Wells Cathedral School: Exploring Reviews, Rankings, And More

Set in the historic city of Wells in Somerset, Wells Cathedral School combines a rich heritage with a modern, forward-thinking approach to education. The school provides a distinctive environment where students are encouraged to grow academically, creatively, and personally. With a strong focus on nurturing individual potential, it offers a truly well-rounded educational experience. Let’s take a closer look at what makes it stand out.

Wells Cathedral School

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Key Features of Wells Cathedral School

  • Local authority: Somerset
  • Pupils: 733; sixth formers: 178
  • Religion: Church of England
  • Fees: Day £10,058 per term; Boarding £16,498 per term (inclusive of VAT)

Wells Cathedral School Results (Updated)

Latest Results:

  • A level Results (2025): 66% A*-B
  • GCSE Results (2025): 49% 9-7

Past Results:

  • A level Results (2024): 64% A*-B
  • GCSE Results (2024): 49% 9-7

Teaching and Learning at Wells Cathedral School

Prep School (Ages 7–11):

Prep School:
Wells Cathedral School’s Prep School is designed to spark curiosity and build a love of learning from an early age. Pupils develop strong foundations in core subjects such as English, Mathematics, Science, History, and Geography, while also exploring Modern Languages including French, with opportunities to learn Latin, Spanish, and Portuguese. Creative and physical subjects such as Art, Music, Drama, and Dance to Sport, play an equally important role, helping children grow in confidence as well as knowledge.

Senior School (Ages 11–16):
As students move into the Senior School, the curriculum becomes broader and more challenging. Alongside English, Mathematics, Science, and Humanities, pupils continue to develop their language skills, studying French in Year 7 before choosing either German or Spanish in Year 8. Subjects such as Art, Religious Studies, Sport, and Outdoor Education enrich the learning experience, encouraging students to think independently, work collaboratively, and discover their strengths.

Sixth Form (Ages 16–18):
In the Sixth Form, students gain the freedom to shape their own academic journey through a wide range of A-Level options. Learning is brought to life through workshops with visiting artists, educational trips, and a vibrant programme of co-curricular activities. Together, these experiences help students deepen their interests, broaden their perspectives, and prepare confidently for life beyond school.

Boarding Experience in Wells Cathedral School

There are 8 beautifully historic boarding houses where students will find themselves immersed in a supportive and nurturing environment. For younger boarders, such as those in Claver Morris, the experience is akin to stepping into a storybook setting. Built in 1699, this house exudes charm with its delightful nooks and crannies. Girls’ rooms, adorned with sunflowers and Taylor Swift posters, create a warm and inviting atmosphere, while boys enjoy stunning views of the cathedral from their quarters. Strict separation between the genders ensures privacy and comfort for all.

Throughout the week, boarders are engaged in a myriad of activities, from board games to talent shows, fostering friendships and creating lasting memories. Security measures, including biopads and wristband scans, ensure a safe and secure environment for all residents.

Meals are a communal affair, with breakfast, lunch, and supper served in the dining room. However, the allure of returning to their houses during breaks to make toast highlights the cherished moments of camaraderie and shared experiences.

Despite the academic rigour, weekends offer a balance of study and leisure. Whether strolling through Wells or enjoying a swim, boarders find plenty of opportunities for relaxation and exploration. Ultimately, living amongst friends fosters a sense of belonging and enjoyment, making Wells Cathedral School a home away from home for its students.

Extracurricular Activities in Wells Cathedral School

Music Activities:

  • Specialist music programme offering up to three hours of individual tuition per week
  • Participation in National Children’s Orchestra and National Youth Orchestra
  • Integration of choristers into the school community
  • Opportunities for jazz, songwriting, and pop music

Drama and Dance:

  • Rehearsals and performances of a variety of productions, including plays and musicals
  • House drama competition and smaller productions throughout the year
  • Trips to galleries and visits by renowned artists

Extracurricular Activities:

  • Lunchtime and after-school activities such as chess, DofE, engineering, cookery, and aerobics
  • Outdoor education led by expert instructors
  • Participation in the Combined Cadet Force (CCF)
  • Community involvement through volunteering initiatives

Sport:

  • Strong emphasis on sports, including hockey, netball, and cricket
  • Impressive facilities such as Cedars Field cricket pitch, AstroTurf, hard courts, swimming pool, dance studio, sports pavilion, and climbing wall
  • Notable achievements in various sports, including representation at national and international levels

Admissions Process: Entering Wells Cathedral School

  1. Early Years and Pre-Prep: The journey often begins at the Little Wellies nursery, where 52 children are nurtured before progressing to the one-form entry reception in the pre-prep. While many transition from the nursery, others join from different backgrounds.

  2. Prep School Entry: Year 4, Year 5, and Year 6 are the most popular entry points into the prep school. From Year 3 upwards, the school operates with two or three forms per year group, providing a supportive environment for diverse learning experiences.

  3. Senior School Entry: Wells Cathedral School takes pride in its academically non-selective approach. For Year 7 entry into the senior school, prospective students undergo an online assessment followed by a short interview. Virtually all students from the prep school seamlessly transition to the senior school, with 14 scholarships awarded in 2024. Transfer from the prep to Year 7 of the senior school is typically automatic, except in cases where significant concerns are identified.

  4. Sixth Form Entry: Up to 30 new students join the sixth form, meeting specific academic requirements. Applicants are expected to have achieved at least six GCSEs at grades 9 to 4, with grades 6 and above in their chosen A-level subjects.

  5. Choristers Entry: For aspiring choristers joining between Years 4 and 9, the school seeks individuals with ‘a clear voice, a good vocal range, and a quick musical ear.’ While perfection is not expected, the emphasis is on potential. Applicants undergo a pre-audition in the autumn term for consideration the following year. Successful pre-audition candidates proceed to auditions and academic assessments held in January for September entry. 

SEN Support in Wells Cathedral School

The academic team here at Wells can cater to pupils with the following needs:

  • Autistic Spectrum Disorder
  • Aspergers
  • Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorders

Wells Cathedral School Testimonials and Reviews

Luke Bastin
Rated 5 out of 5

Taught there on a summer school each summer for almost a decade. A charming, idyllic school with wonderful pastoral staff and in a beautiful city.

Tissues
Rated 5 out of 5

Really good school i got 7 grades!

Oliver Heinz
Rated 5 out of 5

Great school!

Piotr Markiewicz
Rated 5 out of 5

Although you need to know a bit of Wells to get here, it’s worth the try

Frequently Asked Questions about Wells Cathedral School

  • Boarding fees per term: £7,808 to £12,088.
  • Day fees per term: £657 to £7,223.
 

The Academics: The school offers GCSEs and A-Levels. Wells Cathedral School is relatively non-selective.

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Alastair Tighe

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