Set in a stunning coastal location on the Isle of Man, we are a unique school in a very special environment.
As one of the best and most established International Baccalaureate schools in the British Isles, what we value above all is being a strong, friendly community.
Our vibrant, friendly and creative boarding community adds so much to the College environment. There are two boarding houses – Colbourne House for boys and School House for girls.
With a mix of local and international boarders, pupils are given the freedom to become more independent, both socially and academically, fostering friendships which will last a lifetime.
The boarding community represents around 25% of the College population, with many of our local pupils choosing to board. Opting to board at College, be it flexi, weekly or full time, gives pupils the freedom to become more independent both socially and academically.
It encourages pupils to organise their time more efficiently and to strike a healthy balance between work and play. They become more tolerant, more confident and more willing to act as part of a group.
Our boarders have unrivalled access to College facilities and members of staff and can take advantage of the busy weekly and weekend activity programmes.
“The people are nice here and I like the activities. Having the sea right in front of you is what I like best about Island life. You learn a lot here, especially the English language and it’s nice because you always have someone around.”
“I chose this school because it is on an island. I like boarding and the activities we do on weekends. I have been quad biking, pottery painting and lots of other things. The Island gives you a safe life; you can meet your classmates everywhere, the small city and the short distance between everything and the sea are my favourite things. I have joined the Combined Cadet Force, it is a really cool activity and interesting. If you are thinking of joining, I would say do some activities in School, make a lot of friends, be yourself. There is a friendly atmosphere here.”
“I chose King William’s College because it is a small school with only a few boarders. I was told it’s like a small family, which I can attest to. I really like it here. I feel really comfortable and if I have a problem I know that I can go to anyone. I like that boarding offers weekend activities and you never get bored. You live together with your friends and can always do something together. What I like best about Island life is that you live next to the sea and when you go out you have a very beautiful environment. You feel really comfortable here, like a small family. The lessons and the teachers are awesome, so school life gets never boring.”
“I joined the School after an interview with the Principal, who was very nice, and a recommendation from a boy from Hamburg, who I knew. I like boarding at King William’s College, it’s a big community and everyone is nice to each other. I like to play hockey with the Castletown team and the Island team; I joined them outside of College when I arrived, but I also like to hang around with my friends from College. I play Hockey for Castletown and it’s very nice because they train on the School pitch and I play for the Island team, sometimes we go overseas and play against teams in the UK. I would recommend boarding at College; it’s a nice community and the rooms are big. You can always leave the school and and do a lot of things by yourself. You feel pretty free and it’s like a home.”
“I chose to come to King William’s College because it is a small school and everything gave a very relaxed and, above all, family impression. It’s very familiar here; everyone treats you well and it’s a friendly atmosphere. I immediately felt comfortable here and everyone is super nice. I really like the big kitchen in School House where you can always eat. I really like the Island life here. We can always take the bus anywhere; go to Castletown or just take a walk through the beautiful nature. I feel very safe and the people are very friendly. I would definitely recommend KWC, especially if you’re going abroad for the first time, you’re in good hands here. You don’t get the freedom you get here in every boarding school. I feel very comfortable here. Our Housemistress is just perfect, takes care of everyone, is so kind and always in a good mood.”
“I decided to come to King William’s College because I only heard positive things about the School and I liked the idea of living on an Island. I really like the atmosphere and the other boarders at the School. My first impression when I arrived was really good; the feeling of a family, being with my friends. It’s quite free here and I really like the towns and villages. I’m involved in School rugby and I’m in a boxing club, which I joined on the Island. I’m also playing rugby for a club outside school. I really like rugby, because it’s something new compared to where I’m from.”
The surroundings with the sea is beautiful. I also like the mix of towns and a quiet, lovely countryside. I would really recommend it here – everyone is so kind and helpful.”
Head of Boarding
Head of Boarding
Susie has been a member of staff at King William’s College since arriving on the Isle of Man in 2010, where she remains in awe of the Island’s beauty and its friendly community.
Susie became Housemistress of School House in 2012, enjoying ten years of helping students on their journey through College. Now as Head of Boarding, she is passionate about ensuring our boarders feel they have a home from home with us, that everyone is cared for, feels valued and is able to excel.
Susie lives onsite with her family and pets. She previously worked at The University of Cambridge as an Academic Researcher in Neuroscience.
Housemistress of School House
Housemistress of School House
Amanda teaches Biology and Environmental Studies at King William’s College and her favourite aspect of the job is working with our wonderful student community, particularly being a part of international students’ journeys to broaden their horizons and begin exploring the world independently.
Amanda engaged in a PhD, working in a world-renowned laboratory at UCL and as a young professional woman, went on to become a fellow of King’s College at The University of Cambridge in her early 30s. Her work was at the cutting edge of gene and stem cell therapy. She led an international research programme based both in Cambridge and Harvard University. In addition, Amanda spent several months developing science facilities in secondary schools in rural Kenya, fostering a passion to raise the aspirations of young women to achieve their goals.
Housemother of Colbourne House
Housemother of Colbourne House
Wendy has been a Housemother at King William’s College since February 2010. Wendy values the close family feeling in Colbourne House, and helps to foster a safe and caring environment.
Wendy was previously a teacher in Manchester for 30 years, teaching at A Level standard and also teaching outdoor pursuits. Wendy was awarded the BSA Best Housemother Award, which is awarded to the best Housemother out of 35 countries across the world.
Housemother of School House
Housemother of School House
Pauline joined King William’s College in 2021, having spent all of her career working with children and young adults. Pauline enjoys working as part of a committed team and giving the best care to our boarders, finding it both a very fulfilling and rewarding career.
Pauline previously worked for 20 years in a large boarding school in North London, and prior to this, she also worked in the Cathedral School in Chichester, looking after the Chorister boarders.
Head of Colbourne House
Senior Prefect, Colbourne House
Head of School House
Senior Prefect, School House