Shrewsbury School
Shrewsbury School
Shrewsbury, England
Shrewsbury is a true full-boarding school and one of the best all-rounders we know. The school sits on a gently rolling 110-hectare campus beside the River Severn, right next to the charming historic market town of Shrewsbury in rural Shropshire.The academic offering is top-notch, and the wealth of extracurricular activities—whether in sports, the arts, or personal development—is extensive and thoughtfully designed. In certain sports, like football and rowing, Shrewsbury really stands out, boasting final appearances and gold medals. This is perfectly balanced by an excellent and wide-ranging music program, embraced by more than half the students. The campus atmosphere is open and warm, with a diverse student body and individual support from a dedicated learning support team. And, as a fascinating aside, students here walk in the footsteps of Charles Darwin—one of the most famous Old Salopians of all time.
The Details
The Academics
Shrewsbury offers GCSEs and A-Levels, with impressive results: in 2024, 43% of students achieved A grades in their A-Levels, and 54% of GCSEs were graded between 9 and 7. The school is academically selective but not elitist—students with solid B or C grades also receive individual support.
The teaching is challenging but close to the students: small classes (often only 10 to 12 pupils, sometimes even one-on-one tutoring) and dedicated teachers ensure intensive support. The sciences are especially strong, having received multiple awards, most recently at the British Physics Olympiad. Learning here follows Darwin’s spirit—investigative, critical, and independent. Popular additional courses include accounting, debating, and business—real preparation for life after school.
Excitingly, field trips regularly take students far beyond the school grounds—recently to the Galápagos Islands, soon to Mexico. And for those aiming even higher, graduates attend Oxford, Cambridge, or even Harvard each year.
Languages Taught
English as a Foreign Language, French, German, Spanish, Latin and Ancient Greek.
The Boarding
Eighty percent of students board. The eleven houses (seven for boys, four for girls) are attractive and cozy; students share rooms until the upper years, after which they have single rooms. Thanks to a strong alumni network, Shrewsbury remains a lifelong companion for many.
Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths
The extracurricular program is huge—so exciting that even many day pupils voluntarily return on weekends.
Shrewsbury is especially known for rowing, boasting its own boathouse on the river and specialized rowing training. Beyond classic sports like athletics, basketball, fencing, golf, diving, tennis, polo, swimming, and rugby, there’s something for every talent and interest.
Music plays a central role here: from the impressive circular Maidment building with its concert hall at the heart of campus, to six orchestras, three choirs, and regular masterclasses with musicians from the Royal Academy. Anyone wanting to try a new instrument receives free music lessons. That’s fantastic.
The Design & Technology department particularly impressed us on our last visit—modernly equipped with 3D and laser printers, where students create creative projects like designer furniture and even electric vehicles.
Social engagement is also remarkable: whether volunteering in nursing homes, tutoring, or participating in the inclusive “Scratch Orchestra” with local children—Shrewsbury intentionally opens its doors to the community.
Weaknesses
Honestly, there’s nothing really worth mentioning as a downside. It’s a great school!
Location
Shrewsbury School is located in the market town of Shrewsbury in the Midlands, not far from the border with Wales.
Birmingham - 50 mins by car
A wonderful and friendly boarding school for everyone who wants to enjoy school, community, and a rich extracurricular program. Here, it’s not just about learning, but truly living—with genuine enthusiasm and plenty of support.
The boys’ house Oldhams, under the guidance of the inspiring housemaster Henry Exham, impressed us especially.
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