Our ethos, vision and values are statements of Westminster’s identity, ambition and behaviours. Grounded in our liberal tradition yet forward-looking in purpose, they describe the culture of learning we foster, the future we intend to shape, and the values that guide how we live and work. Together, they define a Westminster education.
ETHOS – Our Character
- Our ethos is rooted in the liberal tradition set out in the 1560 Elizabethan Charter: that young people should be “liberally instructed in good books” and encouraged to develop enquiring, independent and generous minds.
- Across both Westminster School and Westminster Under School, we foster a highly academic, intellectually curious and open‑minded community. Teaching and learning are grounded in dialogue: pupils are encouraged to question, probe ideas, and pursue depth of understanding beyond any examination syllabus.
- We seek to cultivate a culture in which scholarship, creativity, compassion and individuality are equally cherished. 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 in the service of others.
- Our schools are purposeful, diverse and inclusive places where pupils feel known, valued and inspired. In the spirit of our Founder, we prepare young people to lead good and useful lives, equipped with the intellectual confidence, integrity and empathy to contribute positively to the world.
VALUES – Our Principles
The following values characterise a Westminster School education.
- Intellectual Curiosity
Enjoying a liberal, rigorous education that prizes deep thinking, critical reflection and the pursuit of truth through evidence, discussion and a healthy scepticism. - Compassion and Integrity
Balancing ambition with kindness, empathy and respect, so that all pupils can flourish safely and happily in a community grounded in mutual care and dignity. - Creativity and Collaboration
Embracing opportunities across the arts, sport, service and spiritual life to develop confidence, resilience and a broad range of talents. - Justice and Inclusion
Challenging prejudice and promoting fairness, equality and inclusion in one of the world’s most diverse cities, recognising our responsibility to engage respectfully with every individual and community. - Responsibility and Stewardship
Acting responsibly towards others and towards the environment, mindful of the School’s legacy and of our duty to enable future generations to thrive. - Kindness, Resilience, Rigour and Respect
Working together with these qualities so that each member of the community is nourished intellectually, emotionally, physically and spiritually.
VISION – Our Ambition
Our vision is to widen access, enrich experience and deepen impact, ensuring that a Westminster education transforms the lives of pupils and contributes meaningfully to society.
We pursue this vision through three long-term ambitions:
- Transforming lives
We are committed to widening access, ensuring that financial circumstances do not limit opportunity. Through philanthropic support and bursary provision, we aim to open our schools to pupils from the widest range of backgrounds. - Transforming experience
We continually develop the quality of our educational and pastoral provision. Through curriculum evolution, investment in facilities, digital innovation and a sustained commitment to diversity, equality and inclusion, we ensure that every pupil thrives academically, personally and socially. - Transforming impact
We believe deeply in the value of a liberal education and the responsibility to share it. Through partnerships, outreach and global engagement we seek to contribute to positive outcomes for young people locally, nationally and internationally.
Our overarching aim is to nurture well-rounded, reflective and principled scholars who care about the life of the mind and the lives of others, and who will be good ancestors for future generations.
