Mix & Match
Cheltenham College curly bracket from their branding materials

Co-Curricular

Inspiring curiosity, confidence and character beyond the classroom.

Co-curricular life is at the heart of a well-rounded education at College, enriching pupils’ development and wellbeing beyond the classroom. A varied weekly programme offers sport, music, drama, service, societies and clubs, all open to every pupil, whatever their interests or experience.

Cheltonians embrace these opportunities with enthusiasm, from Community Action to the Combined Cadet Force, where leadership and teamwork are developed. The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, from Bronze to Gold, further challenges pupils through expeditions in places such as Snowdonia and the Lake District.

Initiatives like the Third Form Challenge help pupils settle quickly and build lasting friendships, while Monday activities provide a broad choice of clubs, from cooking and debating to music technology and sport.

Together, these experiences foster confidence, resilience and a sense of achievement that stays with pupils long after they leave College.

“A happy school that inspires great loyalty and stands out not only for its magnificent surroundings but for placing equal emphasis on every aspect of extracurricular, of which there is simply tons.”

Good Schools Guide, 2023

Cheltenham College Co-Curricular Opportunities

Activities & Societies

Activities and societies give pupils the chance to explore interests and develop new skills beyond the classroom, while also strengthening Higher Education applications.

Monday evenings are dedicated to a wide-ranging programme of clubs and societies, with Lower Sixth pupils often taking on leadership roles. Options include everything from Polo and Clay-Pigeon Shooting to Chess, Debating and Pottery.

Academic societies span subjects such as English, Maths, Philosophy, Psychology and Science, offering pupils the chance to deepen existing interests or discover new ones. Through discussions, presentations and guest speakers, pupils build confidence and broaden their understanding.

A full list of Activities and Clubs on offer can be found here.

“My favourite thing about College is the wide range of co-curricular opportunities available. For example, everyone does timetabled sport at least three times a week, and this has introduced me to many new sports. There is also a fantastic Music Department with many opportunities to join ensembles and perform alongside others in concerts. There is also a wide range of other activities ranging from cooking club to CCF.”

Current pupil, 2025

Bronze Award Duke of Edinburgh Expedition 2024

Co-Curricular Calendar

View the full calendar of clubs, societies and activities

Click here

Results 2025

College Community

Pastoral Care