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Clifton College, Bristol

Clifton, BRISTOLBristol
1862
Founded
3 - 18
Age range
Co-ed
School type
£12,435 - £19,280
Boarding / term
In short

Clifton College, Bristol is a co-ed boarding and day school in Clifton, BRISTOLBristol, educating pupils aged 3 - 18 and founded in 1862. Boarding fees are £12,435 - £19,280 per term. Our advice on this school is independent and free.

Type
Co-ed boarding & day
Boarders from
8 - 18
Ethos
Church of England
Guardian required
Yes
About

About Clifton College, Bristol

The story, ethos and character of Clifton College, Bristol.

Setting
City
Ethos
Church of England
Head
Dr Tim Greene
Clifton College, Bristol — around the school

The Clifton College Education Group comprises of Clifton College (Prep & Senior Schools), ELC (English Language Centre Bristol) and Tockington Manor Prep School. Established in 1862, Clifton College welcomes boarders from across the UK and the world who join with our day pupils from the vibrant and diverse city of Bristol.

The college provides the most modern of facilities set among stunning historic buildings. We pride ourselves on providing an education where character is as important as capability. Through superb teaching and a wealth of academic choices we make certain that every young is supported, encouraged and driven to achieve their very best.

Outside the classroom, our pupils are truly fortunate to have such a range of opportunities within the co-curriculum from superb sport coaching to an amazing range of clubs and activities.
Clifton College, Bristol — school buildings and grounds

All of this is underpinned by our pastoral care, rooted in the House system with its determined focus on seeing every young make the very most of their time at Clifton, growing into kind, empathetic individuals. We aim to develop open-minded young people with a real understanding of the world around them, fully prepared for their future in a rapidly changing modern world.

Dr Tim Greene Head Master Head of College What the school is known for? The curriculum and activities outside of the classroom at Clifton College aim to develop young people who are confident without arrogance and had a sense of responsibility for others; characteristics which remain .

Clifton College, Bristol — campus and groundsClifton College, Bristol — the school groundsClifton College, Bristol — around the schoolClifton College, Bristol — school buildings and groundsClifton College, Bristol — campus and groundsClifton College, Bristol — the school groundsClifton College, Bristol — around the school
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Academics

Academics at Clifton College, Bristol

What pupils study at Clifton College, Bristol — and where it takes them.

339
A-level students
6
Programmes
None
SEN / EAL support
Clifton College, Bristol — school buildings and grounds

This section provides information on: The curriculum, performing and creative arts, English as an additional , and special educational needs (SEN). About the curriculum At Clifton College, we believe learning should be an exciting journey, not a single, fixed route.

We encourage pupils to take intellectual risks in a supportive environment where they feel free to ask questions, explore new ideas, try new things and celebrate success. Every pupil brings their own strengths, interests and personality, and we value the unique contribution each individual makes.

Programmes offered

GCSEA levelIB DiplomaBTECEALSixth Form

Subjects offered

Additional ScienceArt & DesignArt & Design: Fine ArtArt & Design: PhotographyBiologyBusiness StudiesBusiness Studies & EconomicsChemistryClassical CivilisationComputer ScienceD&T - Product DesignD&T - Resistant Materials+ 27 more — ask us
58.0%
9-7 · GCSE 2025
97.0%
9-4 · GCSE 2025
58.0%
9-7 · iGCSE 2025
97.0%
9-4 · iGCSE 2025

Where our leavers go

At Clifton College, we do everything we can to help your son or daughter achieve their potential and prepare them for life after Clifton. 89% of students go to their university of choice, and Cliftonians have an excellent record of receiving offers of places at Oxbridge and the Russell Group of universities.

We offer specialist careers advice, with pupils also receiving guidance from teachers, tutors, House Masters, the Head of Sixth Form and outside experts. Most Clifton College pupils go on to attend the university of their choice, but advice is also available for those pupils who want to go directly into work or take a Gap Year.

Many former pupils are highly successful entrepreneurs in business and finance, and we are also very well represented in the professions, Academia and the Arts. The Old Cliftonian Society is developing a database of past pupils who are willing to offer work experience and careers advice to current pupils and recent leavers.

It is hoped this will play a key role in our ongoing provision of careers guidance.

Figures are indicative — contact us for the latest results.

Boarding

Boarding at Clifton College, Bristol

Day-to-day boarding life and pastoral care at Clifton College, Bristol.

Boarding houses
Girls 3, Boys 4, Mixed 0
Exeat weekends
No
Guardian required
Yes
Saturday lessons
Yes
Clifton College, Bristol — pupils in their boarding house

There are seven boarding Houses in the Upper School, including four Boys' Houses and three Girls' Houses. In the Preparatory School, we have a co-educational boarding house. Each Upper School House is home to 55-80 pupils during term-time. Most are full-time boarders involved in the College's busy life for seven days a week, however, some families prefer to opt for a 'flexi-boarding' arrangement.

This may range from regular 'day-boarding' with an entitlement of up to four nights per week, to 'occasional boarding' available on a per-night basis. Boarders are encouraged to take part in any weekend activities or trips organised by their House.

Pastoral care

A genuine home away from home

Clifton College, Bristol — everyday boarding life

Boarding Houses and Pupils Clifton College enjoys magnificent surroundings in a historic setting, but combines this with modern facilities. Our seven boarding houses for Upper pupils provide a comfortable, safe and secure home-from-home for your child, where they will form bonds and friendships that will last a lifetime.

We also have a boarding house in the Preparatory School called Hartnell's. It is run by a dedicated team of caring and professional staff, including a House Master or House Mistress and tutors. The matron acts like a surrogate mother to the children.

Clifton College, Bristol — pupils in their boarding houseClifton College, Bristol — boarding house lifeClifton College, Bristol — campus and groundsClifton College, Bristol — the school groundsClifton College, Bristol — around the schoolClifton College, Bristol — school buildings and groundsClifton College, Bristol — campus and grounds

We can arrange trusted UK guardianship for international families.

Admissions

Clifton College, Bristol admissions

How children join Clifton College, Bristol, and how we make it simple.

01

Tell us about your child

Share their age, interests and what you're looking for. Our advice is completely free.

02

We shortlist & introduce

We match you to the right schools and make the introductions to their admissions teams.

03

Assessment, offer & enrolment

We guide you through entrance assessments and interviews, and handle visas and guardianship if needed.

What you'll typically need

  • Recent school reports or transcript
  • Passport copy
  • English-language evidence (if applicable)
  • Completed registration form
  • A reference from the current school
Clifton College, Bristol — the school grounds

Upper School (13+): Two terms minimum stay. Michaelmas term entry only. Preparatory School: Two terms minimum stay. Michaelmas and Lent term entry only. Special notes to agents about entry to the school Prep School The Prep School is for ages 8-13.

For international applicants the main entry points at Years 6, 7 and 8. We would recommend applying in the September before applicants wish to join, spaces are normally full by February / March. Upper School The Upper School is for ages 13-18.

As your advisors we manage the application end-to-end at no cost.

Fees

Clifton College, Bristol fees & funding

What Clifton College, Bristol costs, what's included, and how we help with funding.

£12,435 - £19,280
Boarding / term
Yes
Guardian required
Available
Scholarships & bursaries

What termly boarding fees include

  • Tuition
  • Boarding accommodation
  • All meals
  • Pastoral & house care
  • Most academic materials

Funding & scholarships

Registration deposits, EAL tuition, uniform and trips are usually charged separately. Many schools offer academic, sport, music and art scholarships plus means-tested bursaries — ask us and we'll send a full, current breakdown for Clifton College, Bristol.

Clifton College, Bristol — specialist facilities

Fees change year to year and by entry point. As your independent advisors we hold up-to-date figures and can compare Clifton College, Bristol against similar schools so you know exactly what to budget.

Figures shown are the latest we hold — we'll confirm current fees on enquiry.

Location

Clifton College, Bristol location & travel

Where Clifton College, Bristol is, and how to get there.

Clifton
Location
City
Setting
BRISTOLBristol
Region
Clifton College, Bristol — school facilities

Travel details Address 32 College Road, Clifton, BRISTOL, Bristol, BS8 3JH, England Airport transfer Taxi Travel time to London by train Less than 2 hours Telephone +44 (0)1173 157 149 Website https://www. cliftoncollege. com Most convenient airports Airport Distance (miles) Drive time (minutes) 1.

Bristol 9 25 2. London Heathrow 94 120 Most convenient train stations Station Distance (miles) Drive time (minutes) 1. Bristol Temple Meads 2 15 2. Bristol Parkway 8 28 Local accommodation There are a number of hotels, B&B's and guest houses within the city of Bristol, Avon Gorge by Hotel du Vin (1 mile) Doubletree by Hilton Bristol City Centre (3.5 miles) Ibis Bristol Temple Meads Quay (4 miles) The Bristol Hotel (4 miles) Local area & attractions Attractions: Clifton Suspension Bridge Ashton Court Estate Bristol Museum Clifton Village We are Curious Brunel's SS Great Britain Cabot Tower https://visitbristol.

FAQs

Clifton College, Bristol — frequently asked questions

Where is Clifton College, Bristol?
Clifton College, Bristol is located in Clifton, BRISTOLBristol, England. The full address is 32 College Road, Clifton, BRISTOLBristol BS8 3JH.
How much are Clifton College, Bristol boarding fees?
Boarding fees at Clifton College, Bristol are £12,435 - £19,280 per term, depending on year group. Day places and international packages may differ — contact us for current figures.
What ages does Clifton College, Bristol take?
Clifton College, Bristol educates pupils aged 3 - 18, with boarders from 8 - 18.
Is Clifton College, Bristol co-educational?
Clifton College, Bristol is a co-ed boarding and day school.
When was Clifton College, Bristol founded?
Clifton College, Bristol was founded in 1862.
Does Clifton College, Bristol require a UK guardian?
Yes — international boarders at Clifton College, Bristol must have a UK-based guardian. We can arrange trusted guardianship if needed.
How many pupils study A-levels at Clifton College, Bristol?
Around 339 pupils study A-levels at Clifton College, Bristol.
What qualifications does Clifton College, Bristol offer?
Clifton College, Bristol prepares pupils for GCSE and A-level examinations, with strong EAL support for international students.
How many boarding houses does Clifton College, Bristol have?
Clifton College, Bristol has boarding houses (Girls 3, Boys 4, Mixed 0).
Are there compulsory exeat weekends at Clifton College, Bristol?
No — Clifton College, Bristol does not have compulsory exeat weekends, so boarders can stay at weekends.
Does Clifton College, Bristol have Saturday lessons?
Yes — Clifton College, Bristol runs Saturday lessons.
How do I apply to Clifton College, Bristol?
Applications to Clifton College, Bristol run through its admissions team. As your advisors we handle the introduction, paperwork and references for you — at no cost.
Does Clifton College, Bristol accept international students?
Yes — Clifton College, Bristol welcomes international boarders. We guide families through entry assessments, English requirements, guardianship and visas.
How much does Clifton College, Bristol cost?
Boarding fees at Clifton College, Bristol are £12,435 - £19,280 per term. Fees typically rise with year group and exclude extras such as registration deposits, EAL tuition and trips.
What's included in Clifton College, Bristol's fees?
Termly boarding fees usually cover tuition, accommodation and meals. Registration fees, deposits, uniform, EAL support and some activities are charged separately — we'll send you a full breakdown.
Are scholarships or bursaries available?
Many UK boarding schools offer academic, sport, music and art scholarships, plus means-tested bursaries. Ask us and we'll check what Clifton College, Bristol currently offers.
Where exactly is Clifton College, Bristol?
Clifton College, Bristol is in Clifton, BRISTOLBristol. Address: 32 College Road, Clifton, BRISTOLBristol BS8 3JH.
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