Academic Excellence | Independent School Guildford | King Edwards Witley Teamwork, Leadership & a lifelong passion for learning Teamwork, Leadership & a lifelong passion for learning Individualised journeys shaping academic excellence A breadth of academic study and co-curricular activities providing the platform for the broadest future opportunities for all. Middle School – Year 9-11 Academic Excellence A time of change and growth The Middle School is a time in each pupil’s life where a huge amount of change happens. They change physically, they change emotionally, and they change their outlook on life and the broader world. As the Head of Middle School, it’s a huge privilege to be in a position to focus on the development of the whole child; the development of a proactive mindset that will serve them well as they progress to Sixth Form and beyond, is vital. We encourage every pupil to take academic risks, to take some knocks and learn from them. We want to build resilient young people who are able to honestly reflect on their own performance, reflect on what’s going on around them and adapt their behaviours, strategies and performance accordingly, constantly striving for success. Our greatest pastoral strength at King Edward’s is our House system. It provides a home from home for every pupil with a team of people that know them inside and out. We know their quirks, their strengths, areas for development; we understand what makes them happy or sad, and we are able to provide support that’s differentiated and appropriate for them at exactly the right time. Tom Campbell, Head of Middle School Individualised journeys shaping academic excellence Years 9, 10 and 11 (our 3 rd th and 5 th Form) are key formative years in pupils educational journeys, and academic excellence is promoted and facilitated through a strong emphasis on individual learning. Our commitment to the holistic development of each individual allows pupils to build on their previous learning foundations with a continued breadth of academic study and co-curricular activities designed to develop teamwork and leadership skills, as well as igniting a lifelong passion for learning. This breadth helps ensure all pupils are empowered to complete a varied, balanced programme of studies, having made informed decisions about their optional GCSE subjects from the wide range available. Individual growth is central to the academic journey of pupils at King Edward’s. Through continuous monitoring, support, guidance and feedback, we empower pupils to take responsibility for their own learning and be confident in taking academic risks within it, confident in the knowledge that the support network around them will turn every misstep into a learning opportunity. Our pupils benefit from small classes with a high level of individualised interaction across all academic departments, expediting opportunities for scholarship and academic challenge which motivate and equip our pupils to achieve beyond their own expectations. Pupils typically take 9 GCSEs; most progress to A levels, or alternatively take BTEC/level 3 programmes in Food Technology, Music or Sport Science. We offer academic scholarships, and specialist scholarships in Sport, Drama, Music, Art and Design Technology, to pupils identified during our admissions process. In 2024, 7 in 10 of our pupils achieved A* – B grades in A levels, and half of all grades at GCSE were at grade 7 or above (A*/A). Beyond the classroom, each of our pupils receives extensive academic support and has weekly assemblies and tutorials where their tutor provides frequent academic feedback, shaping and guiding strategies around revision and examination skills, executive function and individual action plans for academic progress. Parents use our parent portal to access regular progress updates, grades and written reports and benefit from open channels of communication with tutors, teachers and house staff, in addition to our parent/staff conference programme. 3rd Form (Year 9) and GCSE Curriculum Our GCSE programme includes core subjects – Maths, English (Language and Literature), and double Science, with our keenest scientists taking triple Science. Our pupils take an additional four GCSEs from the options below: Art, Art Textiles, Business, Classical Civilisation, Computer Science, Drama, Economics, Food  Science, Geography, History, Latin, Music, Modern Foreign Languages, Physical Education, Religious Studies or Design Technology. GCSE option blocks are created to meet the choices of each pupil, within balanced programmes designed to lead to the broadest future career and study options possible. Pupils select their GCSE subjects in consultation with teachers, House staff and their parents and guardians. All of our pupils also follow a non-examined course in Personal, Social, Health and Economic (PSHE) which complies with statutory guidance on the delivery of sex, health, financial and citizenship education, as well as Critical Thinking, PE and Games Post-COVID GCSE /IGCSE results (2022-2025): Subjects graded 9-6 (A* – B) = 62% GCSE /IGCSE results 2025: Subjects graded 9-6 (A* – B) = 56% GCSE Options 2026-2027 As our pupils look ahead to their GCSE programmes, they are able to personalise their curriculum and further develop their knowledge, skills and understanding in their preferred areas. Individualised support is provided, with our subject guides aiming to provide information to allow informed choices, in collaboration with teachers, tutors, the Head of Careers and Higher Education, and parents and guardians. If prospective numbers are not significant to provide the learning environment needed for our pupils to thrive in any subject, we may withdraw the subject. Pupils wishing to study a subject not currently offered are also encouraged to reach out to the Deputy Head, Academic. Every effort is made to accommodate all learning patterns; pupils are informed at the earliest possible opportunity in the rare event of timetabling challenges around their choices. GCSE Subjects 2026-27 FAQ When will we find out more about GCSE options? Who should we contact? We will be delivering a presentation on the GCSE options process at the Parent’s Conference on Tuesday 20th January 2026. Given the length of the evening, we will be running this at both 17:00-17:30 and 18:30-19:00 in the Gerald Coke Pentagon. Our GCSE options booklet will be available at the Parents’ Conference and is also available on our website. We are offering the same GCSE courses as last year, plus Business which was introduced last year. If you do have questions , please contact your child’s tutor in the first instance, and you may wish to contact subject teachers and Heads of Department. What is the deadline for submitting GCSE/IGCSE option choices? The GCSE options form will be sent out to parents by School Post. This will need to be submitted no later than 9am on Friday 13th February 2026. It is possible to make changes, subsequently, however these initial choices are used to design the curriculum and ensure that as many pupils as possible are able to study their chosen combinations of subjects. How Many GCSES can our children study and how Many options do they have? Most of our pupils take nine GCSE subjects. Our core subjects consist of English Language and Literature (two qualifications), Maths, and Double Science (or Triple Science for the top set). That leaves most pupils free to choose an additional 4 optional subjects which they are asked to submit, together with a reserve choice in case there are any timetable clashes. Any pupils that wish to be considered for Triple Science must indicate and select ‘Triple Science’ as one of their options. How much coursework is there for practical subjects, such as art? This varies from subject to subject. Art, for example, is moderated and examined based on a complete portfolio which counts for 60% and a practical exam which counts for 40%, and other subjects require portfolios or practical elements that are worth between 40-60% of the final grade. Is there any way of taking additional GCSE qualifications? We offer the Further Maths course (AQA Level 2 certificate) to our most able pupils in top set Maths, based on their performance during the 4th Form. Pupils study for both the Maths GCSE taken by all pupils and Further Maths which is a separate qualification. Music scholars who have completed Grade 5 theory are able to complete GCSE Music as an additional 10th GCSE completed through a combination of Saturday workshops and after school sessions that augment their peripatetic music classes. Now that so many pupils are using laptops extensively, will they be able to sit public exams using laptops? There are some schools where all pupils sit their public examinations using laptops. This is a whole-school decision, and we feel it needs to be supported by a targeted course to ensure that all pupils can touch type effectively. Currently, we do not have plans to take this route, and we do ask pupils to maintain their handwriting, particularly as we are aware of research which suggests that pupils who take handwritten notes perform better in public exams. We aim to continue balancing use of laptops with ensuring that pupils can write well by hand. Academic Scholarship & Learning Support We seek to promote a scholarly mindset amongst all our pupils and encourage them to take advantage of the extensive array of enrichment opportunities available to them, whether they are an Academic Scholar or not. This mindset, drive and passion for learning stands our pupils in good stead in developing knowledge, skills and conceptual understanding, combined with a strong set of values, to become confident, independent and proactive learners able to make a positive contribution to society. Learning Journeys – April 2025 Contact our Team Our dedicated Head of SEND and Inclusive learning welcomes discussions during our admissions process with parents and pupils to explore how we may support additional needs as identified. During the Easter break, seven Lower Sixth pupils undertook a Duke of Edinburgh Gold expedition in the Peak District to train for wild country navigation, camp craft and team building. This follows other recent expeditions including a silver qualifying expedition in the South Downs. DofE is a life changing experience that helps our young people build a strong foundation for their future through personal challenge, teamwork, leadership and problem solving. With our School values rooted in kindness and compassion, community impact and developing a sense of social responsibility matters. DofE provides an opportunity to develop these all important personal qualities. Congratulations to all these pupils on their tremendous endeavours and a huge thank you to our brilliant staff for their dedication and incredible support. #dofe #unitedbydiversitysince1553 #lifeskills #social-responsibility 96 Open post by keswitley with ID 18065680613677135 Last call for AppArt! 🖼️ Doors will close at 4pm on Saturday 18th. Thank you to all those who have come to view the incredible sculptures and artwork. The exhibition has had a record number of visitors back in its original home at King Edward’s. We look forward to seeing you today or tomorrow. #appart #keswitley #sculpturetrail 28 Open post by keswitley with ID 18099689642068881 🚨🎶 New Music Alert! We’re incredibly proud of Upper Sixth pupil Andrew, whose latest original track, Sunday Morning is now live on Spotify. His musical talent spans multiple instruments and genres - from classical performance to contemporary production - and this release is hopefully the start of many more to come. At King Edward’s Witley, we give young musicians the skills, support and opportunities to grow. Andrew has embraced every experience from ensemble work to instrumental lessons, and it’s been a joy to support his musical journey. Listen now on all platforms! #keswmusic #originalcomposition #supportingyoungartists 123 Open post by keswitley with ID 17926778409256492 🇬🇧 Commonwealth Day 2026 was celebrated on Monday, 9 March, with the theme “Unlocking opportunities together for a prosperous Commonwealth”. The day highlighted the 56 member countries’ collaboration and our collective action to foster economic growth, education, and resilience through empowering citizens and creating equitable opportunities. With our Royal Family in attendance at the Westminster Abbey service, a small number of our pupils were invited to represent King Edward’s in a tremendous day of service and celebration. Our strong City of London links date back to our very beginnings in 1553, and provide our pupils with exceptional opportunities to connect with our heritage and understand the importance of service and global citizenship. Our thanks to Mr Simon Lightman for supporting our pupils in their participation in such a significant national event. #anexceptionalschooljourney #bridewelleducation #commonwealth #unitedbydiversitysince1553 45 Open post by keswitley with ID 18117840277632181 Join our Sixth Form Open Morning on Saturday, 9th May from 9:30am to 12.30pm. We look forward to welcoming you to our Sixth Form where an inclusive and happy community, individualised approach to learning and keen focus on fully preparing you for success and future happiness awaits. With a careful blend of structure and independence, we offer transformational academic, co-curricular and social experiences which create a wealth of current and future opportunity. Join us on a tour and explore our approach to dynamic, ambitious learning and achievement as you zone in on your passions and academic interests. Talk with inspirational students, dedicated staff and our Head, Mrs Joanna Wright, who will be on hand to answer your all important questions. Book your place at KESW.org/admissions, contact our team at admissions@kesw.org or call us on +44 (0)1428 686735 to learn more. #bridewellschools #exceptionallearning #futureproofededucation #keswopenmornings 25 Open post by keswitley with ID 17948589047985003 Join us for our Middle School (Year 9, 13+) Open Morning on ​Saturday 9th May from 9:30am to 12.30pm. Proudly diverse and generous of spirit, we are a co-educational day and boarding school and community with a difference. We offer outstanding individualised learning and pastoral journeys which allow young people to thrive academically, socially and emotionally. Join us on a tour of our stunning historic grounds and explore our outstanding facilities and superbly broad co-curricular offering. Talk with inspirational pupils, dedicated staff and our Head, Mrs Joanna Wright, who will be on-hand to answer your all important questions. Book your place at kesw.org/admissions or contact our team at admissions@kesw.org or call us on +44 (0)1428 686735 to learn more. #bridewellschools #exceptionallearning #keswopenmornings #futureproofededucation 20 Open post by keswitley with ID 18080716763624404 Join us for our Lower School (Year 7, 11+) Open Morning on Saturday 9th May from 9:30am to 12.30pm. Lower School journeys begin in the warmth and happiness of our dedicated Queen Mary House, fondly known as QMH; a happy hub of opportunity and exceptional support, bursting with the energy of our youngest pupils beginning the task of discovering where life will take them. Proudly diverse and generous of spirit, we are a co-educational day and boarding school and community with a difference. We offer outstanding individualised learning and pastoral journeys which allow young people to thrive academically, socially and emotionally. Join us on a tour of QMH, our stunning historic grounds and explore our outstanding facilities and superbly broad co-curricular offering. Talk with inspirational pupils, dedicated staff and our Head, Mrs Joanna Wright, who will be on-hand to answer your all important questions. Book your place at kesw.org/admissions or contact our team at admissions@kesw.org or call us on +44 (0)1428 686735 to learn more. #bridewellschools #exceptionallearning #keswopenmornings #futureproofededucation 10 Open post by keswitley with ID 18092879786329012 🎼 3rd Form pupils, Stella and Eve recently took to the iconic Wembley Arena stage to perform as part of the Voice In A Million (VIAM) stage choir. Known as “The World’s Most Spectacular School Concert”, it is an annual event staged to raise awareness of children in care and encourage people to think about fostering or adoption. Our songbirds not only passed two rounds of auditions against strong candidates to win places in the VIAM stage choir, they both also secured solo parts in several songs. Reflecting on their experiences: “I’m really grateful to be in VIAM this year. I’ve loved every second of it, it’s an amazing atmosphere and I’ll remember it for the rest of my life”, said Eve. “This is my fourth year in the stage choir and my first in the senior backing vocalist group where I get to focus on the soprano harmonies which I love”, said Stella. You can find more information about VIAM on the website https://voiceinamillion.com where there’s also a link to donate to Adoption UK. #VIAM #Raisingvoicesforgood #KESWvocalists #keswmusic 76 Open post by keswitley with ID 17869024407506057 Recently a number of our Lower Sixth pupils attended an inspiring London Careers Festival event with experts in their fields, Professor Martin Elliott and Professor Robin May. Professor Elliott specialises in open heart surgery for babies at Great Ormond Street Hospital. Our pupils learnt about his career journey towards realising his specialisation as well as the various entry opportunities into the medical profession and the importance maths plays in planning surgery. Professor May is a specialist in infectious diseases. He also shared an incredible and diverse career journey and how he now uses his knowledge and experience in human infectious diseases to advise the government as the Chief Scientific Adviser for the FSA. With insightful advice from both experts, our pupils learnt that a career, especially in science, is not a destination but a journey of discovery to be explored and enjoyed. #careersinmedicine #careersinscience #londoncareersfestival ##bridewelleducation 86 Open post by keswitley with ID 17864563323614284 ☀️ Bright skies and warm spring sunshine added to the delight of visitors to AppArt at King Edward’s over the long Easter weekend as upwards of 2000 folk from near and far followed the sculpture trail through our beautifully grounds, and immersed themselves in the vibrant creativity of the gallery exhibition. AppArt runs every day from 10am-4pm until Saturday 18th April and is free to all. The sun’s still shining, so why not come and explore the incredible talent of professional and emerging artists at one of South East England’s most celebrated art and sculpture events hosted at King Edward’s Witley. No booking required. Coffee shop open! ☕️ #appart #sculpturetrail #keswitley #artexpo 61 Open post by keswitley with ID 18124752655524550 TAKE ME TO TAKE ME TO Admissions Arrange a Visit Prospectus Download