Inspiring original perspectives
For nearly 650 years Wykehamists have been taught and nurtured in an atmosphere of intellectual inquiry and academic excellence. In every generation it has helped them leave the College with confidence and curiosity, ready to make their mark upon society.
We deliberately give our pupils time, space and freedom to develop their thoughts for themselves; nothing speaks more powerfully to this than our unique commitment to Div, a non-examined subject taught to all year groups. Transcending conventional subject boundaries for the sheer pleasure of learning, pupils have the chance to discuss ideas and opinions – and to challenge conventions – while observing our strong ethos of courtesy and respect.
Wykehamists go on to face a complex world with the intellectual rigour, and the ability to navigate nuance, required of future leaders.
Transcending subject boundaries for the sheer pleasure of learning, our educational ethos encourages pupils to make connections across disciplines.
Immersive learning
A Winchester education combines in-depth teaching, hands-on exploration, and access to remarkable voices.
Pupils find themselves thoroughly immersed in culture and the exchange of ideas from the moment they arrive. Wykehamists pursue their quest for knowledge and understanding through traditional classroom teaching, their own research, and working collaboratively with other pupils; conversations that begin in lessons continue over house lunch or on the sports pitches.
Our teachers are not only experts in their subjects but also inspire pupils through their passion for what they teach. Beyond acquiring knowledge – it’s about experiencing it, too. Subjects are brought to life in tangible ways, often involving extraordinary artefacts from our Treasury Museum, Fellows’ Library, Archives and Science Collections which include ancient Greek vases, Shakespeare’s First Folio and the College snakes.
With world-class music and sports facilities, over 55 clubs and societies, and an inclusive ethos that celebrates participation and achievement at every level, our outstanding extra-curricular programme unlocks passions – whether through choral music, cricket, a love of the environment, or exploring quantum physics in one of our thriving science societies. The breadth of opportunity at Winchester shapes our pupils’ lives.
The boarding experience
In an era of increasing pressures and distractions, full boarding ensures pupils have the time to grow in independence and pursue their interests, as well as develop a profound sense of community.
Our full boarding provision and house system sets us apart. The houses are close-knit communities in which Wykehamists make lifelong friendships.
In an era of increasing pressures and distractions, full boarding ensures pupils have the time to grow in independence and pursue their interests, as well as develop a profound sense of community through a broad range of inter-house competitions encompassing the creative arts, music and sport. It also equips them with the character and resilience to navigate the modern world, while providing a supportive home during term-time.
Day pupils in our Sixth Form are fully integrated members of individual houses, following the principle of ‘everything but the bed’. This approach ensures they experience everything a day at Winchester has to offer. Day pupils stay for tea each day and are expected to stay for evening prep at least once a week. These arrangements create a strong sense of belonging and ensure they are thoroughly immersed in both the school community and house culture.
Our distinctive culture
Manners Makyth Man – a culture built on courtesy, compassion, respect and trust.
Winchester’s culture is rooted in the humanity and generosity of our Founder, William of Wykeham, and develops an instinctive understanding of the difference between right and wrong. Our motto, Manners Makyth Man, has been interpreted in different ways down the centuries, but it is often said that one can always spot a Wykehamist for their interest in and openness to others.
The school is built on courtesy and trust. Pupils are afforded a great deal of freedom on the understanding that they will throw themselves wholeheartedly into an environment in which communal life is built on mutual respect.
Camaraderie in the pursuit of learning creates a distinctive and unique sense of community where intellectual curiosity is celebrated.
Pupils find joy among like-minded peers and thrive in the diversity of thought and experience that defines life at Winchester.
An unrivalled heritage
As one of the world’s oldest schools, Winchester College’s remarkable heritage has been shaped by centuries of tradition, a deep commitment to service, and alumni who have gone on to shape the world.
First established by a radical educational reformer, Winchester College has since been shaped by centuries of tradition. The school’s commitment to service has inspired generations of Wykehamists to distinction in national and international life.
As pupils are immersed in the College’s rich heritage, they are given a unique starting point: acquiring a breadth of perspective anchored in centuries of social and cultural development and understanding that their lives are part of a bigger story. From here, they learn to lead through service, find strength in quiet resolve, and leave the school equipped and ready to make their mark upon the world.
Our environment
Our location is much more than a beautiful backdrop – the surroundings are integral to our identity and shape the experience of our pupils.
Winchester College has occupied the same site, in the city of Winchester and in the shadow of the Cathedral, for six and a half centuries. Our location is much more than a beautiful backdrop.
The ancient buildings have been joined by much more modern ones – including a new state-of-the-art Sports Centre. The playing fields stretch out to the River Itchen and the rolling Hampshire countryside beyond provides abundant opportunities for outdoor pursuits. Meanwhile, London and Heathrow are just an hour away.
