Badminton School

Badminton School, located in the picturesque suburb of Westbury-on-Trym in Bristol, is a distinguished all-girls day and boarding school that has been providing high-quality education since 1858. Known for its academic rigour and nurturing environment, the school offers a comprehensive education that encourages intellectual curiosity and personal growth.

The school admits most students in Year 7, with applicants required to take exams in English and Maths, alongside an online cognitive ability test. Each candidate also has an interview with a senior member of staff. The transition from the junior school is not automatic, but nearly all students move up, undergoing the same assessments as external candidates. For overseas applicants, the preferred exam is the UKISET, and successful candidates are interviewed via video conference. Sixth form hopefuls sit papers in two of the subjects they plan to study at A level, plus an online cognitive ability test and interview.

Badminton School’s academic results are impressive, with a strong emphasis on STEM subjects. The school offers a wide range of subjects at GCSE and A level, with setting in Maths only. Languages offered include French, German, and Spanish, with Italian available at A level. The school boasts seven well-equipped science labs and a robust science outreach programme that engages students in hands-on experiments and community events. Pupils are encouraged to participate in academic challenges outside school, with notable successes in various prestigious competitions.

The teaching and learning environment at Badminton School is characterised by selective entry, rigorous exam preparation, and small class sizes, which contribute to excellent academic results. Sixth formers typically take three or four A levels, with a third opting to complete the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ). The school also offers an AS in thinking skills to develop critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. The balance between digital and traditional learning methods is maintained, with all students bringing laptops to school while also engaging in handwritten work.

The arts and extra-curricular activities are integral to the school’s ethos, with a strong emphasis on music, drama, and art. More than half of the students play at least one instrument, and there are numerous orchestras, ensembles, and choirs to join. The annual Spring Concert at St George’s Bristol is a highlight, showcasing the school’s musical talent. Drama is thriving, with an annual whole-school production and various smaller performances. The art department is housed in a separate building with seven light-filled studios, offering students the opportunity to explore their creativity.

Sport is a significant strength at Badminton School, with facilities including an Astro, netball courts, a 25-metre swimming pool, and a sports hall with a gym, fitness centre, and climbing wall. The main sports are hockey, netball, tennis, and swimming, with additional co-curricular activities such as fencing, judo, CrossFit, football, and badminton.

Boarding at Badminton School is a popular option, with 45% of students choosing to board. The school offers weekly, full, and flexible boarding options, with three boarding houses catering for different age groups. Boarders are kept busy with organised activities and have the opportunity to enjoy downtime and spontaneous events.

Pastoral care is a priority at Badminton School, with a team of staff dedicated to supporting students’ wellbeing. The school has a clear pastoral structure, with form tutors, pastoral heads, and subject teachers available to offer guidance. An on-site health centre provides access to professional counsellors, and sixth formers act as trained peer mentors.

The school’s ethos is rooted in its history, with a commitment to providing girls with the same educational opportunities as their male counterparts. The community is diverse, with students from various backgrounds and countries. The school fosters a sense of individuality and encourages students to pursue their interests and passions.

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