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.
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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, girls will also join Year 9 at 13+. Westminster Under School now welcomes girls and boys at 4+ into the new Pre-Prep, at 7+ into Year 3 and at 11+ into Year 7. By 2030, every year group across both schools will be co-educational. Find out more about Westminster’s move to co-education.
What are the entry points for Westminster Under School and Westminster School?
Westminster Under School accepts girls and boys at 4+ entry into Reception, 7+ entry into Year 3 and 11+ entry into Year 7.
Pupils joining at 11+ spend two years at the Under School before moving up to Westminster School in Year 9.
Westminster School accepts girls and boys at 13+ entry into Year 9 and 16+ entry into the Sixth Form.
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. More details are available on the Pre-Prep (4+) admissions and 7+ admissions pages.
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 through Sixth Form entry at 16+. Families based abroad can find more information on applying to Westminster from overseas.
Do Westminster Under School and Westminster School offer bursaries and scholarships?
Yes. Both schools offer scholarships, and means-tested bursaries of up to 100% of day fees are available for pupils joining at 11+, 13+ and 16+. Bursaries are not available at 4+ or 7+. Details of current fees for both schools are also available.
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?
Open events for each entry point (4+, 7+, 11+, 13+ and 16+) run at set times in the year or on a rolling basis. Dates and booking details are available on our open days and admissions events page.
