Concord College

Since 2021, Dr Michael Truss, previously deputy head (academic) at Barnard Castle. MPhys degree in physics from Oxford and a PhD in theoretical astrophysics from Leicester, followed by postdoctoral research at St Andrews and a teaching fellowship at

Highly selective, with four applications per place. Around 50 join in year 9 and a further 45 in year 10, via entrance exams in English, maths and critical thinking. Biggest intake is into year 12, when 120 newbies join. Applicants need 50+ points

Between 15 and 20 per cent leave after GCSEs, usually for less traditional A levels such as psychology and computer science. Either that or they don’t get the grades (while the school doesn’t exactly cull, there’s really only leeway on 50+ points

In 2025, 87 per cent 9-7 at GCSE; 83 per cent A*/A at A level (95 per cent A*-B).

You will find Concord showcasing the top echelons of any league table you care to consult, and for most parents that’s its allure. ‘They promise impressive exam results, and they deliver,’ proclaimed one. We have rarely visited such a goal-oriented

Around 16-20 students in lower school require EAL support, for which they are pulled out of history, French or German in small groups. SENCo (who has been at the school since the 1980s, although not in the same role) showed us a list of current SEN

Aware that their sharp intellect alone may not get them that glittering prize of a top university, students need no persuading to fill their after-school hours with some of the 100+ clubs and societies. Many are student led – one told us he set up a

Impressive facilities include fields, three gyms, two sports halls and an indoor pool. ‘But if you’re really sporty, don’t come here!’ cautioned a parent. Rugby only exists in tag form, and they don’t have a rugby team at all. Likewise, cricket is a

Seventeen boarding houses, all single sex. Half are on site (includes all lower school houses and some older years ones), the rest within walking distance (but pack your hiking boots, especially if you get the one on the neighbouring farm). Smallest

‘Students are surrounded on all sides,’ a teacher told us. Sounded terrifying, especially with the medieval castle in sight. Thankfully he was referring to the pastoral structure, which is as tight as the academic, and includes tutors, heads of year,

Students we met were serious and determined - some shy, some more assured, but all unassuming and likeable, and they clearly adore the school. One mother felt you can be anything here – ‘quirky, nerdy, it doesn’t matter as everyone is a minority of

Means-tested bursaries, up to 100 per cent, now available for local day students. Academic scholarships, with 10 per cent fee remission, for those entering years 9, 10 and 12.

Intellectual powerhouse + safe rural setting + international outlook = a big red tick for highly aspirational parents, especially those from overseas who love the idea of a British education without any stuffiness. The enrichment, insofar as it’s