41 Interesting Facts about Eton College

Dan September 10, 2023

Eton College is one of the most prestigious and renowned independent schools in the United Kingdom, located in Eton, Berkshire, near Windsor. Founded in 1440 by King Henry VI, the college has a rich history and is known for providing a world-class education to its students. Eton College is often associated with its close neighbor, Windsor Castle, and it has educated many members of the British royal family and notable figures throughout history.

Eton College follows the traditional British boarding school model, with students typically starting at the age of 13 and completing their studies at 18. The curriculum is rigorous and well-rounded, encompassing a wide range of subjects, including the humanities, sciences, and the arts. Eton is particularly known for its focus on classical subjects and languages. The college’s facilities are extensive and impressive, featuring historic buildings, libraries, sports fields, and even its own chapel. The Eton College Chapel is a notable architectural and cultural landmark, often used for various ceremonies and events.

Eton College places a strong emphasis on extracurricular activities, including sports, music, drama, and debate. The college has a long-standing tradition of competitive rowing, and its students participate in a wide array of clubs and societies. Eton College’s commitment to holistic education aims to nurture well-rounded individuals who excel not only academically but also in character and leadership.

What about Eton College interesting facts? Here are 41 interesting facts about Eton College.

1. Eton College is located in Eton, Berkshire, near Windsor, England.
2. It was founded by King Henry VI in 1440.
3. Eton College is one of the oldest and most prestigious independent schools in the world.
4. The college’s official name is “The King’s College of Our Lady of Eton beside Windsor.”
5. Eton College has educated many members of the British royal family, including Princes William and Harry.
6. The school’s motto is “Floreat Etona,” which means “Let Eton flourish.”
7. Eton has its own unique pronunciation guide for Latin, known as “Eton Latin.”
8. The college has a house system, with students belonging to one of 25 different houses.
9. Eton’s uniform includes a black tailcoat, waistcoat, and pinstriped trousers, which students wear for formal occasions.
10. The Eton College Chapel is a stunning example of Gothic architecture and a central part of the school’s history.
11. Eton College has its own chapel choir, which performs at religious services and special events.
12. The college’s library houses a vast collection of rare books and manuscripts, including a Gutenberg Bible.
13. Eton College has produced numerous notable alumni, including 20 British Prime Ministers.
14. The annual cricket match between Eton College and Harrow School, known as the Eton-Harrow match, is one of the oldest cricket fixtures in the world.
15. The school has a tradition of “fagging,” where younger students serve older ones, although this practice has been largely abolished.
16. Eton College has a strong focus on classical education, including Latin and Ancient Greek.
17. The school’s debating society, the Eton Society, is one of the oldest and most prestigious in the country.
18. Eton College is famous for its annual Fourth of June celebration, which includes a procession, cricket matches, and festivities.
19. The Wall Game, a unique form of football played against a wall, is a traditional sport at Eton.
20. Eton has its own boathouse on the River Thames, where students participate in rowing and crew.
21. The college is renowned for its strong academic standards, consistently achieving top results in national exams.
22. Eton College has a tradition of sending graduates to Oxford and Cambridge Universities.
23. The school’s alumni network, known as the “Old Etonians,” includes numerous influential figures in various fields.
24. Eton College has a strong commitment to community service and social responsibility.
25. The Eton College Natural History Museum features a diverse collection of specimens.
26. The college offers a scholarship program to support talented students from less privileged backgrounds.
27. Eton College’s museum displays artifacts related to the school’s history and famous alumni.
28. The college has its own theater, the Farrer Theatre, which hosts dramatic productions and events.
29. Eton College has a strong tradition of arts and music, with various ensembles and choirs.
30. The school’s annual Shakespeare play is a highly anticipated event, showcasing the students’ acting talents.
31. Eton College’s War Memorial Hall honors the alumni who died in World War I.
32. The school’s Eton College Chronicle is one of the oldest school magazines in the world.
33. Eton College’s Combined Cadet Force (CCF) provides military training to interested students.
34. The school’s debating chamber, known as the “Pupil Room,” is a historic space for intellectual discussions.
35. Eton College’s Wallingford Boathouse, located downstream on the River Thames, is used for rowing training.
36. The college’s alumni include famous authors, actors, politicians, and scholars.
37. Eton College’s traditions and customs have been documented in literature, including novels by former students.
38. The school has its own flag, known as the “Eton Flag,” which flies above the college’s buildings.
39. Eton College has a tradition of annual house dinners and formal events.
40. The school’s commitment to academic excellence and its historic legacy continue to attract students from around the world.
41. Eton College remains an iconic symbol of British education and tradition, upholding its centuries-old commitment to producing well-rounded and accomplished graduates.

Eton College stands as an enduring symbol of academic excellence, tradition, and heritage. Nestled near Windsor Castle, this illustrious institution has been shaping young minds and cultivating leaders for over five centuries. With its Gothic architecture, rich history, and commitment to a well-rounded education, Eton continues to produce graduates who excel in diverse fields and contribute to society. Its distinctive customs, from the Fourth of June celebrations to the annual cricket match against Harrow, exemplify a sense of community and camaraderie that binds generations of Etonians. As one of the world’s most prestigious schools, Eton College embodies the timeless values of intellectual curiosity, honor, and a commitment to service. It remains an iconic symbol of British education and a testament to the enduring power of tradition and excellence in learning.