Radley College was founded in 1847 by two writers; Robert Corbet Singleton and William Sewell. In an odd turn, this school is not named after its founders but after Radley Hall; its first building. Today, that hall is known as the Mansion. Building on the site started almost immediately to expand the school's capacity and teaching ability. The campus was further developed to accommodate its many athletic amenities. Today, Radley College offers:

  • an extensive house system
  • rich Social traditions
  • a fully outfitted gym, complete with weights and other equipment
  • a real tennis court
  • a rowing tank
  • a theatre and performing arts complex
  • a modernised Science building
  • many outdoor features such as a golf course and pitches for rugby, football and field hockey

All of this wonder does not proclaim that Radley has never known a smidge of scandal. Even our country's most renowned facilities - those like Eton College, schools that have educated past and future kings have also earned their share of bad press. But does it mean that these schools' academic and athletic programs must also be scandalous?

Obviously not. Otherwise, they would no longer be in the business of educating, which is clearly not the case. If you want to get your son into Radley College, follow these top tips on how to get in. You can also read details about the school and their admissions process for 13+ and Sixth Form.

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About Radley College

Radley College is an independent boarding school for boys aged 13 - 18. The school accommodates upwards of 750 students. Unlike the City of London School for Boys, Radley College is widely known for its art, music, and drama programs. All of that is beside their fantastic academic record. In 2015, 81.13% of candidates received an A* - A at GCSE.

A boy in a blue shirt sits at a wooden table next to a window with his head propped up on his hand, looking bored as he gazes at an open laptop computer's screen.
Your son might feel bored with the limited social and athletic choices at his current school. Photo by Thomas Park on Unsplash

"A Radley education is about independent thought and learning with enthusiasm. It is about cultural awareness and the benefits of team sports. It is about academic ambition. It is about learning to live with others; it is about preparation for the world beyond its gates. Above all, it is about the core values that will underpin success in all its forms throughout a Radleian’s life: as leaders, as citizens, as human beings."

Radley College recommends that you put your son’s name on the waiting list ahead of meeting with the school's senior management team. In fact, the earlier you do so, the better. Radley College opens its waiting list three to four years ahead of the time your child would enter the school. You may register your son when he is as young as eight or nine years old.

Note that Radley College does not host Open Days like St Paul's School does. However, you can meet with three of the school's tutors - what the school's house masters are called. They will take you on a tour of the campus and facilities. In fact, they advise prospective parents to do so before registering their interest in Radley College. 

Radley College Admissions

With so many boys hoping to enrol at Radley College, this school's admissions process is understandably competitive. But perhaps not quite as strenuous as getting into Haberdashers' Boys' School. Still, it's nice to have a bit of advanced knowledge. That way, you and your son can be prepared for what lies ahead. More importantly, you can prepare yourselves for your upcoming challenge.

A boy in a grey hoodie plays ping pong while another boy in a black shirt stands behind him, looking on and a third boy in a blue shirt sits against the wall, looking at his mobile.
Radley College get a lot of time for Socials and athletic pursuits. Photo by Elisey Vavulin on Unsplash

Preparing for 13+ Admissions

The majority of boys, roughly 140, enter the school in September, before their 14th birthday. Students older than 14 years old will only be admitted in exceptional circumstances. Expect your child to sit a Common Entrance Exam in Maths and English. Successful candidates earn a passing mark of 60% or higher.

The exam is based on the National Curriculum. Sample past papers can be found on the Independent Schools Examination Board (ISEB) website. Academic Scholarship exams are also available for those who qualify and need assistance.

Note that admissions tutors advise Radley students the same way they do Dulwich College prospective entrants: register as early as possible. That way, your son will be placed on the waiting list. Beware that registration has already opened for those students who wish to attend in 2023-2025.

Preparing for 16+ Admissions

There are only a few spaces available in the Sixth Form at Radley College each year. They're generally awarded to students who achieve at least 5 A*s at GCSE or the equivalent. The school offers places after examinations and interviews, which are held at the school the November before entry.

Consider that the Harrow School also pre-registers students, as do many other schools across England. They don't do so out of an abundance of formality; it simply helps them plan and manage their resources for the upcoming year. You can do your part by contacting the Radley Admissions Office and registering your son at least one year before their entry.

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Jon

As an Englishman in Paris, I enjoy growing my knowledge of other languages and cultures. I'm interested in History, Economics, and Sociology and believe in the importance of continuous learning.