Our Learning Philosophy

We educate to develop minds, not careers; to teach ‘the greatest that has been thought and said’ in order that Wellingtonians will be happy, in due course, to assume responsibility for a world that is not of their making.

The curriculum

The College’s curriculum equips pupils to think, and we believe in providing a curriculum that is logical, robust, and organised by learning, not assessment. The curriculum is flexible enough to allow each pupil to plot their academic path through the College, with all pupils expected to excel.

We place an emphasis on core subject knowledge as well as the ‘craft of the classroom’. Traditional education requires us to pass on a tradition, and we are proud to do so; we also realise that the curriculum is an ongoing conversation, subject to regular review, seeking to provide pupils with the most stimulating environment in which to learn. It is important that teaching is effective for all pupils, taking into account their educational needs and stage. We aim for pupils become independent learners, capable of thinking for themselves so they are prepared for higher education and adult life.

‘Many lessons have an absorbing focus on real world problems.’The Good Schools Guide 2021

Throughout the curriculum we wish to promote excellence and achievement through delivery of subject matter that is appropriate in its level of challenge for the ages and aptitudes of all pupils. We aim for efficiency in preparing students for success in public examinations and this is brought about by a commitment to appropriate educative process, always seeking to bridge the best of modern educational research with our classroom practice. We understand that education concerns more than examinations however, and strive to ensure that students have ample opportunities to explore areas of intellectual interest through a commitment to academic extension for all.