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Westbourne School

United Kingdom, Cardiff

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The school at a glance
Instructs in English
Fees £13,776 - 24,367
Ages 2 - 18 years
Pupil numbers 380
Type Co-educational, Co-educational (boarding)
Opened 1896
Bus Service No
Academic offering
Curriculum IB (DP), Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge A Levels, British Curriculum
Taught languages Spanish, Mandarin, Latin, French
Typical class size 16
Strengths STEM, Outdoor Education, Performing Arts
Clubs Leadership and Professional, Community and Service, Arts and Creative
Stages Early Years, Primary School, Middle School, Secondary School, Sixth Form
Introduction

Westbourne School is an independent, co-educational day and boarding school in Penarth, outside Cardiff. It serves pupils from age 2 to 18 across Pre-School, Prep, Senior School and Sixth Form, operating on two campuses: Victoria Road for younger years and Hickman Road for the senior sixth form. The curriculum combines Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge A Levels, the IB Diploma in Sixth Form, and a British curriculum pathway, with GCSEs beginning in Year 9 and a Pre-IB route to Sixth Form. With around 380 students, classes are small to support personalised progress, critical thinking and collaboration. The school nurtures an international community, with students from over 30 nationalities and links to sister campuses in Sydney and Singapore. Facilities include a STEM Innovation Hub, science labs, a Maker Space 3D printing lab and a kitchen garden, plus an Olympic pool, courts and co-curricular options from forest and beach school to LAMDA and sailing.

Senior School & Sixth Form: 4 Hickman Road, Penarth, Vale of Glamorgan, CF64 2AJ; Pre‑School & Prep School: Victoria Road, Penarth, Vale of Glamorgan, CF64 3EF

The Essentials

Westbourne School has 380 pupils, typical class sizes of 16, instruction in English.

Location
Penarth, Vale of Glamorgan, Wales, United Kingdom. Westbourne is spread across four sites in Penarth: Pre-School & Prep on Victoria Road; Senior School on Hickman Road; a Sixth Form hub across the road; and the boarding house nearby. The town sits on the South Wales coast just outside Cardiff, with direct rail access to Cardiff city centre in about 12 minutes from Penarth Railway Station. A daily school bus service operates for day students across South Wales.

Stages
Nursery (2+), Pre-School, Prep School, Senior School, Sixth Form (ages to 18).

Type
Independent co-educational day and boarding school.

Pupil Nationality Mix
72% British; 28% international with students from over 30 nationalities.

Country affiliation
United Kingdom (Wales).

Bus service
Yes, a daily school bus service across South Wales.
Diving Deeper

Boarding Arrangements
Main Boarding House is located two minutes from the Senior School and houses about 40 UK and international boarders aged 12+. Bedrooms range from singles and twins to larger shared rooms, and a permanent chef provides fresh, locally sourced meals to meet all dietary needs. No.5 offers IB2 accommodation with after-hours academic support for students in the final IB years, and Home Stay provides host families in the local area for 16+ year-olds.

Uniform Requirement
From Reception through Year 11/Pre-IB, all students wear Westbourne's navy and red school uniform. Little Westbourne Nursery wears a navy track suit; Sixth Form dress is business attire. Trutex Direct is the main uniform supplier, with online orders delivered to homes or to the School, and the LEA code is LEA01009SC.

Food Options
Boarding Life includes meals prepared by a permanent chef using fresh, locally sourced food to meet all dietary needs.

House System
The school operates a House system; pupils compete for House points in sport and other activities.
Fees

Annual tuition at Westbourne School ranges from GBP 13,776 to GBP 24,367 for 2026/27.

Application fees

- There is no fee charged to apply for a place for UK or international students; applications are managed without an application charge.

Tuition fees (2026/27 academic year) — Pre‑School & Prep (Reception–Year 5)

- Reception: Annual GBP 13,776; Termly GBP 4,592; 10-month instalments GBP 1,378.
- Year 1: Annual GBP 15,036; Termly GBP 5,012; 10-month instalments GBP 1,504.
- Year 2: Annual GBP 16,104; Termly GBP 5,368; 10-month instalments GBP 1,610.
- Year 3: Annual GBP 17,728; Termly GBP 5,909; 10-month instalments GBP 1,773.
- Year 4: Annual GBP 18,594; Termly GBP 6,198; 10-month instalments GBP 1,859.
- Year 5: Annual GBP 20,459; Termly GBP 6,820; 10-month instalments GBP 2,046.

- Pre‑School (age 3–4) attendance options: Day fee GBP 80 per day; Half‑day fee GBP 48. A minimum attendance requirement applies (2 days / 4 half‑days per week).

Tuition fees (2026/27) — Senior School (Year 6–Year 11)

- Year 6: Annual GBP 21,996; Termly GBP 7,332; 10-month instalments GBP 2,200.
- Year 7: Annual GBP 21,996; Termly GBP 7,332; 10-month instalments GBP 2,200.
- Year 8: Annual GBP 21,996; Termly GBP 7,332; 10-month instalments GBP 2,200.
- Year 9: Annual GBP 23,478; Termly GBP 7,826; 10-month instalments GBP 2,348.
- Year 10: Annual GBP 23,478; Termly GBP 7,826; 10-month instalments GBP 2,348.
- Year 11: Annual GBP 23,478; Termly GBP 7,826; 10-month instalments GBP 2,348.

Tuition fees (2026/27) — Sixth Form (Year 12–Year 13)

- Year 12: Annual GBP 24,367; Termly GBP 8,122; 10-month instalments GBP 2,437.
- Year 13: Annual GBP 24,367; Termly GBP 8,122; 10-month instalments GBP 2,437.

International day‑student visa administration charges

- Day students living with a close UK‑based eligible family member: annual visa administrative charge GBP 3,600 per child (inclusive of VAT).
- Students under age 12 coming to the UK with a sponsored parent: annual administrative charge GBP 5,400 per child (inclusive of VAT).

Boarding fees (international boarding students, 2026/27)

- Annual international boarding fee: GBP 62,560 (this figure is inclusive of guardianship and VAT). Fees cover tuition, accommodation during term time and half‑term breaks, all meals including weekends and half terms, and full educational guardianship. There are no exeat weekends. Fees may be paid annually in advance or termly in advance.

Billing schedule and payment terms

- Standard billing: fee invoices are issued termly (typically at the end of the previous term) in respect of the fees for the following term. Fees are payable whether or not an invoice is received.
- Termly payment deadlines for boarding (termly in advance): 15 May for the Autumn term, 15 September for the Spring term, and 15 January for the Summer term. Annual or termly advance payment options are available.
- Instalment option: fees may be paid by arrangement by standing order over ten equal monthly instalments (September–June). Standing orders must be adjusted to reflect any fee increases.
- Annual payment option: an annual advance payment option is offered; annual payments in advance may be eligible for a payment discount where stated.
- Late or refused payments incur administration charges; interest may be charged on overdue fees (minimum rate guidance and statutory rate apply). For international boarding, interest may be charged at a minimum of 4% above the Lloyds base rate (or statutory rate, whichever is higher) for overdue sums.

Other costs and routine extras

- External examination fees are charged at cost.
- Visiting or private teachers for extra subjects contract and payment: where visiting teachers provide extra subjects, those fees are contracted and collected directly by the visiting teacher.
- Uniform: official uniform is supplied primarily by Trutex Direct (orders placed online). The school lists required uniform items by year group and directs parents to the supplier; costs for uniform items are payable by parents to the supplier. Pre‑loved items are available in limited quantities.
- Family referral credit: a GBP 1,000 tuition credit is applied for the referring family and GBP 1,000 credit for the new family on enrolment under the school's referral programme (credit applied against invoices).
- Sibling discounts: automatic and graduated discounts apply (examples listed by the school): for example, second child discounts (stepping‑up and ongoing rates vary by age), standard sibling discounts (examples include 10% for the 2nd child from Year 3 upwards, 20% for the 3rd child, 30% for the 4th child) and a specified offer where a fourth child may attend free when all children are enrolled simultaneously. Specific discount rules vary by stage and are applied automatically where eligible.

Refunds, deposits, notice and retaining places

- Deposit/registration: a deposit (amount set out in the offer letter) or one term's fees (for boarding registration) is payable to confirm acceptance. For UK day offers the deposit will not be refunded if the pupil does not take the place; otherwise the deposit is held on account and refunded at the end of the child's study period (no interest paid on the deposit).
- Refunds for absence: the payer is not entitled to a refund of fees for absence (parents are responsible for arranging insurance for absence due to illness or accident).
- Withdrawal notice: for UK day students a full and complete whole term's written notice of withdrawal is required (failure to give adequate notice makes a term's fees in lieu of notice payable). For international boarding a two‑term written notice is required (failure to give adequate notice makes two terms' fees in lieu of notice payable). If a place is to be retained during a prolonged absence, a retaining fee equal to full fees for each term must be paid in advance.
- Scholarships: scholarship awards are discounts from fees; scholarship students who withdraw before completion of the course for which the scholarship was awarded may only be refunded amounts paid in excess of the full‑fee amount.

Fee payment methods and surcharges

- Accepted methods include: Flywire for international payments (online international payment platform), bank standing orders / bank transfer arrangements for instalments, credit and debit card payments. A surcharge of 2.5% applies to credit card payments. Specific payment details (account references or Flywire link) are used at payment time.

Administration charges and consequences of non‑payment

- Administration charges are applied for late or refused payments; interest and collection costs may be added to overdue balances. Non‑payment may result in suspension, exclusion, and barring from external examinations until outstanding fees are cleared. Fees remain payable in cases of suspension or exclusion for the term in which it occurs.
Academics

Westbourne School teaches IB (DP), Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge A Levels, British Curriculum for students aged 2 to 18.

Curriculum
GCSE studies begin in Year 9 with a broad range of subjects, which students refine as they progress. In Sixth Form, students can study the IB Diploma or A Levels, with a STEM-focused academic environment and an Innovation Hub. Classes are small, with around 380 students across the age ranges. The curriculum includes GCSE subjects, a Pre-IB pathway, and progression to Sixth Form, with emphasis on critical thinking, digital fluency and collaboration. The school hosts an international community with students from over 30 nationalities and maintains links with sister schools in Sydney and Singapore.

Student Teacher Ratio
Classes are intentionally smaller, with 380 students across the age ranges.

Exam Results
IB Diploma results in 2026 show 1 in 3 IB Diploma students scoring 40+ points, with a top score of 44 points. Nearly 50% achieved 38+ points. Westbourne reports outstanding results including top university places across the Senior School and Sixth Form.

Higher Education Progression
About 90% of graduates achieve offers to Russell Group universities or international equivalents, including Oxford or Cambridge. The IB Diploma is highlighted as advantageous for university admissions, and Westbourne provides extensive university and careers support and access to a global network of universities and opportunities.

Gifted and Talented
Future Leaders Lab offers advanced opportunities for high-ability Sixth Form students, including INSEAD-led workshops in Singapore and a supercurriculum featuring global competitions and a university destinations platform with information on Oxbridge, Ivy League and US colleges. The program is complemented by one-to-one careers mentoring and an alumni network to support students in securing places at top universities and engaging in international experiences.
Wellbeing

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)
Westbourne Life supports students to thrive academically, socially and personally. The school aims to inspire love of learning, critical thinking and leadership. Class sizes are small, and pastoral care is strong, enabling personalised support. Enrichment includes outdoor adventures, public speaking and international study experiences that connect with campuses in Singapore and Sydney. The Duke of Edinburgh Award is offered as part of the co-curricular programme to build resilience and character.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)
Inclusive Education is provided with an inclusive and equitable learning environment that accommodates students with diverse learning needs and abilities. The school has an Additional Learning Needs (ALN) and Additional Support Policy. An English as an Additional Language (EAL) Policy exists to support language development for multilingual learners. The school maintains a broad policy suite that includes safeguarding, travel risk assessments for overseas students, and other supports to ensure accessibility.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)
An English as an Additional Language (EAL) Policy exists to support learners who are new to English. Multilingualism is promoted through a strong language program, with core English and multiple foreign languages taught across year groups. Pupils whose native language is not English may have GCSE English language support and lessons in German, Russian or Chinese. Core subject groups include English Language and a range of language options such as Spanish, Mandarin and Russian, as detailed in the curriculum policy.

Mental Wellbeing
Westbourne provides exceptional care and wellbeing for its students, reflected in its pastoral approach and supportive community. FaB School sessions bring Forest and Beach learning into regular practice, supporting holistic growth through hands-on outdoor experiences. The Duke of Edinburgh Award centre offers wellbeing-focused challenges that build resilience and character. The school emphasizes developing future-ready, globally minded learners who thrive in a safe, supportive environment.

Safeguarding
Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy is published on the Policies page and is part of the school's formal policy suite. The policy list includes Educational Trips Policy, ALN Policy, English as an Additional Language Policy, and a dedicated Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy. An Estyn Inspection Report is available, underscoring monitored safeguarding standards. Parents are informed that policies are freely available and can be requested, with contact via enquiries@westbourneschool.com or the School Secretary.
Parent Experience

History
Westbourne School is situated just outside Cardiff, in Penarth. The school blends 130 years of academic excellence with a future-ready education. It is an independent school offering Nursery through Sixth Form. Westbourne maintains international sister campuses in Sydney and Singapore, providing a globally connected environment and an all-through model from nursery to sixth form.

Community
Westbourne has a thriving, close-knit community where every student is known by name and supported individually. The school is located in Penarth, offering a blend of local community spirit and global opportunities. The environment emphasizes well-being, academic success, and personal growth, fostering warmth, friendship and inclusion.
Facilities

Facilities Overview
The school is located in Penarth, UK, offering access to facilities on campus and nearby. Westbourne is situated near coast, countryside and a capital city, enabling abundant co-curricular opportunities. From an Olympic-sized swimming pool, tennis courts, football, netball and basketball, to forest and beach school, white-water rafting, sailing, gymnastics, dance and LAMDA, students have access to a wide range of facilities. The facilities support both academic and co-curricular programs across Prep, Senior and Sixth Form.

Sports Facilities
Olympic-sized swimming pool; tennis courts; football pitches; netball and basketball courts; school gymnasium.

Academic Facilities
The Senior School includes a STEM-centric Innovation Hub and on-site laboratories, with an IB Sixth Form centre. The Prep School offers a Maker Space 3D printing lab and a kitchen garden as part of its curriculum. The campus combines dedicated science labs, classrooms and modern learning spaces across sites at Hickman Road and Victoria Road.

Extra Curricular Facilities
Forest and beach school; white-water rafting; sailing; gymnastics; dance; LAMDA; and a broad co-curricular programme across Prep and Senior years.
Extra-Curricular Activities

Academic & Intellectual
The school offers the IB Diploma and A Levels. The Senior School features on-site laboratories, a STEM-centric Innovation Hub, a gym, a basketball court, and an IB Sixth Form centre. Classes are small to support strong academic results. University and Careers support helps students plan their next steps after graduation.

Arts & Creative
Dance is offered as part of the co-curricular programme. LAMDA (drama) is available for students. The co-curricular programme provides opportunities for creative expression through performing arts.

Cultural & Language
English language development support is provided for international students. The school has sister schools in Sydney and Singapore, creating international links. The student community includes learners from over 25 countries each year. Immersion Programmes are available to broaden international experiences.

Social & Hobbies
The co-curricular program includes swimming, tennis, football, netball and basketball. It also offers forest and beach school, white-water rafting, sailing, gymnastics, and dance. LAMDA is available as a performing arts option. These activities support social development and personal interests beyond the classroom.

Community & Service
Westbourne is an accredited Duke of Edinburgh Award centre. Students aged 14 and older can enroll in the Bronze award. The programme includes volunteering, physical, skills, and exhibition components. Younger students have opportunities to engage in wellbeing and co-curricular activities in preparation for the award.

Leadership & Professional
Future Leaders Lab is a dedicated leadership program. Immersion Programmes provide international experiences. University and Careers support helps students plan post-16 options. The school has sister schools in Sydney and Singapore.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing
Care and wellbeing are central to Westbourne, with a focus on personal development. Classes are small, designed to support personalised learning. A wide range of sports and outdoor activities—including an Olympic-standard swimming pool, forest and beach school, sailing, and more—support physical well-being. Boarding life provides a safe environment with a dedicated team; the Main Boarding House is two minutes from the Senior School and houses around 40 UK and international boarders.
Languages

Language Provision
English language development is central to immersion and admissions; ESL support for pupils with English as an additional language is available, with specialist teachers to help access the curriculum. For direct entry into Year 12 for the IB Diploma, a high level of English fluency is required, and the Pre-IB Programme is available to prepare. Languages offered in Prep include Latin and Spanish, reflecting language learning as part of the IB Diploma.

Immersion Programs
Two-week immersion programmes for international students aged 7 to 17 are offered in the UK and Singapore. In the UK, immersion joins the Penarth boarding campus to provide a genuine British educational experience designed to enhance English language skills, build confidence, and offer cultural and extracurricular activities. In Singapore, immersion focuses on business and innovation, beginning with English language development and followed by leadership, entrepreneurship and innovation. Students participate in real classes alongside local students, with live lessons and authentic classroom experiences. UK participants can be accompanied day students from age 7, while boarding is available for ages 11–17; Singapore participants are aged 14–17. Visa guidance is provided as needed.
Admissions

Admissions
1) Online application: The school offers an online application form to begin the admissions process. The Heads of Admissions guide applicants through each step, including entrance exams and interviews. The process is designed to be straightforward and personalised from day one. Early registration for key entry points (Reception, Year 7, Year 9 and the IB Sixth Form) is recommended due to limited spaces. cite
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2) Entrance exams and interviews: From Year 2 onwards, candidates sit age-appropriate entrance exams. Entrance exams form part of the selection process along with an interview. The admissions team provides support throughout the assessment and interview stages. Successful candidates progress to the next steps as part of the rolling admissions process. cite
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3) Rolling admissions and entry points: Admissions operate on a rolling basis throughout the academic year. Places are limited due to the school
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small class sizes and the tailored approach. Applications are considered on a first-come, first-served basis for suitable candidates. Mid-year school starts are accommodated where possible. cite
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4) Selection criteria and assessment: Selection is based on academic performance, character, interests and talents. School reports are assessed as part of the process, and Year 2 onward candidates sit entrance exams. The environment is selective to support motivated learners thriving without distraction. The admissions process emphasizes both academic potential and personal qualities. cite
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5) Tours, visits and next steps: Private tours and 1-2-1 Zoom calls are available for prospective families throughout the year. Visitors can book a visit or Zoom to discuss entry points and the next steps in the process. The admissions team remains on hand to assist with questions and scheduling. cite
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Scholarships
1) Merit-based scholarships: A limited number of partial academic scholarships are available for new students joining Year 3 and above. Scholarships recognise exceptional candidates and are partial, based on academic performance. cite
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2) Merit-based scholarship process: Merit-based scholarships require candidates to sit a scholarship paper in addition to the standard entrance assessments, which include an academic aptitude test and English & Maths papers, plus a dedicated Scholarship Paper. cite
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3) Means-based bursaries: Means-based bursaries are subject to a full financial review. The school does not offer 100% scholarships. Expressions of intent to apply for a scholarship should be made prior to applying. cite
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4) Sibling discounts: Westbourne offers competitive sibling discounts. Second child receives 25%, third child 50%, and fourth+ child 100% discount. Stepping Up to School discounts provide a 50% reduction for Reception and Year 1 when joining from Little Westbourne Nursery, extended to Year 2 if an older sibling is already at the school. Means-tested support may be available thereafter. cite
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5) Scholarship awards and examples: Scholarships for day students are partial and based on academic performance, with example award ranges (Tier 1–4) translating to varying percentages of fee reduction. An example shows day student total awards from around 10% up to 35%, with corresponding annual fee illustrations. cite
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6) Application timing: Expressions of intent to apply for a scholarship should be indicated before submitting the application to avoid disappointment. The school provides guidance on scholarship and bursary opportunities during the admissions process. cite
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