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Boarding at Clifton College offers a truly enriching experience, where pupils from around the world come together to form a diverse and inclusive community. Located in the vibrant city of Bristol, boarders and local day pupils share a dynamic environment filled with opportunities for academic, cultural, and personal growth. With a strong emphasis on collaboration, respect, and shared experiences, students forge lifelong friendships and thrive in a supportive atmosphere that celebrates both individuality and unity.
There are seven boarding Houses in the Upper School, including four boys’ Houses and three girls’ Houses.
For families considering boarding, Clifton College offers a flexible approach to accommodate diverse needs. Most pupils are full-time boarders involved in the College’s busy life for seven days a week, but some families prefer to opt for a ‘flexi-boarding’ arrangement. This may range from regular ‘day-boarding’, with an entitlement of up to four nights per week, to ‘occasional boarding’, available on a per-night basis.
The pupils share their home with a Housemaster or Housemistress and their family, an Assistant, a resident tutor and sometimes even a pet. In addition, each House has up to five non-residential tutors. Our houses all sit round the main College campus for a central, community feel.
Clifton College's house system is the cornerstone of its community, fostering a real sense of belonging from day one. A key benefit is the development of essential social skills. Within each house, pupils of all ages across the Upper School interact, creating a dynamic environment of mentorship and peer support. Older pupils take on leadership roles, guiding their younger peers and nurturing their confidence. This vertical house model breaks down traditional age barriers, promoting collaboration and mutual respect.
The house system also serves as a vibrant arena for healthy competition. From the spirited House Song, kicking off the Michaelmas term, to the demanding Pens cross-country run around Ashton Court and the creative House Play in the Lent term, pupils have numerous opportunities to participate and excel. These events foster teamwork, enable challenge and allow each individual to find their niche, contributing to the collective success of their house and building a strong sense of shared achievement.
Houses actively engage in charitable initiatives, cultivating social responsibility and empathy. This commitment to community service shapes well-rounded individuals, instilling values of social awareness. Social events, such as the popular Safari Supper and performance evenings where parents, grandparents, and guardians witness their children's talents, further enhance the sense of community.
The house system provides a strong and personalised support network. Housemasters and mistresses act as trusted mentors, offering pastoral care and guidance. This personalised support system ensures that each pupil feels valued and understood, contributing significantly to their emotional well-being. The Clifton College house system, therefore, offers a comprehensive and holistic approach to education, nurturing personal growth, social responsibility, and a lifelong sense of belonging.
The Clifton College timetable runs from Monday - Saturday creating a busy campus six days a week.
On Saturday evenings and Sundays, boarders are encouraged to take part in weekend activities or trips organised by their House or the College, they can also explore local shops and cafes in nearby Clifton Village or spend time outdoors in the vast green space of Clifton Down. Full boarders are also able to go out with parents or guardians on a weekend, providing they have no school commitments to fulfill.
In addition to the official quarter and half-term breaks, boarders may also go home (or to a guardian), by prior arrangement, after any commitment on Saturday, returning on Sunday evening. Most pupils choose to stay at school for the full weekends as there is so much going on and they want to spend time with their friends.
"As a flexi-boarder, I board four nights a week. My Housemaster, Assistant Housemaster and other pupils have been vital in helping me settle in away from home."
Year 9 pupil
"You get to know students from all around the world and take part in House competitions such as House Song and House Dance."
Year 11 pupil
"As a flexi-boarder, I board four nights a week. My Housemaster, Assistant Housemaster and other pupils have been vital in helping me settle in away from home."
Year 9 pupil
"You get to know students from all around the world and take part in House competitions such as House Song and House Dance."
Year 11 pupil
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.
Experience Clifton College firsthand with a guided tour, meet key staff, explore our top-tier facilities, and get a real feel for student life.
Book a personalised tour with one of our staff members to explore the School and ask any questions specific to your child’s needs.
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.
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.
Discover our supportive community for pupils, parents and staff alike.
Gain an insight into a day in the life of our dynamic Upper School.
Our distinctive, historic buildings provide an inspirational backdrop for learning, along with modern facilities and a state-of-the-art Sports Complex.