Background on Millfield School
Millfield School, located in Street, Somerset, is one of the UK’s largest and most prestigious co-educational independent boarding and day schools. Founded in 1935 by Jack ‘Boss’ Meyer, the school has grown to accommodate approximately 1,300 students from ages 13 to 18. The sprawling 240-acre campus offers an inspiring environment that blends cutting-edge facilities with beautiful natural surroundings. Millfield School is renowned for its commitment to nurturing individual brilliance, whether in academics, sports, or the arts.
Millfield has a strong international community, welcoming students from over 70 countries. This diversity creates a rich cultural environment, fostering global awareness and inclusivity among its pupils. The school’s ethos emphasizes the development of the whole person, ensuring that each student has the opportunity to excel and discover their unique talents.
Curriculum and Academic Programmes
Millfield School offers a comprehensive and challenging curriculum designed to cater to a wide range of academic interests and future aspirations. The school’s educational approach combines traditional academic disciplines with modern pedagogical practices.
- GCSE Programme: In Years 10 and 11, students undertake the GCSE curriculum, studying core subjects such as English, mathematics, sciences, a modern foreign language, and humanities. Additionally, elective subjects are available to align with students’ interests and future goals.
- Sixth Form Programme: In the Sixth Form (Years 12 and 13), students can choose between A-Level subjects and the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma, allowing them to specialise in areas they are passionate about and preparing them for higher education. Subjects offered include English literature, mathematics, further mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology, history, geography, economics, modern languages, and more.
- Special Programmes: Millfield places a strong emphasis on sports, arts, and STEM education. The school boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including an Olympic-sized swimming pool, equestrian centre, professional theatre, and extensive sports fields. These programmes support a vibrant extracurricular scene that complements the academic curriculum.
Millfield School consistently achieves excellent academic results, with many students gaining admission to top universities in the UK and around the world, including Oxbridge and other prestigious institutions.
Admission Requirements
Admission to Millfield School is competitive, and early application is recommended. The school seeks to admit students who will benefit from and contribute to its vibrant academic and extracurricular environment.
- Application Process: Prospective students and their parents must complete an online application form and submit the required documents, including academic records, a personal statement, and references.
- Entrance Examinations: Applicants are required to take entrance exams in core subjects such as English and mathematics. These exams assess the applicant’s academic abilities and potential for success at Millfield.
- Interviews: Shortlisted candidates are invited for an interview with a member of the admissions team. The interview provides an opportunity for the school to learn more about the student’s interests, achievements, and aspirations.
- Additional Requirements for International Students: International applicants may need to provide proof of English language proficiency, such as IELTS or TOEFL scores. Millfield School offers support for students who require additional English language training.
Extracurricular Activities and Pastoral Care
Millfield School is renowned for its extensive extracurricular programme, offering students a wide range of opportunities to explore their interests and develop new skills.
- Extracurricular Activities: The school offers a diverse array of activities, including sports (rugby, cricket, football, tennis, etc.), music (orchestra, choir, instrumental lessons), drama (theatre productions, drama clubs), and various clubs and societies (debating, Model United Nations, science club, etc.). These activities are designed to complement the academic curriculum and provide students with a well-rounded education.
- Pastoral Care: The well-being of students is a top priority at Millfield. Each student is assigned to a house, each led by a housemaster who provides guidance and support. The house system fosters a strong sense of community and belonging, ensuring that students feel supported and valued. The school also has a dedicated team of counsellors who provide confidential support for students dealing with personal issues, stress, or anxiety.
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