bursaries at 11+ and 16+, as well as academic, music, and sports prizes.

Calendar

The academic year is divided into three terms: Autumn, Spring, and Summer. Terms typically begin in early September, early January, and mid-April, with half-term breaks in October, February, and May/June. The school year concludes in early July.

About the campus

Located in central London, the school’s facilities include classrooms, science labs, and a dedicated Sixth Form centre (with a new centre opening in 2028 in partnership with City of London School for Girls). The school utilizes its proximity to cultural and business institutions for academic enrichment, such as university engineering labs and local cathedrals for music. Sports facilities support major team sports, and the school maintains a library and bookshop.

Co-curriculars

The school offers a wide range of co-curricular activities, including sports (notably football), drama, music, and various clubs and societies. Pupils participate in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and the Combined Cadet Force (CCF). Other opportunities include robotics, linguistics, essay competitions, and choral leadership workshops. The school also facilitates educational visits and inter-house competitions in prose and poetry.

  • Alan BirdHead

    Alan has been the Head at CLS since January 2018, having joined from Brighton College where he was Deputy Head. He holds an MA in Economics from the University of Cambridge and an MSc in Economics from the London School of Economics and Political Science. He previously served as Head of Politics at Tonbridge School and taught Economics at the Royal Grammar School, Guildford.

  • Mark WardropSenior Deputy Head

    Mark is responsible for many aspects of the day-to-day running of the School. He teaches Chemistry.

  • Basher SavageHead of Middle School

    Basher looks after the pastoral and academic needs of our Fourth and Fifth Form pupils. He also coordinates the DEI forums at the school. He teaches Russian and Drama and is a DDSL.

  • Paul EtesonHead of Sixth Form

    Paul looks after the pastoral concerns of the oldest pupils at our School. He teaches French and is a DDSL.

  • Noeleen MurphyDirector of Studies & Senior Mistress

    Noeleen is involved in Alumni events and has responsibility for a range of academic matters. She also organises a range of trips and all possible quiz competitions. She teaches History.

  • Alice MartineauDeputy Head Pastoral & Designated Safeguarding Lead

    As DSL, Alice is responsible for all safeguarding matters. She oversees all matters relating to pupil welfare and pastoral care. Alice also teaches Religion and Philosophy.

  • Andrew McBroomDeputy Head Co-curricular

    Andrew coordinates all co-curricular activities from sports fixtures to educational visits. He is also responsible for 'pupil voice', leads on sustainability and is a DDSL. He teaches History.

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