What is Westminster School like?

Westminster School is a large, academically driven community of around 780 pupils, with approximately a quarter boarding. Situated beside Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament, it occupies one of the most distinctive urban settings of any British school.

The atmosphere is purposeful and intellectually alert. Teaching is rigorous, and pupils are encouraged to question, debate and think independently. Lessons extend way beyond the baseline curriculum, and discussion is central to the classroom experience. The School attracts able, self-motivated young people who are comfortable in a fast-paced environment and willing to engage deeply with their subjects.

Beyond the classroom, there is a broad and structured co-curricular programme. Boys and girls participate in sport, music, drama, lectures, workshops and a wide range of societies, many of which are pupil-led. The community includes day pupils, weekly boarders and, in the Sixth Form, international boarders, contributing to a diverse and outward-looking culture. Partnerships, volunteering and whole-school initiatives form part of the wider educational experience.

Is Westminster a good school?

Westminster is widely regarded as one of the strongest academic schools in the country and the world. Public examination results are consistently high. In 2025, 88.10 per cent of A Level grades were awarded at A* or A, and 97.60 per cent of GCSE entries were graded 9 to 7.

Over recent years, A Level results have typically remained in the mid to high eighties or above at A* to A, while GCSE outcomes at grades 7 to 9 have regularly exceeded 97 per cent.

A significant proportion of leavers (around 40%) progress to Oxford and Cambridge each year, with others securing places at leading universities in the UK and internationally, including the United States.

The School’s academic culture is unapologetically demanding. It is best suited to boys and girls who are ambitious, intellectually curious and prepared to work independently.

Is it hard to get into Westminster School?

Simply put, yes! TSG advises that you should never apply to Westminster without suitable back-up options in place.

Entry is academically competitive and the School is consistently oversubscribed. At 13+, Westminster receives around 500 applications for approximately 125 places. At 16+, there are typically about 650 applicants for around 80 places.

Selection involves entrance assessments and interviews, and standards are high. Successful candidates demonstrate strong academic potential and the capacity to thrive in a scholarly environment.

What is boarding at Westminster School like?

Boarding has been integral to Westminster’s character since its foundation. Around a quarter of boys and girls board, with international pupils able to join for full boarding at 16+.

Six of the 11 houses are boarding houses, some with views across Parliament and Westminster Abbey. Boarding is woven into the life of the School rather than existing separately from it. In the evenings and at weekends, boarders have access to facilities including the sports centre and library, alongside organised activities.

The central London location provides immediate access to museums, galleries, theatres and parks, which are incorporated into the boarding experience. The result is a distinctive blend of historic tradition and metropolitan energy.