Widening Access

Working together with the Under School, Westminster runs the Platform programme, which is an annual academic enrichment programme for gifted and talented Year 5 pupils from the maintained sector primary schools in London.

Through this programme, we aim to nourish pupils’ academic potential and grow their confidence. The programme is led by teaching staff at the Under School and focuses on the academic development of pupils in a range of subject areas with an emphasis on English, Maths and Science. Time is dedicated to problem solving, working together, thinking independently and, most importantly, giving each child the opportunity to discover their talents. They also get to have fun outside the classroom with a range of sporting and extra-curricular activities, making use of the school’s nearby Sports Centre and the playing fields at Vincent Square.

Students are nominated in the Autumn by the Headteachers of primary schools, and the programme runs on ten Saturdays through the calendar year, starting in January of year 5. During this programme, we offer advice to parents and families interested in pursuing an application for their son or daughter to academically selective schools in both the state and maintained sectors, including Westminster School.

For more information on the programme, please contact oliver.hopwood@westminster.org.uk and see our web pages at westminsterplatform.org.uk.