Winchester College

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Winchester College is an independent boarding school for boys in Winchester, Hampshire, England. It was founded in 1382 by William of Wykeham, the Bishop of Winchester, and has a long-standing reputation for academic excellence and a rich history.

History

Winchester College was established in 1382 by William of Wykeham, who was also the founder of New College, Oxford. The school was intended to provide an education for 70 poor scholars who would then proceed to New College. The original statutes of the college were drawn up in 1400 and have been modified over the centuries to adapt to changing educational needs.

Campus

The college is situated on extensive grounds in the city of Winchester, with a mix of historic and modern buildings. The main buildings include the Chapel of Winchester College, which dates back to the 14th century, and the Warden's Lodgings, which is the residence of the head of the college.

Academics

Winchester College is known for its rigorous academic standards. The school follows the National Curriculum but also offers a wide range of subjects beyond the standard curriculum. The college has a strong tradition in the Classics, and many students go on to study at prestigious universities, including Oxford University and Cambridge University.

Extracurricular Activities

The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and drama. The college has its own playing fields, a swimming pool, and facilities for various sports such as cricket, rugby, and rowing. The music department is highly regarded, and students have the opportunity to participate in choirs, orchestras, and other musical ensembles.

Notable Alumni

Winchester College has produced many notable alumni, known as Old Wykehamists. These include:

• Hugh Gaitskell, former leader of the Labour Party (UK)
• Rishi Sunak, current Prime Minister of the United Kingdom
• George Mallory, famous mountaineer who took part in the first three British expeditions to Mount Everest

Traditions

The college has many long-standing traditions, including the annual Wykeham Day, which celebrates the founder's legacy. Another notable tradition is the Election Roll, a list of scholars who have excelled academically.

Governance

The college is governed by a Warden and Fellows, who are responsible for the overall management and strategic direction of the school. The Warden is the head of the college and is supported by a team of senior staff.

Related Pages

• William of Wykeham
• New College, Oxford
• Public school (United Kingdom)
• Independent school (United Kingdom)
• Winchester