Radley College Review: Rankings, Fees, And More
Founded in 1847, Radley College is a prestigious educational institution in the picturesque English countryside. With a long-standing commitment to academic excellence and holistic development, the school has a proven track record of nurturing well-rounded individuals. Our guide examines the key attributes that distinguish Radley College from its peers.
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Radley College School Summary
- Type of school: Boys school
- Age range: 13-18
- Pupils: 691
- Boarders: 100%
- Fees: £51,150 per annum (Full Boarding)
- 2024 A-Level Results: 65% A*-A
- 2024 GCSE Results: 85% 9-7
Radley College Overview
Radley College, set amidst the tranquil landscapes of Oxfordshire, is a distinguished boarding school that has been shaping the lives of boys aged 13-18 for generations. Renowned for its commitment to academic excellence, character development, and community spirit, Radley fosters an environment where students are encouraged to excel in both their studies and personal growth. With a rich history, a forward-thinking approach, and a culture rooted in kindness, ambition, and integrity, Radley College offers a transformative experience that prepares boys to thrive in a rapidly evolving world.
Their motto, “Greatness & Goodness,” perfectly encapsulates their philosophy. Radley boys are known for their drive, ambition, confidence, and unwavering commitment to integrity and service.
Radley College Courses And Programmes
A Strong Foundation: GCSE/IGCSE
Radley College provides a rigorous academic foundation for its students, preparing them for the challenges of higher education. Students typically sit GCSE or IGCSE examinations in a range of subjects, including:
- Core Subjects: Mathematics, English Language, and English Literature
- Sciences: Biology, Chemistry, and Physics
- Humanities: History, Geography, and Religious Studies
- Languages: French, German, Spanish, and Latin
- Arts: Art and Design, Music, and Drama
- Other Subjects: Computer Science, Business Studies, and Physical Education
A Diverse Range of A-Level Subjects
Upon completing their GCSEs, Radley students embark on their A-Level studies. The school offers a wide variety of A-Level subjects, allowing students to tailor their education to their individual interests and aspirations.
Students typically choose three or four A-Level subjects, depending on whether they opt for Further Mathematics. Additionally, they are expected to undertake two courses within the school’s Curriculum Extension Programme, which offers a range of enrichment opportunities beyond the traditional A-Level curriculum. Subjects offered include:
- Arts: Art, Drama, Music, History of Art
- Humanities: History, Geography, Economics, Politics, Theology, Classics, Philosophy
- Languages: English Literature, French, German, Spanish, Greek
- Sciences: Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, Further Mathematics, Computer Science
- Design and Technology: Design Technology
By providing a diverse range of A-Level subjects and supplementary courses, Radley College empowers its students to achieve their academic goals and develop the skills and knowledge necessary for success in higher education and beyond.
Radley College Rankings And Results
Radley College students excel academically, year after year. In 2024, 65% of A-Level students achieved A* or A grades, and 85% of GCSE students attained 9-7 grades. Ranked 50th in the 2024 A-Level League Table, Radley is a leading all-boys boarding school, alongside Eton, Winchester, and Harrow.
Radley College Fees
The tuition fee for the academic year of 2024/2025 is £17,050 per term or £51,150 per annum. Additional costs may be included for other activities such as music and drama lessons. For the full list of additional charges, visit this link.
Radley College Admissions Process
1. Age of Entry
Radley College primarily admits boys at 13+ entry into Shell (Year 9) and 16+ entry into the Sixth Form (Year 12).
2. Registration
Boys must be registered for admission by the age of 10 years and 6 months (typically in Year 6) for 13+ entry. Late applications may still be considered depending on availability.
For Sixth Form entry, registration typically closes around the start of Year 11.
3. 13+ Entry (Year 9)
Pre-Assessment: Applicants undergo a pre-assessment process in Year 6 or Year 7, which includes:
An online reasoning test (such as the ISEB Common Pre-Test).
A report from the boy’s current school.
An informal interview with Radley staff.
Conditional Offers: Boys who pass the pre-assessment receive a conditional offer, subject to meeting the academic standard in the final entrance exams.
Common Entrance or Radley Academic Scholarship Exam: Boys who receive conditional offers sit the Common Entrance Exam or Radley Scholarship Exams in Year 8. Successful candidates must achieve the required grades to confirm their place.
4. 16+ Entry (Sixth Form)
Applicants for Sixth Form entry are expected to demonstrate high academic achievement and potential. The process includes:
Submission of a strong school report and predicted GCSE or IGCSE grades.
Sitting entrance tests in the subjects they wish to study at A-Level.
An interview with senior staff to assess suitability and discuss academic interests and ambitions.
Successful candidates must achieve minimum GCSE grade requirements, typically grades 8-9 (A-A)* in their chosen A-Level subjects and strong results in supporting subjects.
5. Additional Considerations
Scholarships: Academic, Music, Art, Sport, and All-Rounder scholarships are available. Scholarship candidates undergo additional assessments and interviews relevant to their area of expertise.
Bursaries: Means-tested bursaries are offered to ensure talented boys from diverse backgrounds can attend Radley. Families interested in financial support must submit a bursary application as part of the process.
The Radley Keys Award: This programme identifies and supports boys with exceptional potential who might not otherwise afford the fees.
6. Language Proficiency
For international applicants, a strong command of English is essential. Non-native English speakers may need to provide evidence of their proficiency through tests such as the UKiset or equivalent.
7. Visiting and Open Days
Families are encouraged to attend open days and arrange private visits to experience the school and meet key staff. This allows both the school and the family to determine whether Radley is the right fit.
Key Deadlines
Registration deadlines and exam dates vary depending on the entry year and pathway. Families should ensure they check the latest admissions timeline on the Radley College website or contact the Admissions Office for clarification.
Radley College Boarding and Pastoral Care
Radley College offers a vibrant and supportive boarding experience, with 11 Socials (boarding houses) named A to L. These Socials foster a strong sense of community, encouraging boys to mix freely and form lasting friendships.
To ensure a comfortable and conducive learning environment, the school has implemented several initiatives:
- Privacy and Comfort: First-year students enjoy curtained cubicles with sinks and cabin beds, providing a balance of privacy and communal living. Second-year students have their own single study bedrooms.
- Convenient Facilities: A card system allows boys to purchase essentials like uniforms, stationery, and snacks at the school shop or coffee shop.
- Freedom and Responsibility: Upper Sixth Formers enjoy greater flexibility, including the ability to spend Saturday evenings out and take advantage of exeats and privis.
A Comprehensive Pastoral Care
Radley College is committed to providing exceptional pastoral care to its students. The school employs a dedicated team of staff to support boys’ academic, social, and emotional well-being:
- Housemasters and Mistresses: These individuals oversee the day-to-day life of each Social, ensuring a safe and supportive environment.
- Tutors and Sub-Tutors: These staff members provide academic guidance and pastoral support to individual students.
- Form Masters: Form Masters monitor students’ academic progress and offer guidance.
- Mentors: Lower Sixth Form students are assigned mentors to provide additional support and advice.
- House Prefects: Sixth Form prefects play a crucial role in supervising younger students, particularly during prep and bedtime.
To further strengthen the sense of community, the school organises regular social events, such as Cocoa evenings, where students can relax, socialise, and bond with their peers.
Parents of Radley students consistently praise the dedication of the staff and appreciate the regular progress reports they receive.
Radley College Application Deadline
The school must receive applications for boarding spots by September of the year before the student wants to start the academic year. Applications, for instance, must be submitted by September if they are to be considered for admission in the next year’s intake.
Radley College Extracurricular Activities
Radley College offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, ensuring that students can pursue their passions and develop their interests beyond the classroom.
Sporting Excellence
The school boasts an impressive array of sporting facilities, including:
- Sports Hall
- Swimming Pool
- Tennis Courts
- Rackets Courts
- Squash Courts
- Fives Courts
- Golf Course
- Artificial Pitch
- Boathouse
Students can participate in a variety of sports, including:
- Team Sports: Rugby, Hockey, Football, Cricket, and Rowing
- Individual Sports: Tennis, Athletics, Badminton, Golf, Squash, and Swimming
Creative Pursuits
Radley College also provides ample opportunities for creative and artistic expression:
- Design Centre
- Art Centre
- Ceramics Studio
- Computer Rooms
- Music School
- Library
Students can explore their talents in areas such as:
- Art and Design
- Music
- Drama
- Debating
- Model Making
- Computer Science
Social and Cultural Activities
To foster social interaction and cultural exchange, Radley College organises various events and activities:
- Exeat Weekends: Students have opportunities to spend weekends off-campus.
- Privilege Weekends (“Privis”): These weekends reward academic and behavioral excellence.
- Sunday Outs: Students can go out with parents or friends after chapel.
- Joint Activities with Girls’ Schools: Radley College organises social events, such as discos, dinners, and theater trips, with nearby girls’ schools.
By offering a diverse range of extracurricular activities, Radley College aims to provide a well-rounded education that develops students’ intellectual, physical, and social skills.
Radley College Reviews
“I have spent thirteen years trying to make my son as happy as possible; you have achieved it in just three weeks.”
“When I arrived at Radley I was struck by Chapel’s peaceful atmosphere and the stillness maintained by the whole congregation, followed by rousing hymn-singing.”
“I love all the sport here, However, I think it is the staff and teachers that really make Radley the great place it is.”
“Pupils achieve the highest standards across an extremely wide range of activities. The quality of the pupils’ achievement and learning is exceptional. Staff and senior pupils provide fine role models, and the care shown by older pupils for younger ones is exemplary. Additional academic activities such as debating in French, creative writing, and the Anglo-Japanese science presentation, together with external and internal speakers in societies, offer additional enrichment and challenge.”
Radley College Frequently Asked Questions
Radley College prioritises academic excellence, offering a broad and balanced curriculum that prepares students for higher education. The school’s focus on fostering intellectual curiosity and critical thinking enables students to achieve outstanding results in a range of subjects, including STEM, humanities, and the arts.
Radley College provides a supportive and stimulating boarding environment. The school’s 11 Socials (boarding houses) offer a strong sense of community, with boys encouraged to participate in a variety of activities, including sports, music, drama, and academic societies. The pastoral care system ensures that each boy feels valued and supported, and the experienced staff are dedicated to their well-being.
Radley College prepares students for the future by equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to succeed. The school offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, drama, and debating, which help students develop their talents and interests. Additionally, the school’s careers programme provides guidance and support to help students make informed decisions about their future paths.
Radley College Contact Information
- Official website: https://www.radley.org.uk
- Phone call: 01235 543174
- Email: admissions@radley.org.uk
- Location: Radley College, Abingdon, Oxfordshire OX14 2HR
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Speak to us today for free application assistance and education advice. Our expert consultants are more than happy to help!