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.

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