St Andrew’s College Cambridge is an independent boarding and day school in the heart of Cambridge, founded in 1976 and welcoming students aged 15 to 22 from more than 30 nationalities each year. As a long-established independent school in Cambridge and a member of the Dukes Education family, we combine the academic rigour of a leading UK private school with the unique advantages of a Cambridge education, including walking-distance access to university libraries, museums and public lectures.
Whether you are looking for a private school in Cambridge for sixth form study, a boarding school in Cambridge for an international move, or a UK independent college with a clear route into top universities, this page sets out who we are, what we offer and how to take the next step.
A caring community with ambition and belonging go hand in hand
Since 1976, St Andrew’s College Cambridge has been helping students from around the world achieve their university dreams. We’re an independent school in Cambridge with a close-knit, international community — welcoming students aged 15 to 22 from over 25 countries.
When you join St Andrew’s, you’ll find a supportive environment designed to help you thrive — academically, socially, and personally. Whether you’re preparing for GCSEs, A-Levels, or our University Foundation Programme, you’ll be guided by expert teachers and a team who genuinely care about your success.
At a Glance: What are the key facts about St Andrew’s College Cambridge?
Some of the most-asked questions about the college have short answers, and we have brought them together in one place. Founded in 1976. Ages 15 to 22. Located on Station Road in the centre of Cambridge. Members of Dukes Education. Inspected by the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI). An average class size of 8 students. Over 30 nationalities represented on campus. Ten boarding houses within walking distance of the main college building. Co-educational, full board and day options. Courses ranging from one-year GCSE through to A-Level and University Foundation.
To explore each of these in more detail, take a look at our Why St Andrew’s page, our inspection record and our boarding houses overview.
What does being part of Dukes Education unlock for our students?
St Andrew’s College Cambridge is proud to be part of the Dukes Education family, a group of leading independent schools and educational specialists across the UK and Europe. The link is not symbolic. It opens up real, day-to-day advantages for our students. Through Dukes Plus we connect students with Oxbridge Applications, The Medic Portal, The Lawyer Portal, InvestIn and A-List Education, the same specialist support services used by applicants to the most competitive universities in the world. It also gives our staff access to Dukes-wide professional development, safeguarding networks and shared educational expertise that very few independent schools in Cambridge can offer.
Who is St Andrew’s College Cambridge for?
Our students come from a wide range of backgrounds, but they tend to fall into four groups. International boarders aged 15 to 22 who want a top UK boarding school experience inside one of the world’s great university cities. UK-based day students who want a small, focused, results-driven sixth form Cambridge environment rather than a large traditional school. Retake students who narrowly missed their grades and need a Year 13 A-Level retake with strong UCAS support to reapply. And taster students looking for a one-term taster boarding course in Cambridge before committing to a full programme. Whichever profile fits, every student is supported by small class sizes, daily personal tutorials and a pastoral system designed around boarding life.
What makes St Andrew’s College Cambridge different from other independent schools in Cambridge?
Three things set us apart. First, our scale. We are deliberately small, with an average class size of 8 and a community of around 200 students. Second, our location. We sit in the centre of Cambridge, not in a country setting on the outskirts. Our boarding houses, classrooms and tutorial rooms are all walking distance from the Cambridge University libraries, sports facilities and museums that our students access throughout the year. Third, our results. Around 55% of our A-Level students progress to G5 universities and 100% of our Foundation students go on to UK higher education. The University Foundation Course is one of the strongest of its kind in the sector. You can read more about all of this on our Why St Andrew’s page.
Learn in the heart of Cambridge
Our college is located right in the centre of Cambridge, across the road from the beautiful Botanic Gardens and just a short walk from the train station. The campus includes modern classrooms, science laboratories, and welcoming common rooms — as well as outdoor spaces with an Astroturf pitch, basketball court, and picnic areas.
You’ll also have access to our dedicated Science Centre on Glisson Road, which houses the student canteen, and our ten boarding houses, all just a short walk from the main school.
Cambridge is an inspiring place to live and study — known for its world-leading university, safe and friendly atmosphere, and outstanding facilities for learning, sport, and the arts. And with London only 50 minutes away by train, you’re perfectly connected to one of the most exciting cities in the world.
Academic excellence with personal support
At St Andrew’s, you’ll be taught by exceptional teachers — many of whom have studied or taught at Oxford or Cambridge. They’re passionate about their subjects and dedicated to helping you explore beyond the curriculum.
Because our class sizes are small, you’ll receive individual attention and tailored guidance throughout your studies. Weekly sessions with your personal tutor will help you stay on track, monitor your progress, and build confidence in every subject.
When it’s time to apply to university, you’ll be supported through every step of the UCAS process. If you’re aiming for top Russell Group or G5 universities (including Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial College, LSE, and UCL), you’ll receive additional one-to-one mentoring from a Cambridge PhD student — giving you the edge in a competitive field.
A home away from home
We understand that feeling happy and supported is key to your success. Our boarding house parents and pastoral care team make sure you always feel safe, cared for, and part of our community.
You can choose from 10 boarding houses across Cambridge — from high-quality ensuite accommodation in Kite House, Adam and Eve Street, Cherry Hinton Road, and Mowbray Road Court, to comfortable single and double rooms in family-style houses. Boarding is arranged by age and gender, creating a balanced and welcoming atmosphere for everyone.
Life beyond the classroom
At St Andrew’s, your time in Cambridge will be about more than just study. You’ll have the chance to join a wide range of clubs, sports, and creative activities, from music and art to football and debating.
Our Student Council gives you a voice in college life, and our social calendar is packed with events and trips — including visits to London, Oxford, and local attractions. The highlight of the year is the May Ball, a celebration that brings our community together in true Cambridge style.
Your journey starts here
At St Andrew’s College Cambridge, we believe every student deserves the chance to shine. Here, you’ll be supported to reach your goals, explore new interests, and prepare confidently for university life in the UK and beyond.
