MPW (Mander Portman Woodward)
One of the UK's leading names in fifth and sixth-form education with colleges in London, Birmingham and Cambridge.
Key Information
We offer a distinctive alternative to traditional schools, with an approach defined by an outstanding level of individual support. Our classes are taught in small, Oxbridge-style groups, with a strong focus on exam preparation and extensive support throughout the university application process. You can choose from a broad curriculum with A levels offered in over 40 subjects and prestigious university foundation programmes, including our new UAL endorsed Foundation Diploma in Art and Design.
History of the School
The college was founded in Chelsea in 1973 by three University of Cambridge graduates - Mander, Portman and Woodward. MPW expanded, opening its Birmingham campus in 1980 and the Cambridge campus in 1987. Today MPW is one of the UK's best known and most respected college groups.
Pre-16 qualifications
2 Year GCSE 1 Year GCSE Pre-GCSE/Pre-A Level
Post 16 qualifications
2 Year A Level 1 Year A Level NCUK International Foundation Year (Science, Engineering, Business, Humanities, Computer Science) MPW University Foundation Programme (Business, Humanities, Science, Engineering, Sports Science and Psychology) UAL Foundation Diploma in Art and Design
Academic performance
MPW has a highly consistent record of exam results across all three of our colleges. The most commonly achieved result at A Level is A*/A. Our departing class of 2024 have contributed to an outstanding and consistent performance across the group over the past five years with 45% of grades achieved at A*/A and 70% A*-B. Students graduating from our NCUK International Foundation Year achieved an impressive 61% of grades at A*/A and 80% at A*-B.
Boarding accommodation
Since 2023, MPW has had an outstanding boarding facility for students in London aged 14-16. Stylish en-suite bedrooms offer a comfortable space in which you can study and relax. Our accommodation for students aged 16 or over is provided by KSS, a wholly owned subsidiary of MPW. You can choose from a range of smart, modern residences located in highly desirable areas close to each of our colleges.
Pastoral care
We recognise that being away from home and new to the British educational system; international students require extra support and assistance. MPW offers strong and sympathetic pastoral care to students and families. Each students is assigned to a personal tutor whose role is to supervise students' academic progress, university applications and general welfare. Whilst the personal tutor will be the go-to contact for most matters, we understand that students might often need more than academic support. We therefore have an outstanding counselling system to support students with mental health issues.
Extra-curricular activities
Being a student isn't just about what happens in the classroom, it's also about the unforgettable experiences outside of it that shape you as a young person. Each MPW college offers a wide choice of extra-curricular activities for you to enjoy through the academic year. From competitions and charity events, through sports, games, clubs and societies, to epic outdoor adventures, you are sure to find activities that you'll love.
General school facilities
Classroom facilities are designed to make the most of our teaching model of fewer than 10 students per group - seminar configurations and tutor presentations via interactive whiteboard or group discussion. Students have access to computers throughout the colleges for private study including in the college libraries. A wireless network is available through the college buildings for students to use their own laptops, tablets and smartphones. With a wide range of subjects on offer, we have specialist classrooms and laboratories to cater for all.
A Quick Summary
We welcome a large number of international students each year from over 80 different countries, therefore we are very experienced in supporting such students to be successful within the British educational system. We achieve excellent feedback in our government inspection reports and inspectors highlight how our international students go on to be as successful as their domestic peers.
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