Dover College
Dover College
Dover, England
The pupils at Dover College appear cheerful and relaxed – no surprise, as academic pressure is not the sole focus here. Instead, the school places great importance on helping young people discover their own potential and, in doing so, build their self-confidence. Dover College’s value-added results are among the best in the United Kingdom. Pupils regularly achieve grades far above the original predictions made when they joined the school. Whether it’s belly dancing, sailing or drama – the wide range of extracurricular activities offers space for personal growth and real moments of success.
The Details
The Academics
Considering that Dover College is not selective, the school achieves quite solid results. In 2024, pupils attained 7% grades 8–9 in their GCSE exams and 27% A grades at A Level.
A few years ago, the school introduced its own curriculum designed to offer pupils a more thematic and cross-curricular approach to learning. Alongside GCSEs, A-Levels and BTECs, pupils receive excellent academic support throughout.
Languages Taught
English as a Foreign Language, French and Spanish.
The Boarding
In the Senior School at Dover College, all pupils now have single bedrooms – the school no longer offers shared accommodation. Pupils belong to one of five traditional houses, which provide guidance, structure and pastoral support throughout their time at the school. The dedicated Sixth Form Centre offers quiet study spaces and excellent preparation for life beyond school. Competitions such as House Music, House Drama and sports tournaments foster a strong sense of community and encourage teamwork.
Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths
Dover College is a fairly small school with a warm, family-like atmosphere where pupils quickly feel at home. The community is close-knit, and the integration of boarders works extremely well – everyone knows everyone, and a strong sense of togetherness is at the heart of school life.
In the arts, Dover College is very well equipped: photography, painting and textile projects in particular are given plenty of space to flourish. Creative talents are nurtured and have the opportunity to develop their skills further in modern studios.
The sports programme at Dover College is diverse: boys focus on rugby, football and cricket, while girls compete mainly in hockey, netball and rounders. The programme is complemented by golf, riding, sailing, badminton, gymnastics, esports and much more. Team spirit is actively encouraged, and everyone can find the sport that suits them.
Weaknesses
The number of boarders is relatively small. However, Dover College succeeds like few other schools in closely integrating day pupils and boarders.
Location
Dover College is idyllically located in the port town of Dover, just a short walk from the town centre. The school is situated right next to Dover Priory station – the high-speed train takes only about 60 minutes to reach London St Pancras.
A school for pupils who value a good balance between academics and free time.
The town of Dover doesn’t have the best reputation in Europe – but don’t let that put you off. Our pupils appreciate the beautiful natural surroundings, the proximity to the sea and the small, green oasis that the school campus provides.
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