Godalming College Review 2026: Outstanding State Sixth Form Delivering Exceptional Results

The historic main building at Godalming College, originally constructed in 1930, stands as a beacon of sustained academic excellence in post-16 education. Where Gustav Holst once composed and generations of scholars have studied, nearly 2,500 students currently pursue advanced qualifications across a 12-acre campus that blends heritage architecture with contemporary facilities. Since its transformation into a dedicated sixth form college in 1978, Godalming has maintained an unwavering commitment to academic rigour and personal development. The college's most recent Ofsted inspection in November 2024 reaffirmed its Outstanding status, a rating it has held since December 2019. Students here benefit from highly knowledgeable teachers who create calm, focused learning environments where achievement is the expectation and progression to elite universities is the norm. This is a state-funded institution where tuition is entirely free, and where the breadth of choice is remarkable: 37 A-level subjects, vocational qualifications at BTEC Level 3, and a structured enrichment programme that extends far beyond the classroom. For students seeking challenging, well-taught A-levels in a genuinely supportive community, Godalming represents exceptional value.

Walking onto the Tuesley Lane campus reveals a physical landscape that honours tradition without surrendering to it. The three-storey main building, reconstructed with LED lighting throughout in summer 2023 as part of the college's environmental commitment, serves as the administrative and teaching heart. Beyond it, modern additions tell the story of continuous investment: a library block completed to serve research needs, a dedicated sports centre spanning 1,500 square metres, and a performing arts building that hosts student productions and cultural events. A two-storey teaching block for English and Modern Languages, completed in 2017, provides specialist spaces for humanities instruction. The campus layout centres on the Piazza, an open communal space that students occupy during breaks and between lessons, fostering the sense of shared community that distinguishes sixth form from secondary school.

The atmosphere reflects what Ofsted noted during its 2024 inspection: students are "highly motivated and studious" and benefit from "highly knowledgeable teachers who create very calm, orderly environments." This is not a pressurised environment despite the academic ambition. Students participate willingly in classroom discussions and work with confidence. Teachers are described across feedback as genuinely passionate about their subjects, invested in student success beyond examination grades. The college's location, approximately 31 miles southwest of London and five miles from Guildford, creates a semi-rural setting that contrasts with the intensity of academic life. The River Wey valley surrounds the campus, and local green spaces offer respite between study sessions. Transport links are strong: South Western Railway connects Godalming station to central London in approximately 45 minutes, and local bus routes are subsidised through the Surrey LINK card and Stagecoach Student Rider schemes. Most students commute by train or bus, creating a genuinely regional cohort rather than an institution dominated by local applicants.

Emma Young, Principal since August 2016, has shaped the college's direction through a commitment to excellence that avoids elitism. She arrived from Esher College, where she served as Deputy Principal, and has dedicated her entire career to sixth form education. Under her leadership, the college became a 16-19 academy on 1 January 2018, which granted greater autonomy and allowed strategic investment in facilities and staffing. She is currently chair of the Sixth Form College Association, positioning Godalming within the broader sixth form sector conversation. The senior leadership team reflects continuity and expertise: Olly Stevens (Deputy Principal, responsible for teaching and learning quality) studied at Godalming himself and trained as an economics teacher before progressing through leadership roles; Matt Simpson (Assistant Principal for Safeguarding and Support), joined in January 2024 with extensive sixth form experience; and Sarah Baudains (Assistant Principal Finance and Resources), a qualified accountant who ensures rigorous stewardship of college resources.

The college's A-level results place it among the strongest state sixth form colleges in England. The most recent data shows 62% of all A-level entries achieved grades A* to B, compared to an England average of 47%. Breaking this down: 11% of entries secured A*, 20% achieved A, and 31% reached B grade. This consistency across cohorts demonstrates that strong results are not the product of a narrow cohort of elite students but rather the outcome of excellent teaching and high expectations applied across the range. The college ranks 600th in England for A-level outcomes (FindMySchool ranking), placing it in the top 25% of providers nationally (top 25% of schools in England). Locally, it ranks 4th among Godalming-area institutions, reflecting its status as the primary post-16 destination for the Waverley federation of secondary schools.

Progress measures matter as much as grades. The college's A-level Progress Score of 0.23 indicates that students achieve just over one-fifth of a grade higher than their prior attainment would predict. This value-added metric matters because it suggests that progress is driven by teaching quality and student commitment rather than selective intake. A-level biology, psychology, mathematics, and history are the largest cohorts, reflecting both student interest and department strength. The college's BTEC provision is equally impressive: 100% pass rate on BTEC Extended Diplomas in recent years, with 81% of students achieving Distinction or Merit grades. BTEC Level 3 qualifications offer a practical, industry-linked alternative to A-levels, with vocational options in Business, Performing Arts, Creative Digital Media Production, Sport Coaching and Development, Travel and Tourism, and Health and Social Care.

The college achieved ALPS A Level Platinum Award status for the second consecutive year in 2025, placing it in the top 10% of institutions nationally for student progress from GCSE to A-Level outcomes. This recognition affirms that the college is not simply achieving strong results but doing so in a way that maximizes the potential of every student who arrives, regardless of their GCSE starting point.

The curriculum breadth is genuinely distinctive for a state institution. Thirty-seven A-level subjects span sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Environmental Science, Further Mathematics), humanities (English Literature, History, Ancient History, Philosophy, Politics), languages (French, German, Spanish, Mandarin Chinese, Arabic), and creative arts (Art, Textiles, Graphic Design, 3D Design, Drama, Music, Film Studies, Photography, History of Art). This range allows students to pursue genuine subject combinations rather than being constrained by timetable clashes or limited course choice.

Teaching approach emphasises logical curriculum organisation where students build foundational understanding before encountering complexity. A-level Psychology, for instance, begins with research methodology so that when students encounter ethics and research validity, they have secure prior knowledge to apply. Teachers check understanding constantly through probing questions rather than surface-level recall. Feedback is precise: students receive explicit statements of what they have done well and exactly where they need to improve to move to the next grade boundary. This represents formative assessment at its best.

Exam preparation is structured and extensive. Teachers provide numerous opportunities for students to practise exam-style questions, consider model answers, and develop examination technique. Students report feeling very well prepared for final assessments. The college's English GCSE provision (offered to Level 2 students preparing for progression) uses deconstructive techniques that help students understand how language choices create meaning; discussing how a single word like 'suddenly' sets the tone of a text builds critical reading skills that transfer to A-level literature analysis.

The Teaching and Learning approach extends beyond lessons. Staff frequently revisit previously taught content, helping students become increasingly familiar with core concepts. A-level biology students, for example, apply theoretical understanding of enzyme denaturation during practical laboratory work, reinforcing memory and creating meaningful schema rather than isolated facts.

The enrichment programme is structured into three pillars: +Explore (academic and skill-building pursuits), +Active (physical and creative activities), and +Enrich (life skills and progression support). All first-year students select from the available enrichment options, and second-year students have additional choice. This ensures that every student engages with something beyond their three core subjects, whether that is a sport, a creative pursuit, or an academic extension activity.

University progression is the defining outcome for the vast majority of Godalming leavers. In 2024, 44% of the overall leaver cohort (1,044 students) progressed to university, while 35% entered employment directly. This reflects the diverse pathways available: some students pursue A-levels with explicit university intent, while others follow vocational BTEC qualifications leading to apprenticeships or direct employment.

For the university-bound cohort, the outcomes are exceptional. The college has historically been recognised as Surrey's premier institution for Cambridge and Oxford applications. Seven students secured Oxbridge places in 2024 (from 64 applications), representing a 11% acceptance rate once offers have been made. Beyond Oxbridge, the college has a strong track record of placing leavers at Russell Group universities (Imperial College, Durham, Edinburgh, Bristol, Warwick, UCL, and similar institutions feature regularly as destinations). The careers programme is tailored to individual aspirations: students hoping to study medicine or veterinary science receive specific guidance on admissions tests and interview preparation. Psychology students benefit from direct contact with university researchers and clinical psychologists discussing career pathways. Biology students hear from employers such as the Animal and Plant Health Agency about epidemiology and other specialist roles.

For students pursuing vocational routes, apprenticeships represent a meaningful progression. In 2024, 4% of leavers began apprenticeships. The college's engagement with employers creates genuine work-related learning: BTEC students in information technology, for instance, develop cybersecurity knowledge through direct industry connection rather than purely theoretical study.

The breadth of student-led activity is remarkable for an institution without boarding facilities. Named clubs and societies provide genuine community and skill-building opportunities. The Debating Society develops public speaking and argumentation skills through structured competition. Model United Nations allows students to simulate international diplomacy, debating policy issues and developing civic engagement. The Improv Club, a student-led initiative, runs lunchtime sessions featuring spontaneous scenarios that enhance creativity and quick thinking. The Radio Club immerses participants in audio production; students research topics, record, edit, and broadcast content weekly on GoCo Radio, building media portfolios while capturing the student voice. The Youth Parliament simulates democratic processes, enabling students to debate policy and represent youth perspectives, developing leadership capabilities. The Christian Union, LGBT Society, Games Club, Tabletop Society (centred on activities like Warhammer), and Chess Club address diverse interests.

The Performing Arts Building provides the venue for student productions that achieve professional standards. Drama students are expected to meet rigorous creative expectations; productions involve full orchestras and substantial casts, mirroring theatre company practice. Music provision spans ensemble work and individual instrumental tuition. The History of Art A-level attracts over 100 students across the two-year cohort, making Godalming one of the largest providers of this subject in state sixth form education nationally.

Sports facilities and provision are comprehensive. The Sports Centre includes a county-size sports hall accommodating badminton, basketball, netball, volleyball, five-a-side football, and indoor hockey at competitive level. Outdoor amenities feature international-standard rugby and football pitches, high-specification netball and tennis courts, and a fully equipped gym offering personal training. Students participate in +Active enrichment covering traditional sports (rugby, football, netball, tennis, badminton, hockey) and newer activities (archery, climbing). The college has produced GB junior athletes, including a speed staking competitor with Olympic aspirations.

The college's commitment to environmental sustainability is increasingly visible. EV charging points installed in the car park serve staff during the college day and the local community outside those hours. All students receive reusable travel coffee cups, eliminating disposable cups at Starbucks and Costa outlets on campus. The catering service no longer sells plastic bottled water; instead, cold water stations encourage students to bring refillable bottles. Recycling stations positioned around campus promote clear waste separation. In 2024, the college planted wildflower meadows on campus, adopted No Mow May to support pollinators, and installed donated bug hotels. These initiatives embed environmental awareness into daily college life rather than treating sustainability as an isolated topic.

Godalming is free to attend for British citizens and those settled in the UK for three years before their start date. This removes financial barriers that might otherwise limit access to strong post-16 education. Entry is not selective in the grammar school sense; students do not sit entrance examinations. Instead, the college specifies clear academic thresholds: A minimum of five GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 to qualify for Level 3 A-level study. The absence of GCSE English Language at grade 4 or above significantly restricts course options but does not automatically disqualify a student. Those below the standard Level 3 requirement may access Level 2 courses (GCSE and Entry Level vocational qualifications) as a stepping stone to Level 3 progression.

Entry is uncomplicated. Students apply directly through the college's online portal. Decisions are made based on GCSE results received in August, with applicants ranked by achievement against published criteria. As the designated sixth form for the Waverley federation (Gosden House, Broadwater, Woolmer Hill, Rodborough and Glebelands), the college guarantees places to pupils from those schools who meet the entry requirements. For others, places are allocated as spaces allow. The college has historically been oversubscribed, reflecting its reputation, though the scale of oversubscription varies year to year.

Student wellbeing is woven through college systems rather than siloed into a separate "pastoral" department. Small tutor groups (typically 6 to 8 students) meet regularly with their tutor, who knows each student individually and tracks academic and personal progress. This differs markedly from secondary school where form groups can exceed 30 pupils. Tutors act as advocates and early-warning systems; if a student is struggling, their tutor notices and coordinates support.

Support for learning is embedded within departments. Staff provide study skills workshops, revision sessions tailored to specific subjects, and one-to-one help where students are not making expected progress. The college recognises that some students have specific educational needs or disabilities and ensures adaptations allow participation. Additional individualised support is provided for vulnerable students or those falling behind, enabling them to catch up quickly.

Support for wellbeing extends beyond academic matters. The college employs a Designated Safeguarding Lead and safeguarding team; well-trained staff meet frequently to discuss safeguarding concerns, maintain detailed records, and involve external agencies when required. Students understand clearly how to raise concerns and have confidence that these will be acted on appropriately. Professional visitors (police, health workers) deliver sessions on local and regional risks, driving safety, and cybersecurity. Mental health support is available; the college connects students to counselling and other professional services when needed.

The college operates on a standard academic calendar with a 9:00am start and finish times varying by timetable. Travel is straightforward: Godalming Railway Station is within a 15-minute walk of the campus on Tuesley Lane. South Western Railway provides frequent services to London Waterloo (approximately 45 minutes), Guildford, and other destinations. Local bus routes are served by Stagecoach and other operators; students receive discount schemes including the Surrey LINK card and Stagecoach Student Rider. Many students hold railcards, reducing travel costs further. The college itself does not operate a bus service, but the excellent public transport links mean this is rarely necessary.

Parking on campus is available for staff; parents and visitors can park during designated visit times. The 12-acre campus sits within walking distance of Godalming town centre, enabling students to access local amenities during breaks and lunch. On-campus catering is provided through multiple outlets including Starbucks, Costa, and a main dining facility offering hot and cold food at reasonable prices. All food is prepared on-site; the catering service is managed in-house rather than outsourced.

Commute distances and time commitment. The college draws students from Surrey, Hampshire, and West Sussex. Some journeys are lengthy: a student from Haslemere or Midhurst faces a significant daily commute. For those commuting by train, journey times can exceed an hour each way when connections are required. This is a real practical consideration, particularly during winter months or when railway disruption occurs. The college's supportive culture means staff are understanding when travel issues arise, but families should factor genuine commute logistics into their calculations.

The college is a genuine sixth form, not a secondary school. The transition from age 11 to 16 feels substantive because the institution is genuinely different: smaller tutor groups, greater autonomy and choice, and an expectation that students will manage their own learning. For some students this independence is liberating; others initially find it overwhelming. The college provides clear guidance on study skills and learning strategies to ease this transition.

Entrance is not selective by examination but is academically demanding. The college does not discriminate by ability in admissions (unlike grammar schools), but it does expect students to meet GCSE thresholds and to be capable of A-level study. This means the college attracts students from a wide range of secondary schools and backgrounds, which creates diversity of experience but also means a student who scraped five GCSEs at grade 4 will be studying alongside those with all grade 9s. The college's value-added progress measures show it supports students across the ability range effectively, but this is not a college for those still developing fundamentals of literacy or numeracy.

Godalming College is one of England's strongest state sixth form colleges, combining academic excellence with genuine accessibility. The Ofsted Outstanding rating, the ALPS Platinum Award, and the consistent A-level grades well above England averages are not the product of selective admissions or a privileged cohort but rather the outcome of excellent teaching, high expectations applied fairly, and an institutional culture that genuinely values learning. For students seeking rigorous A-levels, broad choice of subjects, supportive pastoral care, and progression to universities including Cambridge and Oxford, Godalming represents exceptional value. The college is suited to students who are academically motivated, willing to manage their own learning, and ready to embrace the independence that sixth form offers. The main obstacle to entry is not selectivity but simply the current oversubscription in some subjects; the college's free tuition and excellent facilities make it genuinely accessible to families for whom independent school fees are prohibitive.