Wellington College has been shortlisted for Independent School of the Year for Contribution to Social Mobility at the 2025 Independent Schools of the Year Awards, held in association with School Blazer.
The nomination recognises Wellington College’s long-standing commitment to increasing access and opportunity for young people from all backgrounds. Through fully funded Prince Albert Foundation (PAF) scholarships, the five-year Wheeler Programme with local state schools, and community-facing initiatives such as the Wellington College Arts Fund, the College continues to champion an education that is both excellent and inclusive.
This year’s awards attracted a record number of entries, with hundreds of schools across 25 categories sharing stories of impact. Chair of the judging panel, Dr Helen Wright, praised the “resilience and determination” shown by schools in a time of challenge and change, and commended their efforts to prepare students as global citizens with purpose and character.
At Wellington, social mobility is not just an initiative it is part of the College’s culture. From PAF scholarships and the Wheeler Programme, which supports local pupils from Year 9 to Year 13, to the Arts Fund that enables creative opportunities in local schools, the College’s work is rooted in a belief that every young person should have the chance to thrive.
A list of Finalists will be published on 9 September and the winners, chosen by the Independent Schools of the Year judging panel made up of sector leaders, will be announced at an awards ceremony in October.
