Purcell School for Young Musicians

Mission statement

“The mission of The Purcell School is to provide young musicians who demonstrate the potential to become exceptional (irrespective of background) with outstanding teaching within a supportive school environment and to equip them with the self-confidence, adaptability, maturity and perspective to sustain their professional development and personal fulfilment throughout their lives.”

Academics

Whilst music is a key focus of the school both academically and outside of school hours, Purcell School also takes pride in its wider academic programme within which students excel across a range of subjects. In 2021, pupils at Purcell School achieved a 100% pass rate at A Level – 66% of grades were between A* and A and 88% were a grade B or above. In the same year, 97% of GCSE results were a grade B or higher, with 77% of results between A* and A. After finishing their education at Purcell School, most pupils go on to study at prestigious music colleges such as the Royal Academy of Music and the Royal College of Music, both of which are in London. For the smaller number of pupils who choose to go to traditional universities, some previous destinations include Cambridge, Bristol, Durham and Birmingham City University.

Activities & sports

Additional activities outside of school hours focus heavily on music and students are encouraged to participate in the multitude of orchestras, choirs, bands and ensembles at Purcell to further hone their musical skill outside of class. Furthermore, the school puts on regular concerts, giving students the opportunity to perform in front of large audiences.

International student community

Purcell is proud to welcome students from all over the world and to promote diversity and inclusion. Almost 20% of students at the school speak English as a second language, and the school offers English as an Additional Language (EAL) classes, either in small groups or one-to-one, to cater to the needs of each student and help them to make a smooth transition into a predominantly English-speaking British school.

Boarding life

At Purcell, almost 80% of students are boarders, so the school is accustomed to taking care of students and creating a supportive and safe environment for them to learn in. There are also plenty of weekend activities and social events that help to build a tight-knit and interconnected community of students who all know and look out for one another. The boarding houses all have common rooms and small kitchens, so it is easy for students to socialise and make friends. However, all students eat communally in the main dining hall. Boarders have access to the school’s facilities including practice rooms and computers, even outside of school hours. The dedicated boarding staff team helps students adjust to boarding life quickly and is always available if a child ever has a problem.