Brief History of the College

160 Not Out!

In 2003 Marlborough College celebrated its 160th anniversary. Founded in 1843, the College is recognised as one of the country's leading independent schools. With your help, we hope to ensure that it will remain at the forefront of independent education.

When the Reverend Charles Plater first developed the idea of creating the school that was to become Marlborough College, his aim was to provide education primarily for the sons of clergymen. The idea grew and the school flourished, attracting pupils from far afield.

The College also begun establishing a reputation for excellence and fresh thinking. It was, for example, one of the very first schools in the country to have a choir, and also introduced science as a subject earlier than many of its contemporaries.

In its 160 years, Marlborough College has produced some outstanding people: businessmen and bishops, poets and painters, politicians and serving military officers. Marlborough combines a proud tradition with a readiness to innovate. These two qualities will ensure that the College continues to set the standard in education for the benefit of all its present and future pupils.