Why CLC?

Cheltenham Ladies’ College has been at the forefront of girls’ education for over 170 years.

Our global reputation was founded on our pioneering approach to girls’ education and our future aims are no less ambitious.

For Fearless Futures

The world needs more than just good grades.

It needs inquisitive minds, brave hearts and strong values.

At Cheltenham Ladies’ College, we are here to nurture fearless individuals, ready to take on the future with curiosity, courage and compassion.

That's why we empower whilst we educate. We develop mindsets alongside skillsets. We teach students to think, as well as learn. To question, not just answer. To succeed, whilst learning to fail. Working in communities, not just classrooms.

We help every student experience the joy of learning, find the confidence to step into the world and dare to make a difference.

IB - Top Girls Boarding

CLC is the Top Girls Boarding School in the World for the IB (Education Advisers League Table 2025)

Best In the SW for 5 years

CLC has been named Top Independent School in the South West for Academic Performance for the last 5 years - Parent Power (The Sunday Times)

IB - 15th Globally

CLC is ranked 15th in the world for IB results, with more than 6,000 schools currently offering the IB globally (Education Advisers League Table 2025)

SW School of the Decade

CLC was named South West Independent Secondary School of the Decade in 2021 by The Sunday Times

Global Top 100 School

CLC has been ranked in the Top 100 Independent Schools in the World for the last 5 years - Spear's Schools Index 2025

Why All Girls?

There are many arguments surrounding the benefits and disadvantages of single-sex vs co-educational schools. Ultimately, each child’s education should be right for them, with teaching that inspires them, debates that challenge them and opportunities that allow them to thrive.

Our approach to education has always been to put girls first.

We believe that our pupils thrive in a single-sex environment. They develop resilience and confidence in a culture that encourages them to believe that nothing is beyond their reach.

The success of this approach is demonstrated not only in their consistently outstanding exam results and extensive co-curricular achievements, but through the well-rounded and inspirational women they become.

Whether a budding scientist, inspired artist or talented sportswoman, we encourage them to develop independent thought, and to support and challenge each other.

Why Boarding?

We have a fantastic and strong community of Day and Boarding students.

Surrounded by the fictional worlds of Malory Towers, Harry Potter and St Trinian’s, there are many far-reaching myths about boarding.

We know that for some families boarding for the first time can feel really daunting.

In reality, modern boarding offers the opportunity for girls to be immersed in a supportive, vibrant, and diverse and community of peers and friends, where they can express themselves and debate their views, grow and learn together, and develop lifelong friendships.

Modern technology ensures family and friends are only a message or video call away and our pastoral support, between school and the boarding houses, is designed to nurture and encourage students to settle quickly.

From eating meals or watching a film together, to rehearsing for House Music or working on a group entry for the Upcycled Fashion Show, boarding houses quickly become a home from home.