Christian Fellowship School Review 2026: Outstanding Outcomes in Edge Hill

Located in Edge Hill, Christian Fellowship School (CFS) combines the feel of a close-knit family with academic results that top local tables. Established in 1981, this co-educational independent school serves pupils aged 4 to 16. It is unapologetically Christian, with a curriculum and culture deeply rooted in biblical values. While the site is modest, the outcomes are not; the school consistently outperforms selective and independent peers in Liverpool, particularly at GCSE.

The school is small, with fewer than 200 pupils, creating an environment where every child is known by name. The atmosphere is calm, disciplined, and purposeful. Visitors often comment on the tangible sense of community, described by parents as "safe" and "nurturing".

Mrs Rachel Boulton, appointed Head Teacher in July 2025 after 25 years with the school, leads with a vision that prioritises character formation alongside academic success. The ethos is not just a badge; it pervades every lesson and interaction. Relationships between staff and pupils are a standout strength, fostering a culture of mutual respect and discipleship.

Academically, CFS is a powerhouse. In 2024, the school achieved an Attainment 8 score of 69.6, the highest of any non-selective school in Liverpool and significantly above the England average.

The 2024 GCSE results were exceptional, with 89% of pupils achieving strong passes (grade 5 or above) in English and Mathematics. The school ranks 225th in England for GCSE outcomes (FindMySchool ranking), placing it in the top tier of schools nationally. This performance is particularly impressive given the school's non-selective admissions policy.

Outcomes for pupils were rated Outstanding in the most recent Ofsted inspection (2019), a judgement supported by consistently high value-added scores.

Teaching groups are small, allowing for personalised attention that ensures no pupil is left behind. The curriculum is broad, covering the full National Curriculum but delivered through a "Christ-centred" lens.

In the Lower School (Reception to Year 4), the focus is on building strong foundations in literacy and numeracy. As pupils progress through Middle School (Years 5-8) and Upper School (Years 9-11), the academic rigour intensifies. Teachers are praised for their subject knowledge and their commitment to helping pupils exceed their target grades.

As a 4-16 school, there is no sixth form. Leavers move on to a range of providers, including local grammar schools like The Blue Coat School, independent sixth forms, and colleges. The school's strong GCSE profile ensures students are well-placed to access their first-choice courses.

Admission is non-selective academically but selective in terms of ethos. The process includes an interview where the school explores the family's support for its Christian values.

Applications for September 2026 are currently open. Families are encouraged to visit, and while many come from local churches, the school welcomes all who are sympathetic to its aims. There is no entrance exam; places are offered based on the interview and the school's ability to meet the child's needs.

Pastoral care is rated Good by Ofsted, with inspectors noting that pupils feel happy and safe. The small size of the school means that wellbeing issues are identified and addressed quickly.

The "vertical" structure, where older students support younger ones, fosters a supportive peer culture. Bullying is rare and dealt with effectively. The school's distinctively Christian approach to behaviour management emphasises forgiveness and restoration alongside clear boundaries.

Despite its small site, the school offers a rich extracurricular life. Sport includes football, netball, and athletics, utilising local facilities to supplement on-site provision.

The arts are a particular strength, with regular drama productions and a choir that plays a central role in school worship. Trips and residentials are key to the "family" feel, with recent excursions including cultural visits to Liverpool museums and outdoor pursuits.

Fees for the 2025-26 academic year start at £5,796 per year for Reception to Year 8 (for a first child). Fees rise to £6,540 per year for Years 9-11.

Is there an entrance exam?

No. The school is non-selective academically. Admissions are based on an interview to ensure the family is supportive of the school's Christian ethos.

Does the school have a sixth form?

No. The school educates children up to age 16 (Year 11). Students transfer to other local schools or colleges for their A-level studies.

Where is Christian Fellowship School?

The school is located in Edge Hill, Liverpool (L7 3HL), close to the city centre and the university district.

The school day runs from 8:50am to 3:30pm. Located on Overbury Street, the school is easily accessible from Liverpool city centre and surrounding suburbs. There is no dedicated school bus network, but public transport links are excellent.

Faith is central. The Christian ethos is the defining feature of the school. It affects everything from science lessons to discipline. Families must be comfortable with this all-encompassing approach.

No Sixth Form. Students must change schools at 16. While this offers a fresh start for A-levels, it adds a transition point that all-through schools avoid.

Modest facilities. Parents looking for grand sports halls or swimming pools on-site will not find them. The value here is in the teaching and the community, not the infrastructure.

Christian Fellowship School offers a rare combination: the pastoral care of a small family school with the academic results of a selective grammar. Ranked 3rd in Liverpool for GCSEs, it is an exceptional choice for families who share its Christian worldview and want a high-performing education without the pressure of an entrance exam. Best suited to those who value character as much as grades.