Windermere School
Windermere School
Cumbria, England
At Windermere School, the Lake District is more than just a backdrop – it is an integral part of everyday life. Nestled among lakes, fells and ancient woodland, the school takes full advantage of its extraordinary surroundings, with sailing, hiking, camping and rock climbing woven naturally into the curriculum and co-curricular programme. The school’s relatively small size fosters a warm and supportive atmosphere, allowing pupils to build close relationships with their teachers and thrive as individuals. As a member of the global Round Square network, Windermere School also nurtures curiosity, leadership and a spirit of international-mindedness.
The Details
The Academics
Windermere School is not a school that defines success solely through academic achievement. Instead, it places equal emphasis on personal growth, character development and individual support. While pupils achieve solid academic results, with an average IB score of 33 points, the school’s focus extends far beyond examination performance. Strong and trusting relationships between staff and pupils create an environment in which young people are encouraged to grow not only intellectually, but also in confidence, resilience and self-awareness.
Languages Taught
French and Spanish
The Boarding
Boarding at Windermere School is intentionally small-scale and family-oriented, fostering the kind of close-knit atmosphere often found only in smaller schools. In the Sixth Form, however, pupils enjoy a considerable degree of independence. At Westmorland House, they live in small apartment-style accommodation with their own shared social and study spaces, providing an ideal bridge to university life. At the same time, house competitions, sporting events and traditions such as the annual Fell Race help to create a strong sense of community that connects pupils across year groups.
Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths
Alongside traditional school sports such as hockey, tennis, football and athletics, sailing occupies a uniquely prominent position at Windermere School. Every pupil takes part in a structured sailing programme, making full use of the school's unrivalled location on England's largest lake. As a Royal Yachting Association-recognised British Youth Sailing Club, Windermere School is one of only two schools in the United Kingdom to hold this distinction.
Outdoor education extends far beyond sailing. The school has a dedicated Adventure Team whose sole focus is to create meaningful experiences in the natural world. Whether kayaking, rock climbing, caving, mountain biking or embarking on multi-day expeditions, pupils are encouraged to challenge themselves, develop resilience and discover new strengths. At Windermere, adventure is not an occasional extra, but an integral part of the school's identity.
Weakness
Families looking for a large and bustling boarding community should note that Windermere has a relatively small number of boarders. For many pupils, however, this is part of the school's appeal, creating a close-knit and welcoming atmosphere in which new arrivals quickly become part of the community.
Location
Despite its spectacular setting in the heart of the Lake District, Windermere School is surprisingly easy to reach. Manchester Airport is around 90 minutes away, and the school provides a supervised transfer service on designated travel days. London is also within easy reach, with direct Avanti West Coast services connecting the capital to the Lake District in under three hours.
Kendal - 20 min by car
Manchester - 90 min by car
Windermere is an excellent fit for pupils who enjoy an active outdoor lifestyle. With sailing, adventure and outdoor education at the heart of school life, those who embrace new challenges are likely to thrive here.
Go and explore the Lake District. Just remember to pack your wellies and a good waterproof jacket.
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