Westminster School
Westminster School
London, England
Westminster School is one of the top boarding schools in the UK. Set in the shadow of London’s Westminster Abbey, it is renowned for its outstanding teachers and an inspiring, challenging style of teaching. Pupils here learn first and foremost for the joy of learning. Beyond the classroom, Westminster has an enormous amount to offer – from superb music and art activities to politics and debating clubs, as well as impressive sporting opportunities.
The Essentials
The Details
The Academics
Westminster is one of London’s most prestigious schools – highly selective, intensely academic, and with an outstanding track record of achievement. In 2025, pupils achieved 98% grades 9–7 at GCSE and 88% A/A at A level* – an exceptional performance, even among elite boarding schools.
Teaching takes place in small classes (average size up to GCSE: around 13 pupils per class) with an excellent pupil–teacher ratio of 7:1.
Languages Taught
German, French, Latin, Greek, Mandarin, Russian and Spanish.
The Boarding
As for boarding, there are a total of 160 boarders, of whom 45 are full boarders and 114 weekly boarders. (goodschoolsguide.co.uk) The boarding houses have a very traditional feel, with Saturday morning lessons, demanding academic expectations and a rich programme of extracurricular opportunities.
Strengths & Weaknesses
The Strengths
At Westminster, sport is simply called “station” – and it’s taught in a refreshingly relaxed way. With around 25 options, from fives to fencing, there’s plenty to try out, though rowing is where things get truly competitive.
The creative offer is just as strong: orchestras, theatre, film and fine art are part of daily life, with performances and exhibitions a regular highlight – and the standard of work is impressively high.
And for those who prefer flexing their minds rather than their muscles, the debating societies are the place to be – right on the doorstep of Parliament, discussions here are as passionate as they come.
The Weaknesses
One area where Westminster isn’t quite as strong is the relatively small number of full boarders. Many pupils are day students or weekly boarders, which means that the classic 24/7 boarding atmosphere can feel a little diluted at times. The upside: those who do board are exceptionally well integrated, and with the packed programme of clubs, concerts, debates and sports, campus life still feels lively and full-on.
Location
Westminster School sits right in the heart of London, next to the famous Westminster Abbey and just a stone’s throw from Parliament. A location that blends culture, history and vibrant city life like nowhere else.
London City - 45 min by car
Westminster School is unique – and without doubt one of the very top addresses in the country.
An absolute must on any visit is a walk through College Hall – the medieval refectory where pupils still dine every day.
Take a look at similar schools
Brighton College
Cheltenham Ladies College
Sevenoaks School
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