Clifton College

Academic excellence

At Clifton College, we offer a broad and challenging curriculum that nurtures intellectual curiosity and supports academic excellence. Our subjects are thoughtfully designed to promote independent thinking, creativity, and a genuine enthusiasm for learning, while equipping pupils with the knowledge and skills they need for success in their future studies and beyond.

In 2025, 17% of A Level grades were A*, 44% A*-A, 75% A*-B, and 90% A*-C. 21% of GCSE grades were 9s and 58% were 9-7 with 35 different subjects/qualifications offered.

Almost all of our pupils go on to higher education and in 2025, 89% of pupils won places at their chosen universities with 70% of UK university places being at Russell Group universities. Most popular university choices this year were Exeter, Durham, UCL, Leeds, Manchester, Imperial and Newcastle. With students also heading to many international universities including: UC Berkeley, UC San Diego, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Masaryk University, (Brno, Czech Republic), Bocconi University (Milan), New York University and Abu Dhabi.

An extensive co-curricular offering

Co-curricular activities at Clifton College ensure a well-rounded education, fostering personal growth, and developing essential life skills. These activities complement the academic curriculum, offering students opportunities to explore their interests, discover new talents, and build confidence.

Clifton College boasts an extensive range of co-curricular activities, catering to diverse interests and passions. From sports and outdoor pursuits to creative arts and academic societies, there truly is something for everyone.

The House system

Clifton College’s House system is a unique and well-loved offering that creates lifelong bonds across the year groups.

Whether boarding or day, each pupil is assigned to a specific House, a distinctive feature of our pastoral care. These Houses are individual buildings, each managed by a dedicated Housemaster or Housemistress, along with a team of tutors, providing a robust support network for every child. This structure allows pupils to belong to their very own micro-community, fostering a strong sense of belonging.

A diverse community

Clifton College is deeply committed to creating an inclusive environment where all learners feel valued and empowered. At Clifton College around 35% of pupils come from beyond the UK. Pupils represent over 50 countries globally which creates a wonderfully diverse community with no single country dominating the figures.

There are many UK schools that are classed as international, but a great attraction of Clifton College is that international pupils join a quintessentially British Boarding School with traditional core values, whilst continuing to celebrate their own unique traditions.

The EAL department at Clifton College helps new pupils adapt to life at the School, considering the diverse backgrounds and cultures they represent. This support is designed to enable pupils to polish and perfect their use of the English language, ensuring they can thrive in their educational environment.

Facilities and learning environment

At Clifton College, we are committed to providing pupils with an outstanding environment within which to study and live. Pupils learn in subject-specific facilities, including engaging science labs, a design and technology workshop, and dedicated art and music studios.

The stunning Percival Library is staffed by three full-time professional librarians who support teaching and learning, encourage reading for enjoyment and provide a relaxed, creative and welcoming space.

The emotional and physical wellbeing of our pupils is our top priority, and we have designed spaces that support both academic success and personal growth. The dedicated Health Centre is a hub where students can go for medical assistance, emotional support, or to simply take a break. A favourite space among our pupils is the wellbeing room, 'The Wave'.

Means-tested bursaries are available to pupils who have been successful in securing a place on one of our scholarship programmes. Bursaries are awarded based on financial need and are designed to ensure that a Clifton College education is accessible to talented pupils from all walks of life.

We are also proud to have a rich and established heritage with the British Armed Forces and the families that serve within it. For 150 years our welcoming House staff have been supporting children with the Forces lifestyle. We offer an exclusive package for military families in receipt of CEA, where families receive a heavily discounted boarding fee per term in addition to CEA.

Spiritual and social development

Clifton College has an Anglican foundation, from which the school values of Spirit, Integrity and Resilience are drawn. However the College welcomes children of all faiths and the College Chaplain offers support to enable every pupil to live out their faith. The College has a multi-faith prayer room and during specific religious festivals and observances the Chaplain works with students to ensure they have appropriate provision and support.

A community for life

The Old Cliftonian Society is a vibrant community of former pupils united by shared experiences, lifelong friendships, and a deep connection to the College’s heritage.