Best International Schools and Bilingual Schools in Cheltenham

Cheltenham, located in the heart of the Cotswolds, is a smaller city known for its Regency architecture and vibrant cultural festivals. While it may not boast the extensive array of international schools found in larger cities, it does offer a selection of reputable institutions catering to expat and digital nomad families. Among the most popular are the Cheltenham Ladies' College, which offers an international baccalaureate program, and Dean Close School, known for its strong academic curriculum and supportive community.

Cheltenham Ladies' College

Grades: Year 7 to Year 13 (Ages 11-18)
Location: Bayshill Road, Cheltenham
Website: www.cheltladiescollege.org

Cheltenham Ladies' College is one of the most prestigious independent boarding and day schools in the UK. It offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme alongside A-levels, providing a global perspective to education. The college boasts excellent facilities, including a state-of-the-art science center, a performing arts center, and extensive sports facilities. Extracurricular activities range from music and drama to a wide variety of sports and clubs.

Dean Close School

Grades: Pre-Preparatory to Sixth Form (Ages 2-18)
Location: Shelburne Road, Cheltenham
Website: www.deanclose.org.uk

Dean Close School is a co-educational day and boarding school that provides a nurturing environment for its students. The school follows the English National Curriculum and offers a broad range of GCSEs and A-levels. Facilities include a modern theatre, music school, art studio, and extensive sports grounds. The school is also known for its strong pastoral care system and a wide array of extracurricular activities, including the Combined Cadet Force, Duke of Edinburgh's Award, and various community service opportunities.

The King's School, Gloucester

Grades: Kindergarten to Sixth Form (Ages 3-18)
Location: Gloucester, approximately 30 minutes from Cheltenham
Website: www.thekingsschool.co.uk

The King's School in Gloucester is an independent day school that offers a blend of traditional values and a forward-thinking approach to education. The school follows the English National Curriculum and provides a broad education that includes GCSEs and A-levels. With a strong emphasis on character development, the school offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including music, drama, sports, and various clubs and societies.

Rendcomb College

Grades: Junior School to Sixth Form (Ages 3-18)
Location: Rendcomb, around 20 minutes from Cheltenham
Website: www.rendcombcollege.org.uk

Rendcomb College is an independent co-educational day and boarding school set in a stunning rural estate. The school offers a broad curriculum with a range of GCSE and A-level courses. Facilities include a newly built performing arts centre, sports fields, and a forest school. The college prides itself on its small class sizes, individual attention to students, and a strong sense of community.

Malvern St James Girls' School

Grades: Year 1 to Sixth Form (Ages 4-18)
Location: Malvern, approximately 35 minutes from Cheltenham
Website: www.malvernstjames.co.uk

Malvern St James is an independent boarding and day school for girls, offering a dynamic and supportive learning environment. The school follows the English National Curriculum and offers GCSEs, A-levels, and the Extended Project Qualification. With a strong focus on STEM subjects, the school also provides a wide range of extracurricular activities, including outdoor education, music, drama, and a variety of sports.