
Senior School Prospectus
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Senior School Prospectus



At Wellingborough, we believe that education is about far more than academic achievement—it’s about helping young people discover who they are and who they might become. In our Senior School, we nurture individuality, encourage curiosity, and support pupils as they grow in confidence and character.
Founded in 1595, Wellingborough has a proud heritage, but our focus is firmly on the future. We prepare pupils not only with knowledge, but with the adaptability, resilience, and empathy they need to thrive in a rapidly changing world. Our values – Resillience, Responsibility, and Respect are key elements of a Wellingborough School education and are lived out every day, in every part of school life. Whether in the classroom, on the sports field, on stage, or through the rich co-curricular programme that defines a Wellingborough education, our pupils are encouraged to aim high and grow as individuals.
We are large enough to offer breadth and opportunity, yet small enough to know each child. That balance matters. It means your child will be seen, supported, and inspired to flourish.
I warmly invite you to visit us and experience the warmth, energy, and ambition of our School community. When you meet our pupils and staff, you’ll understand what makes Wellingborough such a special place.
Simon Hawkes
At Wellingborough your child’s experience at Senior level is designed to inspire intellectual curiosity, foster a love of learning, and provide a broad and balanced educational experience. Pupils are encouraged to explore a wide range of subjects and co-curricular opportunities, nurturing a spirit of discovery and personal growth.
Our core values are embedded in the curriculum. These principles guide pupils as they develop into confident, compassionate members of the school community, celebrating achievements, supporting one another, and taking ownership of their learning and personal development.
Set within 45 acres, Wellingborough School offers an inspiring environment where pupils are encouraged to thrive. Our expansive grounds and facilities provide a space to learn and reflect – supporting academic and personal development, whilst fostering mutual respect, and a strong sense of belonging.








Founded in 1595, Wellingborough School is one of the oldest schools in the country, with a proud tradition of academic excellence and personal development that has shaped generations of learners. Our historic buildings and long-standing traditions reflect a deeprooted commitment to education, community, and character. From the enduring strength of our House system, established over a century ago, to our transition to full co-education in 1979, the school has continually evolved to meet the needs of a changing world.
Today, that spirit of evolution continues. While our heritage buildings speak to centuries of learning, our site also reflects a forward-thinking approach to education.

The newly developed Technology Centre is a striking example of this blend—designed to sit harmoniously alongside our historic estate while offering pupils access to modern, purpose-built facilities for Innovation, Engineering, Product Design and Food Education..




At Wellingborough our approach is ‘pupil-led’. We offer a flexible curriculum which enables each pupil to discover new talents, follow their passions, and dedicate time to what they love.
Our pupils benefit from expert guidance and support from talented teachers, so every pupil thrives academically and personally.
At Wellingborough School, we believe in empowering pupils to take ownership of their educational journey. As they progress through the Senior School, pupils are offered increasing choice and flexibility, enabling them to tailor their learning to their interests, strengths, and aspirations. With over 20 GCSEs, 24 A levels, and a wealth of enrichment opportunities available, every pupil is supported to achieve academic excellence, personal growth, and the qualifications needed to make their next steps.
Pupils in Year 7 follow a broad and balanced curriculum designed to lay strong academic foundations.
Subjects include English, Mathematics, Science, Geography, History, a modern foreign language (French or Spanish), Art, Design Technology, Computer Science, Music, Religious Studies, Physical Education, PSHCE, and a range of Games options.
From Year 7 onwards, careers education is embedded into the curriculum, helping pupils understand the relevance of their studies and preparing them for future pathways, including post-16 education, apprenticeships, and the world of work.




The comprehensive curriculum continues in Year 8, with pupils selecting one of four tailored pathways in languages and expressive arts:
• Continue with their chosen modern foreign language.
• Study both French and Spanish.
• Combine their modern foreign language with a Performing Arts course (Drama and Dance).
• Follow a Learning Support pathway with additional English and Maths, alongside a choice of a modern foreign language, or Performing Arts.
In Year 9, pupils deepen their core studies in English, Mathematics, Science, Geography, and History, while selecting five mini-options from a diverse range including Art, Computer Science, Drama, Design Technology, French, Music, Religious Studies, Spanish, Academic PE, or a Learning Development support course. PSHCE and Games continue, and all pupils benefit from participation in the Combined Cadet Force, which fosters leadership and teamwork.





“Throughout my GCSE studies, I have found that I’ve been supported in every stage by teachers who genuinely care, which makes a world of difference upon taking the exams and preparing me for my next steps into the Sixth Form.”



Years 10 and 11 mark an exciting stage in each pupil’s academic journey—a time when passions begin to shape future ambitions.
Most pupils pursue up to nine GCSEs, allowing for academic depth and meaningful engagement with each subject. Core subjects include English Language, English Literature, and either Combined Science or separate GCSEs in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
High-achieving mathematicians may also study Further Mathematics alongside IGCSE Mathematics. For those who benefit from additional support, small group sessions in core subjects ensure full access to the curriculum without compromising progress.
Pupils then personalise their learning journey by selecting from a wide range of optional GCSE subjects, including:
• Art
• Computer Science
• Geography
• History
• Drama
• Design Technology
• Engineering
• French
• Music
• Photography
• Physical Education
• Religious Studies
• Spanish
Pupils requiring additional support may opt for a Learning Development programme in place of one GCSE.
All pupils continue with Games, PSHCE, and a Citizenship module, which prepares them for life beyond school through topics such as leadership, finance, law, democracy, and communication skills. In Year 11, pupils may also choose from enrichment options including Sports Leadership, Python Programming, Public Speaking, Finance, or NCO CCF training.





“During Year 11, I participated in multiple school sports teams and co-curricular activities which made balancing my GCSEs more challenging. However, the flexibility of teachers with their clinic times allowed me to make the most of all opportunities offered at school, during GCSEs and now A levels.”
Our pupils consistently achieve outstanding academic results, year after year. On average, over 95% of GCSE grades are passes (Grades 9–4), with nearly 50% awarded at the highest levels (grades 9–7), significantly outperforming national averages. At A level, our students maintain a pass rate above 99%, with around 65% of grades at A*, A or B. These strong academic foundations enable our pupils to progress to leading universities in the UK and abroad, and to pursue successful careers across a wide range of fields—from medicine and law to engineering, the arts, and beyond.



“My favourite thing about Wellingborough is the people and the classes, I love all my classes and the people here, they’re all very welcoming and kind, and it’s a great place to come.”
At Wellingborough School, we take immense pride in our diverse and dynamic Cocurriculum which empowers pupils to develop essential life skills beyond the classroom.
From Sport and Performing Arts to Leadership and Community Service, our pupils thrive in an environment that nurtures talent, resilience, and personal growth. We are delighted that the recent ISI report has recognised this as a “Significant strength” of the school.




“I am a doctor doing GP training in Norwich having worked in New Zealand for 1.5 years prior to this. Wellingborough highlighted the importance of community and collegiality and my fantastic experience in the CCF has stoked my hunger for outdoor adventure.”
Dr Hamish Baxter (01-14, Platt’s)
Went on to study at Liverpool Medical School and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine
At Wellingborough School, sport is a vital part of everyday life. Guided by our ‘Sports for All’ ethos, every student has the chance to enjoy sport, whether they are playing for fun or aiming to perform at the highest level.
Students choose their own Games options with no restrictions based on gender, allowing them to explore and develop their individual interests. We encourage all students to represent the school, and with over 1,000 fixtures each year everyone has the chance to compete, improve, and contribute to a team. Our Sport Scholarship Programme is designed for pupils who excel in sport and are passionate about both sport and their academic studies. Available at 11+ and 16+, the programme offers mentoring, performance analysis, one-to-one coaching, and workshops in areas such as sport psychology, nutrition, and leadership. Scholars also visit top universities and professional clubs to gain insight into elite-level competition. We work closely with Northampton Saints, Northamptonshire County Cricket Club, and Loughborough Lightning, while also supporting athletes in national programmes including England Hockey, GB Equestrian, and GB Baseball.
At Wellingborough, we aim to inspire a love for sport that lasts a lifetime—while nurturing the skills, confidence, and resilience that extend far beyond the field of play.






“Sport at Wellingborough School shaped my life in ways I’m deeply grateful for. I was lucky enough to enjoy a 16-year career in professional rugby, and I know that wouldn’t have been possible without the grounding I received at school. The encouragement, belief, and guidance from the teachers and coaches gave me the resilience and discipline I needed to pursue my dream. Some of my happiest memories come from being part of the school’s sports teams, and the friendships I built through those shared experiences remain some of the closest and most meaningful in my life today.”





“I’ve loved the rugby season, I think the school is very good for sports. There’s a diversity of different level of sports for everyone and we have the Saints coaches for rugby who teach us a lot of new skills and play styles.”
Year 8 – Pupil

Will Chudley – Former Premiership RFU - Coventry
James Sales – Northamptonshire County Cricket and England U19
Mark Stockdale – Golf, England Under 25 Amateur Champion
Alex Waller – Northampton Saints RFC
Lydia Macdonell – GB Women’s Hockey Squad, former England Under 21
Anne Panter – England Hockey
David Howells – Captain of Northamptonshire Steelbacks VI Team and an England VI Cricket Team Member
Joseph Stockdale – Olympic call-up for Paris 2024
Ethan Waller – Northampton Saints RFC
Jasmine Titmuss – Former Lancashire Women’s Cricket Captain

At Wellingborough School, our drama programme offers students an outlet for self-expression and creativity, helping them to build confidence, develop communication skills, and work collaboratively with others.
Our co-curricular drama programme offers students a fantastic opportunity to explore their passion for theatre through a variety of performances and productions. One of the highlights is the chance to perform at the Castle Theatre. In addition to larger productions, we also focus on smaller, equally engaging shows, allowing students to develop their skills in diverse roles and settings.
Beyond performing, students can gain experience in backstage roles such as set design, lighting, sound, costume, and stage management. These roles are crucial to the success of any production and offer a different perspective on the world of theatre. Additionally, our programme includes theatre trips and workshops with professional West End performers, allowing students to learn from industry experts, understand the demands of professional theatre, and gain a deeper appreciation for the art form.








Music is a vibrant and integral part of life at Wellingborough School, offering pupils the opportunity to explore, perform, and create across a wide range of styles and traditions.
Housed in a dedicated Music building, Music is taught by specialist teachers throughout the Senior School to GCSE and A level, and supports those pupils applying to conservatoire post-18. The department also offers individual tuition in over 25 instruments, from voice to percussion.
Beyond the classroom, pupils participate in a wide variety of ensembles, including choirs, string quartets, recorder groups, and rock bands. Annual events such as the Spring Concert, Teatime Recitals, and Rock, Pop & Blues showcase pupils’ talents and creativity.
Whether pupils are aspiring performers, composers, or simply passionate about music, Wellingborough provides the resources, expertise, and encouragement to help them flourish.
At Wellingborough School, we believe that creativity is a vital skill for the modern world.
Our vibrant and inspiring Art Department offers a rich curriculum that supports students from their first steps in Year 7 through to GCSE and beyond.
From the outset, pupils explore a wide range of media including photography, textiles, and graphics. Working in purpose-built studios and taught by subject specialists, our pupils have access to professional-standard facilities, including a dark-room, digital suites, and fully equipped studios.
The curriculum encourages self-expression, independent thinking, and technical skill development, while enrichment opportunities such as artist-led workshops, gallery visits, and after school clubs help connect their learning to the wider world.




“The curriculum is complemented by a well-resourced co-curricular programme, which benefits pupils of all ages and abilities. The programme is wide-ranging and well-coordinated and is designed to support pupils’ skills, interests and personal development – This is a significant strength of the school”

Wellingborough School’s Combined Cadet Force (CCF) is a proud and historic part of our co-curricular offering, providing students with a unique opportunity to develop leadership, resilience, and teamwork in a structured and supportive environment.
As one of the few schools in the country to offer all four service sections—Royal Navy, Royal Marines, Army, and Royal Air Force—our CCF programme is both distinctive and deeply rooted in tradition. Notably, Wellingborough was the first school in the UK to establish its own Air Section in 1937, and we continue to produce confident, capable young people, some of whom go on to distinguished service careers.


Each section offers a different focus, allowing pupils to explore their interests and challenge themselves in new ways:
• Royal Navy: Ideal for students drawn to maritime skills and water-based activities, this section introduces navigation, seamanship, and teamwork on and off the water.
• Royal Marines: A more physically demanding option, this section requires pupils to meet entry standards in fitness and stamina. Those who succeed gain access to a dynamic programme focused on endurance, discipline, and leadership.
• Army: Centred on infantry tactics, fieldcraft, and weapons training, the Army section offers hands-on experience in outdoor skills and strategic thinking.
• Royal Air Force: Perfect for those with an interest in aviation, this section blends theoretical knowledge— such as aircraft recognition and RAF history—with practical fieldcraft and leadership training.
Across all four sections, cadets take part in activities that build essential life skills, including first aid, navigation, communication, and problem-solving.

The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is just one of the enriching and empowering opportunities we offer at Wellingborough School. It encourages pupils to step outside their comfort zones, discover new passions, and develop the independence and resilience that will serve them for life.





While the Award is structured around four key sections— Physical, Skill, Volunteering, and Expedition—it is often the expedition that leaves the most lasting impression. At Gold level, students can choose their mode of travel, with walking, canoeing, and cycling all popular options, depending on the interests of the group. Our pupils have canoed the breathtaking Great Glen, cycled across the rugged North York Moors, and trekked through the dramatic landscapes of Snowdonia and the Lake District—creating unforgettable memories and friendships along the way.
At Wellingborough School, we are committed to recognising and nurturing excellence. Our Scholarship Programme is designed to support pupils who demonstrate outstanding ability, potential, and dedication in their chosen field.
Scholarships are available in Academic, Art, Drama, Music, and Sport, and each award reflects our belief in the importance of encouraging ambition and rewarding achievement.
Scholars benefit from a structured programme of enrichment and support, tailored to their area of expertise. Whether performing on stage, creating in the studio, excelling in the classroom, or competing on the sports field, our scholars are leaders within the school community. They are encouraged to strive for excellence, act with integrity, and inspire those around them. The Wellingborough School Scholarship Programme is more than an award—it is a commitment to helping each pupil flourish.




At Wellingborough School, our outstanding facilities bring learning to life and support every aspect of a pupil’s development—academic, artistic, and athletic. Set within a beautiful and historic Site, our blend of heritage and innovation creates an inspiring environment where pupils thrive.
Academic excellence is supported by spacious, wellequipped classrooms and a range of specialist facilities. Our Senior pupils benefit from a state-of-the-art Technology Centre, a dedicated Music School, and a Drama Studio. Our dedicated Art building houses six purpose-built studios, providing an inspiring space for creativity and exploration.


Our historic buildings, including our own Chapel, form a central part of school life. The Chapel provides a reflective space for assemblies and services, reinforcing the school’s strong sense of community and tradition.
Wellingborough School has a proud sporting tradition, supported by excellent facilities which include;
• A floodlit rugby pitch
• 8 rugby/football pitches
• 5 cricket squares and 8 artificial nets
• 2 full-size floodlit artificial pitches
• 5 hard tennis courts and 24 artificial courts - 12 on each astro
• 2 athletics tracks
• A modern, fully equipped sports hall
• A specialist indoor small-bore shooting range—one of the few of its kind in UK schools
These facilities allow pupils to train and compete at the highest level, while also promoting teamwork, resilience, and wellbeing.
Wellingborough School’s exceptional facilities reflect our commitment to providing a rich, well-rounded education that prepares pupils for success—both within the classroom and beyond.


At Wellingborough School, we believe that education extends far beyond the classroom. With over 150 educational visits offered annually, pupils are given a wealth of opportunities to broaden their horizons, deepen their understanding, and develop into wellrounded individuals.
Among the many highlights, students have visited Berlin, gaining an insight into its pivotal role in European history, they have travelled to the battlefields of Northern France, where history is brought vividly to life. They have explored the dramatic natural wonders of Iceland—glaciers, valleys, and volcanic landscapes—on an unforgettable geographical expedition. The annual

Ski Trip to Austria offers a blend of sport and adventure, while a visit to CERN’s Hadron Collider in Switzerland provides a fascinating glimpse into the world of cuttingedge physics. For those with a passion for innovation, our trip to NASA in Houston, Texas, provides pupils with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to engage with aerospace engineering.
Along with theatre visits and art gallery tours, our programme of visits are designed not only to complement academic study but also to inspire curiosity, build confidence, and create memories that extend far beyond the classroom.
We understand that every child learns differently. Our dedicated Learning Development team is committed to ensuring that all pupils are supported, encouraged, and empowered to succeed. We believe in nurturing the whole child, recognising that confidence, self-belief, and the right support can unlock true potential.
Working in close partnership with teaching staff, our whole-school team identifies and addresses individual learning needs from Nursery through to Sixth Form, ensuring continuity of care and a deep understanding of each pupil’s progress.
Whether a pupil requires help with specific learning challenges, study strategies, or simply a boost in confidence, our team is here to guide and encourage. By fostering a nurturing and inclusive environment, we help every learner build resilience, independence, and a belief in their own ability to succeed.




At Wellingborough School, we pride ourselves on fostering a strong sense of community and belonging.
Central to our Senior School is the House, which becomes a pupil’s ‘home away from home.’ Each House boasts its own unique character and traditions. The Housemaster or Housemistress oversees every pupil throughout their time in the House. Twice daily, pupils see their Tutor, whose role is to champion their tutees. Tutors provide unwavering support and monitor their tutees’ progress both inside and outside the classroom, helping them achieve their true potential.
Our commitment to pupil wellbeing extends beyond the House and Tutor system. The School’s Wellbeing Team offers specialised one-to-one and group support to address social, emotional, and mental health needs. This holistic approach ensures that every pupil receives the care and attention they need to thrive.



The House system stands out to me as the best thing about Wellingborough, the community and friendships you build in that system really strengthens your experience in school. Wellingborough has a really strong friendly community, and that’s the stand out thing for me.”
Year 11 – Pupil




We believe in nurturing leadership and responsibility in every pupil, no matter their year group. We offer a variety of opportunities for pupils to step up to leadership roles, both within their Houses and through our vibrant co-curricular activities. In Year 12, pupils have the chance to become School Prefects and Heads of School. We also have a Peer Mentoring Programme, where senior pupils guide and support younger pupils. This programme helps create a supportive and nurturing environment where older pupils can share their experiences, offer valuable advice, and role model our core values.
A strong sense of community, respect, resilience, and responsibility are the cornerstones of a successful education. Our pastoral care system and leadership opportunities are designed to support every pupil, helping them grow into confident, compassionate, and capable individuals.


As pupils approach the end of their Senior School journey, we place great emphasis on ensuring they feel confident, informed, and ready for the transition into Sixth Form. Choosing a course of study for Sixth Form is a key milestone, and our staff provide thoughtful guidance to help each pupil select the options that best suit their strengths, interests, and future aspirations.
The majority of our Sixth Form students’ progress to university, with many securing places at Oxford, Cambridge, other Russell Group institutions, and prestigious universities around the world.
Our approach is designed to support every pupil in making a seamless move into post-16 study. From careers advice to conversations with subject specialists, we ensure that pupils understand what lies ahead and feel excited about the opportunities Sixth Form brings.
To further support this transition, we host our annual Headstart event in June—a three-day programme that introduces both current and joining pupils to Sixth Form life. Students take part in sample lessons, meet key teaching staff, and begin to explore the academic and co-curricular opportunities available. With teambuilding activities and a relaxed summer BBQ, the event helps pupils build connections and step into their new role with confidence and clarity.
Originally named ‘Wendelingbourgh’, the town was founded in the early 6th century Saxon period by a Saxon leader called Waendel and is mentioned in the Domesday Book under the name of ‘Wendelburie’. The town was granted a royal market charter in 1201, by King John of England.
Wellingborough School is situated in the heart of the historic market town of Wellingborough. The school offers a calm and focused environment for
a child’s formative years, with excellent transport connections that make it easily accessible from across Northamptonshire and beyond.
For those travelling by rail, Wellingborough Train Station is just a ten-minute walk or five-minute bus journey from the School, and we provide a regular private shuttle service to and from the station at the beginning and end of each school day. The station offers direct services to London St Pancras and journey times from Kettering are 7 minutes, 13 minutes from Bedford, and 17 minutes from Market Harborough. This makes us a convenient option for families commuting from the capital or surrounding areas.

We warmly encourage you to visit our school to see what we have to offer and all that makes a Wellingborough education so special.
We would love to see you at one of our Open Mornings, where you can explore our facilities, meet our dedicated staff, and talk to current pupils.
We would be delighted to arrange a private tour during term time. This offers the best opportunity to meet the Headmaster, discuss your individual needs and explore the Senior School during a busy day.
If a term-time visit isn’t possible, we are more than happy to welcome you during the school holidays at a time that suits you.
To arrange a visit, please email our dedicated Admissions Manager, at admissions@ wellingboroughschool.org or call the team directly on: 01933 233496 or 01933 222427


Our main points of entry are Nursery, Reception, Years 3, 7 and Sixth Form. We also welcome children at every stage of their education.
If you wish to register your interest in your child joining the school, please contact us to discuss your child’s education and check availability in your required year group.
You can do this by emailing Admissions at admissions@wellingboroughschool.org or calling 01933 222427.
You can also complete our enquiry form which can be found on our website.
Following your enquiry, you will be invited to visit the school for a private tour with one of our prefects and meet the Headmaster. This is a wonderful opportunity for you to visit the school with your child, discuss your individual needs and experience the school during a busy day.
You could also come along to one of our Open Events held throughout the year. Upcoming open events can be booked via our website.
For your child to be invited to sit our entrance exam you will need to register your child by completing our registration form and pay a registration fee of £120*. As part of the registration process, we will ask for your permission to request a reference and a school report from your child’s current school to support their application for a place.
*The registration fee is non-refundable


Following completion and receipt of your registration form your child will be invited to sit their entrance examination. We hold annual entrance examinations in late Autumn for all applicants applying for Years 7-10 which consist of CAT testing, an English paper, a Maths test, and an interview. For those unable to attend we can also book your child to sit their entrance examination during the academic year at a time that suits you.
Following a successful entrance examination and the receipt of a reference from your child’s current school we will be able to offer a place. An offer letter will be sent with an Acceptance Form and a copy of our Standard Terms & Conditions.
Completion and return of the Acceptance Form, together with the acceptance deposit of £600 will secure your child/ren’s place and will form the contract with the
School. Your £600 deposit can be returned to you when your child leaves the school*.
*You will be given the option to donate your deposit to the Wellingborough School Foundation. This helps fund bursaries for pupils requiring assistance, or supports school improvements such as building projects, maintenance, and educational initiatives.
If your child is due to start at the beginning of the academic year, they will be invited to an induction day in June/July. You will also receive details to access our online ‘New Parent Portal’ which contains useful information about the school and a variety of forms that need to be completed in preparation for your child’s first day.
We are proud to be a diverse and inclusive community. We believe that our fees should not be a barrier for children who would benefit from a Wellingborough education.
We offer means-tested financial assistance (bursaries) to eligible families, primarily for entry into the Senior School—typically in Year 7 or Sixth Form. As the bursary fund is limited and demand is high, it is essential that applications are submitted on time.





We are proud to be one of the few Independent Schools in the UK to offer parents the option to spread the cost of school fees through monthly instalments – completely interest-free. By covering the cost of the interest ourselves, we ensure that families can benefit from greater financial flexibility at no additional expense. This service is provided through School Fee Plan, a trusted provider with over 20 years of experience in supporting parents with school fee payments.
If you would like further information, please ask our Admissions team.
Credit is subject to status. Terms and conditions apply. Applicants must be over 18.
At Wellingborough School, we offer children and young adults a world of opportunity. We warmly invite prospective families to visit us, experience our environment, and discover what makes a Wellingborough education so distinctive.
Before making the important decision of where to send your child to school, we encourage you to get to know us.
Contact our Admissions Team: 01933 222427 admissions@wellingboroughschool.org
Wellingborough School, London Road, Wellingborough, NN8 2BX




