Tonbridge School Overview
Tonbridge School, founded in 1553, is one of the most sought-after boarding schools for boys in the UK. Catering to students aged 12 to 18, it has built a longstanding reputation for academic excellence, pastoral care, and an exceptional co-curricular programme. With a blend of tradition and forward-thinking values, Tonbridge offers an environment where boys are encouraged to grow intellectually, socially, and morally.
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Academic Matters
Where Tonbridge School shines is in academics and languages, particularly English. The school offers outstanding facilities across all disciplines. Science lessons take place in fully equipped laboratories, while Art and Design classes are held in a newly built, modern centre designed for creativity and practical work.
In the lower years, class sizes average around 20 students. As pupils progress and begin to specialise, class sizes are reduced—especially at A-Level, where there are typically no more than 12 students per class. This allows for more focused teaching and personalised attention.
Tonbridge consistently delivers impressive academic results. In recent years, 99% of graduates have secured places at university, with 24% gaining admission to Oxford or Cambridge.
The school also provides strong support for students with mild dyslexia and dyspraxia. Tailored assistance, including one-to-one sessions, helps these students develop effective strategies to become independent learners.
Tonbridge School Courses And Programmes
Tonbridge offers a wide and flexible curriculum tailored to each stage of a boy’s academic journey.
Year 9 (Novi Curriculum)
Boys entering in Year 9 usually come from prep schools or join through the Scholarship Exam. They study a broad mix of subjects including:
English, Maths, Science (Biology, Chemistry, Physics)
Geography, History, Divinity
Classics, Modern Languages
Art, Music, Drama, Design Technology, Digital Creativity, PE
GCSE and IGCSE (Years 10–11)
All students take core subjects:
English
Mathematics
Sciences (either Double or Triple Science)
They also choose four optional subjects, such as:
Computer Science, Art, Design & Technology
Drama, Geography, History
Latin, Greek, Modern Languages
Music, Religious Studies
Most boys take nine subjects; some take ten if doing all three sciences or both Latin and Greek.
Sixth Form (Years 12–13)
Tonbridge offers four flexible A-Level pathways, such as:
3 A-Level subjects + EPQ + Electives
4 A-Level subjects + optional EPQ
3 A-Levels + AS Mathematics or extra languages
A-Level subjects include:
Sciences, Mathematics, English, History, Geography
Economics, Business, Politics, Religious Studies
Art, Music, Theatre Studies, Design & Technology
Computer Science, Classical Languages, Modern Languages
Electives
Students can enrich their studies with electives like:
Public Speaking, Creative Writing, Global Perspectives
Astronomy, Beekeeping, Mindfulness, Entrepreneurship
Computer Programming, Sports Leadership, History of Art
Tonbridge School Fees
Tonbridge School’s fees for the 2024–2025 academic year are as follows:
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Boarding Fees: £19,708 per term
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Day Boy Fees: £14,786 per term
These fees are inclusive of VAT and are billed termly across the school’s three academic terms: Michaelmas, Lent, and Summer.
Additional Costs:
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Music Tuition: £490 per term for 10 individual 40-minute lessons.
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Extras: Optional activities and services, such as clubs, trips, and materials, typically range from £300 to £1,500 per term, depending on the student’s participation.
One-Time Fees Before Admission:
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Registration Fee: £350 (non-refundable)
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Admissions Fee: £2,250 (non-refundable)
Tonbridge School Application Deadline
Tonbridge School Boarding And Pastoral Care
Boarding is structured by age: younger pupils typically share a room with three others, while older students move into double rooms. Most boarding houses have been recently refurbished, offering a comfortable and well-decorated environment. Each house has its own unique décor and a dedicated dining hall, often serving a variety of international cuisines.
Speaking of dining, Tonbridge School maintains the traditional House Dining system, a rare feature among UK boarding schools today. Sharing meals daily fosters a strong sense of community and belonging among students.
The school’s main building resembles the architectural style of the University of Cambridge. While the exterior reflects tradition, the interiors are modern and fully equipped. Many departments and common facilities remain open into the evening to support student learning and activities.
Tonbridge also invests in technology, updating its computers and software annually so students benefit from up-to-date digital tools and resources.
Tonbridge School Extracurricular Activities
Another underrated area of Tonbridge School is its sporting excellence, particularly in rugby. In fact, two Tonbridge alumni—E.E. Bentley and J.H. Luscombe—played in the first-ever international rugby match in 1871. Cricket is another strength; the school’s cricket grounds are considered among the best in the UK. Other top-tier sports facilities include a track and field complex, a squash centre, and high-quality playing fields.
Students take part in at least three sports sessions each week, and inter-school fixtures are held every Saturday. A wide range of sports is offered, including football, rugby, cricket, rock climbing, squash, and handball.
Arts also play a major role in school life. Since the opening of the school theatre in 2000, the arts programme has flourished. Each term, numerous performances are staged, encouraging wide student participation. A dedicated recording studio is available for students involved in bands or music production. Opportunities to perform are plentiful—from jazz and percussion bands to mini concerts held in the school’s small auditorium.
Tonbridge School Reviews
Tonbridge School Contact Information
- Official Website: https://www.tonbridge-school.co.uk/
- Location: Tonbridge School, High Street, Tonbridge, Kent, TN9 1JP England
- Email address: general@tonbridge-school.org
- Phone: +44 (0)1732 304297 (Admissions)
