HISTORY:
In September 1973, three graduates from the University of Cambridge – Sir Nicholas Mander,
Rodney Portman and Robert Woodward – realised a shared ambition. That ambition was to bring
the fundamentals that shaped their own educational experience, delivered by their prestigious alma
mater, to school age students.
Their vision comprised small classes, a strong tutorial system and superb teaching, all set within an
informal atmosphere. Over fifty years on, these fundamentals are still the hallmarks of an MPW
education.
EXTRA-CURRICULAR:
MPW London offers an extensive programme of extra-curricular activities to enjoy throughout the
academic year, with something to suit every interest. Sports and fitness options include football,
tennis, badminton, gym and boxing. Those interested in the arts can take classes in drawing,
photography, ceramics or drama. There are also many clubs and activities including the student
council, Duke of Edinburgh Award, Model UN, chess club and more. Finally, there are programmes to
support progression to university including UCAS Day, and preparation programmes for students
applying to Oxbridge or Medical School.
POST-16 QUALIFICATIONS:
MPW offers the most comprehensive choice of A level options of any academic institution in the UK.
They can be taken over one year, 18-months or two years and subjects are offered with no restrictions on combination or course length. Students normally take three subjects at A level, with the option of also taking an Extended Project Qualification (EPQ). Like at GCSE, classes are limited to
nine students, with regular 1:1 support through the Director of Studies system. The NCUK International Foundation Year, University Foundation Programme and prestigious UAL Foundation Diploma in Art and Design are also offered.
PRE-16 QUALIFICATIONS:
MPW London offers a broad range of subjects at GCSE. Students can choose to study over one year, 18-months or two years, depending on their circumstances. There is an average of just six students per class, and a guaranteed maximum of nine. Each student receives regular 1:1 support from their
Director of Studies, who provide comprehensive academic and pastoral support.
ACCOMMODATION:
The newly refurbished Queen’s Gate House offers a fantastic urban boarding option for students. The building sits moments away from the main college, among a host of world-famous attractions and institutions such as Imperial College, the Natural History Museum and Hyde Park. All rooms feature a double bed, en-suite bathroom, and air conditioning. There is also a large canteen with
food prepared throughout the day by an award-winning caterer. For older students looking for a more independent experience, KSS, a wholly owned subsidiary of MPW, offers attractive accommodation options close to the college.The college has two sites located just moments apart. The main college building is on Queen’s Gate
and comprises a beautiful series of repurposed Victorian town houses. It features fully equipped
classrooms, two libraries, science and ICT labs, creative arts studios and a common room. Up the
road is Queen’s Gate House, an historic and beautifully refurbished building with views over the
Natural History Museum. It provides additional, modern classrooms, a stunning arts studio, a large
canteen and events hall.
PASTORAL:
The college has a mature, socially relaxed atmosphere. Students are on first name terms with their
tutors and there is no school uniform. With 70% UK domestic and 30% international students, it offers a diverse and welcoming community. The Director of Studies system gives students access to 1:1 pastoral support with a trusted mentor, with three college counsellors on hand to offer further support. Boarders at Queen’s Gate House also have access to a team of dedicated Houseparents.
Summer School + Getting Into Guides
The MPW Summer School offers students aged 14-17, the opportunity to study an innovative, high-
quality academic programme, including exclusive content developed by EtonX. Expertly-designed
programmes offer young people the opportunity to explore future careers and traditional academic
subjects in refreshing new ways, while also engaging in modern skills-based approaches to learning
such as critical thinking and creative problem solving. Students enjoy a packed schedule of social and
cultural activities to make the most of their time outside of the classroom, plus lectures and career
talks given by world experts and leading university academics in their respective fields.Getting Into Guides:MPW produces the popular Getting Into series of guides, which aim to give students a competitive
advantage when applying for undergraduate courses and universities. Written in a clear and concise
format by acknowledged experts (most of whom are MPW tutors), they offer applicants
straightforward, practical advice on how to secure a place on the course of their choice. Each title in
the series provides an honest view of what it’s like to study the subject, detailed advice on choosing
the right university or college and guidance on the application procedure, plus top tips for
interviews.