International Prospectus 2023/24

Rendcomb College International

Educating pupils from across the globe

Thoughtful, Adventurous, Ambitious

Rendcomb College aims to educate young people from all over the world. I am very proud of our culturally diverse community which enhances the richness of the Rendcomb College experience for everyone.

We strive to reflect the global society in which we live and in which our pupils will work and contribute, preparing them for universities and careers across the world. At Rendcomb College, international students are free to be themselves and are encouraged to tackle big challenges, fostering their growth into well-rounded individuals. We aim for all our students to leave us as articulate, confident, thoughtful, and resilient young adults, equipped with the essential soft skills required to thrive in a globalised world.

I am not alone in believing that Rendcomb College is a very happy and special place, and I extend a warm invitation to international families to come and see this for themselves.

Rob Jones BA (hons), MEd Head of College

Our Mission

Our mission is to develop thoughtful, adventurous and ambitious life-long learners with the confidence, character and skills to succeed in the ever-changing world after school. Our pupils have the freedom to experience, explore and enquire about the world around them. We aim to encourage independence and inclusivity in a safe, caring community and magnificent natural environment.

To achieve this we will:

• Promote a growth mind-set, where abilities can be developed through dedication and hard-work

• Provide a co-curriculum that will challenge and support character development, leadership and teamwork

• Encourage individualism, creativity and contribution to a nurturing and collaborative community

• Engender physical, spiritual and mental well-being through a strong pastoral system

• Prepare pupils for a life beyond school

• Develop an appreciation for and responsible attitude towards their environment and surroundings.

About Rendcomb College

Rendcomb College dates back to 1920 when it was founded by Frederick Noel Hamilton Wills whose uncle and cousins had earlier endowed buildings at Bristol University. Now in our centenary years, we maintain a vision and ethos that remains true to Wills’ original values of providing an inclusive and broad-ranging education for its pupils.

Located in the picturesque Cotswold village of Rendcomb among buildings both old and new, the College provides a safe, stimulating and enchanting environment for our pupils who benefit from the ample on-site facilities within our 230 acre estate.

Airport transfers are available to London Heathrow which is located just 90 minutes away.

At a Glance

• The ‘Rendcomb Community’; supportive, welcoming, happy, caring and nurturing environment

• Boarding available from age 11 (Year 7)

• 70% of our pupils are British

• 30% international pupils joining us from around 15 different countries; excellent integration with a rich and diverse community

• Pupils leave Rendcomb as articulate, confident, resilient and thoughtful young adults equipped with the essential soft skills required for their onward journey in life

• Outstanding academic and pastoral support encouraging pupils to become the very best version of themselves

• Every pupil has an Academic Tutor

• Comfortable boarding houses where all pupils aged 14 (Year 10) and above benefit from their own single study bedroom

• Cultural Enrichment Programme

• £3.3 million Performing Arts Centre with 350 seat auditorium, dance studio and drama classroom

• Gym and Strength and Conditioning Suite

• All-weather Astroturf

• Extended and refurbished Year 7 to 9 house

• New Sixth Form Centre

• No Saturday lessons

• Rendcomb village Doctors Surgery voted the best in the Cotswolds; excellent healthcare on our doorstop to support our on-site Medical Centre.

• All pupils take English as an Additional Language (EAL)

Entry Points and Application

Applications are accepted all year round subject to availability for all year groups and for pupils aged 11 and above. Rendcomb offers a One and Two Year GCSE programme and a Two Year A Level programme. Natural entry points are in Year 7, 9, 10, 11 and 12.

Our minimum stay is preferably for two terms. One term stays are limited to the first and second term. The third summer term is excluded for short stays owing to our examination period across the whole school.

The International Admissions Team is very happy to speak with families online and offer a full introduction to Rendcomb, or alternatively we would be delighted to welcome you for a personalised visit.

Entrance assessments can be sat by distance by prior arrangement.

For further information please contact:

International@rendcombcollege.org.uk

+44 1285 832306

Key Stage 3, Year 7, 8 and 9

Inclusivity is central to school life

Pupils follow a modern, broad and varied curriculum, including the full range of academic subjects and they are given the opportunity to explore these subjects before GCSE choices have to be made.

International pupils may study another foreign language such as French or Spanish at Key stage 3 if their current level of English permits them to do so. This will be assessed during the application process and all new international pupils sit the Oxford Placement Test within the first few days of school. In these early stages of English language development the test results may indicate the pupil will be limited to one foreign language, English as an Additional Language (EAL).

Pupils in Year 7 and 8 will study the following subjects:

• Art and Design

• Computer Science

• Design Technology

• Drama

• English as a first language

• French

• Games

• General Science

• Geography

• History

• Mathematics

• Music

• Personal, Social & Health Education

• Physical Education

• Religious Studies

• Science (Biology, Chemistry and Physics)

• Spanish

In Year 9 pupils will study the same range of subjects as in Year 7 and 8, with Science being separated into the 3 areas; Biology, Physics and Chemistry.

We encourage participation in a wide variety of activities beyond the curriculum, including outdoor education, mentoring, leadership and enrichment.

Entry Requirements

• A solid academic profile

• CEFR A2-B1 and an ability to demonstrate a good level of written and spoken English

• A hand written personal statement

• Copies of last two school reports/grades

• A reference may be requested from a pupil’s current school

• Pupils will be asked to attend an interview at Rendcomb or online

• Entrance assessments in English, Mathematics and Verbal Reasoning.

“An idyllic school...where they can grow into themselves, learn and experience wonderful things”

Good Schools Guide

Case Study: Paula, Spanish

Case Study: Ashi, Nigerian

“Hi, my name is Paula and I am from Santander, a city in the north of Spain. I joined Rendcomb College in 2020 and I am currently in Year 13. Being a member of the Rendcomb College family is a great new experience for me as I have not been to a boarding school before. I can remember when I came to Stable house, the girls’ boarding house, for the first time. I was extremely nervous, but the houseparents and girls living there made me feel right at home and comfortable. In a really short period of time, it felt like I had known all of them for so long. I never thought living in a house full of girls would be as good as it really is. I believe you become a better person and learn about different people and cultures.

There are lots of memories I made at Rendcomb College that I’m never going to forget. I loved going water-skiing, the Sunday trips, going shopping, the boarders’ activities, when I got the most merits of Year 12, watching movies, singing karaoke, and having sleepovers in each other’s rooms. Completing the Duke of Edinburgh Award, even if sometimes things went wrong and were difficult, was an amazing experience. Summer term was great too as it was hot, and we played tennis, my favourite sport. On the last day of year 11, we all went in our clothes down to the river and we signed each other’s shirts. I am so grateful for all the experiences that Rendcomb College has given me, and I can’t wait to make new ones.”

Ashi began her Rendcomb adventure when she joined the College in Year 7, at the age of 11.

New to the UK, Ashi quickly found her feet and indeed her sports skills with both lacrosse and hockey. Whilst getting to grips with running across pitches in rain, sun and snow, Ashi also tried her hand at learning the trumpet, singing and life on the stage.

Perhaps one of the best activities that Ashi has embraced is the world of Dance Therapy, working closely with her Dance teacher where she blossomed from a quieter persona into the outgoing, bubbly personality that she is today.

The beauty of Rendcomb for Ashi is that it offers a holistic education, focussed totally on her individual needs and style.

Key Stage 4, Year 10 Two Year GCSE Programme

We understand the importance of making the right choices.

At GCSE level, pupils are nurtured every step of the way. Most pupils following the Two Year GCSE Programme will sit ten subject examinations.

Pupils in Year 7 and 8 will study the following subjects:

• Biology

• Chemistry

• Mathematics

• Physics

Additional subjects chosen from:

• Art

• Business Studies (BTEC Level 2)

• Computer Science

• Design Technology

• Drama

• English as an Additional Language (EAL)

• English as a First Language with the option of English Literature depending on ability

Entry Requirements

• A solid academic profile

• CEFR B1+ and an ability to demonstrate a good level of written and spoken English

• A hand written personal statement

• Copies of last two school reports/grades

• A reference may be requested from a pupil’s current school

• Pupils will be asked to attend an interview at Rendcomb or online.

• Entrance assessments in English, Mathematics and Verbal Reasoning.

• French

• Geography

• German

• History

• Music

• Physical Education

• Spanish

There are also classes in Personal, Social and Health Education and Learning to Learn.

Case Study: Carlotta, German

“ When I first arrived at Rendcomb I was scared that I wouldn’t find any friends but people were very friendly and I lost that fear very quickly.

I really enjoyed going to school at Rendcomb because there were about ten people in the classes so it was very calm. The teachers were very nice and helped us whenever we needed their help. My favourite subjects were French and English because Ms Lulham and Mrs Simmonds were both very passionate about what they were teaching.

After school we always had activities and I really liked them. My favourite activity was the Oliver production. I was in the backstage management and had to move the set and organise the props. I really enjoyed that even when we had to go there on the weekend. At the end of the last show, we were all very sad because we had spent so much time preparing it and it had been so fun.

One of the best parts of boarding life is being able to spend so much time with your friends after school. We would always play games or watch movies together. Another thing I enjoyed a lot were the Sunday trips. We would always go to great places. My favourite trips were the ones to Oxford and the one to Bath.

The school grounds and buildings are very beautiful as we are surrounded by breathtaking Landscapes all the time. I have made a lot of great memories here and met a lot of incredible people, I will miss going to school here.

One of the highlights of my time at Rendcomb was the geography trip to Chesil Beach. Another great trip was the art trip to Oxford. We had a lot of fun visiting the different museums and seeing Oxford.”

Year 11

One Year GCSE Programme

The One Year GCSE Programme is for academically able pupils who will be given the opportunity to sit a reduced number of GCSEs during the Summer Term, including Mathematics, English Language, IGCSE English as an Additional Language (EAL), Geography and their first language. Pupils will also take lessons in the three sciences, Biology, Chemistry and Physics and depending on interest and aptitude, pupils sit GCSE exams in one or more of the sciences.

In addition to these subjects, pupils also select an additional three subjects to study from the following list where the timetable allows:

• Art

• Computing

• Design Technology

• Drama

• French*

• History

• Music*

• Physical Education

• Spanish*

*GCSE examinations can be taken in these subjects if a pupil is able to demonstrate the capacity to achieve at a high level.

This bespoke programme dovetails into a number of European education systems. Latin is available if required by prior arrangement and for an additional charge.

Pupils who attain at the desired level are able to progress onto the Two Year A Level Programme. Pupils are advised to check the number of GCSEs required with their preferred university prior to enrolling on this programme. Some undergraduate programmes such as Medicine require ten GCSEs to include the three Sciences. In this instance, the Two Year GCSE Programme would be a more suitable pathway.

Entry Requirements

• A solid academic profile

• CEFR B1+ and an ability to demonstrate a good level of written and spoken English

• A hand written personal statement

• Copies of last two school reports/grades

• A reference may be requested from a pupil’s current school

• Pupils will be asked to attend an interview at Rendcomb or online.

• Entrance assessments in English, Mathematics and Verbal Reasoning.

Case Study: Charlotte, German

“Hi, my name is Charlotte, and I am currently in Year 11. When I first arrived at Rendcomb, it didn’t feel like the world was only one. Everything was entirely new for me and I felt overwhelmed, considering that my English was not the best when I started my first term at a boarding school abroad.

I have to admit the first three weeks were confusing. The structure of school, the content of the lessons, wearing school uniforms, of course, the language and even mathseverything was different from things I used to know. Believe me, when I figured out that a point behind a zero meant that more numbers were following, and not multiplication, I was completely outraged. I mean, why on earth would you change maths?!

However, at the start, I was tired and exhausted almost all of the time. My brain just had so many things to remember. Tons of new vocabulary, especially for the science subjects and of course my timetable. School is from 8.15 am starting with tutor, till 4 pm in the afternoon. We have games on Mondays and Wednesdays, and on the other days of the week, lessons are chased by activities. I personally enjoyed choosing things I would normally not do at home.

Seeing people playing hockey and lacrosse still leaves me breathless. It looks so impressive how they work as a team, catching balls out of the air and stealing balls from each other. So, I really enjoyed playing both, even though it was quite challenging. Sometimes, I wished they would explain more, so I could improve my skills.

here I couldn’t believe my eyes, because it is just like that. Of course, the stunning architecture of Rendcomb College plays along with the landscape. Sometimes it feels as if I am a student attending school in the past century, because of those special features.

Another thing which fascinates me every single day is the beauty of the landscape. I always imagined England with green grass and sheep on every field, but when I arrived

Rendcomb is quite different to what I am used to, but once I had settled in and made great and very funny friends, I enjoyed this different version of life. Being here opened my eyes and showed me once more how big the world is and how many opportunities there are, just waiting for you to grab them. All the people at Rendcomb College inspire me every second I spend here, whether it is with their kindness, their art or their ability to spread good mood. My time here and my (many) experiences helped me to figure out a lot of things about life, other people and myself. Now I know that I can trust myself whatever happens and it was definitely the right decision to come to England, to a boarding school, to move out of my comfort zone and try something completely new, which lets me grow and my mind extend.”

Sixth Form

Two Year A Level Programme

Moving to Sixth Form is a new and exciting chapter. At this level, important decisions about the future are made as pupils prepare for the transition to life beyond school. When the time comes to make choices about the future, pupils receive individual support from their tutor and the Head of Sixth Form and are prepared for their next steps.

Pupils take part in enrichment activities including a leadership programme, outdoor education, Duke of Edinburgh’s Gold Award, mentoring through our Buddy Scheme and have volunteering and work experience opportunities. Pupils can also experience independent living for two, one week periods in our dedicated on-site house which helps to prepare them for their onward journey into university and the workplace.

Many pupils also opt to take the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) which allows them to complete a self-directed and self-motivated project in a subject of their choice; it provides excellent stretch and challenge and is a wonderful preparation for higher level study.

It is normal to study three subjects. Pupils who demonstrate the academic ability may by prior arrangement with the Deputy Head Academic study four subjects through to the end of Year 13.

Rendcomb pupils leave as articulate, confident and resilient young adults able to deal with life’s challenges.

Pupils may choose from the following A Level and BTEC subjects:

• Art

• Biology

• Business Studies (BTEC)

• Chemistry

• Computer Science

• Design and Technology

• Drama and Theatre Studies

• Economics

• English Literature

• French

Entry Requirements

• Further Mathematics

• Geography

• History

• Mathematics

• Music

• Photography

• Physical Education (BTEC)

• Physics

• Psychology

• Spanish

• CEFR B2 or IELTS 5.5 determined through entrance assessment or a previously gained IELTS certificate

• Mathematics assessment

• Further Mathematics assessment (if taking subject at A Level)

• BTECs require good research and ICT skills

• Copies of last two school reports/transcripts

• Hand written personal statement

• A reference is required for pupils already studying in the UK

• An interview at Rendcomb or online.

Case Study: Yu Fei, Chinese

Yu Fei, one of our wonderful international students, recently finsihed her studies at Rendcomb College and began her Univeristy journey in the UK.

After finishing her A-Levels, she was accepted to read Jewellery and Silversmithing at Edinburgh University.

We are happy to have helped her fulfil her potential and become the best version of herself.

Case Study: Daniel, Chinese

Daniel joined Rendcomb College at the end of Year 8, progressing through to the completion of his A Levels. He studied Maths, Chemistry and Physics. Daniel had always been interested in Psychology and studied it independently supported by the Head of Psychology in one-to-one lessons. He achieved all A* or A grades in his A Level examinations joining the University of Oxford to study Experimental Psychology. He really developed his English Language skills, gaining an A and A* in his English Language and Literature GCSEs and developing his love of reading.

Daniel led discussions of current affairs, issues and debates with his tutor group and tutor when they meet each morning. Daniel was a member of the Senior Chemistry Society, who regularly attended lectures on topics above A Level standard, he achieved a Copper Award in the Cambridge Chemistry Challenge and attended workshops in Chemistry at Bristol University.

Leavers Destination: University of Oxford, Experimental Psychology.

English as an Additional Language (EAL) Examinations

The EAL department enables international pupils to take advantage of the academic and social opportunities at Rendcomb College by helping them to overcome the barrier of working in a second language and integrating the pupil as fully as possible, and as soon as possible into mainstream school.

All international pupils take EAL during their time at Rendcomb College. On arrival, students sit the online Oxford Placement Test. This score, combined with material from their application, allows our department to recommend a weekly number of EAL lessons. The pupil’s year group and length of stay also factor into these calculations.

Pupils who stay for at least one year are given the opportunity to achieve at least one internationally recognised EAL exam; either PET, FCE, IGCSE or IELTS (which is required as part of their university entry requirements). Please visit the fees section of our website for details on EAL charges.

IELTS (International English Language Testing System)

This examination is taken in the Sixth Form and the pupils are taught by a team of experienced, specialist, IELTS teachers in a dedicated, vibrant department in the main building of the school. All pupils focus on the four components of Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening within a topic and skills-based programme. IELTS is a mandatory requirement when applying to an English-Speaking University. Three strong A-Level results with a good IELTS score is a typical entry requirement for a place at a UK University.

Each term all International Sixth Form pupils have the opportunity to take the IELTS exam in order to improve their scores and, meet their university requirements.

IGCSE ESL (English as a Second Language)

This examination is usually taken at the end of Year 11 alongside all other (I) GCSEs and is selected as one of the (I) GCSE options at the beginning of Year 10. The writing component of this examination focuses on summaries, reports, letters and articles, which compliments and supports the IGCSE as a First Language.

FCE (First Certificate in English – British Council B1-C1 level)

Preparation for the FCE is undertaken in Year 10, and pupils can be entered for the external examination at the end of the year. This Cambridge examination is the most widely taken in the world and is rigorous in testing both grammar and writing skills in particular. This demanding course provides a firm foundation for those about to embark on the IGCSE ESL the following year.

PET (Preliminary Test in English – British Council A2-B2 level)

This Cambridge examination is designed as a foundation level of English and is a good pathway before the start of the (I) GCSE courses supporting well the Key stage 3 curriculum. Preparation for the PET is undertaken in Years 7-9, and pupils can be entered for the external examination at the end of each year.

Above all, we aim to ensure that EAL students’ experience of education in Britain is stimulating and enjoyable, providing a language skill of life-long value.

American Programme

Studying in the UK is an exciting adventure. We recognise that for some the next destination will be returning to the education system at home, while others will want to progress in the UK system. Each year we work with families from many different nationalities and we have welcomed American pupils to both the Junior and Senior School who have joined us from ARRC, Innsworth and RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire. We provide every individual with the support and guidance required to ensure their next steps are seamless.

American Package

All eligible NDSP US Military personnel will enjoy the benefits of our American Package and will therefore not be charged for many of these essentials of school life including:

• School bus, subject to availability

• All term time direct curriculum related trips

• Examinations (except Music)

• SAT/ACT tests and transport to the local test centre

• Online courses for SAT and ACT

• Educational expenses e.g. Art and Design Technology materials

• Sports Dinners (team members only)

• Textbooks (a charge will be applied for replacement books that are damaged or lost items).

Transport

High School Diploma (HSD)

We fully recognise the importance of studying a curriculum relevant to the HSD so pupils may return to the American education system. We offer a full range of IGCSE and GCSE subjects that might be used in lieu of or to support a return to a HSD programme.

SAT and ACT Testing in Preparation for U.S. Universities

In order to gain entry to U.S. universities, all pupils will need to sit a number of U.S. exams, either SAT or ACT; we can organise the exam entry through the UK. The regional SAT and ACT centre is a short distance from Rendcomb, taking 30 minutes by taxi/minibus and these exam dates are scheduled throughout the year.

Rendcomb College provides a bus service from key points around Gloucestershire. The bus service is subject to availability.

Activities include:

Sport

Athlete Development Programme

Athlete Performance

Programme

Athletics

Badminton

Basketball

Boys Tennis Club

Canoeing

Clay Pigeon Shooting

Climbing

Cricket

Cricket Academy

Cross Country Running

Fencing

Football

Girls Cricket

Girls Football

Golf

Gymnastics

Hockey

Hockey Academy

Horse Riding

Indoor Cricket League

Lacrosse

Martial Arts

Mixed Tennis Club

Mixed Touch Rugby

Mountain Biking

Netball

PE Clinic

Performance Gym

Recreational Tennis

Rugby

Rugby 7s

Sailing

Senior Mixed Movement Balance

Squash

Strength & Conditioning Gym

Swimming

Table Tennis

Tennis

Volleyball

Yoga

Zumba Academic

BeeGees

Biology Plus

Bridge Building

Business Enterprise

Chemistry Crest Award

Chemistry Plus

Chemistry Practicals Clinic

Chess Club

Coding

Cybersecurity

Debating

Dissection Club

Electronics Club

English Language Clinic

Further Maths

French Clinic

GCSE French Speaking

German Speaking

Hegarty Maths

History

Hospitality and Catering

Latin

Learning Support

Library

Marine Biology

Maths Clinic

MedVet

MFL Prep

Physics Clinic

Prep Science Club

Suffolk Group

Treadwell Group

UK Maths Challenge Group

Music and Performance

Backstage Club

Ballet

Bell Ringing

Choir

Dance - Healthy Body, Healthy Mind

Drama Club

Fun Dance and Movement

Jazz Band

Junior Music Tech

Junior Production

Junior Strings

Music Practice

Music Tech Composition Club

Orchestra

Piano

Rock Band

Senior Production

Speech and Drama

Creative Arts

Arts Award Club

Art Club

Art Meditation

Biological Drawing

Biological Film Club

Chocolate Creations

Cool Creative

Crafts Club

Creative Writing Club

DT Plus

Gaming, Creation and Playing

GCSE Art Clinic

GCSE DT Plus

Illustrators Club

Origami

Photoshop

Photography Society

Printmaking

Rendcomb Torch Newsletter

Sewing and Knitting Club

Stop Motion Club

Textiles Club

Other

Allotment Club

Books and Biscuits

Bushcraft

Card Games

Choc ‘n’ Cheer

Community Links

Cookery

Duke of Edinburgh

Dungeons and Dragons

Eco-Car Project

Eco-Club

First Aid

Forest School

Gaming Club

Gardening Club

Global Social Leaders

Griffin Newspaper

Harry Potter

International Cafe

Lego Lounge

Lucky Dip Club

Outdoor Activities

Warhammer 40K Club

Well-being Award

Woman Up

Co-curricular

We offer an extensive range of activities which change termly. Pupils acquire new friendships, gain confidence and new skills as they mix with pupils outside of their peer and tutor groups.

Senior pupils choose four activities per term which take place at the end of the school day.

With our ethos of preparing pupils with skills for life, and readying them to face their next adventure, our activities programme is designed to expose pupils to a wide variety of challenges and new interests so that they leave Rendcomb with a varied portfolio of pursuits and experiences.

We run a holistic programme of education from Year 7 through to Sixth Form. Activities include bushcraft, adventure training and key-life development. These programmes are interlinked, each building on the skills and experiences of other to promote resilience, resourcefulness, self-reflection, teamwork and leadership.

Boarding, Pastoral Care and Guardianships

Pupils can board when they join the Senior School in Year 7 though to Sixth Form. From Year 10 upwards, all Boarders have their own modern, comfortable study bedrooms which can be personalised, whilst the younger pupils share dormitories with two or three others.

The three Houses at Rendcomb College are located on the school’s campus and within easy reach of classrooms and sports facilities. The Houses offer an ideal setting for all pupils to thrive and develop under the guidance of the Houseparents and their pastoral and domestic teams. Our houses are cosy, comfortable and well equipped with a TV lounge, social areas and common rooms, kitchens and modern bathrooms. In addition, every pupil benefits from an Academic Tutor and a Head of Key Stage to oversee and support their academic progress.

Both Day pupils and Boarders share the same Houses, enabling strong friendships to flourish among all pupils throughout the College. We employ a ‘buddy’ system ensuring that new members of the community make friends easily and settle in quickly.

Our boarding houses are equipped with WiFi facilities allowing our pupils to keep in contact with loved ones.

Guardians should be a householder aged 25 or above (i.e not a student), should be able to speak English and be accessible by telephone. It is obviously especially useful and convenient if the Guardian lives locally so that close contact can be maintained, so with that in mind the College insists that Guardians live within a two hour travel time of the College.

Weekends

Boarders’ weekends are full, busy and purposeful with time

set aside for relaxing with friends.

Sunday trips and outings have included:

• Trip to the Olympic Park to watch Basketball

• Archery tag (with old school computer games as well)

• Afternoon in Bath for a spot of culture

• Cinema in Gloucester

• Crazy golf and ten pin bowling both in Cheltenham

• Swindon shopping outlet

• Cheltenham shopping

• Trips to London and Cardiff

• Go karting trip

• www.thewave.com - a surf school in Bristol

• Ninja Warrior in Gloucester

• Snow tubing and skiing at the Gloucester Ski & Snowboard Centre

• Harry Potter Studio Tour

International Pupil Achievements

Our international pupils add tremendous value to the ’Rendcomb Family’ and continue to excel across the school. We currently have pupils with us from around 20 different countries across the globe. We maintain our British numbers at approximately 70% and manage the numbers of each nationality carefully to ensure we foster excellent integration and friendships for life.

During their time in College, international pupils will have the opportunity to apply for leadership roles. These may include being selected as captain of a sports team, running an activity or applying to become a prefect or Head Boy or Girl.

Recent achievements

• Yu Fei attained Three A grades at A Level progressing to Edinburgh University

• Yuval attained A*A*A*A at A Level securing a place at University College London, where he studied Mathematics and Physics.

• Chak Tin attained three A* Grades and an A at A-Level.

• Hoi Ching attained three As at A Level progressing to Falmouth University.

• Anna attained A*AAB at A Level progressing to Oxford University to read French.

• Bolu attained A*A*A at A Level and a further A for his EPQ progressing to Warwick University to read Economics.

• Evelyn attained A*AAA at A Level, progressing to Imperial College, London to read Computing.

Garden House

Pupils in Year 13 spend two separate weeks taking responsibility for themselves, enjoying much greater levels of freedom in our on-site cottage called Garden House.

The modern, stylish interior provides a perfect surrounding for pupils to experience a taste of what life after school might be like.

Pupils manage their own budget for the week and they shop, cook, clean and take care of their own laundry. One evening during the week they also put their cooking skills to the tests by entertaining a few members of staff.

How to Apply

Applications may be made directly to Rendcomb College or if you prefer you may use one of our approved agents who will help guide you through the application process. A full list of our approved agents is available on the International section of our website www.rendcombcollege.org.uk.

To apply directly please send the following documents and information to the International Admissions Team: international@rendcombcollege.org.uk

• Copies of the pupils last two school reports/transcripts

• A reference from their current school

• A copy of the pupils’ passport

• A short pupil profile to include hobbies, interests, favourite subjects and details of any special education needs.

Once these documents have been received and reviewed by the Admissions Team we will be in touch promptly with the next steps; a simple registration form and registration fee to settle, an interview that can be conducted at Rendcomb College or online and entrance assessments. Following satisfactory test results and interview a formal offer of study will be made.

Acceptance of a place is secured through the completion of the acceptance form and a deposit. Deposits are refundable when a pupil leaves the school, less any outstanding balances.

Personalised Visits

For families planning a visit to the UK we will be delighted to organise a personalised visit for you. This will include a meeting with the International Admissions Team, a pupil interview and a tour of the school and boarding facilities.

Joining Instructions

All pupils holding a confirmed place at Rendcomb College will receive their joining instructions in late spring allowing families plenty of time to prepare for arrival in September. It is a comprehensive pack and will include all that you require. The Admissions team are contactable throughout the summer holidays to assist with any last minute questions.

Induction Day

The International Induction Day takes place on the arrival day and is reserved for all new international pupils, their families and their guardians. The format for the day is informal and offers a very warm and gentle welcome into Rendcomb life.

You will be shown your room and will be able to unpack your belongings. There will also be opportunities to meet your Tutor, receive your timetable, meet your Head of Key Stage, meet the Head of College, the International team, medical staff, the school Chaplain, House Parents and other key members of staff. Refreshments will be served throughout the day.

Passports, Student Visas and Biometric Residency Permits

For pupils subject to immigration control, or those requiring a visa to study in the UK, we encourage the use of a visa agent to ensure a smooth application process. They will also receive assistance from the International Admissions Team.

We are a Student Visa sponsor and can issue you with a Confirmation of Acceptance of Study (CAS) to apply for a Student Visa.

The CAS will be issued to you once formal acceptance has been received and full payment of the deposit has been made. It is possible to apply for your Student Visa up to 6 months prior to arrival to Rendcomb and we recommend that applications are submitted at least a month before the start date of the new pupil.

Travel

Rendcomb employs a Travel Co-ordinator who will assist families with transfers to and from the airport at the start and end of term or for our exeat weekend. We tend to use Heathrow airport as it is just 90 minutes from the school by car or minibus. We arrange shared transfers where possible to help keep travel costs to a minimum. All transfer requests are required at least two weeks in advance by contacting Travel@rendcombcollege.org.uk

Fees

Fees are subject to an annual review in May and could be subject to change. Fees are payable prior to a pupil’s arrival at Rendcomb. Families may pay a full year’s fees in advance if they wish.

What’s included?

• Pupil personal accident insurance

• All text books

• Breakfast, lunch and evening meal

• Games equipment not listed as an optional extra

• Entertainments in school

• Laboratory and design technology expenses

• Laundry for full boarders.

What’s not included?

• English as an Additional Language (EAL) - Please note the One Year (I)GCSE Programme includes some EAL charges. All other programmes and year groups EAL carries an additional charge.

• External exam fees

• Personal equipment

• Pens, pencils and Mathematics equipment

• School trips and off-site entertainment

• Activities involving material costs or external tuition

• Travel transfers and BRP collection for international pupils

• Private music lessons and instrument hire

• Learning Support (SEN).

Please visit our website to find our most up to date school fees, or scan the QR code:

UK Armed Forces Discounts

UK Armed Forces personnel are required to pay 10% of the fees plus CEA.

Rendcomb College has strong links with Forces families and is able to offer this specific support for families who are with HM Armed Forces or Diplomatic Services, where applicable under the rules of the scheme.

Rendcomb is pleased to accept payments under the CEA scheme in respect of pupils from Forces families. This can be either the Boarding or the Day CEA, depending on personal circumstance. Proof of eligibility is required.

Should additional bursary support be requested this may be available following the bursaries assessment processes.

International Exhibitions (Honorary Scholarships)

International pupils may be awarded an Exhibition (Honorary Scholarship) which is highly regarded within the school and by universities and future employers. Although having no financial value, being awarded an Exhibition is extremely important to any pupil and is a prestigious addition to their academic career.

The intended recipients for these awards are first-time international pupil applications although in certain circumstances, Exhibitions may be made to those who are already members of the school who have progressed to such a standard that their achievements merit wider recognition.

Exhibitions are awarded on merit, based on the all-round ability of a pupil and would best-suit a pupil who has the potential to be an integral part of the school body who shows a proven academic track-record as well as aptitude in Sport, Music, Drama or Art.

In addition to Exhibitions, a limited number of financial awards are given by the Head of College for excellence in one or more academic or extra-curricular areas. International Scholarship applications are considered throughout the year. As the number of awards are limited each year early application is always recommended.

Higher Education Destinations

University of Bath

Accounting and Finance

University of Birmingham

Accounting and Finance

Business Management

International Relations

Mathematics and Computer Science

Bristol College

Professional Photography

University of Cambridge

Law

Natural Sciences

University of Cardiff

Biochemistry

Law

Cardiff Metropolitan

Business and Management Studies with International Business Management

University of Durham

Accounting and Finance

Physics

Chemistry

University of Edinburgh

Music

Architecture

University of Essex

Economics

Law with Business

Politics and International Relations

University of Exeter

Medicine

Politics and International relations

English and History

Goldsmiths, University of London Arts Management

Heriot-Watt University

Chemical Engineering with Oil and Gas Technology

Imperial College London Mathematics with Statistics

Keele University

Computer Science

Law

University of Kent Military History

Leeds Beckett University

International Relations

University of Liverpool Biological and Medical Science

London Birkbeck

Language with Global Politics

London City Finance

London School of Economics Economics

London South Bank University Film Studies

University of Manchester Computer Science

Electrical and Electronic Engineering Genetics

University of Oxford

Law

Medicine

Chemistry

French

Oxford Brookes University

Business and Marketing Management

Psychology

Portsmouth University

Mechanical Engineering

Royal Agricultural University

Business and Enterprise

Royal Holloway, University of London

Drama and Theatre Studies

History and International Relations

University of Southampton

Chemistry

Business Management

University of Surrey

Veterinary Medicine and Science

Film and Video Production Technology

Sport and Exercise Science

Swansea University

Biochemistry

Business Management with Marketing

Geography

University of Warwick

Biochemistry

Economics

Mathematics, Operational Research, Statistics and Economics

University of Nottingham Chemistry

University of Winchester

Physiotherapy

GCSE and A Level Results

Please visit our website to find our latest results: www.rendcombcollege.org.uk/results

Conveniently located with transport links on our doorstep and within easy reach of towns, cities and airports.

90 minutes London Heathrow

90 minutes Cardiff

80 minutes Birmingham

60 minutes Bristol

60 minutes Bath

60 minutes Oxford

30 minutes Cheltenham (train station)

10 minutes Cirencester

Heathrow

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