Independent SeniorCo-educationalBoardingISI · Excellent

Dean Close School

Cheltenham, Gloucestershire · GL51 6HE

AAB+ A-level

22.9%

9–7 GCSE

39.1%

Day fees

£35k

Inspection

Excellent

Read report

Dean Close School is a well-established independent coeducational boarding and day school in Cheltenham, combining academic rigour with a pastoral approach rooted in Christian values. The school serves pupils from age 13 onwards, offering a broad curriculum alongside strong extracurricular provision. Situated in the Cotswolds, Dean Close emphasises community, character development, and practical experience alongside traditional scholarship.

  • →Strong pastoral care and boarding provision in a supportive community environment
  • →Broad extracurricular offer including music, sport, and outdoor education
  • →Historic reputation in Cheltenham with established networks and traditions
  • →Balanced academic approach suited to a wide range of learners

Who thrives here

Dean Close suits pupils who value community and pastoral support, those keen on boarding, and learners who thrive in a structured, Christian-influenced environment with emphasis on all-round development rather than ultra-competitive academia.

Strengths at a glance

Exam results50th pctSports56th pctCo-curricular50th pctValue vs peers50th pctPastoral & wellbeing100th pct

Percentiles within UK independent + grammar schools we track.

At a glance

School typeIndependent Senior · Boarding
Founded1884
Number of pupils519
Day pupils208
Boarders267
Sixth form195
Age range13–18
GenderCo-educational
Day fees£34.5k/yr (inc. lunch)
Boarding fees£43.5k/yr (inc. meals)
AssociationsHMC
Settingsuburban
LocationGood rail links to Birmingham and London Paddington; local bus services; parents often use car access given boarding population.
EthosChristian (Church of England)

Contact & visit

Shelburne Road

Cheltenham, Gloucestershire

GL51 6HE

01242258000
Mr B J Salisbury, Headteacher

Nearest stations

Cheltenham Spa15 min
Cheltenham Town Centre10 min

Notable alumni

David Suchet

Actor, known for Poirot and extensive theatrical work

Frequently asked questions

What are the fees at Dean Close School?

Day fees at Dean Close School are approximately £34,500 per year (2024/25). Boarding fees are higher.

How do you get into Dean Close School?

Dean Close School admits pupils at 13+, 16+. Entry is assessed by Interview, Assessment. See the Admissions section above for open days and key dates.

What are Dean Close School's exam results?

At Dean Close School, 22.9% of A-levels were graded A*–B and 39.1% of GCSEs were grade 7/A or above. Full results are in the Results section above.

Is Dean Close School a boarding school?

Dean Close School offers boarding as well as day places.

What is Dean Close School's latest inspection rating?

ISI rated Dean Close School “Excellent” (2019).

What parents say

Frequently praised

✓Warm pastoral care and strong sense of community, especially valued by boarding families

✓Excellent all-round development; pupils encouraged to try new things and take on leadership

✓High staff accessibility; staff know pupils well and are genuinely invested in their welfare

✓Beautiful Cheltenham location and strong local reputation

Common concerns

!Academic results less consistently top-tier than some competing HMC day schools

!Boarding-heavy identity can feel exclusive to day pupils

!Not yet Ofsted-inspected; some parents prefer inspected school assurance