St. Swithun's School was founded in 1884 and moved to its present fine site of 30 acres on the Downs a mile to the east of Winchester in 1931. It is very close to the M3; Heathrow and Gatwick airports are easily accessible and there is a frequent train service to London (Waterloo). It is a school for both Day Girls and Boarders and at present the Senior School (girls aged 11-18) has 223 Boarders, of whom 170 are Weekly Boarders, and 234 Day Girls. There is an adjoining Junior School for girls aged 3-11 and boys up to the age of 8 years.
The School aims to give a broad, balanced academic education in which each girl has the opportunity to make appropriate choices which will enable her to develop her potential and give her the skills and confidence needed for adult life. Most girls continue to University, including Oxford and Cambridge, and all continue to some form of Higher Education and training. The School has a strong musical tradition and there are extensive playing fields and a spacious modern sports hall. In 1994 a new indoor swimming pool was completed. There is an extensive range of extra-curricular activities and an organised programme of visits and activities at the week-end. The curriculum is extended by exchange visits to France and Germany, and educational visits to other countries.
The School grows and flourishes in a way appropriate to the present day, but it is very firmly rooted in its traditions and the fine things of its past. Within a framework of sensible discipline, there really is a remarkably friendly and caring atmosphere in the School.
