What is Wells Cathedral School like?

Tracing its history back to 909 AD, Wells Cathedral School is the oldest in the West Country and one of the oldest in the world. It was founded at the same time as the cathedral on the instructions of King Edward the Elder, the second ever king of England, as a joint institution for the education of choristers and those destined for the clergy. Over 1,100 years later this dual identity survives in the school’s unique status as an all-round school providing academic and co-curricular excellence, with a music specialist and choir school embedded within it.

Wells Cathedral School has been fully co-educational since 1969 at all the school’s age groups, from Little Wellies Nursery through to Sixth Form. Today they are a thriving, multi-cultural, co-educational school with committed pupils in all areas of school life including academia, sport, drama, music and community service.

Would Wells Cathedral School be a good fit for my child?

The Wells Cathedral School school motto Esto Quod Es (Be What You Are) represents their core philosophy that shapes each pupil’s individual experience at the school. With this philiosphy in mind, Wells Cathedral provides a well-rounded education that encourages students to thrive according to their individual strengths. They are able to tailor their programmes to many different needs, navigating pupils towards being successful individuals in society throughout their lives.

The school emphasises their accommodating and accepting community, with a wide range of opportunities, and the flexibility to adapt to each individual’s needs. Pupils become accustomed to living amongst peers with extraordinary talents and all students are invited to ‘give it a go’ so even at any ability they can join in at a level that suits them and make the most of all that is on offer. Everyone has a refreshing sense of mutual respect for each other, whatever their interests and talents. 

For information about applying to this school, please submit an enquiry