Clifton College
Bristol, Bristol, South West · BS8 3EZ
Founded in 1862, Clifton College is a large, multi-faith independent school in Bristol that takes both day pupils and boarders, with around 775 on roll and a sizeable sixth form of 334. One of its most striking features is an exceptionally low pupil-to-teacher ratio of about six to one, pointing to small classes and close individual attention. The College offers a broad mix of qualifications, including GCSE, A-level, BTEC and the EPQ, and runs a wide scholarship programme spanning academics, the arts, design, music, sport and organ. Boarding is available, with fees reaching up to £57,840 a year and day places costing roughly £36,645 to £37,275.
775
Pupils
£37,275
Day fees / yr
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Open in Google Maps ↗Overview & data
- Gender
- Mixed
- Type
- independent (fee-paying) school
- Pupils
- 775
- Pupil:teacher ratio
- 6
- Location
- Bristol, Bristol, South West
- Website
- www.cliftoncollege.com
Entrance & admissions
- Entry age
- 11
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Headteacher
Head of College Dr Tim Greene
Latest results
Attainment 8
25.2
National average 46.9
GCSE grade 5+ (English & Maths)
0%
National average 47%
GCSE grade 9-7
58%
A-level A*-A
44%
A-level A*-B
75%
Teaching & academics
Sixth-form results are solid, with 44% of A-level grades at A*-A and three-quarters reaching A*-B; popular choices include Mathematics, the sciences, Economics, History, Geography and Psychology. At GCSE, 58% of grades fall in the 9-7 range, with Physics, Chemistry, Biology and Mathematics among the most-taken subjects. The published Attainment 8 figure of 25.2 sits well below the national average of 46.9, a pattern that often reflects how independent schools enter and report cohorts rather than underlying ability, so parents may wish to weigh it alongside the strong A-level outcomes. Just under a quarter of pupils receive SEN support.
Sixth form
- Sixth-form pupils
- 334
Popular A-level subjects
Qualifications offered
Learning support & SEN
- SEN support
- 23.91%
- EHC plans
- 0.08%
Arts & extracurricular
Scholarships
Languages
Popular GCSE subjects
Sport
Main sports
Beyond the classroom
Sport has a prominent place here, with cricket, rugby, hockey and rowing among the main offerings. Chinese is taught as a language, and the breadth of scholarships in art, drama, design and technology, music and organ signals a lively cultural and creative life alongside the academic programme.
Ethos & heritage
- Founded
- 1862
- Religious character
- Multi-faith
- Boarding
- Yes
Mobile phone policy
Pupils are permitted to bring their mobile phones into school on the understanding that they adhere to the school's outlined procedures. In general, mobile phones may not be used on the school campus during the school day. Pupils in year 9 and 10 are required to hand in their mobile phone at morning call over. They will be stored securely and returned at the end of the academic part of the day. Pupils in years 11-13 may use mobile phones during the school day in restricted circumstances. Pupils can expect to have their phones confiscated by staff if they are being used inappropriately.
Money matters
- Day fees (per year)
- £36,645 - £37,275
- Boarding fees (per year)
- £55,605 - £57,840
Inspection reports
The last word
A historic, well-resourced college where boarding, small classes and a wide co-curricular sweep come at a premium. Best suited to families who value individual attention and a broad sporting and creative life.
The Passmate verdict
Have you considered?
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Clifton College 11+: frequently asked questions
Where is Clifton College located?
Clifton College is located at Guthrie Road, Clifton, Bristol, BS8 3EZ.
What type of school is Clifton College?
Clifton College is an independent (fee-paying) school in South West.
How many pupils attend Clifton College?
Clifton College has approximately 775 pupils on roll.
Compiled from public data. Last checked June 2026.