What is Cheltenham Ladies’ College like?

Cheltenham Ladies’ College is a long-established and highly regarded girls’ boarding school, with a small number of day pupils. It was founded over 170 years ago, and was led for 48 years by Victorian suffragette, Miss Dorothea Beale, a pioneer and champion of women’s education who also founded St Hilda’s College at Oxford University. The school occupies a historic site in the affluent town of Cheltenham, about two hours from London by car or train.  

The school offers outstanding facilities including a stunning a 300-seat theatre and gallery space at the Parabola Arts Centre, and a Health and Fitness Centre which features a swimming pool, climbing wall, state of the art gym equipment and a variety of sports pitches. 

Would Cheltenham Ladies’ be suitable for my child?

Cheltenham Ladies’ College is a down to earth school for bright and adventurous girls who want to excel both academically and in music, sport or drama. As a large school there are plenty of opportunities for everyone who wants to succeed in any area of the curriculum or co-curricular activities.  

There’s a very positive and buzzy atmosphere and girls have a wonderful range of opportunities both in and out of the classroom, which ensures students leave as well-rounded and resilient young women. Cheltenham Ladies’ College is one of only a few girls’ boarding schools to offer the IB in the Sixth Form, and results consistently put the school at the top end of the league tables both for the IB and A Levels

How do I apply to Cheltenham Ladies’ College?

The main points of entry are Year 7, Year 9 and Year 12, although the school also admits a number of girls into Year 8. There are various application routes depending on when you apply. A significant number of girls apply from overseas and the school is generally as flexible as possible regarding arrangements for entrance tests. If you are considering the school for your daughter please contact us for advice on the best way forward.