Welcome to Admissions at Plymouth College. We are delighted you are considering joining our school. This section guides you through the application journey, financial information and essential practical details for prospective families.
Admissions
Welcome to Plymouth College
At Plymouth College our pupils thrive in an environment where academic excellence meets a spirit of discovery. Guided by passionate teachers, we nurture both intellectual growth and personal development. Our international community brings together pupils from across the globe, creating a dynamic and inclusive atmosphere. This diversity inspires collaboration, fosters lifelong friendships, and enriches every aspect of school life.
Beyond the classroom, our pupils engage in a wide range of activities, sports, and community initiatives, ensuring a truly holistic education. They develop the confidence to lead, the curiosity to explore and the resilience to succeed in an ever-changing world. Join us at Plymouth College where potential is unlocked, passions are ignited and futures are shaped.
Message From The Head
Schools should always be a source of hope and promise for the future, and guiding students in schools is both a privilege and a challenge. Working to support and guide young children and adolescents through what seems an increasingly uncertain world is a truly important vocation, carrying great responsibility and accountability. For those of us who choose to take on this challenge, witnessing the development and flourishing of young people is the greatest reward.
Ours is a community which believes in learning for all, learning for life and learning in a fuller sense than just academically. For our students, this means that whilst examination success and demonstrable academic progress is valued, so too is the personal growth and character development gained through co-curricular activity, but also opportunities to support and lead others and to undertake community service.
Pastoral care and education, and knowing all of our students well in our inclusive community, underpins all that we do. For our staff, learning is key too, through opportunities for career development and continuing professional development of high frequency and measurable value.
Success in life is measured in many different ways, most obviously by gold medals and examination results. Our community is rightly proud of our Olympic heritage in sport and the excellent achievements of our students at both GCSE and A level, but we also recognise that success for each individual means different things. We support our students in testing themselves in and beyond the classroom, and value resilience, teamwork, perseverance and service as much as we do raw attainment.
Ultimately, how our students are as people and how they build relationships with others will be of more importance to them, and to society, than how talented they are. Our community thrives in supporting both those who display excellence and those who struggle; it thrives in the development of academic and emotional intelligence and literacy, and in enhancing in our leavers a sense of their responsibility for themselves and their own actions, to others and to their environment and in creating a more compassionate and aware global community.
As you explore our website, we hope it gives you a flavour of the vibrant daily life of Plymouth College. We invite you to visit us in person; a chance for you to experience first hand the nurturing relationships, holistic education, and limitless possibilities that define our community.
To find out more and experience this in person, please do come to visit us. I look forward to meeting you.
Peter Watts
Headmaster
Admissions Process
Joining Plymouth College is an exciting step and our admissions team is here to guide you smoothly through every stage. This section provides a clear overview of our admissions process for entry into our Prep School, Senior School and Sixth Form. You will find information on key application timelines, assessment arrangements and what we look for in prospective pupils who will thrive in our vibrant learning community.
We aim to make the process as straightforward and welcoming as possible. Discover the steps involved from initial enquiry and registration to assessments and receiving an offer. Our team is always available to answer your questions and provide personalised support to ensure a positive experience for your family.
Arrange a Visit
The best way to truly experience the unique atmosphere and welcoming community at Plymouth College is to visit us in person. We warmly invite prospective pupils and their families to arrange a personal tour to explore our historic campus and see our facilities firsthand. During your visit you will have the opportunity to meet current pupils and dedicated members of our teaching staff.
Whether you are considering entry at any stage, a visit allows you to feel the nurturing yet stimulating environment we cultivate. It’s a chance to observe our engaged pupils, experience our dynamic lessons and understand how we support individual growth. We encourage you to book a tour.
Open Days
Join us to explore our historic campus, nestled in the coastal city of Plymouth and experience firsthand the community that has inspired students for over 150 years. Meet our passionate teachers, engage with current students, and have a look at what makes Plymouth College truly special.
Our Open Days offer a glimpse into our academic programs, designed to spark curiosity and fuel ambition. Whether you’re drawn to our high performance sports programmes, inspired by the creative arts, or eager to be part of a remarkable school community, our Open Days will show you how we can shape your future. Come with questions, leave with inspiration, your story starts here. Join us and take the first step towards an extraordinary future.
International Admissions
Plymouth College is proud of its rich international community, welcoming pupils from over 30 countries into our diverse and supportive environment. This section provides specific guidance for families applying from overseas. We detail the application and assessment process tailored for international pupils considering entry into our Prep School, Senior School or Sixth Form.
We outline the support available throughout the admissions journey and upon arrival, including information on our boarding options which provide a caring ‘home away from home’. Our experienced admissions team and dedicated staff are here to assist with making the transition as smooth as possible for international pupils.
Fees & Financial Information
Understanding the investment in your child’s education is crucial and this section offers comprehensive details on all financial aspects of attending Plymouth College. You will find clear information on our current school fees for tuition and boarding across different year groups, helping you plan effectively. We also provide full details on our commitment to recognising talent and widening access through our range of scholarships and means-tested bursaries.
We also outline various optional insurance schemes available for pupils’ peace of mind and explain the different payment methods and options we offer.
School Uniform
Our school uniform and sports kit are important elements of life at Plymouth College, fostering a sense of pride, identity and community among our pupils. This section provides all the necessary information regarding uniform requirements for different school stages. We detail our partnerships with specialist suppliers, Schoolblazer for daily wear and formal uniform, and Playerlayer for our distinctive sports kit.
You can find guidance on how to view examples of the uniform and sports kit, with clear instructions and links for ordering items directly from these suppliers. We also provide access to downloadable checklists for comprehensive lists of compulsory and optional items.
Transport
Plymouth College is committed to ensuring pupils can travel to and from school safely and conveniently. This section provides details about the transport options available to our families. For day pupils we outline information on any dedicated school bus routes that serve various local areas and provide guidance on accessing the school via public transport links where applicable.
For our boarding pupils, this section complements information found on our Travel & Term Dates page regarding airport transfers and travel arrangements for the beginning and end of terms and half-term breaks.
Term Dates & Calendar
Planning your family’s schedule around the academic year is essential and this section provides comprehensive information on Plymouth College’s term dates. You will find a clear outline of the start and end dates for each of our three terms as well as details for half-term breaks and major school holidays, enabling you to make arrangements well in advance.
Beyond the core term dates, our school calendar, also accessible here, is packed with a wide range of important events including parents’ evenings, school productions, sports fixtures and co-curricular activities. Staying informed about these dates will help your family fully engage with the vibrant life of Plymouth College.