Compare International Schools in Dover, United Kingdom

Location

Dover College is at Effingham Crescent, Dover, Kent, CT17 9RH, United Kingdom. It is near Dover town centre and less than a two-minute walk from Dover Priory railway station, with the high-speed train from London St Pancras to Dover Priory taking about one hour. The Port of Dover is a three-minute drive for ferry crossings, and Eurotunnel from Folkestone is about 15 minutes away.

Stages

Nursery; Prep School; Senior School; Sixth Form

Type

Independent, co-educational, day and boarding school for children aged 3-18

Additional learning support

Pupils with SEND are supported through Learning Support. Ordinarily Available Provision underpins inclusive teaching, with Pupil Passports for individual needs, targeted interventions when needed, and Exam Access Arrangements where appropriate.

Country affiliation

United Kingdom

Religious affiliation

Christian, with weekly Chapel services and a ministry team from St Mary's Church

School day structure

The School Day: Senior School begins with registration at 8:30 am, with teaching starting at 9:00 am; each lesson is 40 minutes. The day ends at 4:20 pm for day pupils, with after-school clubs until 5:30 pm and school transport leaving at 5:30 pm.

Bus service

Minibus routes operate across Kent, including Ashford, Folkestone, Hythe, Sandwich, Deal, Walmer and surrounding villages; full details on routes and costs are available from Admissions.

Application & Registration Fees and Deposit
- Registration (non-refundable): GBP 120.
- Acceptance deposit (payable when a place is accepted):
- Day pupils: GBP 550 (returnable at the end of a pupil's career less any outstanding charges, unless gifted to the school).
- EU short‑term boarding pupils: GBP 750.
- Overseas nationals requiring a visa: a deposit equal to a minimum of one full term's boarding fees.

Tuition fees — termly and annual amounts by year group (figures include VAT where shown)
- Nursery (additional non‑funded hours — not subject to VAT):
- Full day (08:00–16:00): GBP 60 per session.
- Morning session (08:00–12:00): GBP 37.50 per session.
- Afternoon session (12:00–16:00): GBP 37.50 per session.

- Prep School (termly, including VAT):
- Reception: GBP 4,400 per term (annual total GBP 13,200).
- Prep 1 & 2: GBP 4,708 per term (annual total GBP 14,124).
- Prep 3 & 4: GBP 5,223 per term (annual total GBP 15,669).
- Prep 5 & 6: GBP 5,867 per term (annual total GBP 17,601).

- Senior School — Day pupils (termly, including VAT):
- Years 7–8: GBP 6,975 per term (annual total GBP 20,925).
- Years 9–13: GBP 8,394 per term (annual total GBP 25,182).

Boarding fees (termly and annual totals, including VAT)
- Weekly boarding (termly, including VAT):
- Years 7–8: GBP 12,221 per term (annual total GBP 36,663).
- Years 9–13: GBP 15,736 per term (annual total GBP 47,208).

- Full boarding (termly, including VAT):
- Years 7–8: GBP 15,650 per term (annual total GBP 46,950).
- Years 9–13: GBP 17,612 per term (annual total GBP 52,836).

- Occasional boarding (nightly): GBP 83 per night (inclusive of VAT).

Billing schedule, payment terms and notice
- Academic year is invoiced as an annual fee divided into three equal termly payments. Extras are charged termly in arrears; insurance premiums are charged termly in advance.
- Preferred method of payment: direct debit. If paying termly, payment must be received by the first day of each term as printed on the invoice.
- A late payment charge of 1.5% per month may be levied on overdue account balances.
- Fees are calculated annually; no pro‑rata discount is given for shorter terms or absences.
- To withdraw a pupil (other than at the normal leaving date in Year 13), one term's written notice must be given or one term's fees must be paid in lieu of notice.
- Fees can be paid in advance with a small discount; arrangements are handled by the Director of Finance.

Other costs and regular extras
- English as a Foreign Language (EFL): GBP 627 per term.
- Learning support (individual lessons): GBP 493 to GBP 1,233 per term (inclusive of VAT), depending on provision.
- Satchel One Prep Diary: GBP 12 per annum.
- Dover College Association subscription: GBP 100 on the first Senior School invoice.
- Public/external examination fees: charged at the rate set by the external exam boards.
- School bus: charged according to route/location.
- Music/LAMDA lessons: lesson fees are payable directly to the teacher; instrument hire charges available on request.
- Specialist sports and activities: additional charges may apply and are published when applicable.
- Personal Effects Insurance (opt‑in): GBP 16 per term (maximum insured sums and exclusions apply).
- Parents of boarders are asked to deposit funds for pocket money and foreseeable travel expenses at the start of term; the school does not routinely provide travel expenses to and from home.

Fee reductions and concessions
- Sibling remission (applies to the youngest child/children and does not apply to Pre‑Reception or Nursery):
- Second sibling: 5% remission.
- Third and additional siblings: 10% remission.
- Members of HM Armed Forces and the Diplomatic Service who are eligible for the Continuity of Education Allowance are required to pay a parental contribution of 10% of the full boarding fee.

Refunds, insurance and absence
- No fee remission is given for absence for any reason.
- A voluntary Schools Fees Refund Scheme (opt‑in) is available to cover illness; premiums are charged per term: Boarders 1.0% per term; Day pupils 1.5% per term.
- The acceptance deposit is returnable at the end of a pupil's career at the school after deduction of any outstanding charges, unless the parent elects to gift the deposit to the school.

Payment methods and international transfers
- Preferred domestic payment method: direct debit; termly payment by the first day of term is standard.
- Bank transfer and UK cheque have been accepted as methods of payment; international payments for overseas students are facilitated via a recommended international payment partner (Flywire) where applicable.
- For bespoke payment arrangements (advance payment discounts or specialist international transfers), the Finance Office handles the arrangements.

Boarding Arrangements

Dover College operates a full boarding system with day pupils assigned to a boarding house. There are four boarding houses (Ash, Beech, Cherry Tree and Maple) and all boarders are allocated a single room; Upper Sixth boarders are typically accommodated separately. Boarders eat three hot meals a day in the Refectory and a varied weekend activities programme is provided.

Uniform Requirement

Most uniform items are purchased from SchoolBlazer Ltd. All clothing brought into school must be clearly named; uniform guides for Senior School, Sixth Form and Prep School are provided on the site.

Food Options

Breakfast, lunch and supper are prepared daily by the Catering team and taken in the Refectory; meals are nut free with vegetarian options and a three‑week rotating menu. The college can cater for dietary requirements such as dairy/lactose intolerance and gluten‑free; themed events and special menus are occasionally offered.

House System

Senior School pupils, day and boarding, belong to one of five houses: Duckworth, Leamington, Priory, School House and St Martin's. There are four boarding houses (Ash, Beech, Cherry Tree and Maple) and inter-house activities include House Music, House Drama and various competitions; Sixth Form remains a member of their House and has access to the Sixth Form Centre.

Governance and Ownership

The Dover College Trust is a registered charity (no. 1057184) that exists to further the provision of education at Dover College by financing permanent improvements to College property or by scholarships for pupils. Trustees are Old Dovorians and oversee grants for capital projects and bursaries; donations for the College are welcome.

Curriculum

At Dover College, the curriculum runs from Prep through Sixth Form. In the GCSE Years (Third Form to Fifth Form), English, Mathematics and Science are compulsory core subjects; pupils select optional subjects from four blocks, enabling a range of combinations and up to nine GCSE examinations. Qualifications include GCSEs, iGCSEs and BTEC Level 2s, with English as an Additional Language lessons arranged after arrival assessments. In the Sixth Form, pupils study A Levels and Level 3 BTECs, with a balanced mix between traditional academic subjects and vocational options through The Professional Pathway. The Careers & Higher Education programme supports planning for university, further education or employment, and the Sixth Form Experience highlights EPQ and university visit opportunities. The Sixth Form prospectus emphasises preparation for higher education and a broad skillset to support future study and work.

Student Teacher Ratio

The College emphasises small class sizes to support individualized learning.

Exam Results

Upper Sixth results 2026 show a 98% overall pass rate, with 89% of results at A*-C or equivalent and 32% at A*-A. Across the cohort, results indicate value added with pupils performing around half a grade above baseline expectations. Of those applying to university, 87% secured a place at their first-choice institution.

Higher Education Progression

Over 80% of pupils go to university directly from Dover College; destinations include Europe, the USA, and beyond. The Pathway to University provides guidance for university entry, and a Gap Year option supports planning for time out before or during study.

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

The school uses a strong pastoral structure delivered through a house system with wide staff availability. Pupils have many adults to turn to for help and support. Regular monitoring of pupils' progress and proactive communication with parents keep wellbeing under review. A structured PSHE course provides social, emotional and health education, including RSHE. The approach emphasises relationships, community and pupil welfare as fundamental to learning.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)

The school is fully inclusive with a Learning Support Department in both Prep and Senior schools. Every teacher is a teacher of SEND, with professional development in strategies across communication and interaction, cognition and learning, social, emotional and mental health, and physical and/or sensory needs. Pupil Passports or Profiles provide concise information about how a pupil learns to inform teaching. Additional targeted support is offered where required, focused on literacy and numeracy and linked to the curriculum. Exam Access Arrangements may be available in line with examination regulations.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

The school has an English as an Additional Language policy. EAL support is provided to help pupils access the curriculum. The policy outlines approaches to language development and assessment for EAL learners. EAL provision runs across both Prep and Senior School. The school monitors EAL progress to support ongoing language development.

Mental Wellbeing

Pastoral care supports pupil mental wellbeing through a strong pastoral structure and a wide staff network. There is a dedicated pastoral team available to support welfare. A structured PSHE course develops social and emotional wellbeing, alongside health education. Regular monitoring of wellbeing and clear communication with parents help pupils feel supported. The school's approach to wellbeing is embedded in its educational aims and culture.

Safeguarding

The safety and welfare of all pupils is Dover College's highest priority. All staff, contractors and volunteers have safeguarding responsibilities and must act on concerns and report them. The Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy is published for reference. All staff receive annual safeguarding training, with governors receiving training as well; staff read Part One and Annex A of KCSIE. Visitors sign in electronically with a photo pass and use a security system; 24-hour CCTV monitors the site.

History

Dover College was founded on 15 September 1871 by local businessmen led by the Mayor of Dover, Dr Astley, to provide the town with its own public school. The College sits in the grounds of a 12th-century Benedictine Priory; the first 15 boys occupied St Martin's House under the guidance of the first headmaster, Canon William Bell. During Bell's 21 years, two boarding houses were added (Priory House in 1877 and School House in 1881), new classrooms were built, and the Priory Guest House was restored and consecrated as the College's Chapel. The Refectory and the Gatehouse were renovated and the College reached about 200 pupils by 1896, with 18 Old Dovorians at Cambridge University. Compton became Headmaster in 1892; World War I began during Headmaster Lushington's tenure, with Lushington leaving in 1915 to serve as an Army Chaplain.

Community

The school maintains active community structures including The College Archives, The Dover College Trust, and The Dover College Association, along with a Community Tennis Programme. The Dover College Association connects current and former pupils, parents and staff and encourages continued involvement through reunions, events and opportunities to support the College. Careers mentoring and work experience opportunities are provided through the Association, and OD News shares updates for the Old Dovorian and College communities. Entry points include Nursery, Prep School, Senior School and Sixth Form, reflecting the school's broad community footprint.

Parent Teacher Association (PTA)

The Dover College Association aims to promote and strengthen links between former pupils and the school, and it hosts reunions and gatherings while assisting with work placements and career mentoring. Reunions, gatherings and OD News keep the community connected, and a digital platform enables social and professional networking, with a directory and opportunities to donate or volunteer. The Association invites involvement through events, career talks and mentoring, and it supports the College through donations and development initiatives.

Facilities Overview

The school provides a range of curriculum spaces on site designed for practical, hands-on learning. Automotive Workshop features industry-standard facilities for developing hands-on motor vehicle skills. Plumbing and Electrical workshops support electrical installation and testing and plumbing systems maintenance. Engineering Labs contain CNC machines and 3D printers for complex AutoCAD projects. Breakout Spaces, a Wellbeing Room, a Student Centre, The Hub and a Refectory provide spaces for study, wellbeing and socialising.

Sports Facilities

On-site and off-site sports facilities support a broad programme. A multi-purpose sports ground off Folkestone Road is suitable for football, rugby, athletics and other sports. A cricket ground is also off Folkestone Road. A large sports hall on the main site is suitable for basketball, badminton and a range of other sports. The senior programme covers rugby, football, cricket, hockey, netball and rounders, with additional offerings including golf, horse riding, sailing, badminton, gym and esports.

Academic Facilities

Automotive Workshop features industry-standard facilities for developing hands-on motor vehicle skills. Plumbing and Electrical workshops feature industry-standard spaces for electrical installation and testing and plumbing systems maintenance. Engineering Labs contain CNC machines and 3D printers. Breakout Spaces, a Wellbeing Room, a Student Centre and The Hub provide spaces for wellbeing and independent study. The Refectory caters for breakfast and lunchtimes, plus a wide range of hot snacks throughout the day.

Extra Curricular Facilities

Learning beyond the classroom is a vibrant co-curricular programme across sport, academic societies, adventure, the arts, outdoor learning and charitable service. There are more than 50 activities across the week. Sailing reflects the coastal setting and supports confidence, resilience and teamwork. The Hope Farm Curriculum provides Year 6–8 pupils with real farm learning.

Academic & Intellectual

Dover College offers an extensive co-curricular enrichment programme made up of sport, academic societies, adventure, arts and charity, with over 50 activities weekly and additional weekend opportunities for boarders. The STRIVE programme centers on Service, Teamwork, Responsibility, Initiative, Vision and Excellence, with participation framed as essential to personal development. Drama is a key component: pupils perform in school productions, explore prop making, and create performances that tour to feeder and local primary schools; LAMDA lessons are popular and pupils work toward LAMDA exams. The coastal setting supports a structured sailing programme with Cinque Port Sailing, and the Hope Farm Curriculum gives Year 6–8 pupils hands-on farm learning about growing vegetables, soil health, biodiversity, ecology and sustainable food systems.

Arts & Creative

Drama and music are central to Dover College's co-curricular life. Pupils perform in a large school musical or classic play each year, with theatre trips and prop making; LAMDA lessons are offered and pupils work toward LAMDA exams. Music offers weekly instrumental lessons, ensembles ranging from rock bands to traditional groups, and College Choirs; chapel services and concerts cover a wide repertoire. The Arts extend beyond performance to fine art, ceramics, textiles, CAD software and digital photography.

Cultural & Language

LAMDA lessons are offered and pupils work toward LAMDA exams.

Social & Hobbies

More than 50 activities are offered each week, with weekend options for boarders. There are wide-ranging sport and adventure opportunities, as well as creative clubs and performances, reflecting the breadth of co-curricular life. The coastal location enables a structured sailing programme with Cinque Port Sailing, and there are farm-based experiences through the Hope Farm Curriculum.

Community & Service

The STRIVE programme centers on Service, Teamwork, Responsibility, Initiative, Vision and Excellence, with numerous service opportunities, leadership roles and charitable activities. The Duke of Edinburgh Award is part of the co-curricular offer, and Careers & Higher Education provides guidance for pupils' next steps.

Leadership & Professional

STRIVE provides leadership development through Service, Teamwork, Responsibility, Initiative, Vision and Excellence. The Duke of Edinburgh Award offers leadership components, and Careers & Higher Education guidance supports pupils' post-16 planning. Round Square connects students with international programmes and leadership opportunities.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing

The coastal location supports a structured sailing programme with Cinque Port Sailing, fostering confidence, resilience and teamwork. The Hope Farm Curriculum gives Year 6–8 pupils hands-on learning about biodiversity, ecology and sustainable farming. Prep health, wellbeing and confidence are supported through after-school activities, Forest School and a broad wellbeing-focused programme.

Admissions

1. Visit us. Families meet the Headmaster and tour the facilities during a visit to Dover College, providing an opportunity to discuss the child's interests and for the school to showcase its environment. A visit can be booked through the admissions process. 2. Register your child. When Dover College is considered suitable, the Admissions Team sends registration paperwork. The registration package requires copies of the child's two previous school reports, a birth certificate or passport, and a non-refundable registration fee (£120). 3. Any other information. If the child receives any form of learning support, the information should be provided at registration, along with the latest educational psychologist's report if available. A meeting with the school SENCO is arranged to assess support needs and determine if the college can provide the required assistance. 4. Assessment. Dover College is non-selective and does not use entrance exams for Senior School. Assessment for Senior School is based on the registration materials and an interview with the Headmaster or a member of the Senior Leadership Team. Nursery and Prep entries require at least one taster session before an offer is made; all Senior School entrants are offered a taster day in the term before entry. 5. Offer. If the interview or taster is successful, an offer of a place is issued along with the Parent Contract and acceptance paperwork. A place is confirmed upon return of the signed acceptance forms and payment of the deposit. 6. Admissions timetable for the Prep and Senior School. At the start of Michaelmas term, the college writes to registered families with important admissions dates, fees for the following year, scholarship details and results publication. If families have not heard by mid-October, they should contact the Director of Admissions and Marketing. Entrance interviews, scholarship exams, trials and interviews are normally held in December and January, with letters issued within about two weeks of the interview/exam. Means-tested bursaries are normally offered from early March and are often linked to scholarship provision. 7. Admissions for Nursery, Pre-Prep, Prep 1 and Prep 2. The college does not academically assess entry to the Early Years Foundation Stages (Nursery and Pre-Prep). Prior to entry, parents meet with a Deputy Head and arrange a day for the child to spend in the appropriate year group; informal assessments take place during these visits. The college also offers Kent Free Early Education Entitlement, subject to availability, and prioritises places based on factors such as siblings, commitment to Dover College, full-day needs, and other considerations. If an offer is made, parents are asked to accept and pay the acceptance deposit within a month. 8. Scholarships and bursaries. Scholarships are offered at 11+, 13+ and 16+ entry, including academic and subject-specific awards (Art, Design Technology, Music, Drama and Sport). Scholarships reduce tuition by up to 20% and are awarded at the Headmaster's discretion. Bursaries are means-tested and aim to widen access to families who could not otherwise afford the fees; bursaries are typically linked to scholarships and assessed via confidential financial documentation and BAL input. 9. Overseas Pupils, military and sibling discounts, and waiting lists. Overseas pupils must take an English test and may have a Zoom interview if unable to visit in person; a guardian is required for visa nationals, while EU nationals do not require a guardian. Military discounts may apply where a Continuing Education Allowance is used, reducing the parental contribution. Sibling discounts are available for families with two or more children. Waiting lists exist in some year groups and criteria include siblings at Dover College, long-term commitment by parents, full-day needs, status as Old Dovorians, assessment results, and date of registration.

Scholarships

Scholarships and Bursaries: Dover College offers scholarships at 11+, 13+ and 16+ entry, including academic and specialist awards (Art, Design Technology, Music, Drama and Sport). An awarded scholarship represents an annual discount on tuition fees up to 20%. Bursaries provide means-tested support to families who would otherwise be unable to afford attendance; bursaries are means-tested, assessed annually, and may be linked to scholarships. Admissions policies and processes indicate that bursaries are normally awarded in conjunction with scholarship provision and are subject to annual review and availability.

Waitlist

Waiting Lists: In year groups where waiting lists operate, selection criteria include siblings at Dover College; evidence of long-term commitment by parents; need for full-day places (Muddy Knees Nursery only); children of Old Dovorians; assessment results (if applicable); and date of registration. Priority may be given to siblings and to those with recent family connections to the College when merit and interview outcomes are similar.