Clifton College
Secular, Founded 1862
Updated July 2026
Clifton College is a co-educational independent school in Bristol providing a continuous, structured education for pupils aged 3 to 18. It combines academic excellence with a strong pastoral focus and a wide range of co-curricular opportunities.
Curriculum
Teaching approach
Clifton College aims to provide an education where character is as important as capability, fostering resilience, integrity, and a lifelong love of learning. The school promotes a worldly outlook, encouraging pupils to be global citizens who are open-minded and culturally aware. It emphasizes a supportive community where students are motivated to strive for personal excellence and make a positive difference in the world.
Programmes
The school offers a seamless educational journey from Pre-Prep (ages 3-7) through Prep (ages 7-13) to the Upper School and Sixth Form (ages 13-18). The curriculum is designed to encourage intellectual risk-taking and critical thinking, with a focus on academic enrichment and personalized learning. Subjects include core academic disciplines, Design Technology, and performing arts, supported by small class sizes and expert teaching.
Outcomes
The school emphasizes character development alongside academic capability, aiming to produce kind, empathetic, and global-minded individuals. Pupils have achieved success in national competitions, such as the ESAA Cross Country Cup, and have gone on to represent professional sports clubs in football and rugby. The school also maintains a global network of alumni through the Old Cliftonian Society.
Student support
Learning support
The school provides a comprehensive pastoral care system rooted in a House-based structure, ensuring every pupil feels valued and supported. Additional support is available for English as an Additional Language (EAL) and Special Educational Needs (SEN) through private tuition at an extra cost. Wraparound care is provided for all students, including breakfast and supper options.
Frequently asked questions(4)
- How much is tuition at Clifton College?
- Annual tuition at Clifton College is £38.9K–£62.2K. Fees vary by year group — confirm the current schedule with the school.
- Is Clifton College a day or boarding school?
- Clifton College is a boarding school.
- Is Clifton College co-educational?
- Clifton College is a co-ed school.
- Where is Clifton College located?
- Clifton College is an international school in Bristol, United Kingdom.
Tuition & fees
Annual tuition by grade
2026/2027| Grade | Ages | Annual |
|---|---|---|
| Years 9-11 (Day) | 13–16 | £38.9K |
| Years 9-11 (Flexi-boarding) | 13–16 | £53.4K |
| Years 9-11 (Boarder) | 13–16 | £59.5K |
| Sixth Form (Day) | 16–18 | £39.5K |
| Sixth Form (Flexi-boarding) | 16–18 | £55.7K |
| Sixth Form (Boarder) | 16–18 | £62.2K |
Other fees(6)
| Registration fee· Non-returnable registration fee payment due when a pupil's name is entered to the College. | £200 |
|---|---|
| Deposit· An acceptance deposit is required for all pupils, except those moving from Clifton College Pre-Prep to Prep School or Prep to Upper School. The College reserves the right to charge an additional deposit for pupils whose normal residence is outside the United Kingdom. | — |
| Boardingper night· Occasional boarding for day and flexi-boarding pupils is available on request. | £80 |
| Meals· Lunch for all students and daily meals for boarders are included in the fees. | — |
| Materials· Additional charges may apply for Art and Design Technology materials, except for scholars. | — |
| EAL· Private tuition for English as an Additional Language is available at an additional cost. | — |
Admissions
The admissions process begins with an initial enquiry, which can be followed by a personal tour, video call, or attendance at an open event. Applicants must complete an online registration and participate in an entry assessment, which includes a CAT4 test for the Prep School. Prospective pupils are invited for a taster day to spend time with their year group before a formal offer is made. International applications are supported by a dedicated team to ensure a smooth transition.
Calendar
The school operates on a three-term structure consisting of the Michaelmas, Lent, and Summer terms. The academic year includes scheduled exeat dates and concludes with Commemoration Day. Detailed term dates are published annually for the upcoming three-year period.
Facilities
About the campus
The campus features historic buildings alongside modern facilities, including a state-of-the-art Sports Complex and the Redgrave Theatre. The school maintains a dedicated sports ground at Beggar’s Bush, which has hosted international teams. Other facilities include specialized classrooms, outdoor learning spaces, and a 'Kitchen Garden' used in conjunction with the Design Technology curriculum.
Co-curriculars
Pupils have access to a wide range of activities, including competitive sports, performing arts, and various clubs. The school hosts a student-led Green Team focused on sustainability and gardening, and offers a podcast series, 'Clifton Conversations', for Sixth Formers. Additional opportunities include music tuition, a holiday club for ages 3-16, and various House-based activities and competitions.
Jim WaltonHead of Preparatory School (Preschool - Year 8)Jim Walton serves as the Head of Preparatory School, overseeing education from Preschool through Year 8.
Pip GillamDeputy Head of Pre-Prep School (Preschool - Year 2)Pip Gillam is the Deputy Head of Pre-Prep School, focusing on the Preschool to Year 2 age range. She is dedicated to providing a nurturing environment that fosters a love of discovery and builds essential educational skills.
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