Westonbirt School
Westonbirt School
Tetbury, England
Nestled within its own parkland in the idyllic county of Gloucestershire, the school combines rural tranquility with a warm, family-oriented daily life. Here, 500 children receive a holistic education. The teachers are highly dedicated, especially supporting children with learning difficulties. The school boasts excellent drama and music departments. Reflecting its countryside setting, outdoor activities of all kinds are very popular.
The Details
The Academics
Wrekin College offers GCSEs, A-Levels, and selected BTECs — a good mix for different learning styles. The school is not selective but delivers respectable results: in 2024, over 40% of GCSE grades were between 9–7, and 29% of A-Level grades were A.
A real highlight is the Business School — a dedicated building fully focused on fostering employability skills. It covers not only subjects like business studies, economics, and accounting but also soft skills such as presentations, job applications, management games, and career coaching. This practical, smart approach is something many schools don’t offer in this form.
Languages Taught
German, French, Spanish and Latin.
The Boarding
Only about one-fifth of the students board, but you hardly notice it. Boarding students are seamlessly integrated, which noticeably strengthens the sense of community.
The three boarding houses are cozy, manageable, and well maintained. In the upper years, students usually share rooms with one other, with single rooms being rare, but personal space is respected and the atmosphere relaxed and friendly.
Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths
Westonbirt’s greatest strength lies in the performing arts. Music, theatre, and dance are firmly embedded in school life and passionately encouraged. Every pupil has the chance to get involved—whether on the stage of the impressive 400-seat Orangery Theatre, as a dancer in one of the many ballet, modern, or hip-hop performances, or as a musician in one of three choirs, the orchestra, or one of the many school bands.
There are even dedicated recording studios for composition and production.
In sports, Westonbirt impresses with both variety and quality. Lacrosse, riding, tennis, polo, and netball are especially popular—sports that are not only supported but truly lived with enthusiasm.
And something that can’t be measured in numbers: Westonbirt is a school full of exceptional charm and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Weaknesses
No weaknesses that we know of — Westonbirt is simply a wonderful school!
Location
Westonbirt School is idyllically located in southwest England, in the picturesque county of Gloucestershire, close to the charming town of Tetbury. The nearest major train station is Kemble, just about 15 minutes by car away. From there, it’s around a 75-minute direct train journey to London Paddington. Bath, Bristol, and Cheltenham are also easily accessible.
Bristol Airport - 60 mins by car
Bath - 45 mins by car
A very friendly school that guarantees children a thoroughly successful education.
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