Eton College

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"View of classroom at Eton College, England, showing plainess of the furniture and names carved thereon by the... - NARA - 298013

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Bundesarchiv Bild 102-13350, England, Rudermannschaft

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Eton College Coat of Arms

Eton College is a prestigious independent boarding school for boys located in Eton, Berkshire, near Windsor in England. It was founded in 1440 by King Henry VI as "The King's College of Our Lady of Eton besides Wyndsor". Eton is one of the original nine English public schools as defined by the Public Schools Act 1868.

History

Eton College was established by King Henry VI in 1440 to provide free education to 70 poor boys who would then go on to King's College, Cambridge. The school has since evolved into one of the most prestigious and exclusive schools in the world, known for its high academic standards and notable alumni.

Campus

The Eton College campus is extensive, covering over 400 acres. It includes historic buildings such as the Eton College Chapel, which dates back to the 15th century, and newer facilities like the Jafar Hall and the Farrer Theatre. The school also boasts extensive sports facilities, including numerous playing fields, a rowing lake, and a golf course.

Academics

Eton College offers a broad curriculum with a strong emphasis on the humanities, sciences, and languages. The school follows the British educational system, preparing students for GCSEs and A-levels. Eton is known for its rigorous academic standards and has a high rate of students gaining admission to top universities, particularly Oxford and Cambridge.

Extracurricular Activities

Eton College offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, drama, and various clubs and societies. The school is particularly known for its rowing program, with many students competing at national and international levels. Other popular sports include cricket, rugby, and football.

Notable Alumni

Eton College has educated many prominent figures, including 20 British Prime Ministers such as David Cameron and Boris Johnson. Other notable alumni include Prince William and Prince Harry, as well as numerous writers, actors, and scientists.

Traditions

Eton College is steeped in tradition, with many customs dating back centuries. One of the most famous traditions is the annual Fourth of June celebration, which includes a procession of boats and various festivities. The school also has a unique uniform, consisting of a black tailcoat and waistcoat, white tie, and pinstriped trousers.

Related Pages

• Public school (United Kingdom)
• King's College, Cambridge
• Windsor, Berkshire
• David Cameron
• Boris Johnson
• Prince William, Duke of Cambridge
• Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex