Westbourne School

The school’s mission is to develop future-ready leaders with the curiosity, creativity, and capability to shape a rapidly developing world. It employs a forward-looking, global approach that blends 130 years of academic tradition with modern innovation, including STEM and business specialisms. The school fosters a close-knit, inclusive community where students are treated as young adults to encourage independence and personal growth.

The academic offering spans from Little Westbourne Nursery through to Sixth Form. The curriculum includes a Prep School programme, GCSEs, and a choice between the IB Diploma or A Levels in the Sixth Form. The school also offers one-year GCSE and Pre-IB/Pre-A Level pathways. Specialised programmes include the Future Leaders Lab and micro-credentials in digital literacy, communication, and leadership.

Westbourne consistently achieves high academic results, with graduates progressing to top Russell Group and world-leading universities. The school has been recognised as the Sunday Times Independent Secondary School of the Year (Wales) 2026 and ranked #1 for Innovation by the Independent Schools Association. Students are prepared for high-impact global careers through a focus on future-ready skills such as digital literacy, entrepreneurship, and leadership.

The school utilizes adaptive learning technology, including AI-driven platforms like Knowva Coach and Century Tech, to provide personalised, data-informed teaching. Small class sizes, averaging 15-16 students, allow for individualised attention and targeted support to stretch students and maximise progress.

Westbourne operates a rolling admissions process for students from Nursery through to Sixth Form, accepting candidates on a first-come, first-served basis. The selective process includes an assessment of school reports, age-appropriate entrance exams (English, Maths, and aptitude), and an interview with the Principal or Vice Principal. The school is a licensed Child Student UKVI sponsor, welcoming international students from over 30 nationalities. Financial support is available through means-tested bursaries and scholarships (ranging from 5% to 35% fee remission) for academic excellence and leadership potential from Year 3 onwards.

The school operates on a three-term structure (Autumn, Spring, and Summer) with half-term breaks. Little Westbourne Nursery provides care and learning 51 weeks a year, remaining open during school holidays. The school provides airport transfer services for international boarders at the start and end of terms.

The school operates across two main sites in Penarth: a Senior School and Sixth Form centre on Hickman Road, and a Prep School and Nursery on Victoria Road. Facilities include an Innovation Hub, 3D printing 'Maker Space', science labs, a gymnasium, and basketball courts. Students also utilize local international-standard facilities, including the Cardiff International Sports Village (50m pool, white-water centre, ice arena), Cosmeston Lakes, and Penarth Pier. Boarding accommodation includes a main boarding house for students aged 12+, a dedicated IB2 residence, and a host family programme for students aged 16+.

The co-curricular programme includes a wide range of activities such as STEM-focused projects, a dynamic Speaker Programme with industry leaders, and the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (from age 14). Students have access to local facilities for sports including swimming, tennis, football, netball, basketball, gymnastics, sailing, and white-water rafting. Additional activities include LAMDA, dance, and Forest and Beach School (FAB School) for younger pupils.