King William's College
Castletown, Isle of Man
King William's College
Castletown, Isle of Man
Overview
King William's College is situated by the shoreline of Castletown Bay in the safe and tranquil surroundings of the Isle of Man, yet the island's airport is close at hand with connections to the wider world. Founded in 1833, the College aims to educate children to explore and achieve, and to be confident and broad-minded. As one of the UK's most experienced providers of the IB Diploma the breadth and internationalism of the qualification is fundamental to the College's philosophy.
At a glance
Academic
Academic success is encouraged with small class sizes and highly-qualified, enthusiastic teaching staff giving individual guidance and support. The wide academic offering includes over 20 iGCSE course options, a Pre-IB programme and over 25 subjects at IB. Specialist subject clinics, careers advice and interview practice are also given and EAL tuition can be arranged. Exam results are consistently high with an average IB score of 34, whilst 15% of candidates typically gain 40 or more.
Boarding
The 2 lively boarding houses offer accommodation in single or twin bedrooms, featuring cosy communal spaces and a refurbished games and film room. Each house has its own housemaster/housemistress and a live-in housemother providing care and support. Boarders also have access to 24-hour nursing care and full use of school facilities. A busy after-school and weekend programme includes nature trips, island tours, visits to London, and outdoor activities such as karting and mountain-biking.
Sports
The Sports curriculum ranges from traditional team sports to golf, rock-climbing and sailing alongside extra-curricular activities such as fencing, table-tennis and swimming. Pupils regularly compete in tournaments both on the island and on the UK mainland, whilst additional coaching is offered in lunchtime and in after-school clubs. Facilities include 30 acres of playing fields, an indoor swimming pool, a miniature rifle range, tennis and squash courts and an all-weather pitch.
Creative arts
The recently opened Kitto Arts studio has facilities for Art, Pottery, Photography and IT, and provides a wonderful exhibition space. Students have many opportunities to perform, design and direct with a major drama production staged each year, as well as the student-driven House Drama Festival. A range of choirs and musical ensembles perform regularly and the school hosts live streamings of productions from the National Theatre, The Royal Opera and The Royal Ballet.
Did you know?
- The Tourist Trophy motorcycle road-race, or 'TT', takes place on the island each year and is without doubt the greatest challenge any racing motorcyclist can take on.
- Since 1904, the school has run a famously frustrating annual general knowledge test (the GKP). Also popular with non-pupils, it is published in the The Guardian newspaper.
