Taunton School

Taunton School is guided by four pillars: a culture of ambition, a mindset for life, a sense of belonging, and a global community. The school promotes three core values—humility, engagement, and kindness—and aims to foster quiet self-confidence in pupils without arrogance. It seeks to enable each child to embrace their individuality and explore their passions to make a positive impact on the world.

The school offers a comprehensive academic journey starting with the Early Years Foundation Stage in the Nursery. The Prep School (ages 7-13) follows a broad curriculum, while the Senior School (ages 13-16) prepares students for GCSEs. The Sixth Form (ages 16-18) provides four distinct academic pathways: A-Levels, the International Baccalaureate (IB), BTEC, and the International Foundation Programme. Additionally, the school offers a dedicated International section for students aged 7-18, including one-year GCSE and pre-foundation courses.

More than 96% of Sixth Form students progress to university, with many securing places at Russell Group institutions and Oxbridge. Alumni have gone on to pursue successful careers in fields including law, medicine, finance, sports, and acting. The school’s academic success is supported by a broad curriculum and a Futures Programme designed to equip students for global opportunities.

The school provides holistic pastoral care and support for physical, emotional, and social needs through its Health and Wellbeing Centre. This centre is staffed by a multidisciplinary team, including qualified nurses, mental health nurses, a chartered physiotherapist, and a qualified counsellor, who work in partnership with school doctors and the pastoral team to provide early interventions and support.

Taunton School is a through-school offering entry from Nursery (ages 0-4) through to Year 13 (age 18). Prospective families can engage with the admissions team via online enquiry forms, phone, or by booking bespoke visits, taster days, and open events. The school provides scholarships for pupils demonstrating academic, musical, dramatic, artistic, or sporting talent, and offers specific support for military and international families.

The school operates a Summer School programme for ages 8-17, with courses running in July and August. Term dates and specific event schedules are available through the school’s website and parent portal.

Located on a 56-acre campus in Somerset, the school features historic 19th-century architecture alongside modern facilities, including a £4 million Dining Hall, a Sixth Form Centre, and a library. Sports facilities include all-weather and traditional pitches, two swimming pools, a gymnasium, a climbing wall, and fitness suites. The campus also houses specialist art, music, and drama studios, a 220-seat theatre, a science block, and a Design and Technology department equipped with 3D printers and laser cutters. A 24/7 Health and Wellbeing Centre provides comprehensive physical and emotional support, and the school includes a Chapel and an eco-friendly, pedestrianised 'Green Heart' social space.

The school offers an extensive co-curricular programme featuring over 150 clubs, including music, drama, debating, philosophy, computer programming, and volunteering. Sports are a major focus, with over 100 teams across 20 disciplines such as rugby, cricket, hockey, netball, tennis, squash, and swimming, supported by a Pentathlon Hub and a Combined Cadet Force (CCF). The Horizons Programme and various outdoor education activities further enrich the student experience.