Stonyhurst College Overview
Stonyhurst College is one of the top three Catholic schools in the UK, with over 400 years of history. Located in Lancaster, northwest England, it sits on a 2,500-acre estate. The school is one of the largest British boarding schools, set within stunning grounds and featuring Grade II listed historic buildings.
Stonyhurst educates boys and girls aged 3 to 18. Over the centuries, it has produced notable alumni, including Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, author of Sherlock Holmes, and Sir Frederick Weld, former Prime Minister of New Zealand.
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Stonyhurst College Courses And Programmes
Stonyhurst maintains high academic standards for its students. Each pupil is assigned a personal tutor to support their progress, and the school regularly provides detailed learning reports to parents.
The results in public examinations are consistently strong. The A-Level pass rate has been 100% in recent years, with most students going on to study at UK universities. Around 10% secure places at top institutions such as Oxford and Cambridge.
GCSE
Pupils taking the GCSE pathway can choose up to 10 subjects. Those who find academics more challenging may take fewer options, focusing on one English GCSE instead of both.
All pupils study three or four core subjects: Religious Studies, Mathematics, English Language and/or English Literature. PSHE (Personal, Social and Health Education) is a compulsory part of the curriculum but is not examined.
Pupils then select one language and one science subject. They choose a further four options from French, Spanish, German, Latin, Greek, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Geography, History, Music, Art, Information Technology, and Physical Education.
For students joining in Syntax (Year 11), Stonyhurst offers a one-year pre-IB GCSE course. This prepares pupils well for the two-year IB Diploma or A Levels.
Year 12
In Year 12, known as Poetry, pupils receive essential guidance on careers and university options. Careers lessons are a key part of the year. Through the Careers Department, several groups meet regularly, including MedSoc for aspiring medics, LawSoc for future lawyers, and a group for pupils aiming for Oxbridge or other competitive universities. These groups offer discussions, talks from university staff, and support from Old Stonyhurst alumni to inspire current students.
During the Summer Term, Poetry pupils attend UniFest, a full-day event organised by Stonyhurst. They hear from university admissions tutors, explore alternatives like apprenticeships, and work with tutors to register with UCAS and start personal statements.
Pupils are also encouraged to join co-curricular activities. If a student has a particular interest not currently offered, the school can help establish it. All Year 12 pupils can take part in the Arrupe programme, which offers activities to develop skills through community service, such as volunteering in primary schools, care homes, or charity shops. As senior pupils, they also have access to various leadership opportunities.
Year 13
Year 13, called Rhetoric, focuses on completing university applications and preparing for life after Stonyhurst. The Careers Team offers extensive support with course selection, application completion, and personal statement review. Pupils are encouraged to engage with the Stonyhurst Link programme, connecting with the wider alumni network.
Oxbridge, LawSoc, and MedSoc groups continue to meet, with pupils giving presentations and preparing for pre-interview tests or written submissions. Interview preparation includes sessions led by an external expert in communication and mock interviews conducted by staff, alumni, and professionals.
With strong teaching, excellent results, top facilities, a dedicated careers department, and wide co-curricular offerings, Year 13 at Stonyhurst equips pupils well for their next steps, whatever path they choose.
Stonyhurst College Fees
Years 9 to 13 (Inclusive of VAT):
- Full Boarding (UK): £16,246
- Full Boarding (International): £17,745
- Weekly Boarding (5-6 nights): £14,123
- Flexi-Boarding (3 nights per week): £12,499
- Day Pupils: £9,348
Years 7 to 8 (Inclusive of VAT):
- Full Boarding (UK): £11,840
- Full Boarding (International): £13,757
- Weekly Boarding (5-6 nights): £10,736
- Flexi-Boarding (3 nights per week): £9,729
- Day Pupils: £7,775
Stonyhurst College Boarding And Pastoral Care
Stonyhurst provides students with fully equipped dormitories. Year 9 pupils share a room with three others, while Sixth Form students have single rooms. All dormitories have full network coverage.
Unlike many boarding schools, Stonyhurst assigns dormitories not only by age but also by other factors, ensuring a well-balanced community. Each house is overseen by a House Master and several deputies who take good care of the students. The school has five boarding houses: Lower Grammar, Grammar, Syntax, Poetry, and Rhetoric.
Stonyhurst College Extracurricular Activities
Stonyhurst School places strong emphasis not only on strict academic standards but also on developing students’ skills in computing, music, and design technology. These subjects are compulsory for first-year students. A unique highlight is the glassblowing course, which has grown popular and become a standout extracurricular activity.
The school also offers scholarships in music and art to encourage talent in these areas. Students benefit from an independent, soundproof music practice room. Additionally, they can join the symphony orchestra or choir, depending on their interests.
