Wells Cathedral School
Wells, Somerset · BA5 2ST
Wells Cathedral School is a distinctive coeducational independent day and boarding school rooted in the musical and ecclesiastical heritage of Wells Cathedral. The school combines cathedral music excellence—particularly its chorister programme—with broad academic provision across the pre-prep, prep, senior, and sixth form. Strong emphasis on creative arts, outdoor education, and a pastoral model built around boarder and day communities, with specialist pathways in music, football (via Chelsea FC partnership), and mathematics.
- →Exceptional music provision integrated into the curriculum, including the prestigious chorister scheme affiliated with Wells Cathedral
- →Specialist football development partnership with Chelsea FC, offering elite coaching alongside academics
- →Boarding flexibility and strong pastoral care model catering to both full boarders and day pupils
- →Cathedral setting and religious ethos providing distinctive character and community identity
- →Access to extensive performance opportunities and cultural events through the Cathedral and Wells Music International
Who thrives here
Musically talented and serious young musicians (especially choristers), aspiring footballers, boarders seeking a tight-knit community, and families valuing creative and outdoor education alongside rigorous academics. Suits confident, resilient pupils who thrive in a structured, values-driven environment.
Strengths at a glance
Percentiles within UK independent + grammar schools we track.
At a glance
Contact & visit
15 The Liberty
Wells, Somerset
BA5 2ST
Nearest stations
Notable alumni
Jack Thurston
British racing driver and Guinness World Record holder
Peter Marlow
Photojournalist and Magnum Photos member
Recent investment
Frequently asked questions
What are the fees at Wells Cathedral School?
Day fees at Wells Cathedral School are approximately £21,600 per year (2024/25). Boarding fees are higher.
How do you get into Wells Cathedral School?
Wells Cathedral School admits pupils at 3+, 4+, 7+, 8+, 11+, 13+, 16+. Entry is assessed by Interview, Assessment. See the Admissions section above for open days and key dates.
What are Wells Cathedral School's exam results?
At Wells Cathedral School, 16.9% of A-levels were graded A*–B and 40.2% of GCSEs were grade 7/A or above. Full results are in the Results section above.
Is Wells Cathedral School a boarding school?
Wells Cathedral School offers boarding as well as day places.
What is Wells Cathedral School's latest inspection rating?
ISI rated Wells Cathedral School “Excellent” (2023).
What parents say
Frequently praised
✓Exceptional music teaching and performance opportunities, especially for choristers and serious musicians
✓Caring pastoral environment with strong community identity rooted in Cathedral values
✓Outstanding specialist football coaching and athlete support via Chelsea FC partnership
✓Excellent outdoor education and exposure to nature and adventure
✓Genuine concern for individual pupil wellbeing and holistic development
Common concerns
!Limited diversity and socioeconomic representation in boarding community
!Religious ethos not suited to all families; Cathedral observance non-negotiable
!Relatively small sixth form limits subject breadth for some students
!Geographic isolation in rural Somerset can impact parent accessibility and day pupil recruitment
!Ofsted not yet inspected; accountability via ISC accreditation only