DLD College Review 2026: Urban Independent with Flexible Learning

Step off Westminster Bridge Road into a glass-fronted tower, and you enter an independent college that feels more like a university campus than a traditional school. Founded in 1931 as Davies, Laing & Dick Tutorial College by three Cambridge graduates, DLD has occupied this purpose-built 12-storey building in Waterloo since 2015. The location matters: students cross Waterloo Bridge to visit galleries, walk to the South Bank for lunch, and navigate London independently from age 13.

The college educates approximately 500 students aged 13 to 21, with roughly two-thirds in sixth form. This is not a school for those seeking pastoral cocoons or manicured playing fields. It attracts students who need fresh starts, international families wanting London access, and teenagers ready for independence. Results sit in the middle : A-level outcomes place DLD at 725th (FindMySchool ranking), within the typical performance band in England. The college ranks 6th among 18 sixth form providers in Lambeth. Six students applied to Oxbridge in the measurement period, with one securing a Cambridge place.

The building defines the experience. Twelve floors of teaching spaces, studios, laboratories, and boarding accommodation create a vertical campus. Students move between floors throughout the day, encountering different year groups and subjects. The atmosphere is urban and adult. There are no uniforms, no bells, no assemblies. Students call staff by first names.

Rachel Borland has led DLD since 2019, arriving with extensive experience in independent education. Her predecessor, Irfan Latif, oversaw the move to the current building and established the college's contemporary identity. Under Borland's leadership, the college has strengthened academic structures while preserving the flexible, individualised approach that defines DLD.

The student body is notably international, with approximately 40% from overseas. This creates genuine diversity: conversations in corridors switch between languages, and cultural references span continents. For some families, this cosmopolitan environment is precisely the appeal. For others, the lack of deep-rooted British boarding school tradition may feel like a deficit.

The college operates on a university-style timetable. Students have structured teaching but also independent study periods. Sixth formers might have afternoon gaps, which they spend in the library, common rooms, or exploring Waterloo. This freedom suits self-directed learners. Those needing constant supervision may struggle.

Boarding accommodation occupies the upper floors, with students in single rooms equipped with en-suite facilities. Approximately 100 students board, creating a residential community within the larger college population. Boarders have access to communal kitchens and social spaces. Weekend activities are organised, but many students venture into London independently.

GCSE Performance

GCSE results require context. The college educates a significant number of students who join mid-secondary education, often after difficulties elsewhere. The 2024 Attainment 8 score of 16.5 sits well below the England average of 45.9, reflecting this intake profile. The EBacc entry rate is effectively zero, indicating that many students follow non-traditional curriculum paths.

These figures place DLD in the national lower band for GCSE outcomes, ranking 3,908th in England (FindMySchool data) and 17th among 18 secondary providers in Lambeth. For families seeking top- GCSE results, this is not the right choice. For those needing a college that will work with complex educational histories, the numbers tell a different story about flexibility rather than failure.

A-Level Performance

Sixth form outcomes are stronger and more representative of the college's core mission. In 2024, 55% of A-level entries achieved A*-B grades, compared to 47% in England. The A* rate of 12.7% sits slightly below the England average of 13.6%, while the A grade rate of 16.2% matches typical outcomes. These results place DLD at 725th in England for A-level performance (FindMySchool ranking), within the national typical band, and 6th among 18 providers in Lambeth.

The college offers over 30 A-level subjects, including Psychology, Business Studies, Economics, Politics, and Sociology alongside traditional academic subjects. This breadth allows students to pursue genuine interests rather than following prescribed pathways. Class sizes are small, typically 8-12 students, enabling individualised attention.

Subject choice flexibility extends to retakes and non-standard combinations. Students who need to improve grades can retake while studying new subjects. Those wanting to accelerate can complete A-levels in 18 months. This adaptability serves students with unconventional educational trajectories.

Teaching is structured around small classes and individual tutorials. The college employs approximately 80 teaching staff, many with industry experience alongside academic credentials. Art teachers exhibit professionally; drama staff work in West End productions; business teachers have corporate backgrounds. This real-world connection informs teaching.

The academic day runs from 9am to 4pm, with lessons typically lasting 90 minutes. Students have timetabled independent study periods, particularly in sixth form. The college library operates extended hours, and subject-specific resource centres provide specialist facilities. Science laboratories occupy an entire floor, while art studios have natural light and professional equipment.

Academic support is layered. Students with identified learning needs access specialist teaching. English as an Additional Language support is embedded throughout the curriculum, recognising the international cohort. University preparation begins in Year 12, with UCAS guidance, personal statement workshops, and interview practice.

The college operates a modular reporting system, with progress tracked half-termly rather than waiting for end-of-year assessments. Parents receive detailed feedback on academic progress, engagement, and areas for development. This frequent communication suits families who want regular updates, though some may find the volume of information overwhelming.

In 2024, 62% of leavers progressed to university, with one student securing a Cambridge place. This progression rate reflects the college's diverse cohort, which includes international students returning home, students entering employment, and those pursuing alternative pathways. The employment rate of 4% represents students entering apprenticeships or work.

University destinations span a broad range. Students secure places at Russell Group institutions including Imperial College, UCL, Edinburgh, Durham, and Warwick, alongside strong specialist universities such as Arts University Bournemouth, Goldsmiths, and London School of Economics. The college's London location provides access to numerous universities without requiring relocation.

Subject choices at university reflect the college's strengths: Business, Economics, Psychology, and Creative Arts feature prominently. The college has established relationships with several universities, particularly in London, facilitating progression for students who need additional support navigating the application process.

For international students, the college provides visa guidance and supports applications to universities globally. Some students use DLD as a pathway to UK higher education, completing A-levels here before applying to British universities with the advantage of UK qualifications.

Creative Arts: A Defining Strength

Creative arts dominate the extracurricular landscape. The college occupies a building designed with performance and exhibition spaces integrated throughout. The theatre on the ground floor hosts professional-standard productions, with lighting rigs, sound systems, and seating for 200. Drama students mount ambitious productions: recent shows include The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time, Blood Brothers, and devised pieces exploring contemporary themes.

The DLD Players drama society meets weekly, open to all students regardless of whether they study drama academically. Productions involve students from across year groups, with sixth formers directing and designing alongside younger performers. Technical theatre is taken seriously, with students operating sound, lighting, and stage management professionally.

Art and photography students exhibit work throughout the building, with dedicated gallery spaces on the sixth floor. The annual summer exhibition showcases GCSE, A-level, and Foundation Art work, attracting external visitors and providing students with experience of professional curation. Photography darkrooms and digital editing suites allow students to work across traditional and contemporary media.

Music facilities include practice rooms, recording studios, and ensemble spaces. The DLD Music Society organises performances throughout the year, ranging from classical recitals to contemporary band nights. Students form their own groups: recent ensembles include a jazz quartet, an electronic music collective, and an acoustic singer-songwriter circle. The college does not maintain a traditional choir or orchestra, reflecting its contemporary rather than traditional approach.

STEM

Science and technology clubs focus on real-world applications. The Coding Club works on game development, app creation, and website design, with students entering national competitions. The college has partnerships with technology companies, providing students with industry mentorship and project opportunities.

The Robotics Society builds and programmes robots for competition, recently entering the FIRST Robotics Competition. Students work in teams, managing budgets, designing components, and presenting to judges. The Science Society organises lectures from visiting speakers, including university researchers and industry professionals.

Medical Society supports students applying to medicine, dentistry, and veterinary science, providing work experience connections, interview preparation, and academic extension. The society visits teaching hospitals and hosts talks from practising clinicians.

Sport and Physical Activity

Sport at DLD differs markedly from traditional independent schools. There are no playing fields, no rugby pitches, no cricket squares. The college has a fitness suite, a sports hall, and access to nearby facilities including the Jubilee Hall Gym and Waterloo Sports Centre. Students participate in football, basketball, badminton, and fitness classes.

The college fields teams in inter-school competitions, though the emphasis is on participation rather than elite performance. Students who are serious about sport typically pursue it outside college hours, training with clubs across London. The college accommodates these commitments, recognising that some students are competing at national or international level in their chosen sports.

Student Leadership and Enterprise

The Student Council operates with genuine authority, managing a budget and making decisions about college facilities and activities. Recent initiatives include establishing a student café, organising charity fundraising events, and creating peer mentoring programmes.

The Enterprise Society supports students developing business ideas, with several launching actual ventures during their time at college. Past projects include clothing brands, tutoring services, and digital marketing agencies. Staff provide mentorship, and successful ventures receive seed funding from the college.

The Debating Society competes in the English-Speaking Union schools competition and hosts internal debates on contemporary issues. Model United Nations attracts students interested in international relations, with delegations attending conferences across the UK and Europe.

Enrichment Programme

The college operates a structured enrichment programme, with Wednesday afternoons dedicated to activities beyond the academic curriculum. Options include creative writing workshops, film studies, philosophy discussions, and volunteering opportunities. Students working with local charities have included tutoring at nearby primary schools, supporting homeless shelters, and environmental projects.

Fees for 2025-26 are £32,100 per year for day students and £53,100 per year for boarders. These figures include tuition, examinations, and standard materials. Additional costs include trips, music lessons, and examination retakes if required.

The college offers a limited number of means-tested bursaries, typically providing 10-20% fee reduction. Academic, art, drama, and music scholarships are available, recognising achievement and potential in specific areas. Scholarships offer up to 25% fee reduction and can combine with bursaries for families demonstrating financial need.

Sibling discounts provide 5% reduction for second and subsequent children attending simultaneously. International students pay the same fees as UK students, with no premium for overseas families.

Compared to traditional independent boarding schools, DLD's fees sit in the mid-range. Families are paying for location, flexibility, and individualised attention rather than for extensive grounds, historic buildings, or elite sporting facilities.

DLD accepts students at 13+, 14+, 15+, and 16+, with sixth form being the largest entry point. The admissions process is individualised, recognising that students arrive from diverse educational backgrounds. Registration is open year-round, and the college can accommodate students joining mid-year if spaces are available.

Prospective students attend an assessment day, which includes academic testing in proposed subjects, an interview with senior staff, and a tour of the facilities. The college reviews previous school reports and seeks references. For students with complex educational histories, the focus is on potential and motivation rather than purely on past achievement.

International students require appropriate visa documentation, and the college provides support navigating UK visa requirements. English language proficiency is assessed, with EAL support available for those who need it. The college is experienced in working with overseas families and understands the challenges of relocating to the UK for education.

Entry requirements vary by level. For GCSE entry, the college looks for reasonable primary education and English proficiency. For A-level entry, students typically need five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, with grade 6 in subjects they wish to study at A-level. However, the college considers applications from students who do not meet these criteria, particularly if there are mitigating circumstances.

Open days run throughout the year, typically monthly. Families can also arrange individual visits, which many find more useful given the college's non-traditional structure. Speaking with current students and seeing the building in operation provides essential insight into whether DLD is the right fit.

Pastoral care is structured through personal tutors, with each student assigned a tutor who monitors academic progress and wellbeing. Tutors meet with students weekly, providing a consistent point of contact. For boarders, resident staff provide additional oversight, with duty staff available throughout evenings and weekends.

The college employs a full-time counsellor, available for students experiencing mental health difficulties, stress, or personal challenges. Appointments can be arranged through tutors or directly by students. The counselling service is confidential, with information shared only when safeguarding concerns arise.

Safeguarding procedures follow statutory requirements, with designated safeguarding leads trained to recognise and respond to concerns. The college's urban location requires particular attention to student safety, and staff receive specific training on risks associated with central London.

Medical care is provided through a partnership with a nearby GP practice, with a college nurse available during school hours. For boarders, staff can accompany students to medical appointments if needed. Students with ongoing medical needs have care plans developed in consultation with families and healthcare providers.

The college takes a pragmatic approach to behaviour and discipline, recognising that students are at different stages of maturity. Rules are clear: attendance is mandatory, respect for others is non-negotiable, and academic engagement is expected. However, the atmosphere is adult, with students expected to manage their own time and make responsible choices.

The college operates Monday to Friday, 9am to 4pm, with some activities extending into early evening. Boarders have structured prep time in the evenings, with staff available to support. Weekend activities for boarders include trips into London, sports, and social events, though many students choose to explore independently.

The location provides exceptional transport links. Waterloo Station is a five-minute walk, connecting to National Rail, Underground, and bus services. Students travel from across London and the South East, with some commuting from as far as Brighton or Oxford. For international students, Heathrow is 45 minutes by train.

Food is provided in the college café, with hot meals available at lunch and snacks throughout the day. Boarders have access to communal kitchens and can prepare their own food. The surrounding area offers numerous cafés, restaurants, and supermarkets, and students often buy lunch locally.

Urban environment requires maturity: Students navigate central London daily, with all the freedoms and risks that entails. This suits independent teenagers but may concern families preferring contained school environments. The college cannot supervise students beyond the building, and incidents in the surrounding area are possible.

Non-traditional structure may not suit all learners: The lack of uniform, bells, and formal assemblies creates an adult atmosphere that some students find liberating. Others may struggle without more external structure. Families should consider whether their child will thrive with this level of independence.

GCSE results reflect complex intake: The college educates many students who join after difficulties elsewhere, and GCSE outcomes reflect this. Families seeking top- GCSE results should look elsewhere. Those needing a college that works with challenging educational histories will find a more relevant fit here.

Boarding is residential rather than pastoral: Boarding accommodation is comfortable and modern, but the experience differs from traditional boarding schools. There are no house systems, no Saturday school, and limited weekend structure. Students wanting a traditional boarding experience should visit to understand the difference.

International cohort changes dynamics: With 40% of students from overseas, the cultural mix is genuine and valuable. However, this means fewer students have deep roots in British culture or long-term friendships from childhood. The community rebuilds each year as international students arrive and depart.

DLD College serves a specific niche: students who need flexibility, those seeking fresh starts, international families wanting London access, and teenagers ready for independence. The urban location, small classes, and individualised approach create an environment markedly different from traditional independent schools. A-level results sit within the national typical band, placing DLD at 725th in England (FindMySchool ranking), which represents solid outcomes for a college serving students with diverse educational backgrounds.

Best suited to self-directed learners who will use the freedom productively, students who have not thrived in traditional school structures, and families prioritising location and flexibility over playing fields and tradition. The college works well for those who know what they want to study and need a supportive environment to achieve it. Less suitable for those seeking pastoral intensity, traditional boarding school culture, or elite academic results.

For the right student, DLD provides a genuine alternative to conventional schooling, with the capital as classroom and independence as preparation for university life.