Downside School
Education Administration ProgramsSomerset, United Kingdom51-200 Employees
Downside School is a co-educational independent school offering both boarding and day education for students aged 11 to 18. Founded in 1606 and located on a 500-acre estate near Bath in Somerset, it blends its long history with contemporary academic expectations. The school operates a predominantly boarding model and maintains a seven-day-a-week community that includes day pupils in its program. Academically, Downside is recognized for strong performance within its region and nationally, particularly among Catholic co-educational independent schools. Its alumni network, known as Old Gregorians, continues to engage with current students and supports those preparing to transition beyond the school. In August 2025, the school announced the retirement of Head Andrew Hobbs after seven years in the role.