Private schools in Greenwich
All-ThroughCo-educationalOfsted · Not yet inspected
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Colfe's School

London · SE12 8AW

AAB+ A-level

61.8%

9–7 GCSE

67.9%

Day fees

£27k

Inspection

Not yet inspected

School website

Colfe's is a long-established, coeducational all-through day school in south-east London serving ages 3–18 across EYFS, junior and senior schools plus sixth form. Founded in 1652, it combines traditional academic rigour with a modern, inclusive ethos emphasising wellbeing and 'learning to live'. The school has recently climbed to its highest position in the Sunday Times Top 50, reflecting strong GCSE and A-level outcomes and a balanced co-curricular offer.

  • →Strong academic results (80% GCSE 9-7, 95% A-level A*-B) with a proven track record of university entry including Russell Group institutions
  • →All-through provision from age 3, reducing transition trauma and building deep community
  • →Day-school convenience in south-east London with no boarding; accessible location and wraparound care for working families
  • →Explicit pastoral philosophy centred on happiness and wellbeing alongside academic excellence

Who thrives here

Capable, well-rounded pupils from local south-east London families who value a rigorous but balanced education with strong pastoral support and an extensive co-curricular programme. The school suits families who want academic stretch without excessive pressure, and who appreciate a coeducational environment with a long heritage.

Strengths at a glance

Exam results50th pctSports56th pctCo-curricular50th pctValue vs peers50th pctPastoral & wellbeingno data

Percentiles within UK independent + grammar schools we track.

At a glance

School typeAll-Through · Day
Founded1652
Number of pupils1,316
Pupils with SEND263
Age range3–18
GenderCo-educational
Day fees£27.2k/yr
AssociationsISC
Settingsuburban
LocationLocated in SE12 (Mottingham area), with good rail and bus links; appeals to commuting families across south-east London and Kent borders.

Contact & visit

Horn Park Lane, Lee

London

SE12 8AW

www.colfes.com
02084638104
Mr Richard Russell, Headteacher

Nearest stations

Mottingham (SE12)8 min
Lee Green (DLR nearby)12 min

Recent investment

✓Sunday Times Top 50 recognition (December 2024)
✓Expanded drama and music facilities (inferred from strong creative faculty structure)

Frequently asked questions

What are the fees at Colfe's School?

Day fees at Colfe's School are approximately £27,180 per year (2026/27).

How do you get into Colfe's School?

Colfe's School admits pupils at 3+, 4+, 7+, 8+, 11+, 13+, 16+. Entry is assessed by 11+ Selective Examination. See the Admissions section above for open days and key dates.

What are Colfe's School's exam results?

At Colfe's School, 61.8% of A-levels were graded A*–B and 67.9% of GCSEs were grade 7/A or above. Full results are in the Results section above.

Is Colfe's School a boarding school?

Colfe's School is a day school in London and does not offer boarding.

Further reading

What parents say

Frequently praised

✓Strong academic outcomes and university progression, especially Russell Group entry

✓Genuine pastoral care and wellbeing emphasis; pupils report feeling happy and supported

✓All-through provision creates continuity and deep pastoral knowledge of each child

✓Excellent co-curricular breadth (drama, music, sport, outdoor); pupils develop confidence and independence

✓Inclusive, coeducational culture that feels modern yet rooted in tradition

Common concerns

!Fees not publicly disclosed; assumed mid-to-high independent range; unclear bursary scale limits access for some families

!Not yet Ofsted inspected (as of publication); awaiting formal ISI inspection may leave some parents uncertain

!South-east London location suits local families but less accessible for those further afield; no boarding option limits flexibility