Whitgift School

The school's philosophy is rooted in nurturing the whole person, focusing on both character and curriculum. It aims to educate bright and talented young men to become independent learners and thinkers who are grounded in values of ambition, curiosity, courage, respect, and belonging. The school emphasizes a human-centred approach, where every boy is well-known, valued, and encouraged to find his own path.

The academic programme is broad and demanding, spanning Junior Years (ages 10-12), Middle Years (ages 13-15), and Sixth Form (ages 16+). The curriculum includes a wide range of subjects such as languages (French, Spanish, German, Latin, Mandarin, Japanese), sciences, humanities, and arts, alongside unique courses like the interdisciplinary 'Ignite' programme and the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ). The school also integrates digital literacy and global citizenship into its academic offering.

Whitgift students achieve outstanding academic success, with many IB students consistently reaching high point thresholds. Leavers are prepared for their futures through the Student Futures programme, with the school aiming to produce independent learners and thinkers ready to lead and give back to society. The school has been recognised with numerous awards, including Independent Boys' School of the Year and top rankings for sport and academic progress.

The school provides dedicated pastoral care and attention to the individual, with staff trained to support students' needs. Boarders, in particular, are supported by a team including a Matron, assistant matrons, boarding assistants, and assigned house tutors who provide one-to-one guidance.

Whitgift School offers a highly personalised, four-step admissions process: visiting the school, applying online, completing assessments and interviews, and receiving an offer. The school welcomes applicants at 10+, 11+, 13+, 14+, and 16+ entry points, with separate processes for UK and international students. Admissions decisions are based on a holistic view of the candidate, seeking boys with potential who will contribute to the school's values of ambition, curiosity, courage, respect, and belonging.

The school operates on a three-term structure: Michaelmas, Lent, and Trinity. Each term includes a half-term break, and the calendar features specific dates for staff training, bank holidays, and Founder's House exeat weekends. Boarders are expected to arrive at Founder's House the day prior to the start of each term.

The school is situated on a 45-acre campus in South Croydon. Facilities include dedicated spaces for drama and music, extensive sports grounds, and Founder's House for boarding students. The campus is designed to support a full range of academic, sporting, and co-curricular activities.

The school provides a wide range of co-curricular opportunities, including drama, music, and sport, as well as the Combined Cadet Force (CCF), outdoor education, and the Duke of Edinburgh Award. Students can also participate in numerous clubs and societies, and the school organises various trips, expeditions, and international tours to broaden students' horizons.