“There is nothing about this school that my children don’t enjoy. They love their friendships, they love the activities, they love the teachers and they love the way they are taught. They look forward to coming to school every day.”
Our mission is clear.
With graduates consistently ranking in the top 1-2% worldwide, Westbourne has a century-long history of facilitating student access to the world’s leading universities, including Oxbridge and the Ivy League.
Ranked #1 in the UK for Innovation (ISA) and leading results league tables nationally, academic curiosity and intellectual exploration run deeply through the school. Our strong links with industry giants,
including Google and INSEAD Business School, give Westbourne students the edge.
For students aged 11-18, our blend of day and boarding options creates an inclusive, dynamic environment where excellence thrives.
With small classes and a focus on reflective learning, every student is known, challenged and empowered to think critically, preparing them for GCSEs, Sixth Form, and the careers of the future.
Studying in our Senior School is a stepping stone to academic and professional success on the world stage, centred on research, problem-solving and communication.
Our UK school is the hub of a pioneering network of elite global schools spanning three continents, where the world’s brightest young minds collaborate and exchange ideas. Cutting-edge technology links up Westbourne students globally,
in real time, supporting them to interact as if in the same room.
The academic and cultural benefits of this cannot be overstated, as we grow the next generation of global leaders.
Oxbridge and Russell Group preparation
Local & Global expert tutoring
Privileged connections with world-leading universities
Global career inspiration
“Mini MBA” Future Leaders Lab in Singapore led by INSEAD professors
Joint projects with classmates in Sydney and Singapore
Global university applications managed by market experts with longstanding admission director relationships
“I want my children to achieve their dreams. One of the reasons we chose Westbourne is because when I asked my son what he wanted to be when he’s older, he said he wanted to be an astronaut. Now, there may be millions of children all over the world who want to be an astronaut, but I can see that he actually really does have the potential. We chose this school as being the best for giving him the launching platform for that. It is working!”
in 2024 90%
2024 IB League Tables, best-schools.co.uk #2
#4
Overall for Results
2024 IB League Tables, best-schools.co.uk
Westbourne global average, 2024
“The truth is that Westbourne is a school like no other. The relationships you build and the connections you make, the fact everyone is here for each other when you most need them, pushing you to achieve your very best, is something I will truly remember.”
DHARANI, 44 IB POINTS, STUDYING LAW AT THE UNIVERSITY OF CAMBRIDGE
% of graduates entering
20 UK universities or equivalently elite international institutions
AI-assisted learning and virtual reality have transformed the learning experience for our students, giving them the tools to research deeper and think more broadly, building confidence and independence. And this translates to outcomes.
Globally recognised through awards including the Global EdTech Award for Best Digital Transformation, and the Tes Schools Awards for Best Use of Technology, in 2024 we were
honoured to be named the UK’s most innovative independent school by the ISA.
We are the only school in the UK using a bespoke AI learning platform, KnowVa Coach, developed alongside Cardiff University’s Department of Neuroscience and INSEAD professors, to support students to deepen their learning across a range of academic subjects, elevating their knowledge and skills far beyond the classroom.
SINCE INTRODUCING AI TECHNOLOGY, STUDENT PERFORMANCE HAS INCREASED, ON AVERAGE, BY 30%; THAT’S TWO GRADES HIGHER.
♦ One of the first schools to use AI technology, we are developing a powerful AI coach, alongside leading academics in the UK and France.
♦ We use EdTech to seamlessly share resources and expertise between teachers and students across the entire world.
♦ Our groundbreaking Holographic Teacher brings the world’s finest teachers to our UK students and vice versa.
♦ Through our Global Staffroom, teachers across our global schools share research and methodology, promoting teaching excellence.
♦ Century provides AI-assisted commentary, giving students three ‘frequencies’ of assessment feedback.
♦ Critical thinking, a core future-ready skill, is deeply embedded in our teaching practice.
Uniquely devised, our Global Classroom links up the world’s sharpest student minds, creating opportunities for students from our schools to work together and gain new perspectives.
We bring the finest subject specialists from across the world to the heart of Penarth, beaming them into classrooms to lead lessons, including revision and booster sessions with students in Sydney and Singapore.
This global insight complements the exceptional teachers we have on campus here in the UK.
The future of education, our Holographic Teacher is breaking boundaries.
“The way I’ve been learning this term is completely new and something I’ve never experienced before. It’s inspiring having a teacher from a different country - Mr Tang is based in Singapore. He’s projected into the room and it really feels like he’s there with us. He can see us and hear what we are saying, and he can also see us writing answers on the board so it’s very interactive. At the moment, we’re learning about the value of businesses and how stakeholders benefit from them. It’s definitely one of my most enjoyable lessons!”
HARSH, YEAR 10
We are proud of our advanced STEM offering that emphasises coding, programming, 3D printing and robotics, alongside traditional laboratory practical work in Biology, Chemistry and Physics.
Stock market simulations and our Greenpower electric racing car project foster critical thinking and creativity. We also deliver advanced mathematics, including early entry options.
Our smaller school environment is part of the foundation of our students’ academic success, supporting them to realise their potential both academically and personally. They are nurtured to thrive from Day 1.
With class sizes capped at a maximum of 20 in the Senior School, students are given the space they need to ask questions beyond the subject, supported by passionate teachers both here in the UK and globally, 24/7.
From Year 6 through to GCSE and the IB, we craft flexible, personalised pathways that guide students to excel. Our focus isn’t just on passing exams; it’s on nurturing critical thinking, creativity and independence, preparing students to thrive in a fast-changing world.
“Because there are fewer people in the class, the teachers focus more on you, which really makes you feel like you’re a big part of the lesson. It makes me feel that I matter.”
EVE, YEAR 7
“The best thing about Westbourne is how connected we all are. It’s like we’re one big family.”
NADIR, YEAR 8
Our Senior academic programme starts in Year 6, building a solid base across STEM, languages, humanities and the arts.
By Year 9, students begin their GCSEs, earlier than most, giving them a huge advantage.
“My favourite thing about Westbourne is the people and the teachers. They’re always very, very nice and very helpful. My favourite subjects are probably languages and history. I am starting to think about the future a bit more, and the Middle Years programme at Westbourne is really helping prepare me for GCSE and eventually IB study.”
RUBEN, YEAR 8
Successful transition from the primary years to our Senior School is a central focus at Westbourne. A stimulating Middle Years curriculum focuses on promoting the latest thinking in STEM, technology and innovation, supporting Westbourne’s aim to develop confident, globally-minded students who possess the knowledge and skills to excel on the world stage.
Years 6 and 7 are years of discovery and exploration, where pupils are introduced to broad themes about our universe and our place in it. We make visits to observatories, mountains, forests, sites of geological interest, museums, astro-domes, the Senedd. We make rockets, rebuild ancient natural environments, run businesses and take part in debates.
Talks from astronomers, physicists, geologists, entrepreneurs, botanists, medics, historians, architects, politicians and others enhance our years of exploration.
This is a year of consolidation, in which we draw together ideas and concepts against the backdrop of the main challenges facing humanity: conflict, food and water, energy, environment, information and government, health and wellbeing.
We hear from specialists in biotech, informatics, environmental science, food production, negotiation. We visit university departments, farms, museums and power generation plants and take part in physics challenges, cybersecurity workshops, bee conservation and conflict resolution.
GCSE study at Westbourne begins in Year 9, one year earlier than other schools, allowing more time for the development of essential knowledge and competenciesand providing a significant academic head start.
Fuelled by our inspirational Middle Years curriculum, students head into Year 9 with the confidence to make strong cross-curricular connections between subjects, prepared with the insight and study skills to excel in their GCSEs.
Students choose from a broad range of subjects, which they refine as they progress through Years 10 and 11, tailoring their studies based on personal strengths and interests. This flexibility ensures every student can pursue their passions while building a solid academic foundation.
Our GCSE programme isn’t just about passing exams; it’s about developing critical thinking, communication, research and problem-solving skills. Students leave Year 11 not only ready for the IB Diploma but equipped with a wellrounded understanding of the world.
For international students entering our Pre-IB Programme, we offer a one-year GCSE course that provides flexibility and a thorough grounding across key subjects.
This option helps students seamlessly transition to the IB Diploma, quickly building confidence and acumen.
“Before I joined Westbourne I was in a much bigger school, but now the classes are smaller you really get that one-on-one time with the teacher and it helps you learn a lot more. After Westbourne I would love to study marine law, which focuses on STEM. At Westbourne I am in an organisation called STEM Untapped, which helps girls get into STEM. This school has opened so many doors for me and that is just one of them.”
MEGAN, YEAR 11
centric, our dynamic IB Sixth
In Year 12, GCSE students progress to our Sixth Form, furnishing them with the skills, mindset and knowledge to thrive in a constantly evolving global environment.
Westbourne is proudly an International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) Sixth Form. We firmly believe that the IB Diploma Programme provides students with a clear advantage over their A Level peers in both university applications and future careers.
The ‘gold standard’ in secondary education, the IBDP is a holistic educational pathway world-renowned for
its academic rigour and enriching depth of study. The two-year course attracts the best young minds from a broad local and international community, taught in small class sizes by inspiring teachers.
Students select six subjects, typically three at Higher Level, and three at Standard Level. These are further enhanced by three core subjects: Theory of Knowledge (ToK), Creativity, Activity & Service (CAS), and the Extended Essay - a 4,000-word researched essay highly regarded by university admissions tutors for promoting advanced research and writing skills.
A Levels tell students WHAT to think.
The IB teaches them HOW to think.
IB Sixth Form study at Westbourne comprises a myriad of exclusive opportunities designed to enrich and strengthen every student’s academic and professional portfolio. Gain a headstart on your future.
CARDIFF CASTLE WELCOME DINNER
A highlight of the calendar, IB1 students are inducted into the Westbourne community with a spectacular gala dinner in the company of their peers from our global schools.
Led by esteemed INSEAD professors, students attend an intensive series of masterclasses to build core entrepreneurial skills and professional acumen.
Exciting exchange opportunities with our Sydney and Singapore campuses support students to build a dynamic global alumni network.
A gateway to the thrilling world of business and entrepreneurship, led by INSEAD professors. Our fully immersive MBA-style programme offers cutting-edge insights and real-world experiences, running at our Singapore campus.
Strengthening their professional profiles, students attend regular one-to-one careers mentoring with our resident careers experts, including advice on pathways, university applications, CV writing, interview techniques, and building a professional network on LinkedIn, as well as support in securing meaningful work experience in the UK and globally.
A vibrant co-curricular programme supports Senior School students to develop key skills that see them into their futures.
Leadership, independence, communication, resilience, risk-taking, teamwork, creativity and more - we instil the attitudes and competencies required to stand out on the global stage.
Our students use this outstanding venue on a daily basis, including access to Olympic standard sporting facilities and many of our sporting clubs. A 50-metre swimming pool, white water rafting centre and Ice Arena Wales are exceptional facilities, all within 5-10 minutes of school.
Home to our annual Sports Day and other sporting fixtures, complete with full size running track and astroturfed pitches, this exceptional facility is only 5-10 minutes from the main school site.
“My favourite things about Westbourne are the kind teachers and the variety of subjects offered here. My favourite subjects are History and Science. I joined the Chess Club two years ago, which is one of my favourite things to do at school because I love how challenging chess is. We learn new strategies and develop new skills.”
JAYDEN, YEAR 8
Ranked #2 IB Boarding School in the UK for results, our boarding school isn’t just a place to stay; it’s a dynamic multicultural community that celebrates diversity and fosters mutual respect.
Fusing British boarding school tradition with vibrant international perspectives, we are pleased to welcome UK and international boarders from Year 7.
Accommodation options include our bright, clean Boarding House, a two minute walk from the Senior School, and friendly local homestay options.
Boarding students are an integral part of the Westbourne School familyliving, studying and socialising alongside our day students, and forging lifelong friendships.
“It is really beautiful here and I like the feeling of nature and that everything is really nearby. Actually, making friends here was much, much easier than I expected. We are all here having this international experience and everyone tries their best to create this feeling of community. I just mostly talk about how kind, welcoming and really helpful and supportive this community at Westbourne is.”
MARIIA, YEAR 11
A rolling application process with limited places, our admission process involves three simple steps.
1. School reports
Send us your most recent school report.
2. Entrance tests
Online, or in person, supervised by our friendly admissions team.
Aptitude test
English exam
Mathematics exam
3. Interview
With our Principal.
Applications are typically processed – start to finish –in less than one week. Limited academic scholarships are available for highly talented students. A further scholarship paper will be required.
“My favourite aspect of Westbourne is most definitely the small classes, which allow me to establish better relationships with my teachers and classmates, increasing my desire to excel in my education.”
MORGAN, NOW STUDYING AT QUEEN MARY UNIVERSITY OF LONDON
