The Upper School

Our learning philosophy

We pride ourselves on providing an education where character is as important as capability. Through superb teaching and a wealth of academic choices we make certain that every young person is supported, encouraged and driven to achieve their very best.

Outside the classroom, our pupils are truly fortunate to have such a range of opportunities within the co-curriculum from superb sport coaching to an amazing range of clubs and activities. Here they develop as young people and realise lifelong interests and passions.

All of this is underpinned by our pastoral care, rooted in the House system with its determined focus on seeing every young person make the very most of their time at Clifton, growing into kind, empathetic individuals.

Start your journey

Discover what Clifton College has to offer. Our prospectus provides an in-depth look at our academic excellence, outstanding facilities, and enriching extracurricular activities.

Personalised learning experience

"No two children are following the same path through the College"
Something for everyone at Clifton College

Each pupil's journey through the Upper School is unique, led by their own interests and talents.

Promote courage and exploration

Encouraging pupils to embrace new activities, form new friendships, and seize the diverse opportunities available at Clifton College.

Encourage individual aspirations

Motivating each pupil to strive for personal excellence.

Foster a supportive community

Emphasising the importance of kindness, understanding and encouragement.

Academic Enrichment Programme

Our belief that each individual student has the capacity to excel academically underpins everything we do at Clifton College.

Assistant Head Academic

What you can expect

An all-round education

Our educational approach goes beyond academics to include exceptional pastoral care, inspirational teaching, and a diverse range of co-curricular activities. We aim to inspire each child to seize learning opportunities and realise their full potential through passion, integrity, and resilience.

A challenging curriculum

Our curriculum is designed to encourage intellectual risk-taking, allowing students to develop critical thinking skills and a lifelong love for learning.

A worldly outlook

We prepare our pupils to be global citizens by promoting open-mindedness and cultural awareness. Our inclusive environment encourages students to appreciate diversity and understand their role in an interconnected world.

What our pupils say

"Academically, the school is amazing. I am an academic scholar, and I have to say, what stands out the most is how many opportunities there are to get involved with. Whether it is the multiple lectures from both students and teachers, or through competitions such as House Maths, academics make up an enormous part of school life"

Upper pupil

"My favourite subject is history; my teacher runs the history society"

Come and see for yourself

We host a range of events throughout the year to help pupils and families experience life at Clifton College Upper School. We can’t wait to welcome you.

Open events

Experience Clifton College firsthand with a guided tour, meet key staff, explore our top-tier facilities, and get a real feel for student life.

Personal tour

Book a personalised tour with one of our staff members to explore the School and ask any questions specific to your child’s needs.

Video calls

We’d be happy to arrange a video call so you can learn more about Clifton College and have your questions answered from wherever you are.

Join the Upper School

Where next?

Quick links

Who we are

We aim to develop open-minded young people with a real understanding of the world around them, fully prepared for their future in a rapidly changing modern world.

Our community

Discover our supportive community for pupils, parents and staff alike.

A day in the life

Gain an insight into a day in the life of our dynamic Upper School.

Our spaces

Our distinctive, historic buildings provide an inspirational backdrop for learning, along with modern facilities and a state-of-the-art Sports Complex.