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22 November 2024
by Ferdinand Steinbeis
by Ferdinand Steinbeis
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English Boarding Schools in Profile: King Edward's School Witley, Grounded, Friendly, Close to London
Hello from chilly Richmond!
Two weeks ago, half of the von Bülow Education Team hopped on a train at Clapham Junction and made their way to King Edward’s School Witley (KEWS). Just an hour's train ride later, we disembarked at Witley Station, curious as ever to visit a school that had dropped off our radar a little bit. We know King Edward’s School Witley as one of the friendliest boarding schools near London. With its focus on diversity and wellbeing, it’s not hard to see why.
We were lucky to have four wonderful German-speaking student guides—Jasper, Ivan, Marc, and Christine—show us around. Their enthusiasm was infectious as they shared stories about the school’s tight-knit community, fantastic sports opportunities, and inspiring teachers, especially in business studies and economics.
Read below to find out more!
KEWS's campus
The Setting
Set in Wormley, a little village near Witley and nestled between Haslemere and Godalming, KEWS boasts a 100-acre campus that feels both spacious and compact at the same time. You won’t need minibuses to get from A to B here! While the campus may not win awards for architectural beauty, there is a real charm in the mix of styles present.
The facilities are in excellent condition, from the impressive Grade II-listed main building to the sleek, modern Welcome Building, complete with a café and library. Sports lovers will be in heaven with the abundance of grass and astro fields, a large sports complex featuring a 25-meter indoor pool, and courts for squash, tennis, and netball.
Boarding houses are equally well-maintained, with Jubilee House—a newer addition designed specifically for final-year students—standing out as a highlight.
And the convenience of KEWS location can’t be overstated: it’s just an hour by train from London and a quick five-minute walk from Witley Station. For international families, it’s also a mere hour’s drive from Heathrow Airport.
KEWS sports a bustling art department!
What (we think!) King Edward’s Witley is all about
King Edward’s School Witley is the kind of place that feels like a breath of fresh air in the sometimes stuffy, sometimes overly formal microcosm of boarding schools near London. It’s warm, grounded, and wonderfully unpretentious. Simon Fitch, the Head of Marketing, summed it up perfectly when he described KEWS as a school “for regular kids, doing regular things.” That down-to-earth vibe comes naturally here, thanks to the school’s strong Christian ethos and a pastoral care system that prioritizes kindness, happiness, and fun above all else.
Ivan, one of our fabulous tour guides, put it in his own words: “It’s all a bit more relaxed and not as stiff as at other schools I’ve seen. It’s super friendly and supportive.” And you can feel that as you walk around campus—there’s a genuine sense of ease and inclusivity that makes KEWS stand out. We are sure that the very affable, approachable headmistress Joanna Wright has something to do with this, also.
Stairs to classrooms
Diversity is more than just a buzzword at King Edward’s School Witley—it’s a part of the school’s DNA. Their motto, “United by diversity since 1553,” might sound a bit cliché at first glance, but spend any time here and you’ll quickly see it’s the real deal. The school’s Royal Hospital Foundation plays a big role in this, providing generous scholarships and bursaries that make KEWS accessible to children from less well-off backgrounds. In fact, up to 10% of students benefit from fee discounts of 50% or more, creating a community where kids from all walks of life grow and learn together. It’s also a school that truly supports its pupils’ unique talents, whether they’re academic, athletic, or artistic. Tour guide Marc shared a story of a fellow student who’s a junior ice-skating champion: “Not only does she get time off to practice at a nearby ice-rink, but the whole school is behind her, cheering her on!” KEWS isn’t overly selective academically either, which means the student body is varied—brimming with kids who excel in all sorts of different areas. This genuine celebration of diversity makes KEWS an exciting and inclusive place to be.
KEWS'fabulous 25m indoor pool
Lastly, King Edward’s School Witley shines as an all-rounder boarding school—a place where kids can thrive both in and out of the classroom. With a huge range of opportunities, students have the freedom to dig deeper into what they already love or dive into something completely new. Flexibility is another win here: families can choose between day, flexi, and full boarding options, making it easier to find a setup that works for them. And for those not quite ready to commit to the long haul? No problem. KEWS lets students join for just a term to test the waters, which is such a thoughtful approach for kids (and parents!) figuring out if boarding school life is the right fit. And it’s an approach that pays off: all four tour guides are in discussion to extend their stays here.
Seen in one of the boarding houses: education happens here, too!
The Academics
Despite welcoming students with a wide range of academic abilities, King Edward’s School Witley is doing well when it comes to results. In 2024, nearly 30% of A-Level grades were A-A, and just under 60% were A-B. At GCSE, 40% of grades were 9-7 (A-A equivalent), and 61% were 9-6 (A-B). Not bad at all for a school that prioritizes inclusivity and balance over being overly selective! Small class sizes and fantastic teacher support undoubtedly play a huge role in this success, with tutors going the extra mile to help each student thrive.
For older students, King Edward’s offers both A-Levels and BTEC courses, delivered by clearly very engaged teachers. Also, the range of resources is impressive: a newly refurbished Health and Lifestyle Centre for food science, a well-equipped design technology block, and dedicated spaces for business, finance, science, and the arts. Hence, we weren’t surprised that our guides were singing the praises of the economics and business studies department. Joanna, one of our guides, put it thus: “I initially planned to stay here for just two terms, but I love the business classes so much that I’m thinking about doing my A-Levels here.”
We liked this!
As for next steps, the school’s Year 13 leavers go on to study at top universities in the UK and internationally, from King’s College London and Warwick to Exeter, UCL, and even the LSE. It’s clear that KEWS offers not just a strong foundation but also the support to take students wherever they want to go.
We were a little disappointed, when King Edward’s stop offering the International Baccalaureate (IB). “Alas, the demand simply wasn’t there from local families to make it a viable option for us”, Justin Benson, the school’s registrars explained. Shame, but fair enough!
Skull art
The Extracurriculars
For a school of its size, King Edward’s Witley truly punches above its weight when it comes to extracurricular opportunities. Whether a child is a budding athlete, musician, actor, artist, or simply curious to try new things, there’s plenty on offer to keep them engaged and inspired.
Let’s start with sports, which are a big deal here. Football is often the first to come up in conversations, with a strong programme that’s a little more developed for boys but rapidly growing for girls too. Hockey is currently an exciting area of growth, with the school now recognized as a Tier 1 hockey institution—watch this space! True to KEWS’s inclusive ethos, students can try their hand at a variety of sports, including cricket, netball, athletics, and even judo. And if your child has a passion for a sport that isn’t part of the school’s core offering, KEWS will do everything it can to help them succeed. For example, one pupil hones her ice-skating skills at a nearby rink with the school’s logistical support, and Toby Roberts, an alumnus, became an Olympic climbing champion with the school’s encouragement and backing. Whether it’s helping with transport or creating a supportive environment, KEWS is all about helping kids thrive.
Theater very popular here!
The creative arts are another area where KEWS shines. Music, in particular, is very good and perhaps doesn’t get the recognition it deserves. The facilities are first-rate, including a recital room, a staged courtyard, a recording studio, teaching and practice rooms, a band room, and even a Mac Suite for digital composition. Music lessons are part of the curriculum up to Year 9, and after that, students can choose to pursue it at GCSE and A-Level, alongside optional individual lessons in vocals or instruments. With choirs, an orchestra, and ensembles ranging from chamber groups to rock bands, there’s something for everyone. The school’s ties to the City of London open doors to extraordinary opportunities, such as singing at prestigious events in London, Guildford and Westminster Cathedrals, and - further afield - even the Vatican!
Drama is equally popular, with at least three major productions annually alongside smaller showcases. It’s not just about acting either—students get involved in every aspect of theater, from backstage tech to set design, costumes, and even composing music for performances. LAMDA classes are offered too, giving students the chance to hone their dramatic skills further.
Art!
Visual arts enthusiasts will feel right at home in KEWS’s vibrant art department, which boasts a ceramics studio, printmaking facilities, and a photography darkroom. Students are encouraged to explore and develop their creativity, whether they’re dabbling in different mediums or pursuing art at a higher level.
Still haven’t found your passion? With over 50 co-curricular clubs and societies, there’s plenty to choose from. Options range from chess, design technology, and forest school to sustainability club and swimming in the school’s on-site pool. Clubs are either led by the dedicated teaching staff, initiated by students, or run by external experts, providing a very good mix of opportunities. These activities usually happen after school or on Saturdays, making them accessible for both day and boarding students.
In short, King Edward’s Witley ensures that every student, no matter their interests, has the chance to try something new, develop their talents, and have plenty of fun along the way.
Cozy single room in Jubilee House
The Boarding
Full disclosure upfront: King Edward’s Witley has only 30% of pupils boarding which, we think, is a little on the low side. And of those, many are flexi-boarders who stay just a few nights a week. But KEWS has worked hard to create an inclusive and unified community where day pupils and boarders blend seamlessly. The secret? A smart house system that brings day pupils and boarders together in shared social spaces. This along with the school’s naturally friendly and welcoming atmosphere does the trick.
Tour guide Jasper summed it up perfectly: “Everyone was super friendly from day one. It really never felt like we boarders were in the minority here! I’ve got as many day friends as boarder friends and regularly spend weekends away from school with my day friends.”
Even with own en-suite bathroom!
Boarders are housed in six senior boarding houses plus the standout Jubilee House for the upper sixth. The boys are split across Edward, Wakefield, Grafton, and Ridley Houses, while the girls have Tudor and Elizabeth Houses. Accommodation ranges from single and double rooms to dormitories with cozy individual pods, and each house has its own day rooms for hanging out.
Jubilee House, the school’s newest addition, opened in September 2023 and is a real gem. Designed to help upper sixth pupils transition to university life, it’s full of modern comforts. Ensuite bedrooms, a communal kitchen, and separate laundries for boys and girls encourage independence. Students here cook their own meals (sometimes as a group), do their own laundry, and host social events throughout the year. There’s even a Sixth Form Cookbook featuring favorite student recipes—a lovely personal touch. Unsurprisingly, Jubilee House has quickly become a highlight for sixth formers.
When it comes to rules, KEWS keeps things practical. Mobile phones are a no-go for Years 7 and 8, with pupils handing them in during school hours. From Year 9 upwards, phones are still banned during lessons, which keeps everyone focused and engaged.
The school's dining hall
And the food? Jasper again: “It’s surprisingly good! Yes, the fish & chips every Friday can get a bit boring, but the chicken curry is absolutely amazing!” Sounds like the dining team knows how to keep things interesting.
If there’s one downside for boarders, it’s the school’s four compulsory exeat weekends each year, where everyone—even international students—must leave the campus. That said, with Heathrow and Gatwick airports so close by, getting home or to a host family isn’t too much of a hassle.
A space to relax: a table outside on the school lawn
Who, We Think, Could Be Suited For King Edward’s School Witley
We all came away from our visit with the same exact thought - “what a friendly, happy school!”. It might lack the academic nous and prestige of some of its immediate local competitors, but it more than makes up for this by being one of the nicest (the nicest?) in the vicinity of London. A no-brainer for anyone unsure about a British boarding school experience, but enough time to extend their stay. Something that will almost inevitably happen!
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von Bülow Education
Holbrooke House
34 - 38 Hill Rise
Richmond
TW10 6UA
Tel: +44 (0) 203 9534063
Email: info@buloweducation.com
Holbrooke House
34 - 38 Hill Rise
Richmond
TW10 6UA
Tel: +44 (0) 203 9534063
Email: info@buloweducation.com