The Upper School

Boarding

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.

A flexible approach to boarding

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.

A nurturing space to develop independence

Hear from Oakeley's Housemistress

More than just a place to call home

The House System at Clifton College

A friendly and exciting city

Bristol is a great location for boarding

Weekends as a boarder

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.

Reflections on boarding

"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

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.