Brighton College: Reviews, Programmes, Fees and More
Discover Brighton College, a leading independent school in the UK. This school is known for its academic excellence, outstanding pastoral care, and a wide range of extracurricular programmes. Explore a diverse and supportive community that fosters personal growth and prepares students for future success.
Table of Contents
Summary of the School
- Type of school: Co-educational
- Age range: 11-18
- Pupils: 1,225; sixth formers: 430
- Fees: Day £7,720 – £10,590; Boarding; £21,670 – £22,840 pa
- 2023 A Level Results: 82% A*- A
- 2023 GSCE Results: 94% 9-7
Brighton College Overview
Brighton College is widely regarded as one of the top schools in the UK, as evidenced by its high rankings in various league tables. A significant factor contributing to Brighton College’s success is its emphasis on the personal development of its students.
The school actively promotes kindness, believing students perform their best when they feel their best. Brighton’s philosophy centres on recognising and celebrating students as individuals, which fosters their confidence and self-acceptance. The primary aim is to ensure students feel comfortable in their skin and true to themselves.
Brighton College also boasts a team of passionate and dedicated teachers who go above and beyond to inspire and support their students. This environment of kindness and genuine care from educators is crucial to the school’s consistency and excellence.
Brighton College Programmes and Courses
There are three courses offered by Brighton College:
- 11+ Curriculum (Year 7 and 8)
- GCSE (Year 9)
- A-Levels
1) 11+ Curriculum (Year 7 and 8)
The college’s curriculum is meticulously crafted to equip children with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive in the 21st century. Beyond the foundational subjects of mathematics and English, students have the option to study languages such as Mandarin, French, Russian, Latin, German, and Spanish. Furthermore, science is taught as three separate subjects and has its dedicated facilities. Students also have the opportunities to take extracurricular subjects like coding and IT, music, art, design, technology, and drama, or immerse themselves in comprehensive sports programmes.
2) 13+ Curriculum (GCSE)
The Fourth Form (Year 10) serves as a gateway for Brighton students to foster curiosity towards subjects and build confidence through a variety of challenging activities beyond the classroom. Students explore a broad array of subjects allowing them to identify their favourites for GCSEs.
The process of selecting GCSE subjects unfolds over the three terms of the Fourth Form. It begins with a presentation for both parents and students in the first term, guiding the selection process. This is followed by a parents’ evening with individual subject appointments. Throughout the year, students are encouraged to develop a shortlist of preferred subjects, which is gradually refined with the support of tutors.
3) 16+ Curriculum (A-Levels)
At A-Levels, students embark on a rigorous and challenging education programme that prepares them for the A Levels examination and beyond. Students have the opportunity to choose from a wide range of subjects, including traditional disciplines like Mathematics, English Literature, Physics, Chemistry, and History, as well as more specialised options such as Economics, Psychology, Politics, and Modern Languages. The curriculum is designed to encourage deep exploration of these subjects, fostering critical thinking, independent study, and a passion for learning.
Brighton College Rankings and Results
According to the A Levels League Table, Brighton College achieved the 12th position nationwide among all boarding schools for A Levels in 2023. Similarly, in the GCSE League Table, the institution secured the 12th position among all boarding schools in 2023.
In 2023, Brighton College achieved an outstanding 82% of A Levels graded A*-A, while their GCSE students achieved an impressive 94% of grades 9-7. Brighton College has a long-standing tradition of academic excellence, consistently producing excellent results and ranking among the top schools in the country in various league tables.
Brighton College Fees
The 2024-2025 term fees for international students at Brighton College are as follows:
Senior School
Year | Day Fees | Weekly Boarding | Full Boarding |
7 – Lower 3rd | £7,720 | – | – |
8 – Upper 3rd | £8,400 | – | – |
9 – 4th Form | £10,110 | £17,730 | £21,670 |
10 – Lower 5th | £10,250 | £17,820 | £21,780 |
11 – Upper 5th | £10,310 | £17,890 | £21,890 |
12 – Lower 6th | £10,310 | £18,150 | £22,470 |
13 – Upper 6th | £10,590 | £18,270 | £22,840 |
Entry Requirements for Brighton College
Year 9 (13+)
Offers for 13+ entry to Brighton College are made after pre-test assessment, and they are conditional on a successful performance in the Common Entrance (CE) or academic scholarship examination in Year 8. Modified arrangements exist for pupils who attend a school that do not prepare pupils for Common Entrance. For overseas applications, please contact us for further information.
Year 12 (16+)
In the first round of testing, students will complete written assignments in verbal reasoning, mathematics, and English in addition to a general paper that evaluates their writing, logic, and scientific reasoning skills. A second round of interviews is scheduled for the following week.
Overseas Admissions
Overseas admissions consist of four steps.
Step 1: Registration
You can apply to register on their website or directly through us.
Step 2: Interview
Once your application has been received, your child will be invited to an online interview via Microsoft Teams. The interview is usually held September or October the year before entry.
Step 3: Assessment
The Brighton College team will make arrangements for your child’s assessment, which will be held at an approved invigilation centre in their city of residence. Assessments will be held between September and October of the year preceding entry. For Candidates applying for 16+, they will be required to sit for a general paper which tests critical thinking, writing, and scientific reasoning.
Step 4: Results
Results will be sent via email by November.
Boarding Experience in Brighton College
Boarders at Brighton College are accommodated in 6 distinct boarding Houses: 3 for boys (Abraham, Head’s and School), 2 for girls (Fenwick and New), and 1 mixed house for Sixth Form students (Alexander). Some Sixth Formers also stay in annexes connected to these Houses – Stewart, Christie, Griffith and Walpole.
Each House is led by a dedicated live-in Housemaster or Housemistress, supported by 2 Deputy Housemasters or Housemistresses, a Matron, and a team of Tutors. This team plays a crucial role in ensuring the smooth operation of the boarding community and enhancing the quality of life for the students. Each House features its building, facilities, identity, and ethos while maintaining a unified approach to pastoral support.
The school’s ethos centres on inclusion and support, and they take great pride in the high-quality pastoral care provided by Brighton. This care is delivered by the tutor team and specialist boarding staff within each House, who are integral to the school community. The effectiveness of this pastoral care relies on strong, supportive relationships between staff and students, ensuring every student feels supported, encouraged and known.
Brighton College Extracurricular Activities
Brighton College offers a dynamic range of extracurricular activities that enrich the educational experience and help students explore their interests beyond academics. For example, students can participate in competitive sports such as football, rugby, and tennis, as well as individual pursuits like swimming and athletics. The school also has a robust arts programme, with opportunities to engage in drama production, join the school choir, or participate in visual arts workshops.
Additionally, students can join various clubs, including debate, coding, and environmental initiatives, or take part in leadership roles within the student council. These activities not only enhance students’ personal development but also promote teamwork, creativity, and leadership skills. By providing such diverse opportunities, Brighton College supports students in finding their passions and developing a well-rounded skill set.
Brighton College Application Deadline
11+ Curriculum
Year 6 marks the beginning of the 11+ admissions process. It is advised to register at least a year in advance of admission. For example, for entry to the September intake of 2025/2026 you should submit your application by September of 2024.
GCSE (13+)
Brighton advises you to register as soon as possible, ideally early September before the year entry. For instance, entry 2025/2026 application must be made by September 2024.
A-Levels (16+)
Year 11 marks the beginning of the 16+ admissions process. Similar to other courses, you are advised to register at least a year before entry. So for September 2025 intake, you should register no later than September 2024.
Brighton College Reviews
It is a place where each individual is valued and respected. Academic life is rigorous with various extra-curricular activities on offer.
Good environment to grow and learn. Some friendships and teachers leave an indelible and lasting impression, that is not easily forgotten. Mostly, these influences are better appreciated, later in life.
An amazing school with a huge reputation for excellence in sports and music. They rock!
My children at Brighton are very happy to go to school every day. The teachers are really good and dedicated, I will always be grateful to this wonderful school. I have peace of mind with my children under their care.
Frequently Asked Questions about Brighton College
Brighton College offers several boarding options, including full boarding, weekly boarding, and occasional boarding.
The application process includes submitting an application form, school reports, and references. Prospective students may also need to sit entrance exams and attend an interview.
Yes, Brighton College welcomes international students and offers comprehensive support, including English language assistance, cultural integration programmes, and dedicated pastoral care to help them adjust to life in the UK and succeed academically.
Brighton College is an accredited institution under PTIB (Private Training Institution Branch), with BC EQA (British Columbia Education Quality Assurance) designation, assuring all programmes and instruction meet standards of quality. For more information, you can contact admissions@brightoncollege.net or go to their website.
Apply To A UK Boarding School Today!
Speak to us today for free application assistance and education advice. Our expert consultants are more than happy to help!
Apply To UK Boarding School Today!
Speak to us today for free application assistance and education advice. Our expert consultants are more than happy to help!