When William Butterfield, the architect of Keble College Oxford, designed the Victorian gothic campus in 1878, he created a setting where over 940 students would thrive on a 25-acre site within sight of the city centre. Nearly four decades ago, the school became independent; today it stands as one of the South West's leading co-educational day schools, blending almost 400 years of heritage with contemporary learning. GCSE results place students well above England averages: 67% achieved grades 9-8, compared to national figures far lower. The sixth form delivers equally strong results, with 86% at A*-B. What sets Exeter apart is not just the numbers, but a genuine culture of intellectual curiosity, creative expression, and personal development across all phases.
Architecture tells stories. At the gates, the Butterfield buildings announce intent; Victorian red-brick, soaring windows, spaces designed to inspire. Yet the school has evolved thoughtfully. The Chapel, licensed in 1888, remains a centre for quiet reflection and musical performance. Around it, modern facilities feel integrated rather than imposed: the indoor 25-metre swimming pool that opened in 2017, the 150-seat black-box theatre with dedicated costume department, the STEAM lab in junior school. The culture is one of genuine inclusivity without compromise on academic ambition.
Mr Graham Bone serves as Acting Head, with Dr Adrian Rainbow arriving in September 2026 to lead the school into its next chapter. The house system, renewed in 2024 with names inspired by Devon's topography rather than historical figures, signals a fresh perspective on community. Yet the school retains its heritage: service is woven throughout, character education is explicit, and pupils speak naturally about individual rights and mutual respect from the start of junior school.
The ISI inspection in November 2024 found that leaders have created an ethos placing pupils' wellbeing at the heart of school activities. That assessment rings true: visitors note the absence of the pressured atmosphere that can accompany high academic achievement. Instead, there is a palpable sense of belonging and intellectual appetite.
At GCSE, Exeter School ranks 221st, placing it in the national high tier (top 5% of schools in England, FindMySchool ranking). Locally, the school ranks 2nd among Devon's secondary schools. In 2024, 67% of grades were 9-8, with 46% of all entries at grades 9-8 and 21% at grade 7, totalling 67% at the highest bands. This compares to the England average where only 54% of pupils achieve grades 9-7. The breadth of subject entry is notable: pupils study traditional academic subjects alongside languages (including Chinese and Russian), design technology, drama, and art, with specialists delivering across all areas.
The sixth form demonstrates sustained strength. The school ranks 125th in England for A-level results (national high tier, top 5%, FindMySchool ranking), with 3rd place locally. In 2024, 24% of grades were A*, a further 34% were A, and 28% were B, totalling 86% at A*-B. This significantly exceeds the England average of 47% at A*-B. The menu of A-level choices extends across sciences (separate disciplines), mathematics, further mathematics, humanities, languages, and creative subjects, allowing genuine specialisation.
In 2024, approximately 48% of leavers progressed to university. Beyond this, the school's academic rigour is evidenced by the pipeline to elite institutions. Over recent cycles, students have secured places at Russell Group universities including Imperial College, UCL, Durham, Edinburgh, and Bristol. Oxbridge remains a goal for some: the school recorded 1 Oxbridge acceptance in recent measurement periods, reflecting the highly selective nature of those institutions.
England ranks and key metrics (where available)
A-Level A*-B
86.21%
% of students achieving grades A*-B
GCSE 9–7
66.84%
% of students achieving grades 9-7
The curriculum philosophy is rigorous without being narrow. From the junior school, pupils are taught that everyone is unique; this understanding develops into appreciation of individual rights and mutual respect. A dedicated STEAM lab in junior school emphasises practical, hands-on learning from an early age.
The senior school curriculum balances breadth through GCSE (pupils sit 10-11 subjects) with increasing specialisation at A-level. Sciences are taught separately; classical languages including Latin and Greek sit alongside modern languages and STEM. Pupils describe teachers as experts in their fields, willing to challenge them to think independently and work with initiative. The logical progression from junior through senior phases ensures that curriculum content builds skills and knowledge systematically, and pupils score highly in public examinations across subjects as a result.
Set play selections and exam board choices reflect intelligent curriculum planning: pupils encounter ambitious texts and contemporary issues, not merely exam-board predictability.
The house system underpins pastoral care. Each house has a pastoral team with a head of house living on-site in the boarding context or managing day-student welfare. Tutors know pupils well: Form groups of 15-20 in the lower school allow genuine relationships. In the sixth form, students gain greater independence whilst maintaining access to staff support for university applications, wellbeing, and personal development.
The school operates a dedicated learning support service with a qualified Access Arrangements Assessor, ensuring pupils with specific learning needs receive tailored support and exam access arrangements where appropriate. Counselling services operate alongside pastoral staff. The overarching message from the 2024 ISI report was unequivocal: leaders' clear expectations for how everyone should treat each other result in a positive environment where pupils feel valued.
Exeter School's co-curricular life is substantial and genuinely diverse. This is where the school's character truly shines.
Music saturates daily life here. Over 500 private music lessons are held each week on-site, taught by visiting specialists. The choral tradition is strong: the Chapel Choir performs regularly, and there exists a flourishing mixed choir. String and wind ensembles provide options for ensemble players. The Exeter Cathedral Chorister Programme, integrated within the school, brings young choristers who train at the Cathedral and attend school during the week. Chamber groups, jazz groups, and smaller bands meet regularly. The Butterfield Hall, originally the dining hall, now provides concert space. The music department operates a state-of-the-art facility with teaching studios, practice rooms, and teaching technology. For pupils and their families, there is genuine choice: music-making is optional but the infrastructure means that those who want it can engage seriously.
The 150-seat black-box theatre with full costume department provides a workspace where drama is taken seriously. The school produces full-scale productions: recent years have seen ambitious stagings where large numbers of pupils perform, technical teams (lighting, sound, props, stage management) gain real experience, and visiting directors bring professional expertise. Sixth form drama students often pursue university study in the subject, and several alumni have gone on to professional acting careers. Most notably, Matthew Goode (who attended in the 1980s-90s) became a successful film and television actor, crediting his drama teacher Stephanie Trapmore with fostering his love of acting. Goode has since appeared in films including The Imitation Game, Downton Abbey, and The Crown, and recently received critical praise for leading roles in major Netflix productions.
Physical education is compulsory: all pupils in Years 7-11 do at least two hours of timetabled PE plus additional games sessions. The structure varies by year and gender: rugby and hockey are traditional sports, alongside cricket, tennis, netball, and a newer addition, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. The Sports Pavilion complex includes the 25-metre indoor pool (opened 2017), dance studio, gym, squash courts, spinning gallery, shooting range, and purpose-built sports hall. Basketball, badminton, and other activities supplement the core programme.
The school fields competitive teams in major sports, participating in local and regional fixtures. Recent achievements include an England U20 selection for a cross-country runner. Yet sport is structured to allow both competitive excellence and participation for enjoyment. Not every child aspires to representative level, and the school caters to both.
Science is taught separately at GCSE and A-level, with dedicated laboratories for biology, chemistry, physics, and electronics. The Comets Club meets regularly for hands-on science activities (a recent session explored the chemistry of fireworks). Computer science includes coding and robotics opportunities. Design technology benefits from a workshop equipped with traditional machinery (lathes, mills) alongside digital fabrication tools (3D printers, laser cutters).
The Medsoc (Medicine Society) hosts guest speakers and panel discussions for sixth formers aspiring to medical and veterinary school; the Economics Society invites industry practitioners; the Chess Club competes in regional tournaments. These named societies reflect the depth of enrichment available.
The school operates a combined cadet force (CCF) with Army, RAF, and Royal Navy sections, engaging students in discipline, teamwork, and service. Duke of Edinburgh Award runs to Gold level, with expeditions and assessed challenges forming part of the programme. A prefect structure provides leadership roles for upper sixth students; the Q+A society, founded by a prefect in 2021, focuses on Equity, Diversity and Inclusion across the school community. The Warhammer Club, Debate Society, and numerous other student-led initiatives demonstrate that co-curricular life is genuinely driven by pupil interest.
The art studio, described as light and airy, provides workspace for pupils to explore creativity. A gallery space hosts private view events where work is displayed for families and community. Design and technology feeds into this creative ecosystem. Music and drama performances are frequent throughout the year.
The independent sector requires clarity on cost. Fees for 2025-26 are:
VAT at 20% is added to these figures. On an annual basis (three terms), senior school tuition reaches approximately £20,994 per year before extras. Sibling discounts apply: 5% for a second child, 10% for third and subsequent children.
Lunches are compulsory in pre-prep and junior school (additional cost: £309-£352 per term depending on phase) and optional in senior school. External examination fees are charged separately and billed in advance.
Bursaries are available for families where school fees represent significant financial strain. The school encourages applications from talented pupils regardless of means. Scholarships recognise achievement in academic subjects, music, sport, art, and drama; these are highly regarded and carry prestige as well as financial benefit.
Fees data coming soon.
Exeter School operates an all-through model, with entry points at Reception (pre-prep), Year 3 (junior), and Year 7 (senior), plus occasional sixth form entry. For junior and senior entry, the school uses entrance assessments in English, mathematics, and reasoning; interviews explore motivation and personality fit. Registration closes in September for the following September entry; entrance tests typically take place in January; offers come in February; acceptance deadline is in March.
The school is fully co-educational throughout. No formal catchment exists; places are allocated on merit and interview performance, meaning families from across Devon and beyond may be considered. The school provides bus routes covering a wide area around Exeter, making it accessible beyond walking distance of the campus.
Scholarships are available for academic, music, sport, art, and drama achievement, typically offering 10-25% fee reduction. Bursaries are means-tested and available for families meeting income thresholds. The school publishes detailed information about financial support on its website.
The school day runs 8:50am to 3:20pm in the senior school. Junior school operates similar hours. Pre-prep operates from 8:30am with morning and afternoon care available (Early Club and Late Stay). A comprehensive bus network operates across Devon, making the school accessible for families not within immediate walking distance.
The campus is located on Victoria Park Road, Exeter, within one mile of the city centre. Parking is available on-site for parents attending events or picking up pupils.
Selective entry. Exeter School admits by assessment and interview. While the school is not as selective as top-tier grammar schools or some independent competitors, ability matters. Families should ensure their child is comfortable with academic challenge and can engage positively with entrance assessments.
Cost. At £21,000+ per year for senior school, fees are significant. Even with scholarships and bursaries, this is a major financial commitment for most families. The school's fee structure is transparent, but parents should plan carefully and explore financial support early.
Location within Exeter. The school is not in the city centre; it sits on Victoria Park Road about one mile from the High Street. For families relying on public transport, this is manageable but not immediately walkable from the town. The bus network helps, but logistics matter for families without private transport.
Co-educational culture. The school is mixed throughout. While this brings many benefits (normality, diversity, preparation for university and work), families with strong preferences for single-sex education should note this is not available here.
Exeter School represents sustained academic excellence paired with genuine breadth of opportunity. Results place the school among the highest-performing independent schools regionally and in the national top tier. Yet the school resists the intensity that can accompany such achievement; pupils speak of feeling supported, challenged fairly, and valued as individuals. The combination of heritage (nearly 400 years, Butterfield architecture, traditions that matter) and fresh thinking (topographical house names, commitment to diversity and inclusion, modern facilities) creates a school that feels contemporary without dismissing the past.
For families seeking a rigorous academic education with strong co-curricular provision, where pupils are expected to think critically and act with integrity, Exeter School delivers. The school suits intellectually curious children who thrive on challenge; active pupils wanting multiple sporting options; young musicians and drama enthusiasts; and those ready to engage seriously with learning from age 11 onwards. Best suited to families able to meet fees and comfortable with independent school admissions processes. The main asset is the sustained strength across academics, arts, sport, and character development. The honest consideration is cost: this is not a choice for families unable to sustain meaningful financial commitment, and families should engage early with the school about bursary eligibility.
Yes. The school ranks 221st for GCSE results (top 5% in England, FindMySchool ranking) and 125th for A-level results (also top 5%, FindMySchool ranking). In 2024, 67% of GCSE entries were grades 9-8 and 86% of A-level entries were A*-B, well above national averages. The ISI inspection in November 2024 confirmed that leaders have created a positive environment where pupils' wellbeing is actively promoted. Beyond numbers, the school cultivates genuine intellectual curiosity and personal development.
Senior school fees for 2025-26 are £6,998 per term (approximately £20,994 per year across three terms), plus VAT at 20%. Junior school fees range from £5,299-£5,699 per term depending on year group. Pre-prep fees are £3,599 per term. Sibling discounts of 5-10% apply. Lunches are additional (approximately £300+ per term). Registration fees of £150 and acceptance deposits of £500 apply. Bursaries are available for families meeting income criteria, and scholarships recognizing achievement in academic, music, sport, art, or drama offer 10-25% reduction.
Entry is selective but not as intensely competitive as grammar schools. The school admits approximately 150 pupils into Year 7 (from a larger applicant pool) based on entrance assessments in English, mathematics, and reasoning, plus interview. Ability in these core areas is necessary; strong performance across academics, co-curricular interests, and personal qualities strengthens applications. For sixth form entry, GCSE results and subject prerequisites are key considerations.
Sixth form is internal and open: pupils at Exeter School who meet A-level entry requirements (typically GCSE grades 6+ in A-level subject prerequisites) are guaranteed sixth form places. External candidates can also apply and are considered on merit. The school has approximately 200 students in the sixth form (Years 12-13).
Exeter School's co-curricular provision is extensive. Over 500 private music lessons are taught weekly; drama encompasses school productions using the 150-seat black-box theatre; sport is compulsory (two+ hours per week) with competitive and recreational options across rugby, hockey, netball, cricket, tennis, basketball, badminton, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and others. Named clubs include the Comets Club (science enrichment), Economics Society, Medicine Society, Chess Club, Warhammer Club, Debate Society, CCF (cadet force with Army/RAF/Navy sections), and Duke of Edinburgh Award. The STEAM lab provides hands-on engineering and computer science. Art, drama, and music facilities support creative pursuits.
Yes. The school is recognised by the Sunday Times Schools Guide as South-West Independent Secondary School of the Year (2017 recognition). The ISI inspection praised expert teachers who challenge pupils to think for themselves and work independently. Teaching quality is consistent across subjects; pupils describe their teachers as knowledgeable and supportive. The curriculum is ambitious, with classical languages, separate sciences, and enrichment woven throughout. Notable alumni include Matthew Goode (actor, stars in major film and television productions including The Crown, Downton Abbey, and recent Netflix drama), reflecting the school's track record in developing articulate, thoughtful young people.
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