Windermere School
Secular, Founded 1863
Updated July 2026
Curriculum
Accreditations
Languages
Windermere School is a co-educational independent day and boarding school for pupils aged 3 to 18, located in the heart of the English Lake District National Park. Established in 1863, it provides an education that balances academic success with a strong emphasis on adventure and personal development.
Curriculum
Term structure
Teaching approach
The school operates under the motto 'Vincit qui se Vincit' (One conquers, who conquers oneself). It emphasizes a bespoke, holistic education that combines academic achievement with a spirit of adventure. As a deliberately small school, it aims to ensure every pupil is known and cherished, fostering a community where every voice is heard.
Programmes
The school offers a continuous educational pathway from Pre-School through to Sixth Form. The curriculum includes specialist teaching in subjects such as French, Art, Music, and PE from the early years, with Drama and Computing introduced in Upper Key Stage 2. The Senior School curriculum prepares students for GCSEs, while the Sixth Form features the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme and the IB Career-Related Programme. A Pre-IB course is also available for students transitioning into the Sixth Form.
Outcomes
Windermere School is ranked in the top ten schools in the North West by the Sunday Times Parent Power survey and is noted for its Sixth Form results. The school offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme and the IB Career-Related Programme, alongside vocational qualifications. Pupils progress to various university destinations upon graduation.
Student support
Learning support
The school provides learning support to assist pupils in their academic journey. Further details regarding specific support services are available through the Senior School's dedicated learning support department.
Frequently asked questions(6)
- What curriculum does Windermere School offer?
- Windermere School offers IB Diploma.
- What ages does Windermere School teach?
- Windermere School enrolls students aged 3 to 18.
- Is Windermere School a day or boarding school?
- Windermere School is a day and boarding school.
- What accreditations does Windermere School hold?
- Windermere School holds accreditations including IB.
- Is Windermere School co-educational?
- Windermere School is a co-ed school.
- Where is Windermere School located?
- Windermere School is an international school in Kendal, United Kingdom.
Tuition & fees
No published fee schedule was found for this school.
Admissions
Windermere School is a co-educational day and boarding school for pupils aged 3 to 18. Prospective families are invited to enquire via the school's online admissions portal, and the school provides a virtual tour for those unable to visit in person. The school offers bursaries, assessed by an independent company, and a variety of scholarships to celebrate talent and potential across the curriculum.
Calendar
The school operates on a three-term system (Autumn, Spring, and Summer). The academic year typically begins in early September and concludes in late June or early July, with half-term breaks in October, February, and May/June. Boarders have designated travel days at the start and end of terms and half-terms.
Facilities
About the campus
Located in the Lake District National Park, the school is transitioning to a single-site campus at Browhead. Facilities include dedicated learning zones, play areas, and access to the school's extensive grounds for outdoor learning. The school features the Crampton Hall for drama and performances, as well as a dedicated watersports centre at Hodge Howe for sailing and adventure activities.
Co-curriculars
Adventure is central to the school's offering, featuring a dedicated adventure team, a sailing programme at the Hodge Howe watersports centre, and opportunities for climbing, canoeing, and orienteering. Pupils participate in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and Forest School activities. The school also promotes competitive sport, including tag rugby, netball, and cross-country, alongside performing arts, debating, and house-based competitions. Holiday clubs are available for ages 5–17, covering activities such as sailing, multi-sports, and general adventure.
- Mr Frank ThompsonHead of Windermere School
Mr Frank Thompson is the Head of Windermere School.
- Mrs Jenny DaviesHead of Prep School
Mrs Jenny Davies is the Head of Prep School.
- Mrs Lynn MosesDeputy Head
Mrs Lynn Moses is the Deputy Head of the school.
- Mr Nick LeiperDirector of External Relations
Mr Nick Leiper is the Director of External Relations.
- Mrs Elizabeth MurphyHead of Sixth Form
Mrs Elizabeth Murphy is the Head of Sixth Form.
- Mrs Deborah DalzellHead of Middle School
Mrs Deborah Dalzell is the Head of Middle School.
- Mrs Lisa CookeHead of Lower School
Mrs Lisa Cooke is the Head of Lower School.
IB Diploma