Cardiff Sixth Form College Cambridge vs CATS Cambridge

	C Cardiff Sixth Form College Cambridge Cambridge, United Kingdom	C CATS Cambridge Cambridge, United Kingdom
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year £31,050 - 74,900	Fees / year £16,980 - 32,100
Age range	Age range 14 - 18 years	Age range 14 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational, Co-educational (boarding)	Type Co-educational (boarding)
Curriculum	Curriculum British Curriculum	Curriculum British Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils —	Pupils —
Typical class size	Typical class size —	Typical class size 11
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 2004	Opened —
Bus service	Bus service No	Bus service No
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location Cambridge campus: Cardiff Sixth Form College Cambridge, 89 Regent Street, Cambridge CB2 1AW. The Cambridge campus is in the heart of Cambridge, a university city with historic colleges, museums, Botanic Gardens and river punting. London is about an hour away by train.	Location 1 High Street, Chesterton, Cambridge CB4 1NQ, United Kingdom. The campus sits near the city centre and close to the University of Cambridge. CATS Cambridge is described as being in the heart of Cambridge.
Stages	Stages A-level sixth form	Stages Ages 14 and above; UK High School Term; GCSE; Pre-A Level; A Level; University Foundation Programme (UFP).
School type	School type Co-educational boarding college	School type The school is an international boarding school.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix —	Pupil nationality mix —
Additional learning support	Additional learning support —	Additional learning support —
Country affiliation	Country affiliation United Kingdom	Country affiliation United Kingdom
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation —	Religious affiliation —
School day structure	School day structure —	School day structure —
Bus service details	Bus service details —	Bus service details —
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Fees — Cardiff Sixth Form College Cambridge (Academic year 2026/27) Application / Registration Fees and Deposits - Registration Fee (on application): UK/EU boarders GBP 216; International boarders GBP 300. GBP 216 for day students registration. - Acceptance Deposit (payable when accepting a place): UK/EU boarders GBP 3,000; International boarders GBP 9,500; day students acceptance deposit GBP 500. The Acceptance Deposit is held against disbursements and is repayable net of any deductions after the student leaves, subject to the college's terms. Tuition and Boarding — Annual and Per-Term (Cambridge campus, 2026/27) - A Level Boarding (annual total): GBP 74,900. Per-term (three terms per academic year): GBP 24,967 (rounded). - A Level Day (annual total): GBP 31,050. Per-term (three terms): GBP 10,350. 18‑month A Level course (Cambridge) — January start fees (published examples) - January to July 2026 (2 terms): A Level Boarding GBP 48,000; A Level Day tuition GBP 20,100. For the full academic year September–June (three terms) standard annual fees apply. - January to July 2027 (2 terms): A Level Boarding GBP 49,900; A Level Day tuition GBP 20,700. For the full academic year September–June (three terms) standard annual fees apply. Other recurring and one‑off charges - Second‑year top‑up (where applicable): GBP 500 (applies to second year). - Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) (boarding/international student immigration administration): GBP 55 (single payment in August invoice). - GCSE sports kit (where applicable): GBP 60 (purchased from the college). School uniform is purchased directly by the student from suppliers; the college provides school tie and House T‑shirt with the cost deducted from the deposit where noted. Textbooks, stationery, some off‑campus activities, one‑to‑one tuition (academic, IELTS, music), guardianship and optional UCAS preparation are not included in standard fees and are chargeable separately. - Bedding pack: one complimentary bedding pack per year for boarding students. Weekly room cleaning and one complimentary airport pickup on specified dates are included for boarding students. What the fees include and exclude (summary) - Included for day students: tuition, group IELTS preparation (exam fee excluded), meals, use of college facilities, exam fees (excluding re‑takes). Exclusions include one‑to‑one lessons, uniform, certain off‑campus activities, gym membership, textbooks, and optional courses. - Included for boarding students: tuition, accommodation, meals (not during Christmas and Summer holidays), group IELTS preparation (exam fee excluded), exam fees (excluding re‑takes), use of college facilities, complimentary bedding pack and weekly room cleaning. Exclusions include CAS fee, guardianship, one‑to‑one tuition, uniform, textbooks, certain off‑campus activities and optional courses. Billing schedule and payment terms - Invoicing: fees are invoiced bi‑annually on 1 June and 1 November and are payable within 14 days of invoice. Invoices are issued upon receipt of an application and contain secure payment links specific to the account. - Term payment requirement: fees for each term are due as cleared funds before the commencement of the College term to which they relate (separate instalment arrangements may be agreed in writing). The college recommends using the direct debit facility or an international payment platform for prompt payment. Failure to pay may lead to exclusion for overdue sums and additional charges. Payment methods and instalments - Accepted and recommended methods: direct debit and an international payment platform. International payments and credit/debit card options are supported via the college's international payment provider (Flywire), which facilitates bank transfers and, where available, debit/credit card payments in the payer's local currency. Instalment arrangements for fees can be made only by separate written agreement with the college. Refunds, cancellations and notice requirements - General refund rule: fees will not be refunded, reduced or waived except where there is legal liability or in exceptional circumstances at the Head's discretion. Specific non‑refund circumstances include pupil absence through illness, term shortening or vacation extension, early release before end of term, temporary college closure, and provision of remote education, unless exceptional circumstances apply. - Acceptance Deposit refund and cancellation rights: where an offer and its acceptance are made entirely at a distance (no face‑to‑face meeting), parents have a 14‑day cancellation right from the date after the college receives the completed acceptance form; in that case the Acceptance Deposit will be refunded and any fees paid will be pro‑rated for educational services already provided. Outside that 14‑day distance‑selling window, withdrawal by parents requires either one Semester's written notice (the Acceptance Deposit will be retained) or payment of one Semester's fees in lieu of notice. Expulsion and certain removals carry no refund of deposits or past/current term fees. Consequences of late or non‑payment - Late payment provisions: the college may charge interest, recovery costs and may exclude the pupil with three days' written notice for overdue fees; exclusion for 28 days will be treated as withdrawal without notice and a term's fees in lieu of notice becomes payable. The college reserves the right to refuse payments where it is not satisfied as to the payer's identity or source of funds. Summary of key published fee figures (Cambridge, 2026/27) - Registration fee: UK/EU boarders GBP 216; International boarders GBP 300. Acceptance deposit: UK/EU GBP 3,000; International GBP 9,500. A Level Boarding (annual): GBP 74,900. A Level Day (annual): GBP 31,050. Invoices issued 1 June and 1 November; payable within 14 days. Instalments require a separate written agreement. Fees and terms are subject to annual review.	Fee details Application & Registration Fees - Registration (non‑refundable): £700 per student for courses (reduced to £600 where no CAS is required). - Course deposit (refundable subject to the School's terms): £2,500. - High School Term students (1 or 2 terms only) pay a reduced deposit of £700. - Registration fee is due when accepting the offer; the deposit is required to form the contract and is refundable only after all outstanding fees and charges have been cleared and after completion of the School's refund procedures. Tuition Fees (2026/27) — per year and per term by category - A Level (3 subjects), GCSE, Pre‑A level, University Foundation Programme: - International: £38,505 per year / £12,835 per term. - EU: £31,710 per year / £10,570 per term. - Domestic (UK): £22,080 per year / £7,360 per term. - Additional A‑level subject (per subject): £8,280 per year / £2,760 per term. - 5‑term A Level (January 2027 intake): - International: £29,450 per programme / £14,725 per term (applies to the first two terms listed; remaining terms follow the September fees schedule). - EU: £24,350 per programme / £12,175 per term. - Domestic: £16,980 per programme / £8,490 per term. - 5‑term GCSE (January 2027 intake): same structure and fees as the 5‑term A Level entry above. - Fast Track University Programme (UFP): - International: £32,100 per year / £16,050 per term. - EU: £26,430 per year / £13,215 per term. - Domestic: £18,400 per year / £9,200 per term. - Note: tuition fee amounts are published as both annual and per‑term figures; some intensive/5‑term programmes are charged according to the programme structure indicated above. Fees do not include examination fees or mailing costs. Billing schedule and payment terms - The annual tuition fee is divided into three equal parts and charged termly; fees payable for each term fall due for payment two weeks before the start of that term. - Fees are charged termly regardless of the actual length of any term; fees and any agreed supplemental charges will not be reduced or refunded for absence due to illness or other reasons except where expressly stated in the School's refund policy. - Interest on late payments: 2% per month is applied to overdue accounts; repeated failure to pay may result in suspension or cancellation of tuition and/or accommodation and the School reserves the right to require future advance payments. - A 3% charge applies to any pre‑agreed payment plan set up with the Finance Team; the School may require a credit check and the use of standing orders for some payment arrangements. - Deposit refund: the deposit is refunded only after all outstanding fees and expenses have been cleared; refunds are returned to the original payer by the original payment method and to the original bank account used for payment. Boarding / Accommodation fees (2026/27) — catered and self‑catered options - Catered accommodation (includes weekday breakfast, lunch and evening meal; weekend brunch and supper during term time): - Premium single, en‑suite (Elizabeth House): £22,335 per year / £7,445 per term — available to under‑16 and 16–17 year olds (not for 18+). - Single, en‑suite: £21,510 per year / £7,170 per term — available to under‑16, 16–17 and 18+ where indicated. - Self‑catered accommodation (single, en‑suite): £16,980 per year / £5,660 per term — available to 18+ students only; under‑18s are required by School policy to occupy catered accommodation. - School policy requires all students under 18 to be in catered accommodation; independent (off‑site) accommodation for students requires Principal approval. - Additional boarding charges: accommodation over Easter holidays (catered under‑18s) is charged per week; activity holiday programmes and holiday accommodation rates are charged separately as published. Other costs and compulsory extras - Compulsory items invoiced during the relevant term (examples and typical amounts): - UCAS application: £75. - IELTS test (where required): around £235 (students may need to retake tests and incur additional costs). - UFP exam fees: around £135 per subject. - GCSE exam fees: around £90 per subject. - Other academic exam fees: around £140 per subject (programme dependent). - Field trips (selected subjects): example £350 for Biology/Geography; KS4 residential trips ~£300. - Set textbooks: approximately £400. - School hoody and T‑shirt: approximately £60. - Replacement ID card: £10; replacement room key: £50; tampering with smoke alarm: £100; charges for damages as required. - Optional costs (payable in advance or charged when the activity takes place): - One‑to‑one lessons / additional learning support: £105 per hour. - Day or weekend trips: around £45 (day) to £460 (weekend) depending on destination and length. - Duke of Edinburgh Award: Bronze ~£315; Silver ~£340; Gold ~£860. - Half‑term/holiday trips (example): ~£1,155. - Exam remark / clerical checks: e.g. UFP full remark £345 per subject (refunded if mark changes); clerical check £85 per subject (refunded if mark changes). - Visa and immigration costs for international students are not included (e.g., Immigration Health Surcharge and visa application fees) and are charged by the UK government. Refund, cancellation and withdrawal information - Cancellation before studies: - More than 14 days before the first day of study: liability for deposit and registration fee only. - Less than 14 days before the first day of study: liability for deposit, registration fee, plus one full term's applicable tuition and accommodation fees. - If cancellation is due to visa refusal (through no fault of the applicant) the School will normally refund fees paid excluding the registration fee, subject to submission of written evidence. - Under UK consumer law a 14‑day cooling‑off period applies from receipt of the deposit: cancellation within that period entitles the payer to a full refund. - Withdrawal after studies have commenced: - One full term's written notice is required for withdrawal. Failure to give a term's notice results in charges for the current term plus one term's fees in lieu of notice (tuition and accommodation without discount). - Refunds will not be made for periods of absence due to illness, injury or other personal circumstances; parents/students are advised that fee‑insurance may be required to cover such risks. - Deposit refunds and other refunds are processed only to the original fee payer, by the original payment method and into the original bank account, after completion of the School's refund procedures and once all outstanding liabilities are cleared. Fee payment options - International and other electronic payments are processed via the School's Flywire payment partner. Flywire allows payment in over 150 currencies and accepts credit/debit card, bank transfer and multiple e‑wallet solutions (including China UnionPay and AliPay), with payment tracking and multilingual support. - The School also accepts standard bank transfers and will provide invoicing and account details via the Finance Team; some payment arrangements may require a standing order or specific payment plan terms. Notes on inclusions/ exclusions - Tuition and published accommodation fees exclude the additional compulsory and optional items listed above (examination entry fees, some trips, visas, specialist materials and some course‑specific costs).
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements CSFC Cambridge boarding offers on-site, purpose-built accommodation run by a dedicated boarding team. Boarders live in a cluster room sharing a kitchen with 7–9 residents; each bedroom includes a bathroom with shower, bed, desk, wardrobe and storage. The house is staffed 24 hours a day by two senior House Parents, house parents and a Matron, with strong pastoral care in a family-like environment. CSFC Cambridge has its own dining facilities serving lunch and dinner five days a week, with brunch and dinner on weekends; the canteen provides vegetarian and vegan options and halal meat is available, with allergies or dietary restrictions reported to the College Nurse. There are weekend activities and cultural visits.	Boarding arrangements Boarding is provided on campus at Elizabeth House, connected to the main school building, with single en‑suite rooms for students aged 14–17. Darwin House is located less than 50 metres from the main teaching building and will open in June 2026 to create a cohesive campus. Full catering for students aged 14+ and on‑site laundry facilities are available.
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement —	Uniform requirement —
Food options	Food options CSFC Cambridge has its own catering facilities serving lunch and dinner five days a week, with brunch and dinner on weekends. The catering provides vegetarian and vegan options and halal prepared meat is always available; allergies must be reported to the College Nurse.	Food options A varied, international meal experience is provided with daily menus inspired by cuisines from around the world, including Asian, Indian, Italian, Mexican and traditional British dishes. All meals are freshly prepared on campus by the in‑house catering team in partnership with Thomas Franks; vegetarian and Halal options are available and dietary requirements can be accommodated.
House system	House system CSFC Cambridge boarding uses a standard house structure with two senior House Parents, a team of House Parents and a Matron; each location is staffed 24 hours a day. Male and female accommodation areas are single-gender and access to floors/buildings of the opposite sex is prohibited. Students are placed in a cluster room, sharing a kitchen with 7–9 students; each bedroom has a bathroom, bed, desk, wardrobe and storage. Curfews apply for younger students; leave requests may be granted; room checks and regular welfare support are provided.	House system Houses form part of the pastoral structure; students participate in regular meetings with senior leaders, student councils and houses.
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership CSFC Cambridge is a campus alongside CSFC Cardiff and adopts and operates similar boarding practices and principles. Cardiff Sixth Form College has two sites, Cardiff and Cambridge, and operates under the banner ‘One College on Two Campuses'.	Governance and ownership The school is owned by CATS Global Schools (CGS). All legal entities are wholly owned subsidiaries of CGS. The registered address is CGS Administrative Services Limited, 1 High Street, Chesterton Cambridge CB4 1NQ, UK.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details Most students study four A Levels. An Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) is available to all students. Extension activities include pre-university courses, TED Talks, research projects and critical thinking. A portfolio option is available for architecture or engineering to supplement A Level study.	Curriculum details GCSE; UK High School Term; Pre-A Level; A Level; UFP (University Foundation Programme). All school life is conducted in English.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio —	Student teacher ratio Small classes with subject-specialist teachers.
Exam results	Exam results In 2025, 68% of grades were A, 94% were A-A, 99.6% were A-B and 100% achieved A-C. The college has topped league tables for more than a decade. Results reflect sustained high achievement.	Exam results Academic results are available upon request.
Higher education progression	Higher education progression In 2025, 55% of students progressed to Russell Group universities, 33% to G5 universities and 81% to Top QS universities. UK destinations include Cambridge and Oxford among others, with graduates also progressing to universities worldwide.	Higher education progression Progression to leading UK universities, including Oxford and Cambridge; has university progression agreements and Oxbridge-related programmes.
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented —	Gifted and talented —
Academic calendar	Academic calendar —	Academic calendar —
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning The school places social and emotional learning at the heart of its provision. Pupils have weekly PSE and RSE sessions as part of a structured pastoral programme. Each student is assigned a Head of House who provides guidance on pastoral, wellbeing and academic matters. A Wellbeing Hub provides information on a wide range of wellbeing topics and links to local and national organisations. A Wellbeing Officer offers one-to-one wellbeing support and runs wellbeing workshops, with referrals to Kooth, Meic and other services as needed. The CREATE Portfolio and the CREATE Wellness Programme support wellbeing and resilience, with Bronze, Silver and Gold awards aligned to monthly themes and UNCRC principles.	Social & emotional learning The school has a dedicated Welfare Team that collaborates with staff to provide pastoral support when needed. Personal Tutors meet daily with Tutor Groups to monitor attendance, academic progress, emotional support and university applications. The House System promotes a sense of belonging and teaches students to look after themselves and work with others. The Student Council includes a Health and Wellbeing committee to promote wellbeing, and the Student Communications team provides ongoing guidance throughout the student journey.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) The Cambridge campus has 2 pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities. 0 pupils have an Education Health and Care plan. The Cambridge campus does not use alternative provision.	Special educational needs (SEN) ALS (Additional Learning Support) is in place, overseen by an ALS Co-ordinator. Subject teachers discuss progress with the ALS Co-ordinator and implement SEND-related support through collaboration with Personal Tutors and Heads of Department. Students on the ALS register are clearly highlighted in their subject mark-books.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language English for Academic Purposes (EAP) supports international students with a comprehensive EAP curriculum. A Teacher of English for Academic Purposes joins the EAP staff to implement this curriculum. The program develops language skills needed to excel in A Level subjects and to gain university admission, including IELTS qualifications. EAP support is integrated with mainstream teaching to help students access academic content. The Cambridge Edge complements EAP by building critical thinking, effective communication, leadership and entrepreneurship.	English as an additional language All school life is conducted in English. Nearly all students learn in English as a second language (ESL). Teachers monitor each student's English level and adapt teaching accordingly, consulting the Head of ESL when additional support is needed.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing Pastoral care emphasizes mental health and wellbeing as a core element of the College's approach to health. The World Health Organization definition of health guides pastoral work, with weekly PSE and RSE topics addressing resilience and wellbeing. A Wellbeing Officer provides direct wellbeing support and can run workshops, with in-house and external sources available for referral. The Wellbeing Hub offers up-to-date information, helplines and self-help resources such as Kooth and Meic, accessible to students. Independent Listener support and Wellness Officers, along with student groups, reinforce wellbeing across the college; the CREATE Portfolio and Wellness Programme offer structured wellbeing milestones and actions.	Mental wellbeing An on-site Health Centre provides medical support, and a trained counsellor is available on campus for emotional wellbeing. Nurses can refer students to additional services to support mental health and emotional wellbeing.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding Safeguarding and child protection operate on a whole-college basis. All staff receive safeguarding training that is refreshed regularly, and new staff receive safeguarding induction. Staff have clear duties to refer safeguarding concerns to the Designated Safeguarding Person. The college provides a confidential email for students to disclose or discuss safeguarding concerns (support@ccoex.com). Pupils are regularly informed about safeguarding procedures through induction, assemblies and weekly PSE sessions. Safeguarding practice is monitored through governance audits, staff training records and safeguarding logs.	Safeguarding The school has safeguarding arrangements with a Designated Safeguarding Lead (Philip Bond) and a Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead (Sarah Morgan). Safeguarding and child protection policies are maintained and implemented.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview Located in the heart of the university city of Cambridge at 89 Regent Street, Cambridge CB2 1AW. The Cambridge campus offers university-style single ensuite bedrooms, cared for by the boarding team. It is equipped with common rooms, kitchens, a music practice room, an art room and a medical centre. The Cambridge campus is described as brimming with learning and culture in the heart of Cambridge.	Facilities overview The campus is located near the city centre, close to the University of Cambridge, and a 15-minute walk from the historic centre. Elizabeth House is attached to the main school building and offers 236 single en-suite rooms for students aged 14–17. Darwin House will open in June 2026, on the campus less than 50 metres from the main teaching building, offering 99 en-suite bedrooms with capacity for up to 125. All boarding accommodation has 24-hour supervision. Catering is provided on campus by the in-house catering team in partnership with Thomas Franks, offering a varied international menu with fresh meals prepared on campus.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities —	Sports facilities —
Academic facilities	Academic facilities A Levels are taught by high-calibre teaching staff. In addition to A Levels, students participate in pre-university courses, Ted Talks, research projects and critical thinking to broaden their learning. These activities help students develop critical thinking and research skills. The Cambridge campus uses these activities to support academic progression.	Academic facilities —
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities The college offers sport, music, art and drama clubs. There is a wealth of extra-curricular and enrichment activities. House competitions, whole-school celebrations and social events take place throughout the year. Students join Cambridge University lectures and social activities including sport, music and theatre in Cambridge and London.	Extra curricular facilities Over 30 extra-curricular activities are available, including Coding, STEM, Robotics, and Astronomy. Students can participate in activities and trips open to all CATS Cambridge students. During induction, students are encouraged to sign up for clubs and societies to enhance their experience. The House system runs competitions such as Sports Day, Mastermind, Spelling Bee, and Chariots of Fire.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History Cardiff Sixth Form College was established in 2004 as a small private private tutorial centre. In September 2022 Cardiff Sixth Form College opened a Cambridge campus, and the two campuses now operate as one college on two campuses. Cardiff Sixth Form College Cambridge is a sister college to Cardiff Sixth Form College, Cardiff and is a subsidiary of the Dukes Education Colleges. The Cambridge campus is based in central Cambridge, with a site on Regent Street (89 Regent Street, Cambridge CB2 1AW) and a second site on Glisson Road (5 Glisson Road, Cambridge CB1 2HA). Boarding is provided with House Parents to support students.	History Since 1952, CATS Cambridge, CATS Canterbury and CATS London have delivered high-quality teaching to students from around the world. CATS UK schools underwent a branding refresh; from 12 October, CATS Canterbury has been rebranded The Worthgate School and CATS London has been rebranded Guildhouse School. Cambridge will continue to carry the heritage of the CATS name, but its logo and brand colours have changed. Our new school websites are live and can be accessed from this page. For inquiries, admissions@catsglobalschools.com.
Community	Community Cardiff Sixth Form College Cambridge has an international student body drawn from multiple countries. The Cambridge campus provides boarding with house staff and pastoral support, with facilities and staff arranged to support resident students. The Cambridge location is in the city centre of Cambridge, at 89 Regent Street. The curriculum includes a predominantly STEM programme with subjects such as Mathematics, Further Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Economics and Computer Science.	Community —
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association —	Parent teacher association —
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual The Cambridge campus follows a predominantly STEM programme, and students may select Mathematics, Further Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Economics, and Computer Science. The school builds management and project skills, teamwork, confidence and a healthy mindset, with an emphasis on independent learning. All students access courses in critical thinking, effective communication, leadership and entrepreneurship. Learning continues beyond the classroom through an extensive super-curricular programme called The Cambridge Edge, which includes work observation, academic enrichment trips, career-based societies and a wide range of academic competitions. An extensive university preparation programme complements the curriculum, with specific assistance for Oxbridge entry, Medicine and Healthcare degrees, and international university preparation.	Academic & intellectual The school runs over 30 different activities each week, spanning sports, academic, and self-development. Academic options include Chemistry, Chess, Coding, Current Affairs, Electronics, German, Model UN, Robotics, STEM, and Step Up Maths. Activities vary each academic year, and Cambridge Science Festival and Cambridge Festival of Ideas are popular events aligned with the local university scene.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative —	Arts & creative Arts activities include Dance, Fun Art, Literature, Origami, and Textiles Craft. These activities form part of the broad extracurricular program and support creativity and personal expression. Participation details vary by year.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language English language support is provided through English for Academic Purposes (EAP) to help students develop language skills for success in A Level subjects and university admissions, including IELTS qualifications.	Cultural & language German is offered as an academic language option within the activities program, and Model UN supports international perspectives. The school also hosts cultural and language activities within the broader program to reflect Cambridge's international character.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies The Cambridge Edge includes career-based societies and a wide range of academic competitions, along with enrichment trips, providing social and intellectual engagement beyond the classroom.	Social & hobbies We run over 30 weekly activities including sports clubs such as badminton, basketball, football, rowing, running, table tennis, tennis, U16 football, and volleyball. Students can access additional clubs in the local area or start their own clubs at the school with staff support. Activities vary each year.
Community & service	Community & service —	Community & service —
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional The Cambridge campus offers courses in leadership and entrepreneurship, and emphasizes leadership, management and project skills, teamwork, confidence and a healthy mindset through The Cambridge Edge and related activities.	Leadership & professional Leadership-focused activities include Christian Society, Debating, Duke of Edinburgh, E-Sports, and Young Enterprise. These clubs help students develop leadership and professional skills for university life and beyond. The program encourages student initiative and the pursuit of personal and team leadership opportunities.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing Students build a healthy mindset, supported by the Cambridge Edge and university-preparation programme; the college operates under Dukes Education, which provides additional guidance and support for university applications including Oxbridge and US universities.	Lifestyle & wellbeing The program includes extensive sports and fitness activities that support physical wellbeing. Pastoral care is central to the student experience, providing ongoing support for mental and emotional wellbeing. The school environment promotes outdoor activity and wellbeing as part of daily life.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision The college uses English as the language of instruction. It acknowledges that students come from a wide range of countries and may have English as an additional language. English for Academic Purposes (EAP) is offered as a non-qualification activity. Lessons are planned so that teaching helps students develop their English and participate in all subjects, supporting progression to Higher Education.	Language provision The language of instruction is English across all subjects. English language support is available to help students excel, including during A Level delivery. English is used to support both academic and social learning at the school.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching —	Bilingual teaching —
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs Immersive English is used at CATS Cambridge. All school life is conducted in English, giving every student the opportunity to master the language in both academic and social settings. The immersive education style helps students build knowledge, resilience and achieve the best outcomes in life.
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards —
Accreditations	Accreditations —	Accreditations —
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions 1) Registration and initial data submission. Candidates complete a registration form on the College website that feeds into the admissions database Salesforce. An automated email requests academic information, a copy of the applicant's passport, and a birth certificate with certified English translation where applicable. A registration invoice is issued; after the registration fee is paid, an account is created and a parental/Agent portal is activated to view, edit, and track the application. Data checks are performed in Salesforce before moving to entrance assessments. 2) Entrance assessments and entry points. The College offers three entry points: GCSE 1 Year (age 15–16 on entry), GCSE 2 Year (age 14–15), and A Level (age 16–17). Admissions staff coordinate the timing of entrance tests with the family/agent/British Council/school, provide invigilation guidelines, and send exams to the named invigilator; external costs for entrance examinations are the applicant's responsibility. International entrants may present existing GCSE/IGCSE results; minimum expectations include relevant A‑level subject choices and a strong overall profile; additional tests may be required as deemed necessary. UK entrants take entrance papers in each chosen A‑Level subject plus a GL assessment or equivalent; an interview is also part of the process. 3) Interview and assessment. All applicants are interviewed unless they withdraw beforehand. UK residents or day students attend in person; international students may be interviewed at overseas education fairs or online. Interview details are logged in Salesforce and may require showing a passport for verification. Entrance papers, GL assessment results, and school reports are considered by the Admissions Manager and/ or the Principal; exact exam results are not shared with candidates/agents/parents. 4) Offer of a Place. The Registrar sends an offer letter via Salesforce outlining conditions, an acceptance form, parental consent form, and terms; if accepted, a deposit invoice is raised and payment is requested. The offer remains valid for one week, with extensions only in special circumstances. Conditional offers can be made, subject to an international student achieving the required IELTS qualification; all international offers state English language requirements (typically IELTS levels: 6.5 for September entry, 6.0 for August entry, 5.5 for GCSE). 5) Acceptance and enrolment. A candidate is accepted and the place confirmed when the acceptance form is completed and the deposit is cleared; Salesforce is updated to “Accepted” and parents/agents receive notification. Deposit transfers are verified by Finance and matched with Xero; data is prepared for transfer to the college MIS. 6) New joiners' documentation. New joiners' documents include an initial letter, Pre-Arrival Guide, Medical Questionnaire, Insurance Form, Guardianship information, and a Photographic permission form; CAS is not requested until these forms are returned. 7) Visa applications. For non-UK/non-Ireland applications, a CAS request is submitted to the Dukes Student Immigration Department; a CAS is issued in line with the college's visa policy. 8) Post-acceptance data handling. Accepted students' data are transferred to the Academic Data Manager for input into ISAMS; documents are uploaded and accessible to relevant college staff. 9) Pre-arrival and induction planning. A visa/BRP confirmation is issued; Travel arrangements are coordinated by the Travel Coordinator; accommodation and timetables are finalized by the appropriate college staff; first term fees are confirmed as paid; an invitation to the initial Parent Event is issued. 10) Induction and enrolment. A full student induction occurs, followed by a Parents' welcome event; students register with the College, receive the student handbook, complete international Student Data forms, undergo immigration checks, receive a Student ID Card, and are introduced to staff and peers; timetables are issued and health/safety briefings are provided.	Admissions Visit CATS Cambridge. Families considering CATS Cambridge are encouraged to visit in person to explore the areas of the school that matter to them, meet staff and students, and discuss opportunities available. If an in‑person visit isn't possible, an online conversation via Microsoft Teams can be arranged. Experiencing the school in action, viewing facilities first hand, and meeting staff and students is the best way to understand what a CATS Cambridge education offers. Apply Online. We accept direct applications to the admissions team or applications made through trusted educational agents in many countries. To begin the process, submit a copy of your passport and your most recent school reports for an initial assessment. No fee is required for submission. Offer Pack. For your application to be successful, entry requirements are detailed on the individual course pages. Offers may be conditional (subject to obtaining certain grades and/or meeting English language requirements or returning completed registration forms) or unconditional. An offer pack will usually include acceptance forms, fee information and joining instructions, together with a copy of the Terms and Conditions. Please be mindful of acceptance deadlines, as places are often limited. Acceptance and Enrolment. Students who receive an offer will be asked to accept their place by completing and returning an acceptance form and paying a minimum payment to secure a place. Admissions will send a Registration Pack with booking details and information about how to complete enrolment. Once all offer conditions are met, a final Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) number for visa application or Confirmation of Enrolment letter (COE) is issued. You will be contacted with information about enrolment and induction before the start of the course, and travel itinerary may be requested to coordinate arrival.
Scholarships	Scholarships The Cardiff Sixth Form Scholarship programme is administered as a meritocratic process that considers academic achievement, performance at interview, and passion for the chosen career. Scholarship recipients are expected to maintain high standards of attendance (minimum 95%) and punctuality, and to achieve AAA grades with an 85% average in each subject in examinations (EPs). The college reserves the right to review a scholarship if sanctions are imposed or if performance falls below expectations. Recipients should attend the annual Cultural Event, Glee production, Sports Day, Eisteddfod, and other college activities; they should participate in college life and the house system and promote the scholarship program. AS examination results must contain a minimum AAA to retain the full scholarship; if results fall below AAA, a partial scholarship for the A2 year or withdrawal of the scholarship may occur if attainment drops below AAB. Scholarship maintenance is assessed across EP cycles and mock examinations, as well as conduct, attendance, and participation. The college normally requires at least four students to run a subject; if a subject has fewer than four students, the college may withdraw the subject or offer it on a separate charged basis. Parents are asked to support by assisting with promotional activities and work experience where appropriate; regular meetings with the Head of House monitor progress and compliance with scholarship conditions. The scholarship contract reflects these obligations and can be reviewed if conditions are not met.	Scholarships The school offers the Scholarship of Excellence for exceptional students who make a successful application to and attend the University of Oxford or the University of Cambridge while studying A Level at CATS Cambridge. Eligibility includes joining or continuing A Level studies at CATS Cambridge. The Scholarship of Excellence reimburses the final two years of tuition and accommodation fees upon proof of acceptance and attendance of the first semester at Oxford or Cambridge. Recipients are expected to engage in marketing activities, events and provide a testimonial for promotional use. Assessments and interviews determine eligibility for the scholarship or bursary award. Scholarship recipients must maintain good academic and personal standing during their course, and misconduct may result in withdrawal. Details of scholarship terms are outlined in the school's policies and prospectuses.
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