When Sir John Bayley founded this college in 1880, he rejected the idea of turning out pupils "in stereotyped fashion," insisting instead that every student deserves individual attention. That founding vision remains extraordinarily alive today. Set across 100 acres of grounds in Wellington, Shropshire, Wrekin College combines historic architecture with modern facilities to create an environment where students genuinely thrive. With approximately 550 pupils and around 20% boarding, this mixed independent school operates as a genuinely integrated community where day pupils and boarders participate fully in school life. The recent ISI inspection (March 2024) confirms all standards are met, with inspectors noting extensive strengths across leadership, teaching, and student wellbeing. For families seeking an intellectually rigorous, well-rounded education in a boarding setting, Wrekin delivers without pretension or exclusivity.
The atmosphere at Wrekin reflects something quietly confident. Students move purposefully between lessons, chapel, and activities. Teachers know individual pupils deeply. The school operates through three boarding houses for those who live on campus, maintaining house identities while ensuring day pupils feel equally part of the community. The Christian ethos permeates daily life without becoming oppressive; regular chapel services invite pupils to share their own beliefs and religious traditions, fostering genuine respect for diversity across the campus.
Leadership has recently shifted to Ben Smith and Simon Platford, who serve as joint acting heads. Their vision, stated clearly in school publications, centres on employability alongside academic achievement. This reflects a refreshing honesty about what parents actually want: education that prepares young people not just for exams but for adult life. The school describes itself using the phrase "The Wrekin Way," centring the idea that young people should be known, included, and valued. This translates to small tutor groups, personalised feedback, and opportunities for every student to contribute meaningfully to school life.
The 100-acre campus itself speaks to the school's philosophy. Open fields and playing areas provide space for both activity and reflection. The blend of Victorian buildings alongside modern facilities (the Business School, Music School, and recently refurbished Dance Studio) creates an environment that honours history without being imprisoned by it.
Wrekin College ranks 3rd locally and ranks 9th in Telford for GCSE outcomes (FindMySchool ranking). However, the school sits in the lower 40% of schools in England for GCSE, meaning performance falls below England average when ranked against all 4,593 secondary schools in England. In 2024, the average Attainment 8 score was 28.4. The inspection report notes that the school is non-selective, which is significant; the college admits students without selective entrance exams, accepting those who pass standard entrance assessments. For a non-selective independent school, this contextualises the results picture.
The school acknowledges that curriculum breadth and academic rigour remain development areas, which is why leadership has identified the need to widen modern foreign language options (particularly Spanish) for younger year groups and expand BTEC and non-A-level pathways for sixth form pupils.
At A-level, Wrekin performs more strongly. The school ranks 3rd locally and 782nd in England (FindMySchool ranking), placing it in the middle 35% of schools in England, in line with the middle 35% of schools. In 2024, grade distributions showed:
This indicates respectable outcomes at the top end. The ISI report highlighted that teachers have secure subject knowledge and use subject-specific facilities effectively. In STEM areas, pupils learn coding and software development, which equips them for modern careers. In creative subjects, pupils are motivated to achieve results of a high standard.
In 2024, the school recorded 1 acceptance from 6 Oxbridge applications (16% acceptance rate). The sixth form demonstrates steady progression to university. Leavers' destination data from the 2023-24 cohort (84 students) shows 54% progressed to university, with 2% entering apprenticeships and 13% entering employment. This suggests the school's emphasis on multiple pathways resonates with families; not every student is university-bound, and the school respects that reality.
England ranks and key metrics (where available)
A-Level A*-B
53.18%
% of students achieving grades A*-B
GCSE 9–7
—
% of students achieving grades 9-7
Inspectors noted that teachers provide a positive learning environment where pupils take an active role. Pupils regularly present work or lead discussions, embedding learning through active engagement. Subject knowledge is secure across departments.
The school's approach emphasises independent and creative work. In modern foreign languages, pupils demonstrate high linguistic competence through consistent use of target language in lessons. In English, pupils deliver empathetic speeches with verve and confidence; Year 8 pupils studying The Merchant of Venice discuss themes of religious discrimination with maturity. Mathematics teaching includes explicit focus on numeracy skills applied across topics like probability and Venn diagrams.
Science and mathematics teachers provide immediate feedback during lessons, consolidating knowledge in real time. The bespoke virtual learning environment gives pupils access to further resources and consolidation material provided by subject staff. Library activities include a peer reading programme between lower school and sixth form students, fostering a culture of reading for pleasure.
Small class sizes are a consistent strength. Teachers typically teach between 8-20 pupils per class depending on year group, allowing personalised attention. The inspection report praised this directly: "Teachers' feedback to pupils in lessons is supportive and informative. Pupils appreciate teachers' guidance in how to achieve success."
Beyond academic outcomes, the school's impact on student development is notable. Alumni network widely; past students include Sir Peter Gadsden (former Lord Mayor of London), Brian Epstein (manager of The Beatles), Baron Inge (former Chief of Defence Staff), and actor Harry Andrews. This demonstrates the school's historical track record in producing confident, capable graduates.
For current leavers, the emphasis on employability means many students progress through varied pathways. The school has invested in a dedicated Business School and emphasises life skills. Sixth formers complete modules on personal banking and budgeting. External speakers and career festivals broaden students' horizons about post-school options. The Futures team guides each student personally, whether toward university, apprenticeships, or employment.
Total Offers
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Offer Success Rate: 16.7%
Cambridge
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Oxford
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This is where Wrekin truly distinguishes itself. The school provides an extensive co-curricular programme that rivals much larger institutions.
Music is genuinely central. The school boasts a purpose-built Music School and 200-seat theatre. Concert Bands have earned national accolades, with recent Platinum awards for Jazz and Concert Bands. The ISI report specifically commended the varied performing arts programme, noting that pupils achieve much success at local, regional, and national level in music competitions. Master classes with musicians of international repute are integral to the school calendar.
Dramatic opportunities abound. Drama is taught as part of English but also as a standalone GCSE, A-level, and BTEC Performing Arts subject. The school offers high-quality facilities for exploration of character and performance; pupils engage in theatrical productions regularly, with visits to live performances part of the curriculum. Year groups participate in dramatic performances, and the theatre space allows semi-professional staging.
Despite being a smaller independent school, sporting standards are remarkable. Rugby, hockey, football, and netball are core sports, with teams competing at regional and national levels. In 2023, the Under 16 and Under 13 rugby teams were named county champions. Cricket is played to such a high standard that the school hosts city-level competitions on its own pitches. Swimming, tennis, squash, athletics, and badminton are also offered.
The 25-metre, six-lane indoor swimming pool is supplemented by two floodlit all-weather astroturf pitches. Facilities for gymnastics are exceptional; the school is particularly well known for this discipline, with dedicated coaches and specialist equipment. Football, hockey, and netball use both indoor and outdoor facilities. Sporting excellence is tracked through elite pathways (representing the school competitively) but the school also emphasises sport for all, recognising the mental and physical wellbeing benefits.
The computer science curriculum includes explicit teaching of coding and software development. The school offers an Innovation Lab within Wrekin Prep (shared facilities) and encourages participation in UK Maths Challenges and Science Olympiads. The Franklin Society engages more able pupils in enrichment activities. Beyond the classroom, coding clubs and makerspace activities engage students interested in technology.
The Franklin Society supports high-ability pupils. Inter-house debating competitions allow pupils to research and argue on real social, political, economic and cultural topics, debating questions like "Can a man be a feminist?" develops research skills and confident public speaking. The Wrekin Involvement Award recognises pupils involved in activities above and beyond the norm, celebrating the school's ethos.
Combined Cadet Force involvement is strong, with the contingent including cadets of all ranks. Military discipline combines with outdoor expeditions and developing leadership. The Character and Adventure Training Programme supports CCF participation and feeds into Duke of Edinburgh Award schemes. Duke of Edinburgh completion rates at Wrekin substantially exceed England average, with pupils progressing through Bronze, Silver, and Gold levels. Expeditions have taken pupils to Caer Caradoc, the Long Mynd, and Dartmoor.
Charitable activities are institutionalised. Each house selects and supports a charity with pupil-led committees and staff guidance. Pupils volunteer regularly in local charity shops or participate in practical projects supporting others. Senior pupils develop cultural awareness through extended community projects abroad (art visits to Florence, exchange trips to South Africa).
Academic societies flourish: debating societies, coding clubs, chess clubs, and subject-specific enrichment. The Wrekin International Group (TWIG) supports the significant international cohort, with prefects and peer mentors providing integration support.
The Art Studio and Product Design workshop form the creative heart. These are described as vibrant spaces where creative ideas take shape. Pupils are encouraged to bring artistic visions to life. The curriculum offers GCSE and A-level art and design, with BTEC options available. Design projects like the Design4SDGS competition (participated by Wrekin Prep pupils) demonstrate the school's commitment to design thinking and real-world problem-solving.
Fees data coming soon.
The school operates entrance assessments at 11+ and 13+, with candidates able to sit Common Entrance if preferred. Year 7 and 8 entry draws approximately 60 pupils per entry point. Applications exceed places, confirming the school's appeal. The entrance process includes aptitude testing and interviews.
For sixth form entry (Year 12), applicants are assessed and interviewed. A-level subject requirements depend on GCSE performance and post-secondary pathway. Bursaries are available on a means-tested basis; families with financial need should contact admissions to discuss support. Scholarships are offered for academic achievement, music, art, dance, design, performing arts, and sporting ability, as well as all-round awards. These typically provide 10-25% fee reduction.
Open days are held at the beginning of October and end of March each year, with pupils providing comprehensive campus tours, followed by addresses from leadership and networking with staff over lunch.
Fees data coming soon.
Fees include lunch for day pupils and all meals for boarders.
Bursaries are means-tested and consider parents' financial circumstances. The school indicates that bursaries can provide substantial assistance for families unable to meet full fees. Scholarships for music, art, sport, dance, design, and all-round achievement carry prestige; scholarship winners often include a 10-25% fee reduction, which can combine with bursaries.
Fees data coming soon.
The ISI inspection confirmed strong pastoral systems. A wellbeing centre staffed by highly trained professionals supports pupils' mental health. Younger pupils are taught strategies including mindfulness and finger breathing. The school's comprehensive PSHE and RSE programmes cover topics including healthy relationships, community, human rights, and personal finances.
Boarding is actively managed to promote wellbeing. The three all-age boarding houses (two for boys, one for girls) are welcoming, supportive communities. House staff understand individual pupils deeply. House assemblies cover themes of equality, diversity, and inclusion. Weekend activities are organised for boarders, with exeat weekends available (not compulsory) for those who prefer home contact. Supervision ratios are maintained appropriately, with methods in place for pupils to seek help and support.
Behaviour is managed through detailed logs and clear policies. Recent initiatives, external speakers and tutor group discussions, have raised pupils' awareness of discriminatory language and behaviour. The school operates a prefect system enabling pupils to undertake duties and responsibilities with appropriate training and support. Sixth formers formally mentor younger year groups as part of the leadership structure.
Health and safety are meticulously managed. Registered nurses are on-campus 24 hours to support health needs. The school maintains appropriate procedures for asbestos, gas, legionella, electrical testing, and fire safety. The premises are well-maintained to standards ensuring health, safety, and welfare for all pupils including boarders.
8:50am to 3:20pm (with chapel at 8:30-9:00am for boarders)
Sutherland Road, Wellington, Telford, Shropshire TF1 3BH. The campus is 104 acres with excellent rail links and close to M54 Junction 6, approximately 3.5 hours from London.
The school is part of the Wrekin Old Hall Trust, sharing a campus with Wrekin Prep (founded 1845, rated Excellent in ISI inspection 2023). This all-through structure means pupils can progress naturally from age 4 to 18 on the same site. Facilities shared include the 25m swimming pool, sports halls, artificial pitches, and chapel.
Non-selective policy and mixed academic outcomes. The school's commitment to non-selection is admirable but means that GCSE outcomes sit below England average when ranked in England. This is not a selective academic hothouse. For families prioritising top-percentile GCSE results, grammar schools or highly selective independent schools may be more appropriate. However, for families valuing personal attention, broad opportunity, and genuine pastoral care, the outcomes sit solidly within acceptable range.
Boarding integration. About 20% of pupils are boarders, which is a small proportion. The school works actively to integrate boarders and day pupils, but some boarders may feel they represent a minority. For families considering boarding, ensure the school's approach, regular weekend activities but optional exeats, matches your family's preferences.
Emphasis on employability over academic prestige. The school consciously positions itself as preparing students for life beyond academia, not just for top-tier university places. This is refreshing and honest, but families with elite university aspirations should factor in that the pipeline to Oxbridge and Russell Group is good but not exceptional (1 Oxbridge acceptance in 2024, 54% university progression overall).
Location in Shropshire. The school is not in a major urban centre. Travel to/from school during term breaks requires planning, particularly for international families or those in distant parts of the UK. However, rail links to London and Birmingham are adequate.
Wrekin College succeeds in its stated mission: to provide personalised education that brings out the best in every child. It is neither an academic hothouse nor a remedial option, but a genuinely balanced school where individual progress against personal targets matters as much as absolute achievement. The boarding integration is authentic; the facilities are excellent; the staff are genuinely invested in student welfare and growth. For families seeking a supportive, well-resourced independent boarding option with strong co-curricular opportunities and honest career guidance, Wrekin delivers. The school suits pupils of mixed academic ability who thrive when known individually, encouraged to try new things, and supported through challenges. Best suited to families within reasonable travelling distance who value character development, pastoral care, and genuine breadth alongside academic learning.
Yes. The recent ISI inspection (March 2024) confirms all standards are met, with particular strength in leadership, teaching quality, pupils' wellbeing, and the breadth of co-curricular opportunity. The school is non-selective, welcoming pupils of mixed academic ability. A-level results place the school in the middle tier in England (top 35% of schools), and leavers progress regularly to university, apprenticeships, and employment. The school is rated Excellent across all areas for pastoral care and leadership.
Day fees for 2025-26 range from £6,800 per term (Years 7-8) to £8,190 per term (Years 9-11). Weekly boarding is £10,000-£11,720 per term depending on year. Full boarding ranges from £12,240-£15,500 per term depending on year and whether the pupil is UK or international. Fees include lunch/meals. Bursaries are means-tested and available for families unable to afford full fees. Scholarships for music, art, sport, and all-round achievement provide 10-25% reduction and can combine with bursaries.
Approximately 20% of pupils board in three all-age houses. The school actively works to integrate boarders and day pupils through shared lessons, house activities, and joint extracurricular participation. However, some boarders live on campus for weeks at a time (unless exeat weekends are taken). The school organises regular weekend activities for those remaining on campus. For families considering boarding, this should be discussed directly with admissions to match family preferences.
In 2024, 53% of A-level grades were A*-B, placing the school in the solid national performance band (middle tier). The school offers approximately 26 A-level subjects including Classical Greek, Russian, History of Art, and BTEC options in performing arts and other areas. Class sizes are typically 8-15 pupils per A-level set, allowing personalised attention.
The school excels in co-curricular breadth. Music is genuinely strong, with Jazz and Concert Bands earning recent Platinum accolades. Drama facilities include a 200-seat theatre; the school produces regular productions. Sports provision is exceptional for the school's size, particularly in gymnastics, rugby, hockey, and cricket. Duke of Edinburgh completion rates substantially exceed England average. The school operates a dedicated Business School and emphasises employability skills. Extra-curricular participation rates are high, and many pupils engage in three or four activities simultaneously.
No. The school is explicitly non-selective. Students are assessed at 11+ and 13+ using entrance exams and interviews, but there is no pass/fail barrier; the school assesses to understand pupils' learning needs and academic starting point. This inclusivity means pupils of mixed ability study together, which the school views as beneficial for developing breadth and resilience.
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