Clifton College Overview

Clifton College is a co-educational boarding school located in the historic Clifton area of Bristol. Recognised as one of the 24 public schools in the UK, it also operates its own preparatory school—an uncommon feature among public schools. Founded in 1862, Clifton was originally a boys’ school but began admitting girls into the Sixth Form in 1987. It is now fully co-educational.

Clifton College is known for academic excellence and distinguished alumni, including three Nobel Prize winners and numerous professional cricketers. Among its notable former pupils are world-renowned violinist Julia Hwang, Olympic gold medallist Lily Owsley, Welsh international hockey player Ben O’Sullivan, and World Junior Squash Champion Lea van der Zwalmen.

Bristol itself has been described as “the handsomest suburb in Europe.” The school is conveniently connected—just 20 minutes by taxi from Bristol International Airport, and served by National Express coach routes from both Gatwick and Heathrow airports. The most recent Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) report rated Clifton College as excellent in all areas.

Academic Matters

Clifton College provides a personalised, well-rounded education for every pupil, combining exceptional pastoral care, inspiring teaching, targeted co-curricular programmes, and outstanding facilities. The school places strong emphasis on individual development, ensuring that each student is supported both academically and personally. Comprehensive careers support is a key part of the Sixth Form experience. Pupils benefit from expert guidance through a network of parents, teachers, tutors, House Masters, the Head of Sixth Form, and external advisors. Whether students aim for university or choose to enter the workforce directly, the school ensures they are well-prepared and supported at every step.

Clifton College Courses And Programmes

Clifton College offers both GCSEs and A-Levels at the senior school level. Ancient and modern languages consistently perform well, with subjects like Latin and Greek benefiting from early exposure and a strong curriculum foundation. Pupils may take Latin and/or Greek as a third language option.

In the Sixth Form, students can choose from 39 subjects, including selected BTEC options. The most popular choices among Cliftonians are Mathematics, Sciences, and Humanities. In addition to four core academic subjects, students are encouraged to explore Sector E options—these include BTECs in IT, courses in teamwork and personal development, a LAMDA performance certificate, and a non-examined photography course.

Clifton College is also an active member of the Bristol Education Partnership, engaging in collaborative initiatives such as inter-school climate challenges, debating competitions, and projects aimed at developing oracy skills in speaking and listening.

Clifton College Fees

These fees include VAT from January 2025.

Year group	Fee per term
Preschool	£4,300
Reception	£4,820
Year 1	£5,085
Year 2-3	£5,590

	Year 4 to 6	Years 7 and 8
Boarder (7 nights)	£11,840	£14,030
Flexi-Boarding (3 nights)	£7,985	£10,075
Day Pupil	£6,405	£8,400

	Years 9-11	Sixth Form
Boarder (7 nights)	£17,650	£18,360
Flexi-Boarding (4 nights)	£15,910	£16,510
Day Pupil	£11,630	£11,830

Clifton College Application Deadline

Applications for boarding places should be submitted to the College before the September prior to the start of the academic year the student wishes to enter. For example, applications for entry in either September 2026 or January 2027 should be submitted before September 2025.

Clifton College Boarding And Pastoral Care

Clifton College has seven boarding houses—four for boys (Watson’s, Moberly’s, School House, and Wiseman’s) and three for girls (Oakeley’s, Worcester, and Hallward’s). Each house accommodates between 55 and 80 students. Boarders live alongside a Housemaster or Housemistress and their family, supported by an Assistant, a Matron, and occasionally a resident pet that students are welcome to enjoy.

Each house also benefits from up to five non-residential tutors who provide additional academic and pastoral support. Boarders are actively encouraged to join weekend activities and trips organised by their House, helping to build strong friendships and a close-knit community.

Clifton College Extracurricular Activities

Clifton College offers a wide range of clubs and activities, including sport, drama, dance, music, outdoor pursuits, and regular trips and expeditions. The school has its own purpose-built theatre, with the annual musical serving as a major highlight—giving students the chance to participate in a full-scale production. Clifton’s location on the edge of Bristol makes it ideal for outdoor education. In addition to excellent on-site sports facilities, the school runs survival skills and kayaking courses within its own grounds. Students also enjoy off-site activities such as climbing at the nearby Avon Gorge and sailing on Chew Valley Lake, both of which are popular and well-established parts of the co-curricular offering.

Clifton College Reviews

“My brother went to Clifton and absolutely loved it there. My son is currently there following his uncle’s footsteps and loves it too… I am sure my nephew will follow suit… Fantastic school.”

Dayo

“I loved my time at CC, having being at boarding school since I was 8. I learned how to fence & later was coached by Team GB! There is much more to learning than mere grades, which are certainly important but consider your child’s future…I made fantastic friends there, I’m sure your child will too!“

Dominik

“My son is third generation Cliftonian in our family. We absolutely love this school and my son is very happy there. The sports facilities are one of the finest in the UK!”

Thamara

Clifton College Contact

Official website: https://www.cliftoncollege.com
Email: info@cliftoncollege.com
Phone call: +44 (0)117 3157 000
Location: Clifton College, Guthrie Road, Clifton, Bristol, BS8 3EZ

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