When will facilities be ready for students and what upgrades are being made?

We’re very lucky to inherit a school which had extensive facilities already in place.Most rooms will therefore retain their original function. However, we will be creating a dedicated boys’ dormitory in the Stable Block, which was previously used for teaching.Some classrooms will be redeveloped into specialist subject areas, such as a moot court and an IT laboratory. Classrooms that remain in use will be upgraded with the latest educational technology, including smart boards, to ensure students benefit from a modern and high-quality learning environment.All other areas, including accommodation bathrooms, will be fully refurbished to meet statutory health and safety requirements.All refurbishment works will be completed by June 2026, in time for our Summer School.

How does the college attract and maintain high-quality teaching staff ?

Recruiting the right teachers is of paramount importance to us.We will use specialist sector recruitment agencies, alongside our own expertise to identify staff who are not only academically qualified, but who also share our ethos of supporting students to reach their full potential.Recruitment will be phased and prioritised to maintain high standards. Once appointed, staff performance and conduct will be monitored through robust leadership and governance structures.

How is the College governed, and who provides oversight?

A Board of Governors is currently being established.Once finalised, details of its membership and roles will be published on our website.The Board will comprise a balanced mix of independent and internal members.Independent governors will provide external oversight and constructive challenge, while staff members with responsibility in key areas, such as safeguarding and academic standards, will ensure that recommendations are effectively implemented and informed by professional expertise.

Which Curriculum and qualifications does the college offer?

All qualifications we offer are based on well-established curricula with clearly defined learning outcomes.Our A Level programmes are awarded by the Cambridge International Examination Board, and our Foundation Year programmes have been developed in partnership with our university partners, with clear and supported progression pathways.

How does the college support Student wellbeing and Personal development?

We place student wellbeing at the heart of everything we do.Through strong pastoral support, high-quality teaching, and a nurturing boarding environment, we aim to ensure every student feels safe, supported, and valued.Our staff work closely with students to monitor wellbeing, encourage personal development, and help each individual achieve their full potential.

How is the college designed for long-term sustainability and stability?

Many established independent schools have closed because they carry legacy cost structures and inflexible overheads.Westerfield is being set up with a leaner, more sustainable operating model and strong planning around staffing and delivery.In short: we’re not inheriting the same structural burdens that often sink other schools, and we’re building with sustainability and delivery readiness from day one.

How does the college keep students safe?

Safeguarding is audited and held accountable through multiple layers:Governance: A Board (including safeguarding oversight) challenges decisions and reviews safeguarding practice.Legal compliance: Safeguarding is not optional, the school must comply with statutory safeguarding requirements and guidance.External inspection / standards frameworks: Safeguarding is scrutinised through external standards and inspection expectations (including any relevant accreditation frameworks where applicable).Internal systems: Clear policies, reporting routes, record keeping, training, and safer recruitment create an auditable safeguarding trail.

University Foundation Programme

The University Foundation Programme is designed for students who want a direct, time-efficient, pathway into university, without the need to complete traditional A Levels. It provides the academic grounding, subject knowledge, and study skills required to progress confidently into undergraduate degrees at leading universities in the UK and beyond.

For students who are clear about their goals, or those who want structured guidance to discover them, the Foundation Programme offers a focused, supportive route that shortens study time while strengthening university readiness.

What Sets Our University Foundation Programme Apart

Overview

A Direct Alternative to A Levels

The University Foundation Programme replaces the need for A Levels, allowing students to complete their pre-university studies in one academic year. This means students can progress to university sooner, saving both time and cost while remaining academically prepared.

Clear Progression to Partner Universities

Westerfield College works with a network of over 40 UK partner universities, offering students clear and structured progression opportunities upon successful completion of the programme. Students receive guidance on choosing the right pathway and degree options aligned with their strengths and aspirations.

Academic Preparation for University-Level Study

The programme is carefully designed to bridge the gap between secondary education and university. Students develop:

Academic writing and research skills
Critical thinking and independent learning habits
Subject-specific knowledge aligned with undergraduate study
Confidence in UK academic expectations and assessment styles

By the time students progress to university, they are already accustomed to university-style learning.

Foundation Pathways (Areas of Study)

At Westerfield College, we use the term “Pathways” to reflect the purpose of the programme, preparing students for specific degree routes.

Students may choose from the following Foundation Pathways:

Life & Biological Sciences
Ideal for students interested in Biology, Biomedical Sciences, Pharmacy, and related fields.
Engineering
Designed for students aiming to pursue Mechanical, Electrical, Civil, or General Engineering degrees.
Mathematics & Computing
A pathway for students passionate about data, Artificial Intelligence, Computer Science, and programming.
Business & Economics
Suitable for future entrepreneurs, economists, managers, and business leaders.
Humanities & Social Sciences
For students interested in Psychology, Media, Sociology, International Relations, and related disciplines.
Law
A structured pathway for students planning to progress into undergraduate Law degrees.
Architecture & Built Environment
For creative and analytical students drawn to design, construction, architecture, and the built environment.

For students who are still exploring their strengths or interests, our academic counsellors provide personalised guidance to help identify the most suitable pathway and progression degree.

Teaching, Support & Learning Environment

Small Class Sizes, Personalised Attention

Our Foundation classes are intentionally kept small, ensuring students benefit from individual academic support, regular feedback, and close tutor engagement.

Expert Teaching & Mentorship

Courses are delivered by experienced educators who understand both pre-university preparation and university expectations. Teaching focuses not just on content, but on how students learn, think, and apply knowledge independently.

University Application & Progression Support

Students receive dedicated support with:

University selection and applications
Personal statements
Academic references
Interview preparation (where applicable)

This support continues throughout the programme, ensuring students are well prepared for the next stage of their academic journey.

Entry Requirements

Entry requirements vary depending on the chosen pathway, but typically include:

Completion of secondary school education or equivalent
Relevant subject background aligned with the chosen pathway
English language proficiency (support available where required)

Each application is reviewed individually, and students may be invited for an academic assessment or interview to ensure the programme is the right fit.

Life Beyond the Classroom

Foundation students at Westerfield benefit from a rich student experience that supports academic success and personal development. Through co-curricular and enrichment activities, students build confidence, leadership skills, and global awareness, all of which strengthen university applications and personal growth.

The Westerfield Advantage

The University Foundation Programme at Westerfield College is more than a qualification, it is a launchpad.

It offers students:

A faster route to university
Structured academic and pastoral support
Clear progression pathways
Confidence to thrive in a UK university environment

For students ready to take the next step with clarity and purpose, the Westerfield University Foundation Programme provides the foundation they need to succeed.

Programme Fees

Click here to view the fees for this programme.

Why Choose This

Guaranteed entry into partner universities upon successful completion
Academic English & UCAS support included
Dedicated university placement mentors

Why it Matters

As the world becomes more interconnected, students need a strong academic foundation and cultural awareness to succeed. Westerfield College’s University Foundation Programme empowers you to become a well-rounded, confident scholar ready to make an impact on the global stage.

Complete the form to start your application.

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