Cheltenham College

Cheltenham College is a co-educational independent day and boarding school located in Gloucestershire, England. Established in 1841, the school originally served boys and was founded on Christian principles. It became fully co-educational in 1998, admitting girls into all year groups. The school has an attached preparatory school and operates under a registered charity overseen by a board of governors known as the Council. Cheltenham College comprises eleven houses, with two designated for day pupils and the remainder accommodating a mix of full and part-time boarders.

The school aims to provide an excellent all-round education that equips pupils to lead purposeful and fulfilling lives. This educational philosophy is rooted in Christian values and emphasizes intellectual curiosity, the development of talents beyond academics, and a commitment to serving others. The school also focuses on fostering spiritual, moral, and aesthetic awareness among its pupils.

The student body consists of 736 pupils, with 589 boarders and 147 day pupils. The demographic includes a diverse range of backgrounds, with day pupils primarily coming from families within a 20-mile radius of the school. Boarders are mainly from the UK, with about one-fifth residing overseas. The school has identified 105 pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities, primarily related to dyslexia, and provides additional support to 42 of these students. Additionally, 160 pupils are identified as having English as an additional language, with 72 receiving extra assistance. The school also recognizes 76 pupils as the most able and offers enrichment programs to all students through various activities.

The Independent Schools Inspectorate conducted a focused compliance inspection in April 2023, which assessed the school’s adherence to the Independent School Standards and the National Minimum Standards for Boarding Schools. The inspection concluded that Cheltenham College meets all applicable standards, with no further action required. The quality of education provided was evaluated, revealing that the school’s GCSE and A-level results from 2019 to 2022 demonstrate that teaching enables pupils to make good progress. The curriculum is well-documented and supported by appropriate plans and resources, ensuring that pupils receive a comprehensive education.

The school promotes the spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development of its pupils, encouraging responsible citizenship and fostering good relationships among students and staff. The welfare, health, and safety of pupils are prioritized, with effective safeguarding measures in place, including arrangements for health and safety, first aid, and supervision. The school maintains appropriate records and has a strategic approach to risk assessment.

The suitability of staff is ensured through thorough checks and a maintained register, while the premises and accommodation meet health and safety standards. The school provides suitable facilities for pupils’ medical needs and ensures adequate outdoor space for physical activities. Information is effectively communicated to parents, including details about the school’s ethos, curriculum, and policies regarding admissions, behavior, and complaints.

The handling of parental complaints follows a clear three-stage process, ensuring that concerns are addressed effectively. The leadership and management of the school demonstrate good skills and knowledge, fulfilling their responsibilities to promote the well-being of pupils and maintain the required policies and records.

The educational quality inspection highlighted the excellent quality of pupils’ academic and personal achievements. Pupils make significant progress in developing a wide range of knowledge, skills, and understanding. They are articulate communicators and demonstrate outstanding information and communication technology skills across subjects. The school fosters a positive attitude towards learning, with pupils displaying high levels of self-understanding, resilience, and social collaboration.

Pupils engage in a broad range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and community projects, contributing to their personal development. The school encourages participation in various programs, such as the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and the Combined Cadet Force, which help develop teamwork, resourcefulness, and leadership skills. Music plays a vital role in school life, with pupils participating in choirs and orchestras, achieving success in national music examinations.

Pupils exhibit excellent standards of behavior, demonstrating respect for peers and teachers. They understand the importance of a system of rewards and sanctions and appreciate the school’s efforts to promote positive conduct. The school’s ethos encourages curiosity, creativity, and community involvement, fostering a sense of belonging among pupils.

The school celebrates diversity and promotes inclusivity through various initiatives, including cultural weeks and anti-racism groups. Pupils feel safe and supported within the school environment, particularly in their boarding houses, where they develop strong relationships with staff and peers. Overall, Cheltenham College provides a nurturing and enriching educational experience that prepares pupils for future success.