Cheltenham College Preparatory School
School summary
Founded in 1908, Cheltenham College Preparatory School is a small, mixed Church of England prep school in Cheltenham, taking children from ages 3 to 13. With around 452 pupils and a notably low pupil-to-teacher ratio of roughly 7 to 1, classes are kept small and attention is generous. The Independent Schools Inspectorate rated the school excellent for both education and personal development, with all compliance standards met. Boarding is available, making this a fit for families seeking either day or residential places within a close-knit community.
Where every mark matters.
Places are limited and demand is high, so exam performance is what sets candidates apart. Passmate turns the months ahead into ten focused minutes a day on the exact topics this school tests.
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Inspection reports
- ISI rating
- excellent
- ISI personal development
- excellent
- Last inspected
- 25 April 2023
Teaching & academics
The exceptionally low pupil-to-teacher ratio of about 7 to 1 allows for close academic support as children work towards the move to senior school at 13. The ISI judged the quality of education excellent at its most recent inspection. Academic scholarships sit alongside awards for art, drama, music and sport, signalling a school that recognises achievement across a broad range of talents.
Head · Tom O'Sullivan
Beyond the classroom
Provision extends well beyond the classroom, with dedicated scholarship routes in art, drama, music and sport pointing to strong programmes in each. The ISI's excellent rating for personal development reflects a rounded approach to school life.
School life & ethos
- Founded
- 1908
- Religious character
- C of E
- Boarding
- Yes
Mobile phone policy
Pupils are not allowed mobile phones during the day. Boarders are provided with an iPad to FaceTime home in the evening.
Fees & bursaries
- Day fees (per year)
- £12,312 - £27,810
- Boarding fees (per year)
- £27,690 - £36,162
Schools nearby
Cheltenham College
Cheltenham, South West
Cheltenham Ladies' College
Cheltenham, South West
St Edward's School
Cheltenham, South West
Dean Close Airthrie
CHELTENHAM, South West
Ashley Manor Preparatory School
Cheltenham, South West
The Richard Pate School
Cheltenham, South West
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A small, well-staffed prep school for families who value individual attention and the option to board. Day fees range from £12,312 to £27,810, with boarding up to £36,162.
That’s where Passmate comes in. Tutoring is the most effective thing in a child’s preparation - a well-tutored child can outperform the vast majority of their peers. Passmate works alongside your tutor, not instead of them: it learns how your child thinks, finds the gaps, and shows the tutor exactly where to spend each session - so the limited time you have lands on what actually decides a place.
Works alongside your child’s tutor - not instead of them.
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Cheltenham College Preparatory School 11+: frequently asked questions
Compiled from public data. Last checked 5 June 2026.