Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Welcome to our Admissions FAQ. We understand that choosing the right school involves many questions, especially when considering boarding. Below, we have compiled the most common enquiries to help you navigate the process.

Admissions & Entry

How do we begin the application process? The first step is to complete an enquiry via our OpenApply portal on the school website. Once submitted, our admissions team will be in touch to guide you through the next steps, which include a formal application, providing recent school reports, and arranging a visit.

What are the entry requirements? We look for students who will thrive in our active, ambitious environment.

• UK Students: Usually involve an interview with the Head and a review of current school reports.
• International Students: Typically required to sit an online CAT4 assessment followed by a virtual interview. We also assess English language proficiency to ensure students can access the curriculum.

When should we apply? While we accept applications throughout the year (subject to space), we recommend applying at least one year in advance for key entry points (Year 7, Year 9, and Year 12). For those seeking Scholarships, there are specific assessment days usually held in the Autumn and Spring terms.

Do you offer scholarships or bursaries? Yes. We offer scholarships in several areas, including Academic, Sport, Drama, Music, and Sailing. Scholarship applicants must submit a portfolio or attend a practical assessment. We also provide financial support for Forces Families and offer means-tested bursaries.

Boarding Options & Facilities

What is the difference between Weekly and Flexi boarding? * Weekly Boarding: Designed for students who stay from Sunday evening/Monday morning until Friday afternoon. It is ideal for families in city centres like Manchester who want to avoid the daily commute.

• Flexi Boarding: This is a more occasional option, allowing day students to stay for one or two nights a week to accommodate parent travel or school activities.

Do students share bedrooms? Sharing a room is a key part of the boarding experience, helping students build close friendships. Younger boarders usually share with two to four others. As students progress into the Sixth Form and begin the International Baccalaureate (IB), they typically move into twin or single study-bedrooms to allow for more independent study.

What are the boarding houses like? Our three boarding houses—Browhead, Langdale, and Elleray—provide a genuine “home-away-from-home.” Each house features comfortable common rooms with Wi-Fi, kitchens for evening snacks, and dedicated quiet areas for prep.

Life at Windermere

What happens on the weekends? For our full boarders, weekends are a mix of relaxation and adventure. We make full use of our Lake District setting with sailing, fell running, and hiking. We also organise regular trips to the cinema, theatre, shopping excursions, and social events like BBQs and themed dinners.

How is homework managed? We operate a structured Evening Prep system. Boarders have set times for self-study in a quiet, supervised environment. Academic tutors are often on hand to provide specialist support, meaning that for weekly boarders, the weekend is completely free for family time.

Tell us about the “Adventure” curriculum. As a Round Square school, adventure is in our DNA. Students have access to our private watersports centre on Lake Windermere, where they can learn to sail, kayak, and windsurf. Outdoor learning is integrated into school life, building resilience and leadership skills that go far beyond the classroom.

Transport & Logistics

How does the Manchester transport service work? We provide a dedicated, supervised minibus service specifically for our weekly boarders. It departs from a central Manchester location on Monday mornings and returns on Friday afternoons. This service is included in the weekly boarding offering, ensuring a safe and stress-free transition between home and school.

How do you support international students with visas? Our admissions team is experienced in supporting families through the Student Visa (formerly Tier 4) process. We provide the necessary Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) once the admission requirements are met.

Can’t find the answer you’re looking for? Our Admissions Team is always happy to help.

Email: admissions@windermereschool.co.uk

Telephone: +44 (0) 15394 46164