Compare International Schools in Godalming, United Kingdom

Charterhouse

Instructs in English

Ages 13 - 18 years

Fees £63,045

Pupils 998

Type Co-educational, Co-educational (boarding)

Charterhouse is a historic, co-educational boarding and day school for 13–18-year-olds set on a 250-acre campus in Godalming, Surrey. It offers Cambridge IGCSE, A Levels and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme in the Sixth Form, with entry and progression arranged through Sixth Form registration. Founded in 1611, Charterhouse moved from London to its current site in 1872, and its archives reflect a long tradition of scholarships and public service. The campus blends historic and modern buildings, extensive lawns and dedicated facilities for sport, arts, science and learning. On site you will find 17 grass pitches, 3 AstroTurf pitches, an athletics stadium, a sports centre, 24 tennis courts and a 9-hole golf course. Academic spaces include the Art & Design Studio, biology labs, design engineering workshops, the Library and a music technology suite. The Ben Travers Theatre anchors a rich performing arts program, supported by language and culture societies and outreach.

Location

Charterhouse is located in Godalming, Surrey, England (GU7 2DX). The nearest rail link is Godalming Station on the London Waterloo to Portsmouth Harbour line.

Stages

Ages 13-18; Senior School with Sixth Form (Specialists).

Type

Co-ed; boarding and day school.

Pupil Nationality Mix

Pupils from over 40 countries.

Additional learning support

Learning Support and EAL are provided, with dedicated staff and options for one-to-one or small-group sessions; weekly subject clinics and tutor support are available to pupils.

Country affiliation

England, United Kingdom

Bus service

London bus service runs on Sunday evenings from London to Charterhouse, with online booking available.

Application / Registration fees
- A non‑refundable registration (application) fee of £420.00 (inclusive of VAT) is payable at time of registration.
- An acceptance deposit is required to secure an offered place; families are asked to pay this deposit within eight weeks of an offer being made (the published material does not state a standard deposit amount).

Tuition fees (termly and annual amounts) — 2026/27
- Boarding: £21,015 per term. Annual equivalent (three terms per academic year): £63,045.
- Day: £16,369 per term. Annual equivalent (three terms per academic year): £49,107.
- The published termly rates are shown as the School's standard fee levels for 2026/27; no separate per‑year‑group (age‑banded) fee schedule is published alongside these headline termly rates.

Billing schedule and payment terms
- Fees are expressed on a termly basis and the School operates on a three‑term academic calendar (Autumn/Long/Summer term structure). Billing is therefore termly (three billings per academic year).
- Specific invoice issue dates, payment due dates, acceptable payment methods, options for instalments or direct debit, and penalties for late payment are not published in the headline fee information. The School publishes a more detailed schedule on request.

Boarding fees and scope
- The boarding fee shown (£21,015 termly) is the School's published termly boarding charge for 2026/27. The headline figure is presented as a single termly boarding fee; a detailed breakdown of what is included (for example accommodation, meals, laundry, house activities) is not published alongside the headline rate.

Other costs and typical extras
- Registration/acceptance fees and the termly tuition figures above are the principal published charges.
- Uniform and sports clothing are purchased separately. Uniform is available from the School's authorised supplier and via the School Shop; a Uniform and Equipment list for 2026–27 is published for parents.
- Bursary guidance notes that, where applicable, additional support may be provided to assist with uniform, travel, or extracurricular costs; bursaries are means‑tested and awards are subject to available funds.
- The School Shop supplies stationery, kit, tuck and other everyday items; these purchases are additional to tuition/boarding fees.

Refunds and withdrawal / notice information
- No public, detailed refund policy, withdrawal notice period, or formula for refunding tuition already paid (for example where a pupil leaves part‑way through a term) is published in the headline fee material. The School notes that a detailed schedule of fees and associated terms is available on request.

Fee payment options (credit card / bank transfer / instalments)
- The School's headline fee pages do not list accepted payment methods or the specific ways fees may be paid (credit card, bank transfer, direct debit, cheque or online payment portal). Parents are referred to the detailed fee schedule and the Admissions/Finance office for the complete payment options and terms.

Notes on assistance with fees
- Means‑tested bursaries are available and can cover up to 100% of school fees depending on assessed need; bursary awards are reviewed annually. Bursary awards can, in some cases, include additional support for uniform, travel and extracurricular costs. Application steps and assessment are published for bursary applicants.

Summary of gaps in the published material
- Headline termly and annual fees (Boarding and Day) and the registration fee are published for 2026/27.
- Detailed items that are not published in the publicly visible headline fees pages include: the precise acceptance deposit amount, the invoice dates and payment deadlines, acceptable payment methods, any available instalment plans and their terms, a full list of additional chargeable items (trips, instrument hire, exams, medical charges, etc.) and the School's formal refund/withdrawal notice wording. These details are referenced as available in the School's more detailed fee schedule or via Admissions/Finance contact.

Boarding Arrangements

The school offers both day and boarding places. Boarding is overseen by dedicated house teams providing 24‑hour care, guidance and support. Boarding pupils have access to an evening and weekend activity programme and time for rest and study; they may return home after fixtures on Saturdays, usually returning to School on Sunday evening.

Uniform Requirement

Uniform is gender neutral and allocated on a House basis. All school uniform and sports kit are ordered online from School Blazer and Premier Sports; items are named or name-labelled and lists are provided through the School Shop and official suppliers.

Food Options

Food is central to the boarding experience. Meals are freshly prepared on-site with a diverse, nutritious menu; menus rotate on a three‑week cycle and accommodate dietary requirements including lactose intolerance, gluten‑free and Halal. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are offered, and a nutritionist provides on‑campus guidance on healthy eating.

House System

Every pupil joins one of Charterhouse's 15 Houses; the House is the centre of life with a strong sense of identity and community. Houses are run by a Head of House with a pastoral team and a House tutor; there are extensive inter‑House competitions across sport, music, drama and more, and day pupils are fully integrated into the House system.

Governance and Ownership

The school is governed by a Governing Body. The Head and CEO is Dr Alex Peterken. The Chair of the Governing Body is Mr Mark Bishop. The Staff Contact List identifies key governance roles, including the Director of Estates, illustrating the school's leadership structure.

Curriculum

Two world-leading curricula are offered in the Sixth Form: A Level and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP). Pupils study either A Levels or IBDP, and join as boarders or day pupils. The school offers the A Level or IBDP framework, with entry and progression arranged through Sixth Form registration.

Exam Results

IBDP Results 2025: 63% of the IB cohort achieved 37+ points, equal to A*AA at A Level. GCSE Results 2025: Over 75% of all exams were awarded grades 7–9, equivalent to the former A/A*.

Higher Education Progression

The majority of Charterhouse pupils leave Charterhouse to study at the most competitive and prestigious universities in the UK, the US and Europe. The 2024 leavers took places at top universities in the UK, US and around the world, with over 80% gaining a place at their firm choice and nearly 85% of UK applicants attending Russell Group universities, with Durham, UCL, and King's College London among the popular destinations along with Oxford, Cambridge and Imperial.

Gifted and Talented

Academic Scholars Pathway is an enrichment programme for exceptional academic potential, offering a series of intellectually challenging events and experiences to support and inspire pupils as they prepare to sit for Academic Scholarship.

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

The Charterhouse provides a school-wide ethos that combines high academic challenge with encouragement and curiosity, aiming to develop pupils who are capable, reflective, and generous in spirit. The approach emphasizes intellectual ambition, resilience, and transferable skills to prepare for elite universities and tomorrow's world.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)

Charterhouse offers a comprehensive learning environment with broad curricular flexibility and accompanying support; specialist staff contribute to this provision within the Sixth Form and Across the School.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

English is the language of instruction and curriculum delivery across the school; English language support is part of the school's provision for pupils who require it, including EAL support as relevant to individual needs.

Mental Wellbeing

A safe, fully enclosed 250‑acre campus supports pupil wellbeing, with on-site staff and house teams contributing to daily wellbeing and pastoral care across both day and boarding communities.

Safeguarding

Pastoral and safeguarding policies are in place as part of Charterhouse's safeguarding framework, with dedicated safeguarding contacts and guidelines available to families and staff.

History

Charterhouse is one of the great historic schools of England and among the most beautiful. It was founded in 1611 by Thomas Sutton, who held high public office. The School moved from London to Godalming in 1872. The Charterhouse Archive (in Godalming) contains the School's records from 1872 onward, while earlier records are held in the London Metropolitan Archive. Scholarships have been at the heart of Charterhouse's mission since its founding in 1611.

Community

The Charterhouse Community centers on long‑lasting connections among pupils, alumni, parents and staff. Charterhouse Connect is the official global networking platform for the alumni and School community, and it includes parents. The Events programme brings the community together with professional networking receptions, lectures, and the flagship Charterhouse Inspires event, as well as musical performances, reunions and social gatherings. Old Carthians (OC) clubs are run by volunteers to keep alumni engaged through sports, culture and social activities. Parents are welcomed into school life and encouraged to stay involved long after their children have left, with a parent network and a calendar of School events.

Parent Teacher Association (PTA)

Charterhouse has an active parent network that engages as partners in their child's education and as active members of the wider school community. Through the parent network, families build friendships and professional connections and take part in a rich calendar of School events. Charterhouse Connect enables parents to connect with Old Carthusians and senior pupils to stay connected with the School. Parents can offer professional advice and mentoring through the Charterhouse community and engage with a range of groups and activities. The network provides opportunities for parents to contribute to Charterhouse life beyond the classroom and to form enduring connections across industries.

Facilities Overview

Charterhouse sits on a 250-acre campus with historic and modern buildings and extensive lawns and gardens. The site includes 17 grass sports pitches, 3 full-size AstroTurf pitches, an athletics stadium and a sports centre. There are 24 tennis courts and a 9-hole golf course on site. The grounds and facilities support a broad range of activities, combining traditional boarding spaces with modern teaching and recreation spaces. The campus offers a variety of outdoor and indoor spaces for study and enrichment.

Sports Facilities

There are 17 grass pitches and 3 full-size AstroTurf pitches. An athletics stadium and a dedicated sports centre provide indoor and on-site sport facilities. The campus includes 24 tennis courts and a 9-hole golf course. The combination of outdoor and indoor facilities supports competitive and recreational sport. The sports facilities are designed to accommodate a wide range of sporting activities.

Academic Facilities

The Art & Design Department is housed in a Studio, a purpose-designed building with spaces for painting, drawing, printmaking, sculpture, ceramics, fashion/textiles and digital work. Biology teaching laboratories are modern and well-equipped, with historic specimens and advanced microscopes and electrophoresis equipment. Design Engineering uses workshops and robotics equipment, with opportunities to engage in national STEM competitions. The Library provides a broad collection of books, journals and newspapers to support reading and research across subjects. The Music Department has a music technology suite and offers Year 9 compulsory music with GCSE and IB options. The Modern Languages Department offers French, German and Spanish, with Mandarin and Italian available within the IB Diploma Programme, plus language societies and related activities.

Extra Curricular Facilities

Drama & Theatre Studies is supported by the Ben Travers Theatre and includes LAMDA, pupil productions, house plays and backstage roles. The extra-curricular program spans extensive co-curricular opportunities, with involvement in national STEM competitions and the Arkwright Engineering Scholarship. Language societies are run by Sixth Form pupils to enhance cultural engagement. Outside lectures, film screenings, plays and exhibitions, as well as trips abroad and arranged exchanges, broaden learning experiences. Additional clubs and activities across sport, music and arts provide a wide range of options for all pupils.

Academic & Intellectual

The school offers a high-challenge, high-encouragement learning environment. The school's teaching inspires intellectual ambition, nurtures determination, and promotes curiosity, with interactions that foster reflection and generosity of spirit. The school maintains the highest academic standards and aims to help every pupil achieve their full potential, supporting exam success and progression to elite universities. The school provides HPQ and EPQ to develop independent research, time management, and presentation skills, topics range from scientific investigations to creative projects, and universities highly value these qualifications.

Arts & Creative

The school has a long-standing Performing Arts tradition with spaces such as the Ben Travers Theatre and other venues across the site. Each term includes at least one major production, with opportunities to perform on stage or work behind the scenes, and visiting professional companies contribute workshops. The Music department offers expert tuition, diverse ensembles and performances—from orchestras and jazz bands to choir and chamber music—alongside opportunities like House Singing and Chapel Choirs. The school fosters creativity across dance, drama, music, and design, supported by dedicated facilities and staff.

Cultural & Language

The school runs a wide range of Floreat clubs and societies that extend learning beyond the classroom. Floreat categories cover architecture, art history, debating, languages, and science, with pupils encouraged to start new groups in the Sixth Form. The school supports language and cultural societies including French Culture Society, French Debating Club, Sanskrit Society, Ukraine Society, and Model United Nations. The diversity of clubs enables pupils to engage with different cultures, ideas and global perspectives.

Social & Hobbies

The school offers a broad social and hobby landscape through Clubs & Societies, including Chess Club, Debating, Esports, Film Production, Groundlings Theatre Group, and a range of charity initiatives. The Floreat framework categorises clubs into making, thinking, playing and being, encouraging hands-on creativity, critical thinking and teamwork. Pupils are encouraged to initiate new groups and lead in the Sixth Form, building leadership and collaboration. These clubs span creative, academic, recreational and social interests, enhancing the wider school community.

Community & Service

Service is central to life at Charterhouse — shaping character, building community, and inspiring action. Pupils lead from the front: volunteering locally, raising funds, mentoring younger pupils, supporting charities and driving outreach. Through our Charities and Inclusion Committees, pupils coordinate regular campaigns, awareness days and collections for local and global causes. The motto Deo Dante Dedi underlines responsibility to contribute to society and to act with kindness and leadership.

Leadership & Professional

Leadership is a defining part of life at Charterhouse. It begins with everyday actions—mentoring younger pupils, contributing to House life, and setting the tone in teams and clubs. As pupils progress, Specialists (Sixth Form) can apply for senior roles such as Monitor, Head of House or Chair of a Pupil Action Committee. There are ten Pupil Action Committees (PACs) focusing on areas such as Sustainability, Wellbeing, Inclusion, Safeguarding and Co-curricular; PACs are led by senior pupils and open to volunteers from every year group.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing

Wellbeing is integrated into life at Charterhouse through its co-curricular offer and outdoor learning. The Outdoor Education programme provides a diverse range of activities, including CCF, the Duke of Edinburgh Award, riding, sailing, paddle sports and scuba diving, plus adventure weekends. These experiences foster resilience, teamwork, and physical and mental wellbeing, while supporting overall personal development. The school also hosts a variety of clubs and activities that contribute to fitness, balance, and a healthy lifestyle.

Admissions

The school is academically selective. Admission is by competitive assessment, interview, and a reference from the candidate's current school. UK Year 7 entry follows a single pathway: all registered candidates sit the ISEB Common Pre-test in Autumn Term of Year 6 (Maths, English, Verbal and Non‑Verbal Reasoning); results are reviewed with a reference. Successful candidates are invited to an Interview and Activities Assessment in Spring Term Year 6, after which offers are communicated in March; offer holders sign one contract and pay a deposit to secure the place. Some offers may be placed on a reserve list. International applicants join via dedicated pathways: Year 7 international entry provides a streamlined admissions process through prep schools Edgeborough, Windlesham House or Amesbury; overseas candidates sit the ISEB Pre-test in Autumn Term of Year 7 with results shared in December and are invited to Interview and Activities Assessment in the Spring Term. For Year 9 entry, a Year 8 pathway offers limited places for international families; Hong Kong/Mainland China candidates apply through Academic Asia and may be interviewed at events in Hong Kong. Some candidates may be invited to join the Academic Scholars Pathway; a range of 13+ Scholarships is offered, awarded on merit, and may be supported by bursaries where needed.

Scholarships

Applicants are invited to apply for 13+ Scholarships during Year 8; scholarships are merit‑based and awarded through open competition, with bursaries available if needed. Overseas candidates can request to take scholarship assessments online; assessments typically occur 9–12 November 2026. The Academic Scholars Pathway may be offered to exceptional candidates.

Waitlist

Some candidates may be offered a place on a reserve list.

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King Edward's Witley

Fees £26,925 - 50,925

King Edward's Witley is a co-educational independent day and boarding school in Surrey, on a 100-acre site at Wormley. Pupils 11–18 follow a bespoke curriculum built around the National Curriculum, with Maths, English and Science forming a core foundation for GCSEs and Sixth Form. Three humanities subjects (History, Geography, Religious Education) and two to three modern languages (French and/or Spanish) plus Latin or Classical Civilisation support broad academic profiles. Personal growth is central, with small class sizes and high levels of individualised interaction across departments. Grounds tie to the Bridewell Royal Hospital; moved to Surrey in 1867. Facilities include a Café, art spaces: ceramics, printmaking, photography, library, ICT, a dedicated Design Technology facility, and music spaces with a Mac Suite and recording studio. Countess of Munster Music School delivers over 5,000 lessons and concerts annually. Extracurricular life features drama productions, 50+ clubs, trips programme; sport includes 100+ teams and activities.

Location

King Edward's Witley is located in Wormley, near Godalming, Surrey, United Kingdom. The address is Petworth Road, Wormley, Godalming, Surrey GU8 5SG. The campus sits on around 100 acres in the Surrey Hills. Witley railway station is within a five-minute walk of the school, and the village of Witley is nearby.

Stages

Lower School (Years 7–8); Middle School (Years 9–11); Sixth Form.

Type

Co-educational, independent school offering both day and boarding.

Pupil Nationality Mix

Pupils come from the UK and international pupils from more than 28 countries; the school emphasizes an international community across both day and boarding cohorts.

Additional learning support

English as an Additional Language (EAL) support is available; the school provides learning support for pupils with needs, including mild ADHD and ASC.

Country affiliation

United Kingdom

Religious affiliation

Christian

School day structure

Day pupils begin with breakfast at 7:30am, and Middle School morning roll call occurs at 8:20am. The day includes lessons and co-curricular activities throughout the day; boarders follow a structured timetable coordinated by the boarding houses.

Bus service

The school runs multiple bus routes using school minibuses and Safeguard Coaches. Morning stops include 08:15 at King Edward's and several local stops; after-school departures run until 17:40. Bookings are made termly by email; ad-hoc journeys may be available; WhatsApp groups provide schedule updates.

Application, registration, acceptance and deposit fees
- New pupil registration fee: GBP 195 (non-refundable, inclusive of VAT).
- Acceptance fee: GBP 390 (non-refundable, inclusive of VAT). This fee is reduced pro rata for successful bursary applicants.
- Deposit (payable on acceptance by parents of each pupil): GBP 1,000. The deposit is held and refunded on the pupil's departure from the School once all debts are settled (see Terms and Conditions for detail).
- Bursary applicant deposit: GBP 200 on application (refundable if application is unsuccessful); if a bursary is awarded and the offer accepted an additional GBP 800 is added to the first term's fees to make the full GBP 1,000 deposit.
- Additional deposit for parents resident outside the UK: one term's fees (less the Deposit already paid).

Tuition fees — termly (Academic year 2026–2027) and equivalent annual totals
- Lower School (Years 7–8):
- Day: GBP 8,975 per term — GBP 26,925 per year.
- Weekly Boarding: GBP 14,945 per term — GBP 44,835 per year.
- Full Boarding: GBP 15,870 per term — GBP 47,610 per year.
- Forms 3–5 (Years 9–11):
- Day: GBP 10,155 per term — GBP 30,465 per year.
- Weekly Boarding: GBP 15,240 per term — GBP 45,720 per year.
- Full Boarding: GBP 16,175 per term — GBP 48,525 per year.
- Pre-Sixth & Sixth Form (Years 12–13):
- Day: GBP 10,355 per term — GBP 31,065 per year.
- Weekly Boarding: GBP 15,820 per term — GBP 47,460 per year.
- Full Boarding: GBP 16,975 per term — GBP 50,925 per year.
- Notes on inclusions: for all pupils fees include tuition, lunch and books and most games; for boarders fees include laundry, linen and full board (other than any special dietary requirements). Activities and items listed as extras are charged in addition.

Billing schedule and payment terms
- Fees are set on an annual rate and split into three equal termly payments. Termly payments are due in advance of the first day of each term.
- In the event of late payment or missed/failed payments the School may recover administration and bank charges (typically between GBP 35 and GBP 65) and may charge late payment interest as detailed in the School's Terms and Conditions.
- Overnight charges for day pupils (when charged) are applied termly in arrears at GBP 80.40 per night (includes evening meal and breakfast). Flexible boarding (where available) is charged at GBP 80.40 per night and requires a half-term's notice for changes; unused flexible nights are not refundable/credited.

Boarding fees and arrangements
- Weekly boarding is defined as Sunday to Thursday nights (Friday night included when a pupil is required to be in a School team or other Saturday commitment). Boarding termly fee levels are listed above by year group; boarder fees include laundry, linen and full board except for special dietary requirements.
- Emergency accommodation arranged by the School will be charged to parents and includes an administrative charge (GBP 80.40 per day).

Other costs and regular additional charges
- Extra tuition (EAL and Learning Support): example rates shown in the fee list are Autumn Term GBP 940, Spring Term GBP 725 and Summer Term GBP 650 (per term figures as listed). Lessons are chargeable irrespective of attendance and notice requirements apply.
- One-to-one foreign language conversation classes: GBP 40.00 per half-hour (inc. VAT).
- Music lessons: GBP 44.95 per 35-minute lesson (inc. VAT). Music instrument hire: GBP 48.40 per term.
- House Funds: GBP 27.50 per term (inc. VAT). Sixth Form Society: GBP 41.20 per term (inc. VAT). Personal accident insurance: GBP 13 per term.
- Laptop/IT: temporary loan laptops (where available) are charged at GBP 13.75 per week (or part week). Damage, lost or unreturned textbooks, library books, uniform and other school property are charged to parents. Examination authority fees, UCAS and other external fees are recharged to parents. Travel and taxi costs for medical or interview travel may be recharged with a handling fee where applicable.
- Educational visits and trips: routine small trip charges (up to GBP 30 each) are added to school bills; larger trip costs will be notified and require permission before charging.

Refund information
- Registration fee (GBP 195) and Acceptance fee (GBP 390) are non-refundable. The standard deposit (GBP 1,000) is refunded on a pupil's departure from the School once all debts are settled. Bursary applicant deposits are refundable if the application is unsuccessful (see fee list for the specific bursary deposit procedure). Additional deposits paid by overseas parents (one term's fee less deposit already paid) are refundable on departure once debts are settled. For full terms and conditions on refunds the School's Terms and Conditions apply.

Fee payment options and card charges
- The School operates a Fees Portal for parents (fees administration is managed through the School's fees systems). Credit and debit card payments are accepted for fee-related charges; only MasterCard and Visa credit/debit cards can be accepted. Charges incurred by the School for processing non-UK credit/debit card payments will be passed on to parents. Parents should consult the School's fees administration for the precise online payment methods available through the Fees Portal.

Short practical notes for parents
- All termly fee amounts above are inclusive of VAT where indicated. Day-pupil fees include lunch; boarder fees include laundry and linen. Additional and optional items (instrument hire, individual tuition, trips, dry-cleaning beyond the allowance, lost items, exam fees, travel costs) are charged in addition to termly fees and appear on school bills during the year. Administration charges and late payment interest may be applied for missed or late payments.

Boarding Arrangements

The school offers co-educational boarding and day education for pupils aged 11 to 18. Full-time boarders live on site, with Queen Mary House for Years 7–8 and Jubilee House for the Sixth Form. Weekly boarding, flexi-boarding and occasional boarding are available. There are usually two exeat weekends per term when boarders may go home.

Uniform Requirement

Uniform is provided exclusively by Perry's. A uniform and Bridewell dress code applies to all pupils; Sixth Form wear a smart, dark-colour business-style suit with a collared shirt or blouse, or a tailored skirt or trouser suit, with skirts touching the knee. The standard uniform includes shirts tucked in, a blazer worn at all times, navy or black tights or knee/ankle-length socks, and plain outerwear; Summer uniform may be worn during shirt-sleeve order, with some relaxations in jackets and tights rules.

Food Options

Balanced, freshly cooked meals are provided by Lodestone House; The Piccadilly Café is open to all pupils, staff, parents and visitors, located at the main entrance; Pupils and staff eat together in the Dining Hall; Eight Houses have their own kitchens for snacks and drinks, supporting healthy eating across the community.

House System

The House system is central to school life. Lower School journeys begin in Queen Mary House (Years 7–8), providing a home-from-home and dedicated pastoral support, with a transition to Middle School life in Year 9. In the Sixth Form, students join Jubilee House, which offers leadership opportunities and a dedicated space for study and social life, with inter-house activities and a strong sense of community.

Governance and Ownership

The governing body is The Court of Bridewell, reflecting the Bridewell Royal Hospital foundation. The Court comprises up to 30 unpaid volunteer governors, including Aldermen and Common Council members of the City of London, with the Treasurer acting as Chair. Meetings are held four times a year (two at Witley and two in the City), and there are five sub-committees: Estates, Education & ICT, Finance & Marketing, Health & Safety, and Nominations.

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

Pastoral care sits at the heart of pupil wellbeing. All pupils have access to a broad pastoral support network including a School Chaplain, Heads of Section, Housemasters and Housemistresses, tutors, matrons, the Health Centre and the Deputy Head (Pastoral). The Pupil Wellbeing Committee reviews cases and produces Pastoral Care Plans to coordinate support across staff. A counselling service is available for confidential one‑to‑one or group support, accessed by self‑referral or staff referral, and it forms part of the School's wellbeing framework. Where needed, external referrals to CAMHS or Surrey's Single Point of Access may be made with consent, and safeguarding matters are managed under the School's safeguarding provisions.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)

The Learning Support Department is led by the SENDCo and includes two part‑time specialist teachers, a Learning Mentor and two Classroom Support Assistants; EAL support is provided by EAL Coordinators who report to the SENDCo. Four broad areas of need are defined: Communication and Interaction; Cognition and Learning; Social, Emotional and Mental Health difficulties; and Sensory and/or Physical needs. Most pupils with SEND have mild needs and are supported through high‑quality first teaching within the classroom, with a graduated approach guiding targeted or specialist intervention as required. Pupils with SEND are admitted if they meet entry criteria and may receive reasonable adjustments; the SENDCo liaises with teachers, Heads of Year, Housemasters/mistresses, tutors, matrons and the Health Centre, with progress monitored through regular reviews. On entry, pupils are screened and identified, including EAL pupils, and the school's Graduated Support Appendix sets out school‑wide, targeted and specialist provisions, including counselling and external referrals when needed.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

English as an Additional Language (EAL) is recognised as a separate inclusion need rather than a SEND need. The EAL Department provides teaching and learning of English within the subject classroom, with additional small‑group or one‑to‑one lessons when needed to enable access to the curriculum; extended support may include IELTS preparation for university entry or visa purposes. EAL pupils are identified on entry with screening and an EAL register and pupil profiles are maintained to tailor support. Provision is overseen by the Head of Inclusive Learning (SENDCo) and EAL Coordinators, who liaise with Admissions, Careers and English departments; the school uses CEFR ratings and a flexible timetable to accommodate language support.

Mental Wellbeing

Mental wellbeing is supported through a comprehensive pastoral network and accessible counselling. All pupils can access pastoral support from staff including the School Chaplain, Heads of Section, tutors, the Health Centre and the Pupil Wellbeing Committee. The Counselling service provides confidential support and sits within the wellbeing framework; staff and counsellors may refer pupils to external services such as CAMHS when appropriate. The policy emphasises safeguarding considerations and collaboration with the safeguarding team to support pupil welfare, with clear pathways for referrals and ongoing monitoring.

Safeguarding

The Bridewell Schools' Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy establishes the safeguarding framework, with a Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) and Deputy DSLs to manage concerns. DSL and deputy roles are specified with direct contact details, and concerns can be raised via safeguarding channels or external agencies listed in the policy. Staff training, safer recruitment, and procedures for reporting concerns, as well as guidance on child‑on‑child abuse and looked‑after children, are included. The policy provides guidance on what to do if concerns are not acted upon and sets out safeguarding contacts for local authorities, the NSPCC and other agencies.

History

Transforming and nurturing young lives for over 450 years, King Edward's Witley is a vibrant and academically ambitious independent school offering co-educational boarding and day education for pupils aged 11 to 18. A school of the Bridewell Royal Hospital. The school sits on a 100-acre learning environment. The school moved to Surrey in 1867.

Community

A proudly diverse community with strong foundations rooted in kindness and mutual respect. Pupils flourish academically, socially and emotionally through varied and inspiring educational and pastoral journeys tailored to individual needs, strengths and personalities. Our heritage of generosity of spirit, compassion and inclusiveness resonates in a thriving present where our pupils are aspirational but kind and unpretentious. The journey is supported by a House system that fosters understanding and togetherness.

Parent Teacher Association (PTA)

Parent talks, Founder's Day and Prom in the Park are popular parent events. Choral and sports parents are particularly involved. The Parents' Association is being relaunched in summer 2025. Parental involvement strengthens the sense of community via the active Parents' Association and through sporting, music and drama events. There are ongoing opportunities for parent engagement through events and activities that involve families in pupil life.

Facilities Overview

King Edward's Witley sits on a 100-acre site in Wormley, near Godalming, Surrey, with historic grounds and countryside. It is a co-educational day and boarding school for pupils aged 11 to 18. The Piccadilly Café at the main entrance serves as a community hub and on-site dining option. The campus features expansive arts spaces including a ceramics room, printmaking studio, photography darkroom, a library and ICT resources; a dedicated, purpose-built Design Technology facility; and music spaces including a Mac Suite and recording studio. The school provides a broad co-curricular offering across arts, sport and beyond, with over 50 clubs and activities available each week.

Sports Facilities

The sports programme is extensive with core sports cricket, football, hockey and netball, each with a dedicated Head in addition to our Director of Sport and Head of Girls' Games. Over 100 school teams benefit from competitive and recreational opportunities in our core and a broader range of sports, including athletics, golf, rugby, swimming and tennis, during the week and at weekends, with a wide-ranging touring programme being offered. 80% of King Edward's pupils represented the school in a sport during 2023/24, with this rate consistent between girls and boys. The programme supports pupils to participate, excel and develop leadership within sport.

Academic Facilities

Design Technology is housed in a purpose-built and fully furnished facility where weekly lessons explore a variety of projects and develop skill in materials such as wood, plastic, textiles and metal within a design-and-make based approach. Our art department offers expansive classrooms and a variety of specialised facilities, including a ceramics room, printmaking studio, photography darkroom, library and ICT resource room. Music benefits from more than twenty choirs, orchestras and bands, supported by the Countess of Munster Music School which provides over 5,000 lessons and concerts, competitions, UK and international tours and examinations. Music technology learning is supported by a Mac Suite and recording studio, enabling pupils to study music technology and pursue related pathways.

Extra Curricular Facilities

Drama is a central part of life at King Edward's, with a programme that includes at least three productions per year and a musical biannually; a technical theatre club each week; and a House Drama competition. The school hosts performances in London and Guildford venues and offers a wide-ranging LAMDA provision. The Middle School and broader school offer over 50 co-curricular clubs and societies each week, spanning chess, badminton, sustainability, swimming and more, alongside an extensive trips programme to the UK and internationally. Clubs such as Radio Control Car Club and Wood Turning, plus projects like renovating an electric quad bike, illustrate the breadth of practical and creative opportunities available to pupils.

Academic & Intellectual

King Edward's Witley offers a broad co-curricular and enrichment programme that complements academic life. The school hosts a world-renowned music school, extensive art, design technology and drama programmes, and more than 50 co-curricular clubs and societies meeting weekly. Activities include chess, sustainability, astronomy, tea tasting, and on-site swimming, with many clubs led by staff, pupil leaders or external experts. The school also runs an extensive trips programme, locally, in the UK and internationally, to enrich learning outside the classroom.

Arts & Creative

Drama is a central part of life at King Edward's Witley, with auditions for a programme that includes at least three productions annually, a biannual musical, a weekly technical theatre club, and a House Drama competition. Music offers extensive opportunities, with over twenty choirs, orchestras and bands, external performances, and a dedicated music school; lessons and tours are supported by Countess of Munster Music School and Bridewell Shining Stars. Art & Textiles provide expansive facilities and Art Clubs across all years, gallery trips and weekend workshops such as life drawing and printmaking.

Social & Hobbies

King Edward's Witley runs over 50 co-curricular clubs and societies each week, including chess, design technology, badminton, sustainability, tea tasting, and astronomy. Activities predominantly take place after school or on Saturdays, with most attracting no additional charge. An extensive trips programme travels with the school locally, in the UK and internationally to support academic and co-curricular experiences. House life and school events further foster social connection and teamwork.

Community & Service

Our school community demonstrates its compassion in service via a range of initiatives each year. The pupil-led Charities Committee is supported by our Chaplain. Charlie's Promise is the primary local charity partner for 2024/2025, with fundraising activities such as non-uniform days and awareness events. We also support Macmillan Cancer Support through community coffee mornings and welcome residents to school events; pre-used uniform is donated to Stripey Stork and Christmas cards are designed and sold to support Dementia UK.

Leadership & Professional

Head Girl and Head Boy are appointed annually, shaping the pupil leadership voice and representing the school. Pupils contribute to leadership through roles in house life and student committees, and the school supports coaching and sport leadership qualifications. The Charities Committee and other pupil-led initiatives empower students to lead projects and collaborate with staff to enrich school life.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing

The sporting programme is extensive, with over 100 school teams and core sports including cricket, football, hockey and netball, plus a broad range of additional activities such as athletics, golf, rugby, swimming and tennis. An on-site pool and a fitness suite support physical wellbeing and active participation. Eco-Schools England accreditation and involvement in youth environmental boards highlight the school's commitment to wellbeing through environmental responsibility. House life and social events contribute to the social and emotional wellbeing of pupils throughout their time at the school.

Admissions

1. Pupils normally join King Edward's Witley at Year 7 (11+), Year 9 (13+) or Sixth Form (16+). Prospective families are welcome to visit via Open Mornings or to arrange a personal visit with the Admissions team. A non-refundable registration fee is payable when a pupil's name is first registered; the fee is £195 (inclusive of VAT). Registration is the first step in the admissions process. 2. For 13+ entry the school offers Pre-Testing and Standard Entry options. The Pre-Testing option allows registration at any time; the ISEB Pre-Test is usually taken at the pupil's current school between November and December in Year 6, and Pre-Tested offers are unconditional of the ISEB results, based on test results, interview and school report. For Standard Entry, pupils sit the entrance test in Mathematics, English and Verbal Reasoning in December prior to entry; registration must be completed for processing. The deadlines for 13+ entry are 1 November in the year before entry (e.g., 1 November 2026 for 2027 entry). 3. 11+ entry has its own admissions pathway with information and key dates published separately; pupils must be registered for their application to be processed. The process includes assessments and interviews, with offers made based on results and interview performance. 4. Sixth Form entry requires meeting the stated entrance requirements; places are typically offered after an interview and a satisfactory report from the pupil's current school. Registration for the application is required and a non-refundable registration fee is payable during online admissions. 5. Fees and payments: new pupil registration fee £195; on acceptance a deposit of £390 is payable, with UK/EU pupils also paying a £1,000 deposit held on departure; overseas students pay a deposit equal to one term's fees in addition to the acceptance fee. School fees are set for the year and split into three equal termly payments; all day pupils receive lunch (with optional full meals at no extra charge). 6. Scholarships and bursaries: scholarships are awarded across academics, art, design technology, drama, music and sport; Academic Scholarships are awarded as part of the applications process with no extra form required. For Year 7 and Year 9 entry, a separate scholarship form must be completed by 1 November in the year of entry, while Sixth Form scholarships are considered within the overall application. Bursaries are means-tested, usually up to 50% of fees, funded by Bridewell Royal Hospital and the City of London, with potential for additional third-party support; bursaries may apply to boarding or day pupils and are reviewed annually. HM Forces and FCDO families may receive fee reductions; details are available through the admissions team. 7. Open events and contact: Open Mornings and personal visits are available to learn about life at KESW; to enquire or book, contact the Admissions team by email or phone.

Scholarships

Scholarships are awarded to pupils evidencing outstanding ability, attitude and potential in their chosen field, across academic, art, drama, music, sport and Design Technology. Academic Scholarships are awarded as part of the applications process, with no separate form required. Co-curricular and subject-specific Scholarships are offered in Art, Design Technology, Drama, Music and Sport; for Year 7 and Year 9 entry, the scholarship form must be completed by 1 November in the year of entry, and an assessments day is held in February; for Sixth Form entry, achievements in these areas are considered within the overall application. Means-tested bursaries are available for families facing challenging circumstances and are funded by Bridewell Royal Hospital and the City of London, usually up to 50% of fees; additional funding from other sources may be available to cover further costs. HM Forces and FCDO families may receive fee reductions. To request a Scholarship Form, the Admissions team can be contacted.

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