Two co-educational London schools for pupils aged 4-18
In her 1560 charter, Queen Elizabeth I declared that Westminster pupils should be “liberally instructed in good books” and encouraged to develop enquiring, independent and generous minds. This has never changed.
Westminster is a highly academic, intellectually curious and open‑minded community. Pupils are encouraged to question, probe ideas, and pursue depth of understanding beyond any examination syllabus.
Our distinctive and broad education nurtures well-rounded individuals with a passion for knowledge and diverse interests, who go on to achieve exceptional academic results. All pupils are supported in their moral, emotional, physical and spiritual development, so that they grow into thoughtful, resilient and kind young people who use their abilities to contribute positively to the world.
A Top Independent School Education in Central London
Located in the heart of London, next to Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament, Westminster School is an independent day and boarding school for pupils from Year 9 – 13. Just a short walk away on Vincent Square, Westminster Under School is an independent prep school educating pupils from Reception to Year 8.
Each school has a reputation for offering a liberal and progressive education and being among the leading independent and private schools for academic performance, in London, across the UK and globally.
Both are part of the same Charity and operate on a not-for-profit basis.
Learn more about each School
Select your Entry Point
4+
Reception
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7+
Year 3 Entry
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11+
Year 7 Entry
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Westminster Under School & Westminster School
13+
Year 9 Entry
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16+
Year 12 Entry
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Westminster School
Further Admissions Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Westminster Under School and Westminster School co-educational?
Westminster School has been co-educational in the Sixth Form (in Years 12 and 13) at the 16+ entry point since 1973. From 2028, the School will be welcoming girls into Year 9 at the 13+ entry point too. From 2026, Westminster Under School will have girls entering Year 3 at 7+ and Year 7 at 11+, as well as at 4+ in the brand new Pre-Prep for girls and boys. By 2030, every year group across the two schools will be co-educational.
What are the entry points for Westminster Under School and Westminster School?
Does entry to Westminster Under School guarantee transfer to Westminster School?
It depends on when a child enters the Under School. Pupils entering in Year 7 at 11+ will automatically progress to Westminster School in Year 9 after spending two years at the Under School beforehand; no further entry tests for Westminster school are required in Years 7 and 8, but all pupils will sit the Challenge at the end of Year 8 for King’s Scholarships or Head Master’s Awards.
For pupils joining at 4+ and 7+, entry to Westminster School is not guaranteed and pupils will be assessed at various points. Please refer to the 4+ Entry and 7+ Entry pages for further information.
Do Westminster Under School and Westminster School offer boarding?
Westminster Under School is a day school only and does not offer boarding. Westminster School offers boarding across year groups, with international boarders joining in Year 12 at the 16+ entry point.
Do Westminster Under School and Westminster School offer bursaries and scholarships?
Yes, both schools offer means-tested bursaries of up to 100% of day fees and scholarships too.
Where are Westminster Under School and Westminster School located?
Westminster School is situated adjacent to Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament, a stone’s throw from Parliament Square, with St James’s Park, Westminster and Victoria underground stations all very close by. Westminster Under School is situated on Vincent Square, one of the largest privately-owned green spaces in central London which the Schools use as their sports ground, and it is very close to Pimlico and Victoria Underground stations.
When are the next open days at Westminster Under School and Westminster School?
Depending on the point of entry, be it 4+, 7+, 11+, 13+ or 16+, open events run at set points in the year or on a rolling basis.