Explore our school: 11-14 November ☀️ Click here to book your place!

A remarkably tailored education

Where pupils reach their full potential

A world-class musical education

A stunning educational setting

A high-calibre sporting education

A happy and purposeful community

Spirituality, timelessness and wonder

We are Exeter's oldest school offering girls and boys aged 3-13 a remarkably tailored education.

I’m delighted that you’re visiting our website, and hope that it will provide you with a flavour of what life is like here at Exeter Cathedral School.

We’ve been going for over 800 years, so there is a tremendous amount of history, tradition, culture and heritage in the walls and in the blood. But there is also freshness, dynamism, modern facilities, and a real sense of pride in being an ancient foundation with traditional values and a modern approach, and a place where children can be children.

Exeter Cathedral School is a terrific place and I am hugely proud to be Headmaster of this very fine independent school. Our website will give you a good insight into what we’re all about, but there’s no substitute of course for a visit in person. Do come and see us at any stage for a tour and taster day to discover what makes Exeter’s oldest school such a very special place to be – my team and I will be delighted to welcome you.

James Featherstone
Headmaster

"A fantastic spring board for whatever the future holds. Thank you."

Exeter Cathedral School Parent

Pupil News

Benjy Writes His Way to National Win

6 May 2025

Life at Exeter Cathedral School

Year 6 Live the Tudor Life

6 May 2025

ECS Futures

Exeter Cathedral School Launches 3-18 Pathway Places

6 May 2025

Our Outstanding Inspection

Arrange a tour

Discover the History, Heart and Future of Your Child’s Education.

We invite you to experience Exeter Cathedral School firsthand. Our informal private tours offer a glimpse into Exeter’s oldest independent private school, showcasing our unique blend of tradition, vibrant classrooms and exceptional facilities.

194

Instrument lessons taught every week.

30+

Clubs offered every term throughout the school.

176

Happy pupils enrolled.

8

First-rate sporting facilities.

“Exeter Cathedral School is great and it has helped me understand me.”

PoppyECS Alumna

"The teaching staff are utterly fantastic and the children feel safe, cared for and nurtured whilst in the pre-prep."

ECS Parent

"The teachers have a wonderful gauge of each child, pushing those that need a nudge and offering great support to those that are flying."

ECS Parent

“The ECS Futures programme has been exceptional.”

OwenECS Alumnus

"The level of thought development as they move up the school is astounding"

ECS Parent

"Exeter Cathedral School Nursery is quite simply superb."

ECS Parent

"My time at Exeter Cathedral School set me up for anything that came my way"

FelixECS Alumnus

“Getting an Art Scholarship has given me the confidence to go for the things I wouldn’t usually go for”

KerstenECS Alumna

Read our Good Schools Guide Review

The Good Schools Guide is the UK’s number one school guide, helping parents in every aspect of choosing the best private school in Devon for their children.

We hope that reading this review will help your family make a more informed decision as you explore life at Exeter Cathedral School.

Be a Chorister for a day!

Be a Chorister for a Day is a free Chorister open day for boys and girls currently in Years 2-5 who enjoy singing. It is a great chance for young people to be encouraged and coached by professional musicians in an inspirational setting.

Date: Saturday 30 November 2024

Exeter Cathedral School Celebrates Inspection Report 2024

This inspection report by the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) highlights the many strengths of Exeter Cathedral School. The report highlights the first-rate provision in all areas of school life and found the school to be fully meeting all of the relevant standards.

Inspectors praised the school’s nurturing environment, where pupils flourish academically and develop strong social and emotional skills. The report highlights the school’s commitment to:

High-quality education: The curriculum is well-planned and engaging, with teachers passionate about their subjects. Pupils make good progress across all areas.
Supportive environment: The school fosters a positive and inclusive environment where pupils feel valued and respected.
Broad range of opportunities: Exeter Cathedral School offers a wide range of extra-curricular activities and opportunities for personal growth.
Strong leadership: Leaders were commended for their clear vision, effective management, and focus on pupil well-being.

For a full picture of the school’s achievements, please click here to access the complete inspection report.