Downside School

Founded in 1606, Downside School is a leading, full boarding, forward-thinking school for girls and boys based just 25 minutes from the World Heritage City of Bath. Our School is home to 330 pupils sharing six Houses; our junior boys’ House (Years 7-9) and three senior boys’ Houses, along with two larger Houses for the girls.

Set in 500 acres of beautiful English countryside, Downside has extensive facilities including an indoor pool, a Performing Arts centre, wide-ranging sports facilities and a 24/7 Health and Wellbeing centre. All pupils benefit from the boarding ethos of the School with all that means in terms of friendships, independence and developing life skills. Downside is a Catholic School, yet open and welcoming to all who feel encouraged by our approach to education and the values we live by.

We are uncompromising in our pursuit of academic excellence, and the vast majority of our sixth form pupils gain a place at their first-choice university. Our co-curricular and weekend programme is excellent and includes over 70 options including sailing, debating, caving, musical theatre, CCF, mountain biking, mixed media, shooting, bands, choirs and even knit & natter – truly something for everyone. 

The heart of our School lies pastoral care – every pupil is an important and valued part of our supportive community. At Downside we are doing things differently.