A local school with a global agenda – Whitgift School

Whitgift is a school with big ambitions for its 1,550 pupils. Driven by an approach to education that extends far beyond its school gates in south London, the aim is to create an environment where each student takes responsibility for his role as a global citizen through a range of initiatives, trips and expeditions, and charity events.

Inspired by the ethos of the IB (which is offered in the sixth form alongside A-levels), every boy in Years 6 and 7 is taught the unique Global Citizenship programme, built around the UN charter. Through the school’s curriculum, which remains intentionally broader for longer than most, pupils develop the skills of social and technological responsibility, collaboration and creativity, alongside resilience, self-awareness and emotional intelligence. Every boy in Year 7 will study three languages – one of which will be Japanese or Chinese – and by Year 8 they deliver an independent research project on an aspect of global citizenship.

Additionally for pupils joining at 11+, the Whitgift 7 programme is uniquely designed to help with their transition into the new environment, ensuring they start their journeys as Whitgiftians with a strong grounding and exposure to so much that they may never have previously encountered. Free fencing and golf lessons and a free term of music lessons on an instrument of their choice make Year 7 an attractive entry point. The music and drama offering is phenomenal, with excellent productions and plenty of clubs in which pupils can discover new talents in the arts.

Cultural engagement is ignited through regular trips and events, and co-curricular societies of which there are over 100 to choose from. Through community partnerships, such as volunteering in local primary schools, pupils learn to give back to society, and visiting speakers and Old Whitgiftians help inspire young minds. Most recently a partnership with a school in Hyderabad, India has been established and that will be sure to bring an even greater international dimension and future opportunity for all pupils.

Sport is integral to the wellbeing of all Whitgiftians, with 1,300 of 1,550 pupils participating in Saturday sport at all ages and levels. Facilities are top class, with cricket nets, a shooting range, a driving range, hybrid sports pitch and variable depth pool in a purpose-built sports centre all on-site, and the school’s record at local and national level, particularly hockey, is outstanding. There is something here for everyone to get involved in, at every level.

After over 425 years of education the school’s ethos remains clear – to educate bright and talented young men, whatever their background, to become independent learners and thinkers, to achieve beyond what they believed they could and to leave ready to give back to the society in which they will be leaders.