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Eltham College

Christian, Founded 1842

Updated July 2026

7–18Ages
Co-edGender
DayType
1,000Students
Non-profitOwnership

Languages

English flagEnglish

Eltham College is a successful, diverse, and co-educational independent day school for students aged 7–18, located on a 70-acre site in South East London. It is recognized for its academic excellence, rich co-curricular offering, and strong pastoral support.

Term structure

Three terms

Teaching approach

Founded in 1842 on Christian principles, the school aims to provide an outstanding, well-rounded education that nurtures each child as an individual. It emphasizes a love of learning, self-respect, humility, and the service of others. The school seeks to prepare students to become fulfilled adults and citizens of a globalized world who make a positive impact on society.

Programmes

The school offers a continuous educational journey from age 7 to 18, divided into Junior and Senior School sections. The curriculum is academically rigorous, preparing students for GCSEs and A-Levels, with additional support provided through programmes like the EPQ and university preparation initiatives. The school also utilizes technology-integrated learning, such as iPad and Surface Pro programmes, to enhance the academic experience.

Outcomes

Students consistently achieve outstanding exam results, with a significant proportion of A-Level grades at A* and GCSE grades at 9/8. Graduates frequently progress to prestigious Russell Group universities, while others pursue specialized pathways in performing arts and music at leading conservatoires. Some students also choose to continue their education at renowned international universities in the United States and Europe.

Student support

EAL support
Unknown
Learning support
Dedicated department

Learning support

The school maintains a comprehensive pastoral system designed to ensure every student feels supported and valued. This system is led by the Deputy Head (Pastoral) and includes a dedicated team comprising the Designated Safeguarding Lead, the School Chaplain, the Head of Wellbeing & EDI, the medical team, and the school counsellor. Pastoral care is integrated across the Junior and Senior schools to foster student wellbeing and personal development.

Frequently asked questions(5)
How much is tuition at Eltham College?
Annual tuition at Eltham College is £24.7K–£30K. Fees vary by year group — confirm the current schedule with the school.
What ages does Eltham College teach?
Eltham College enrolls students aged 7 to 18.
Is Eltham College a day or boarding school?
Eltham College is a day school.
Is Eltham College co-educational?
Eltham College is a co-ed school.
Where is Eltham College located?
Eltham College is an international school in London, United Kingdom.

Tuition & fees

Annual tuition by grade

2025-26
Annual tuition by grade
GradeAgesAnnual
Junior School7–11£24.7K
Senior School/Sixth Form11–18£30K
Other fees(3)
Other fees
Deposit· A commitment payment payable at the time of accepting a place£2.5K
Mealsterm· School Lunch£410
Materials· Student Technology Package Charges: Years 4-6 (iPad Programme) £68 per term; Years 7, 9, 10 & 12 (Surface Pro Programme) £104 per term; Year 8 (Surface Pro Programme) £83 per term

Admissions

Eltham College is an academically selective, co-educational independent day school. The primary entry points are at 7+, 11+, and 16+, with a limited number of places available at 8+ and occasional vacancies in other year groups. Entrance is determined by academic merit and an assessment of the student's potential contribution to the school community. Scholarships are available for entry into Year 7 and the Sixth Form, and bursaries are offered to families requiring financial assistance.

Calendar

The school operates on a termly basis, with fees and charges reviewed annually in March. The academic year includes key entry assessments and various school events, which are managed through a comprehensive online calendar system. Parents are provided with specific term dates and information regarding open days and registration deadlines.

Facilities

Sports fieldLibraryDining hallArt roomMusic roomTheatre / auditoriumSwimming poolGymnasium

About the campus

Located on a 70-acre site, the campus features a mix of historic and modern facilities, including the Eric Liddell Sports Centre, the Gerald Moore Gallery, and the Antony Barnard Theatre. Academic and communal spaces include the Mervyn Peake Library, the Chapel, King George’s Hall, and the Foxbury Medical Centre. The grounds also provide extensive playing fields for sports and outdoor activities.

Co-curriculars

The school provides a wide-ranging co-curricular programme that includes sports, music, drama, and art. Students participate in clubs, societies, and competitive fixtures in sports such as hockey, netball, skiing, football, rugby, and chess. The school also offers the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and various service opportunities, encouraging students to develop teamwork, resilience, and empathy.

  • Guy Sanderson
    Guy SandersonHeadmaster of Eltham College

    Guy Sanderson is the Headmaster of Eltham College and Chief Executive for the Eltham College family of schools. He has an extensive background in education, having taught at several prestigious schools and held leadership roles at Reigate Grammar School before joining Eltham College in 2014. He is a former ISI school inspector and serves as a governor in both the state and independent sectors.

  • James Martin
    James MartinSenior Deputy Head, Eltham College

    James Martin is the Senior Deputy Head at Eltham College, where he assists the Headmaster in the overall leadership and management of the school. He has a background in history and education, having taught at The Latymer School and served as Director of Studies at Harrow School, Hong Kong, before joining Eltham College in 2017. He oversees the day-to-day operations of the Senior School, focusing on pastoral, academic, and co-curricular excellence.

  • Sami MichaelDeputy Head, Pastoral

    Sami Michael is the Deputy Head Pastoral at Eltham College, responsible for the overall pastoral care for all students and staff. He joins Eltham College in 2025 from the senior leadership team at Whitgift School and has over fifteen years of experience in senior pastoral roles in the independent sector. He leads a team comprising various pastoral and support staff to ensure high standards of care across the Senior School.

  • Kathryn Nutbeem
    Kathryn NutbeemDeputy Head, Academic

    Kathryn Nutbeem is the Deputy Head Academic at Eltham College, responsible for overseeing the academic performance and achievement of students within the Senior School. She has extensive teaching and leadership experience, including a role as Deputy Head at the British International School, Cairo. Her responsibilities include setting academic standards, curriculum development, and monitoring student progress.

  • James Willatt
    James WillattDeputy Head, Co-Curricular

    James Willatt is the Deputy Head Co-Curriculum, Outreach and Public Benefit at Eltham College, responsible for promoting student development beyond the classroom. He joined Eltham College in 2009 as a Teacher of Geography and has held various leadership positions, including Head of Year and Assistant Head, before becoming Deputy Head in 2022.

  • Corisande Scott-Blount
    Corisande Scott-BlountAssistant Head, Head of Sixth Form

    Corisande Scott-Blount is the Assistant Head (Head of Sixth Form) at Eltham College, responsible for the pastoral care of Sixth Form students and supporting their UCAS applications. She joined Eltham College in 2023 from Alleyn’s School, where she was Acting Head of Sixth Form, and has over 10 years of experience in leadership and pastoral roles.

  • Rachel ThompsonHead of Junior School

    Rachel Thompson is the Head of Eltham College Junior School, having joined in September 2025. She has a background in the independent sector, previously serving as Head of Prep at City of London School for Girls and as the founding Head of City Junior School. She is a trustee of an educational charity.