Cheltenham College Preparatory School
Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, South West · GL53 7AB
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.
452
Pupils
excellent
ISI
£27,810
Day fees / yr
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Open in Google Maps ↗Overview & data
- Gender
- Mixed
- Type
- independent (fee-paying) school
- Age range
- 3-13
- Pupils
- 452
- Pupil:teacher ratio
- 7
- Location
- Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, South West
- Website
- https://www.cheltenhamcollege.org/
- Telephone
- 01242 522697
Headteacher
Head Tom O'Sullivan
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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.
Arts & extracurricular
Scholarships
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.
Ethos & heritage
- 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.
Money matters
- Day fees (per year)
- £12,312 - £27,810
- Boarding fees (per year)
- £27,690 - £36,162
Inspection reports
- ISI rating
- excellent
- ISI personal development
- excellent
- Last inspected
- 25 April 2023
The last word
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.
The Passmate verdict
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Cheltenham College Preparatory School 11+: frequently asked questions
Where is Cheltenham College Preparatory School located?
Cheltenham College Preparatory School is located at Thirlestaine Road, Cheltenham, Cheltenham, GL53 7AB.
What type of school is Cheltenham College Preparatory School?
Cheltenham College Preparatory School is an independent (fee-paying) school in South West.
How many pupils attend Cheltenham College Preparatory School?
Cheltenham College Preparatory School has approximately 452 pupils on roll.
What is Cheltenham College Preparatory School's inspection rating?
Cheltenham College Preparatory School is inspected by the ISI and was judged "excellent" at its inspection on 25 April 2023.
Compiled from public data. Last checked June 2026.