Windermere School is a co-educational day and boarding school in England’s Lake District National Park for students aged 11 to 18. Founded in 1863, the school offers a British curriculum leading to IGCSE qualifications, followed by a choice of A Levels or the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme in Sixth Form. The school enrols around 330 pupils and welcomes both UK and international students. Facilities include boarding houses, science laboratories, sports facilities, creative arts spaces and access to the surrounding Lake District environment. A distinctive feature of Windermere School is its Outdoor Education programme, which uses the nearby lakes, mountains and woodland areas for activities such as kayaking, climbing, hiking and expedition training. Students can also participate in the Duke of Edinburgh Award, music, drama, volunteering and a range of sports. The combination of boarding, international education pathways and outdoor learning is a central part of the school's educational programme.
Location
Windermere School is on Patterdale Road in Windermere, in the heart of the Lake District National Park. The location provides unrivalled access to lakes, mountains, and outdoor adventure. The nearest railway station is Windermere, and the M6 motorway is accessible via the A591.
Stages
The school is divided into Pre-School (ages 3-4), Pre-Prep (Reception to Year 2), Prep (Years 3-6), Senior (Years 7-11), and Sixth Form (Years 12-13).
Type
Windermere School is an independent co-educational school offering day, weekly boarding, and full boarding options. Flexible boarding arrangements are available.
Country affiliation
Windermere School is a member of Round Square, an international network of schools that share a commitment to experiential learning, service, and adventure.
Bus service
A bus service is available for day pupils.
Boarding Arrangements
Boarding is available at Prep, Senior, and Sixth Form levels. Options include full boarding, weekly boarding, and flexible arrangements. Boarding takes advantage of the Lake District setting with outdoor activities and adventure.
Uniform Requirement
Uniform is required. Details are available from the school.
Governance and Ownership
Windermere School is an independent school. It is a member of Round Square and has been inspected by ISI.
Fee details are available from the school on request. Scholarships and awards are offered. Contact the admissions team for the latest fee schedule.
Curriculum
The school offers GCSEs in the Senior School. In the Sixth Form, students can choose the IB Diploma Programme, the IB Career-Related Programme, or vocational qualifications. A Pre-IB course is available for students who need preparation before starting the diploma. The school was ranked in the Top 60 for Sixth Form results in the UK by the Sunday Times.
Exam Results
The school has been named in the Sunday Times Top Ten Parent Power Survey and ranked in the Top 60 for Sixth Form results nationally.
Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)
Wellbeing support and pastoral care are provided across the school. The boarding houses offer a supportive environment for residential students.
Admissions
1. Apply online through the OpenApply admissions portal. 2. Attend an Open Day (next scheduled 24th April 2026) or arrange a visit. 3. A virtual tour is available on the website. 4. Scholarships and awards are offered. 5. The school welcomes day, weekly boarding, and full boarding students. 6. Forces families and international students are supported.
Scholarships
Scholarships and awards are available. The school also supports forces families. Details are available from the admissions team.
