The Stephen Perse Foundation (Stephen Perse Guildhouse) is a highly prestigious group of independent schools located in Cambridge, the academic and historical center of England, providing day and boarding education at the secondary school level for students aged 3–18. Founded in 1881 by Dr. Stephen Perse, a doctor at Trinity College, Cambridge University, the institution is renowned for its high acceptance rates to Oxford and Cambridge (Oxbridge) universities, its innovative learning philosophy, and its high academic standards.
Academic Programs
Early Years & Pre-Prep (3–7 Years)
Junior School (7–11 Years)
Senior School (11–16 Years)
Sixth Form (16–18 Years)
GCSE and IGCSE Programs
A-Level Programs (Wide Range of Courses)
Intensive English and Academic Support Programs (EAL/IELTS Preparation)
Academic and Institutional Highlights
Oxbridge and Medical Specialization: Success in placing a high percentage of students in Oxford, Cambridge, and Medical faculties each year thanks to its historical ties with Cambridge University and the academic ecosystem in the city.
Pioneer in Digital Education (Apple Distinguished School): A globally recognized digital learning model that integrates technology into the core of the curriculum.
Critical and Investigative Approach: A course structure focused on discussion and independent research, conducted in small class sizes, close to university level.
Comprehensive UCAS Counseling: Specialized preparation for entrance exams such as BMAT, UCAT, STEP, and PAT, support with statement of purpose, and academic simulation interviews.
Individualized Learning: A personalized academic mentoring system that maximizes each student’s potential.
Application Requirements and Periods
Application Periods: Main academic term starting in September (11+, 13+, and 16+ / Sixth Form). Mid-term admission possibility subject to availability.
Admission Requirements: Completed application form, transcripts/school reports from the last 2-3 years, teacher reference letter, online admission/assessment exam, and interview.
Language Proficiency: English proficiency appropriate to the program level (EAL language support is provided on-site for international students).
Scholarships and Financial Support
The Stephen Perse Foundation periodically offers Academic and Talent Scholarships for international students demonstrating outstanding performance and talent in academics, music, sports, and the arts.
Student Life and Accommodation
Boarding: Modern and comfortable student residences in Cambridge city centre for Sixth Form (16–18 years old) students, offering 24-hour pastoral care and House Parent supervision.
Cambridge Academic Atmosphere: City life in the shadow of one of the world’s best universities, with access to libraries, museums and science parks.
Sports and Performing Arts: Swimming, tennis, hockey, cricket, rowing, drama studios, music groups and visual arts workshops.
Clubs and Social Life: Model United Nations (MUN), Debate, Robotics, Entrepreneurship Club and Duke of Edinburgh (DoE) Award Program.
Multicultural and Distinguished Community: An intellectual campus environment with a predominantly British student body blended with successful international students from around the world.
Achievements and Recognition
The Stephen Perse Foundation graduates consistently gain acceptance each year to leading Russell Group universities in the UK, such as the University of Cambridge, University of Oxford, Imperial College London, UCL, LSE, and King’s College London, as well as Ivy League schools in the USA. It consistently ranks among the top-performing independent schools in East England in The Sunday Times Parent Power league tables.