Our history

Founded in 1862, Clifton College has been shaping bright futures for over 150 years. Set within breathtaking historic grounds in the heart of Bristol, we blend timeless tradition with a forward-thinking approach to education. Our reputation as one of the UK’s top independent schools is built on academic excellence, opportunities outside of the classroom, and a vibrant community where every pupil is empowered to thrive.

An extraordinary vision

A School for a new era.

In 1862, Dr John Percival, a man of extraordinary vision, founded Clifton College as a school for a new era. A passionate advocate for science, the education of girls, and equality, Dr Percival believed education should do more than teach important knowledge, it should shape character.

Clifton College history
From the past to the present

A sense of responsibility towards others

Dr John Percival was a Victorian ahead of his time; his idea for developing 'children of varied but definite character' still guides the school to this day.

His curriculum and activities outside the classroom developed young people who had a sense of responsibility towards others; characteristics which remain in place.

Unique events ensured an easy transition

The buildings have a rich history of their own, from the famous architects who designed them to the people who occupied them. In the 1880s, the provision of education for Jewish pupils fostered cultural understanding, whilst in the 1940s, occupation by the US Army meant the pupils had to be evacuated to Cornwall, producing a modern, focused outlook amongst the pupils and staff.

This ensured the next generation was well-equipped to handle the social changes in the 1960s, when many equivalent schools struggled. These unique events ensured an easy transition into co-education in the 1980s.

Old Cliftonians

Individuals throughout the College’s history have made their names and changed the way society operated. Old Cliftonians who have gone on to become household names include actors Trevor Howard, Sir Michael Redgrave and Simon Russell-Beale, comedian John Cleese, inventor of the Belisha Beacon Leslie Hore-Belisha, General Douglas Haig, journalist John Inverdale and GB Hockey player Lily Owsley, whose team won gold in the 2016 Olympic Games.

Former pupils also include three Nobel Prize winners: Sir John Kendrew, who received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1962; Sir John Hicks, winner of the 1972 Nobel Prize in Economics; and Sir Nevill Francis Mott, who received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1977.

The Royal Charter

Clifton College was founded as a Joint-Stock Company. At the time, this was a common way to start a school, especially if it wasn’t funded by a generous donor or through public donations. However, this approach made the school vulnerable; the Governors, who were also shareholders, could choose to close the company and take any profits for themselves.

To make the school more secure, the College leaders had two choices: they could try to pass a private law through Parliament or apply for letters patent, a special Royal approval.

They chose the second option, which was helped by the fact that the College President at the time was a member of the Privy Council, which advises the monarch. The original company was closed, and on 16th March 1877, Queen Victoria granted a Royal Charter that officially established the school in its new form.

The Royal Charter set out how the school should be run and how its finances should be managed. Since then, it has been updated several times, most notably during Queen Elizabeth II’s reign, and it continues to be the foundation for how the College operates today.

The original document is still kept in the College archive, stored in its wooden case. Historically, it has been brought out on 'Charter Day' in the Percival Library, a special occasion when the College flag is flown and the community takes a moment to reflect on its history.

Discover Clifton College

Visit us on an upcoming Open Event

The best way to experience everything Clifton College can offer you and your child is to come and visit us. Our Open Events provide a unique opportunity to explore our welcoming School, meet our dedicated staff, and hear from current pupils about life at Clifton College.

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Explore our Schools

Pre-Prep School

Preschool - Year 3

Prep School

Year 4 - Year 8

Upper School

Year 9 - Year 13