Ampleforth College

About Ampleforth College

An Ampleforth education is a “Compass for Life”.   

Each individual’s unique talents are recognised and nurtured within a welcoming community rooted in Benedictine values. Ampleforth educates the whole person, unlocking what they can contribute to the world and fulfilling their academic potential.  

Set in 2,200 acres of beautiful countryside, Ampleforth’s location is a huge asset. There are few better places for young people to grow up. Some describe it as a teenage heaven, with a vast amount of space, a huge range of activities and facilities, and lots of friends with which to share the experience and have fun. Our students love being here and Old Amplefordians frequently come back to visit the community and our stunning valley.

Ampleforth is full boarding with students from all over the UK, Europe and the rest of the world. We rejoice in being culturally diverse with many different languages spoken. There is a strong House structure with 8 boys / girls houses and 1 co-ed junior house for Years 7 and 8. Full boarding engrains a deep sense of community and provides a rich experience, allowing students to immerse themselves in everything the school has to offer.  Our academic results are impressive and show that every student is inspired to reach their potential. Beyond academic excellence, we offer the breadth of opportunity for each student to discover and develop their interests and strengths. They learn how to think independently and have the confidence to lead, to work well with others and have the humility to serve.   

Equipped with the skills and mindset needed to flourish, Amplefordians are inspired to be caring and thoughtful citizens who make the right decisions in life. 

 

Boarding at Ampleforth College

We are a full boarding school with a rich and varied programme of events every day and at the weekends. Houses are real homes where children in different year groups mix and form lasting friendships with each other and with staff. A strong House system with dedicated staff encourages openness and trust between students, staff, and parents. Full boarding engrains a deeper sense of community and provides a richer experience. 

Contact

Type of School Co-educational
Number of Pupils 401
Pupils Boys 60%
Pupils Girls 40%
Number of Boarders 302
International Boarders 30%
Age Range 11-18
Religious Tradition Roman Catholic Benedictine tradition but all faiths are welcome
Distance from Airports

1hr 10mins from Leeds Bradford, 2 hours from Manchester

Distance from London

Under 4 hours on train

Contact
Educational Programmes

GCSEs, A-Levels, BTECs

Co-Curricular Programmes

Our beautiful, rural setting in 2,200 acres of land known as ‘The Valley’ lends itself to an extensive range of stimulating co-curricular experiences. There is something for everyone – all can discover and develop their interests and talents. Top-class sporting facilities and a wide range of co-curricular offerings in Music (Schola, Orchestra, Big Band etc), Art, Drama, Languages and STEM as well as more diverse activities including:

  • Institute of Management Leadership course in Year 13
  • Equestrian Team with a purpose-built arena 
  • CCF (Army & RAF) – one of the largest in the country, regularly wins national competitions 
  • Indoor and outdoor shooting ranges and College’s own shoot 
  • Fishing in our own stocked lakes
  • Largest Pipe Band south of the Scottish border
  • Landrover restoration club
  • Cookery school 
  • Dance Academy in our dance studio
  • Eco-club
  • Duke of Edinburgh Award
  • Astronomy club
  • National and local academic competitions in a wide range of subjects
  • Lourdes pilgrimage and residential handicapped children’s holiday
  • FACE-FAW – school charity raising money for good works at home and overseas
  • Service activity every Friday afternoon. This includes volunteering for local charities, helping in local care homes and primary schools, and maintenance work on the Ampleforth estate