UK Boarders
UK boarding
A place to grow, belong and make a difference
Choosing boarding at Cheltenham Ladies’ College is about more than where your daughter will live and learn. It’s about the kind of person she will become.
Each year, around 160 students join a diverse and vibrant community of approximately 850 pupils, the majority of whom board. Together, they form a community shaped by curiosity, courage and compassion.
CLC students are encouraged to think deeply, act with integrity and develop the confidence to make a positive impact - within College and beyond.
A balanced and supportive environment
Boarding life at CLC is carefully designed to support the achievement and wellbeing of each individual. Our boarding houses are more than places to stay - they are communities where students feel known, supported and encouraged to be themselves.
Evenings and weekends bring opportunities to explore new interests, spend time with friends and take part in a wide-ranging programme of activities, from creative workshops and performances to trips and outdoor adventures.
It is often in these moments that confidence grows, friendships deepen and students discover new passions.
Flexibility for UK families
Boarding at CLC aims to work in partnership with family life.
As a full boarding school with a thriving weekend activity programme, there is never a shortage of things going on. On many weekends, there is also the option for students to go home most term time weekends after their Saturday commitments, returning in time for supper on Sunday evening.
We also support families with:
Organised transport routes to London, Oxford, the Midlands and the North.
Escorted airport transfers at the start and end of term.
A shuttle service to Cheltenham Spa station.
The result is a boarding experience that feels both independent and connected.
At Exeat weekends, half terms and the end of terms, we offer chaperoned transport routes across the UK, and escorted airport transfers at the start and end of term.
We also run a shuttle service to Cheltenham Spa station to meet the most popular London-bound train for Exeats and half terms.
Key entry points
A warm and supportive start to senior school. Students join our Junior Houses and quickly become part of a nurturing community that builds confidence, curiosity and independence.
Join our vibrant and diverse Upper College cohort, and begin shaping the GCSE journey with a strong sense of purpose and belonging.
Join our Sixth Form to study A Levels or the IB, developing independence, and build confidence and leadership skills whilst forging a path for your future.
Occasional places may become available in other year groups. Our Admissions team will be happy to advise on availability.
Common Questions
CLC is a full boarding school. Students live in boarding houses during term time, returning home for exeat weekends and holidays. We also offer day places.
As a full boarding school with a thriving weekend activity programme, there is never a shortage of things going on. However, we understand that every family is different and have varying needs outside of College, so there is also an option for students to go home on most term-time weekends after their Saturday commitments, returning in time for supper on Sunday evening.
All applicants sit entrance assessments. Requirements and timelines vary by entry year group. Full details are available in our entry guides.
Where possible, yes. Changes are usually made at the start of an academic year, but we will always try to accommodate individual circumstances.
Yes. Scholarships are available at most entry points, whilst others are available for current students to apply for.
Means-tested bursaries (covering up to 100% of fees) are offered at 11+ and 16+. We encourage early application to ensure your application is considered.
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