International students
Wellington College welcomes international students. Our community has been enriched by their presence, through their academic prowess, their fantastic contribution to Music and the Arts and through their incredible sporting abilities. Every student adds their own unique contribution to the college and we embrace the opportunity to provide all of our students with a truly global environment. As an IB school we are committed to fostering an international focus and ‘excellence in education across the globe’ is our benchmark.
Our international students represent approximately 15% of the school and can join any year group. The third form (age 13) and lower sixth form (age 16) are the major years of entry. Some students are British and living overseas, others represent a wide range of nationalities. For a small percentage, English is an additional language but all students must arrive with a reasonable level of fluency with the written and spoken word. Both these and our bi-lingual students are tested on arrival to establish whether any additional language support is necessary. Extra tuition and voice-coaching are available to all. A ‘level students joining the lower sixth must take the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) examination for university entry requirements if they do not have IGCSE/GCSE English Language at grade C or above. Tuition is provided and the test can be taken locally at Surrey University or at an accredited centre in the student’s own country.
Daily life at Wellington is busy and fulfilling but we are mindful of the fact that being far from home can present its own difficulties. Our students’ well-being is our absolute priority. Housemasters, Housemistresses (HM’s) and their teams are always there to offer help and support. International students are assigned peer mentors to guide them through the first few weeks and to help them settle in. In addition to this, the Head of International Students monitors their progress, academically, with specific regard to English, and practically, assisting with matters such as travel, guardianship and visas. ‘Hot chocolate and cookie breaks’ are arranged for small groups of international students to allow them to meet with others of the same nationality in the first half term and themed dinners will take place throughout the year. They can also elect their own international committee who will represent them in the college and help them to organise events and national celebrations.
All students at Wellington College are encouraged to work and play with enthusiasm. They are expected to participate fully in our wide range of academic and cultural activities, our sport and our service programme. They will learn and benefit from every endeavour, acquiring knowledge and life skills that will prepare them for the future wherever that might be in the world. Our international students make a great contribution to the college and it offers them a wealth of opportunities in return.