About Us | Wetherby School

The Perfect Setting for Every Child to Thrive

The extensive list of inspiring success stories of former students embodies our vision for children to dream big and pursue their unique talents and personal growth.

Wetherby provides an environment that promotes educational excellence and tradition through a forward-thinking, holistic curriculum, which meets the needs of individual pupils. With our individualised learning strategies, each boy learns to challenge himself, pursue high standards, and seek accomplishment in all he does so that his talents shine through.

Our firm commitment is to make sure each boy has a tailored path to help him progress efficiently and leave Wetherby with the practical and intellectual skill set and proactive mindset necessary to thrive in academics and well beyond, having built a solid foundation for success in all future endeavours.

The results speak for themselves: our students achieve the best academic outcomes in London, access the most prestigious prep schools, and later enjoy fascinating careers in various industries.

Our History

In 1951, Margaret and Gerald Russell opened Wetherby School in a smart building on Wetherby Place, Kensington, the basis of what would soon be a highly sought-after independent school.

Today, boys attend two locations – Wetherby Notting Hill and Wetherby Kensington – which deliver outstanding pre-prep education. Children aged 4 to 8 learn inside two five-storey Victorian terraced townhouses, easily recognised thanks to the distinctive red doors that are synonymous with Wetherby School. For nearly half a century, generations of young boys have passed through the Wetherby doors wearing the neat grey-and-crimson uniform, the appearance of which has remained largely unchanged for many years.

Wetherby boys flourish in our exceptional, nurturing school environment, carefully crafted to foster their unique talents and unlock their full potential. In the face of striking educational and social change, moreover, Wetherby School has continued to provide the top pre-prep offering in London, while serving as a benchmark of excellence in independent education.

Our Vision

Dream Big, Do Your Best, Be Ready

Wetherby is a vibrant community dedicated to providing the opportunity to pursue dreams, personal excellence and individual growth while celebrating grace, grit and courage.

Wetherby Through the Years

1951

Wetherby School is founded by Mr and Mrs Gerald Russell in Wetherby Place, London. The school begins educating 100 boys at the Kensington building.

1971

Wetherby moves to Pembridge Square, W2 4ED, and becomes part of Davies, Laing and Dick Educational Group with its own board of governors.

2002

Wetherby School joins the Alpha Plus Group.

2004

Wetherby Preparatory School opens with 24 boys in Year 4. The school grows organically and provides education to 385 boys from Years 3 to 8.

2009

The school moves to larger premises at Bryanston Square and continues to grow.

2015

The school acquires its own sporting facility, Wetherby Sports Ground, in East Acton.

2015

Wetherby Senior School opens in Marylebone.

2016

Alpha Plus acquires premises in Wetherby Gardens, SW5, and opens another school.

2017

Wetherby School Kensington opens in September 2017 as a two-form entry school with classes from Reception to Year 3.

2023

Alpha Plus joins Inspired Education, the global group of premium schools, delivering world-class opportunities for our boys to excel in the classroom and beyond.

Behind the Red Doors

Behind the red doors at Wetherby is a wealth of fun and activity. We believe all boys should be happy, well-rounded and confident learners, who are respectful, thoughtful and motivated Wetherby Ambassadors. Integrity, kindness and good manners are at the heart of what we do.

An atmosphere of care is cultivated inside and outside of school; this is for everyone’s benefit – the children, parents, staff and community – and ensures every boy has a happy, fulfilling school experience. At Wetherby School, we are committed to providing a caring, friendly and safe environment, so that all boys can reach their full potential.

We are very particular about the boys’ manners and conduct both in school and outside. Our boys are proud to wear the Wetherby uniform and be an ambassador for their school. Trust, respect, honesty and a hard-working attitude are intrinsic to everything we teach.

The school year is crammed with activities and learning opportunities, and every single boy will find something in which he will excel. Our motto, “Excellence in Education”, is reflected in everything you will find behind the red doors – academic and pastoral – and promoted by us, the staff, across school life.

Learn more about our school's exemplary learning approach and discover how your child can benefit from over seven decades of academic excellence.

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