The Richard Pate School
School summary
A small independent prep in Cheltenham, The Richard Pate School takes children from age 3 through to 11 and keeps its roll deliberately modest at around 296 pupils. That scale shapes its character, allowing close attention as children move through the early years and into the demanding final stages of primary school. The Independent Schools Inspectorate rated the school 'excellent', the highest available judgement, and also found its work on personal development to be excellent, with all compliance requirements met.
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
- 18 June 2024
Teaching & academics
As a mixed school spanning the full primary range, Richard Pate prepares pupils for the transition to senior schools at 11. The ISI's 'excellent' rating points to strong outcomes across the board. Around 7 per cent of pupils receive SEN support, suggesting the school is set up to identify and help children who need a little extra.
Headteacher · Sam Morgan
School life & ethos
- Boarding
- No
- SEN support
- 7.43%
- EHC plans
- 0.68%
Fees & bursaries
- Day fees (per year)
- £11,394 - £17,163
- Bursaries up to
- 100% of fees
Up to 100% for existing pupils whose families fall on hard times
Schools nearby
St Edward's School
Cheltenham, South West
Cheltenham College Preparatory School
Cheltenham, South West
Cheltenham College
Cheltenham, South West
Ashley Manor Preparatory School
Cheltenham, South West
Cheltenham Ladies' College
Cheltenham, South West
Dean Close Airthrie
CHELTENHAM, South West
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A small, highly rated Cheltenham prep that pairs an 'excellent' ISI judgement with a notable bursary commitment - including support of up to 100 per cent for families who fall on hard times. Worth a look for parents who value a close-knit setting from nursery to 11.
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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The Richard Pate School 11+: frequently asked questions
Compiled from public data. Last checked 5 June 2026.