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Prior Park College

Part of Prior Park Schools, Christian, Founded 1830

Updated July 2026

Co-edGender
Day & BoardingType
Non-profitOwnership

Prior Park College is an independent day and boarding school for students aged 11 to 18, located in Bath. It provides a broad, challenging education within a supportive community that emphasizes both academic achievement and personal development.

Term structure

Three terms

Teaching approach

The school is guided by the values of Curiosity, Generosity, and Courage, aiming to serve its community by providing a high-quality education. It seeks to challenge students to think about their impact on the world and to become the best versions of themselves. The environment is designed to be caring and supportive, ensuring every child is known, valued, and encouraged to find their own path to a fulfilled life.

Programmes

The academic programme includes an 11+ curriculum, GCSE subjects, and a Sixth Form curriculum. Students typically take ten GCSEs, while Sixth Formers study three or four A Level subjects, often supplemented by the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ). All students are provided with a personal Windows 11 laptop to support their digital learning across the curriculum.

Outcomes

Students achieve strong academic results, with many progressing to competitive universities, including Oxford and Cambridge, as well as medical schools. The school also supports students in pursuing alternative pathways, such as degree apprenticeships and vocational or technical training. Graduates are described as well-rounded individuals prepared for their next steps with confidence.

Student support

EAL support
Included in fees
Learning support
Dedicated department

Learning support

The Learning Development Programme (LDP) provides guidance, in-class support, and exam adjustments for students. The school offers both group and one-to-one sessions, as well as break and lunchtime drop-in sessions. Additional therapies and interventions from external providers can be arranged in liaison with parents.

Frequently asked questions(4)
What curriculum does Prior Park College offer?
Prior Park College offers National Curriculum (England).
Is Prior Park College a day or boarding school?
Prior Park College is a day and boarding school.
Is Prior Park College co-educational?
Prior Park College is a co-ed school.
Where is Prior Park College located?
Prior Park College is an international school in Bristol, United Kingdom.

Tuition & fees

No published fee schedule was found for this school.

Admissions

The admissions process requires the completion of a registration form and payment of a fee. Applicants undergo entrance and scholarship examinations, and the school requests a report from the student's current school; Sixth Form applicants must also provide predicted GCSE grades. All candidates participate in an interview with the Headmaster or a member of the Senior Leadership Team. The school considers academic ability, references, cognitive assessments, and extra-curricular talents when making offers.

Calendar

The academic year is divided into three terms: Michaelmas, Lent, and Summer. The school calendar includes key events such as open mornings, information evenings, entrance assessment days, and end-of-term celebrations. The school also hosts a variety of activities, including sports days, Duke of Edinburgh expeditions, and music examinations.

Facilities

Sports fieldGymnasiumFitness centreTennis courtsLibraryDining hallScience labsDesign & technology workshopArt roomMusic roomTheatre / auditoriumBoarding

About the campus

Set in fifty-seven acres, the campus is located overlooking the UNESCO World Heritage City of Bath. Facilities include a mansion, a sports centre with a fitness suite, a sports hall, and tennis courts. The school also features a chapel, dedicated spaces for visual arts, design and technology, drama, and music, as well as boarding houses for girls and boys.

Co-curriculars

The school offers a wide range of activities designed to help students discover their interests and develop their talents. Available pursuits include sports, visual arts, design and technology, drama, music, and outdoor pursuits. Students are encouraged to engage with teachers outside the classroom to build supportive relationships and explore new arenas of growth.

  • Ben HoranHeadmaster

    Ben Horan is the Headmaster of Prior Park College. He emphasizes the school's mission to challenge students to be the best versions of themselves within a caring, supportive, and diverse community.

  • David CatlowChair of Trustees},{bio:

    David Catlow joined the Board of Trustees as Chair Elect in early 2024. He had a long military career in the Royal Air Force, serving as a pilot and in various staff appointments, and has since worked in consultancy and advisory roles across the Defence and Government sector.