The Purcell School

Independent

National rank

257

257

Rank last year

67.9%

A-level

A-level

A*-B

44.1%

GCSE

GCSE

A*/A/9/8/7

Need to know

Head teacher

Paul Bambrough

Gender of entry

Mixed

Total pupils

194 (11-18)

Head teacher

Paul Bambrough

Gender of entry

Mixed

Total pupils

194 (11-18)

Head teacher

Paul Bambrough

Gender of entry

Mixed

Total pupils

194 (11-18)

UK day fees per term*

£11,351 (11-18) includes lunch

UK boarding fees per term*

£14,493 (11-18)

*Fee correct as of November 21, 2024
Our methodology
Results

A-level 2024 rank: 249

Grade

%

A*

9.2

A

26.6

B

32.1

A*/A

35.8

A*-B

67.9

GCSE 2024 rank: 276

Grade

%

A*/9/8

23.5

A/7

20.6

A*/A/9/8/7

44.1

What the school inspection says

Date of report
2022
Verdict
Excellent
“The school aims to provide young musicians of exceptional promise, irrespective of background, a supportive school environment which is intended to equip them with the self-confidence, adaptability, maturity and perspective to sustain their professional development and personal fulfilment throughout their lives. Pupils’ musical achievements and performances are of the highest standard … Pupils are proud of their achievements across a wide spectrum of academic life. Their attitudes to learning are exemplary; they demonstrate excellent initiative and independence, as shown in the high levels of dedication and commitment to their musical studies and practices. Their willingness to collaborate with their peers and staff is evident in every area of school life.” There was a short visit in 2023.
Read the full report
Read report

About the school

  • The specialist music school’s campus in Bushey, Hertfordshire, was opened by the former Prince of Wales in 1997. As King Charles III, he has retained his patronage of Purcell, which began in 1985.
  • Applications are welcomed from young musicians between the ages of 10 and 18. Emphasis is placed on musical skill, desire, commitment and potential rather than grade attainment. Means-tested bursaries aim to minimise the financial barriers to a promising student’s musical education.
  • Priding itself on delivering the “very highest world-class musical instruction”, the school holds the Unesco Mozart Gold Medal in recognition of its contribution to music, education and international culture.
  • Purcell is a boarding and day school, with a capacity for about 190 talented young players, singers and composers.
  • There are eight music departments, including strings, voice, composition, commercial and popular music.
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