The MPW Group is an exceptional college brand dedicated to providing a bespoke and student-centered educational experience.
With over 40 years of excellence in teaching, MPW offers GCSEs and A-levels in more than 40 subjects, serving students from Year 10 upwards.
It prides itself on its small class sizes, with fewer than 10 students per class, fostering a focused and supportive environment for academic success.
Through personalized attention, expert faculty, and a strong focus on exam preparation, MPW empowers students to achieve their goals while preparing them for higher education and beyond.
MPW London History
Founded in 1973 by three Cambridge University graduates—Sir Nicholas Mander, Rodney Portman, and Robert Woodward—MPW was established with the vision of bringing the educational principles that shaped their own academic experiences to school-age students.
This vision centered on small classes, a robust tutorial system, and exceptional teaching within an informal yet disciplined atmosphere.
Over the past five decades, MPW has grown into one of the most respected independent college brands in the UK, with campuses in London, Birmingham, and Cambridge.
As it celebrates its 50th anniversary, MPW continues to uphold its founding ideals, preparing students for academic excellence and successful futures.
Education at MPW London
MPW London emphasizes personalized learning, academic excellence, and rigorous exam preparation.
Small class sizes, with a maximum of 10 students per class, allow for individualized attention and a focused learning environment. This setup fosters a disciplined atmosphere where students can thrive.
The curriculum is designed to be exam-centric, with frequent assessments through tests, mock exams, and timed assignments to refine exam techniques and track progress.
Highly qualified staff, many of whom serve as examiners and textbook authors, go beyond conventional teaching methods to offer both challenge and support, ensuring that students can achieve their full academic potential.
GCSE Programs
- One-Year and Two-Year Courses: MPW offers both one-year and two-year GCSE programs to accommodate different student needs and learning paces.
- Small Class Sizes: With an average of six students per class, GCSE students receive personalized attention and support from experienced teachers.
- Strong Pastoral Care: The college provides a robust pastoral support system to guide students through their academic journey.
- Transfer and Retake Options: MPW offers programs for students transferring from other institutions or seeking to retake exams.
A-Level Programs
- One-Year and Two-Year Courses: MPW provides both one-year and two-year A-Level courses to cater to different student requirements.
- Diverse Subject Range: Students can choose from a wide range of A-Level subjects, including traditional and modern options.
- Transfer Opportunities: MPW offers transfer opportunities at the end of Year 12 for students who wish to change subjects or restart their studies.
- Retake Options: Short retake courses are available for students aiming to improve their grades.
By offering a flexible and comprehensive range of programs, MPW London empowers students to achieve their academic goals and prepare for successful futures.
Boarding at MPW London
Experience the epitome of boarding school life at MPW London's Queen's Gate House.
Nestled in the heart of South Kensington, this state-of-the-art facility offers a unique and enriching experience for students aged 14 and above, combining comfort, convenience, and cultural immersion.
Queen’s Gate House provides a stylish and supportive living environment, ideal for students to thrive academically and socially while experiencing the best of London.
Comfortable Accommodations
- Stylish En-Suite Bedrooms: Each student enjoys a private, comfortable bedroom with an en-suite bathroom, perfect for studying and relaxing. Rooms are equipped with modern amenities, including individual temperature control, ample storage space, and a small double bed and desk.
- Gourmet Dining: The college restaurant offers international cuisine, catering to various dietary preferences, and serves as a social hub where students can relax, socialize, and enjoy delicious meals throughout the day.
Prime Location
- Cultural Hub: Situated in the very heart of South Kensington, Queen's Gate House overlooks the Natural History Museum and is moments away from world-renowned academic and cultural attractions, including Imperial College, the Royal College of Art, and the Royal College of Music. Museums such as the Science Museum and V&A, as well as the iconic Royal Albert Hall, are also nearby.
- Green Spaces: Hyde Park, London’s largest green space, is just at the end of the street, providing a peaceful escape in the city. The area also boasts a vibrant food and café culture, adding to the excitement of student life.
Exclusive Facilities
- Sky Lounge: On the top floor of Queen's Gate House, boarders will enjoy a stunning sky lounge with panoramic views of South Kensington, offering an exclusive space for relaxation and socializing.
- Safety and Security: The college ensures the well-being of students with 24/7 supervision by a dedicated boarding team, advanced security measures, including controlled access and CCTV surveillance, ensuring a secure environment.
Available from September 2022
Queen’s Gate House offers a fantastic opportunity for students to experience life in one of London’s most prestigious and vibrant neighborhoods.
MPW London Facilities
A State-of-the-Art Learning Environment
MPW London is committed to providing a top-notch learning environment that fosters academic excellence.
The college's facilities are designed to enhance the learning experience and cater to the diverse needs of its students.
Accommodation
- En-suite Bedrooms: Students have their own stylish, self-contained bedrooms, offering a comfortable space to study and relax. Each room features an en-suite bathroom, a small double bed, individual temperature control, a desk, and storage.
Dining
- College Restaurant: The college restaurant offers a diverse menu of quality food, available morning, noon, and night. With options to suit every taste, students can choose from delicious hot meals inspired by cuisines from around the world, as well as fresh sandwiches and salads. The restaurant also provides a social space for students to socialize and relax.
Academic Facilities
- Classrooms: Queen's Gate House is home to numerous classrooms, offering students easy access to lessons without leaving the building.
- Intimate Learning Spaces: Classrooms are configured to accommodate small groups, promoting active participation and personalized attention.
- Advanced Technology: Each classroom is equipped with cutting-edge audio-visual technology, including interactive whiteboards, to facilitate engaging and dynamic lessons.
- Dedicated Labs: The college boasts specialized laboratories for subjects like science, computer science, and the arts, providing hands-on learning opportunities.
Departmental Organization
MPW London's departmental structure ensures that students receive expert instruction in each subject area. The dedicated departments, such as Science, Arts, and Humanities, offer:
- Specialized Labs: State-of-the-art laboratories for conducting experiments and research.
- Creative Studios: Well-equipped studios for art, photography, ceramics, textiles, and graphic design.
- Performance Spaces: Facilities for drama, music, and film studies.
Student Life
- Study Spaces: The college provides multiple study areas, including libraries and computer labs, to facilitate independent learning.
- Relaxation Zones: The Internet Café offers a relaxed atmosphere for both study and leisure.
- Recreational Spaces: The recreational spaces offer students the opportunity to relax and socialize, including the college restaurant with its comfy sofas and games, a large event hall for sports and exhibitions, and a fantastic outdoor terrace.
Safety and Security
- 24/7 Support: The boarding team is on-site 24 hours a day to provide support and guidance.
- Secure Environment: The college features a secure reception, controlled access to individual floors and zones, and CCTV monitoring.
MPW London's commitment to providing a conducive learning environment, coupled with its experienced faculty and rigorous academic programs, ensures that students are well-prepared for their future endeavors.
Admissions for International Students
Key Steps for International Students:
- Interview: All international applicants must attend an interview, typically in the UK. However, in certain cases, interviews may be conducted in the student's home country.
- English Language Proficiency:
- International students who haven't studied GCSE or an equivalent in an English-speaking school must take an entrance test and/or a recognized English language test (like IELTS).
- A minimum IELTS score of 5.5-6.5 (depending on the program) is usually required.
- Academic Background:
- Provide a certified English-language transcript of the most recent academic years.
- Demonstrate a strong academic record across various subjects.
- Articulate the understanding of the UK education system and future academic/career goals during the interview.
Accommodation for International Students in London:
- Queen's Gate House: A modern boarding facility in South Kensington for students aged 14 and above.
Visa and Documentation Requirements:
- Student Visa: International students who are not British or Irish citizens and do not hold a visa permitting study in the UK will need a Student Visa. MPW can issue a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) to facilitate the visa application process.
- Required Documents:
- Passport
- Academic transcripts
- Proof of English language proficiency
- Proof of financial support
- Evidence of educational guardianship (for students under 18)
By adhering to these requirements and following the guidance provided by MPW, international students can successfully navigate the admissions process and embark on their academic journey in the UK.
Application Process
MPW Admissions Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
Prospective students can initiate the admissions process by requesting a prospectus pack from the College Registrar or the International Recruitment Team.
This pack contains valuable information such as the college prospectus, course outlines, and specific materials for students aiming for careers in Art, Medicine, Law, or entry to Oxford/Cambridge Universities.
Step 1: Interview
- Scheduling: Interviews are arranged by the College Registrar or International Recruitment Team. Parents, guardians, or agents can accompany students under 16.
- Open Days and Taster Days: Prospective students are encouraged to attend Open Days or Taster Days to experience the college environment, meet faculty, and interact with current students.
- Interview Purpose: Interviews are conducted to:
- Explain the college's academic and extracurricular offerings.
- Assess the student's suitability for the chosen course(s).
- Provide career and higher education guidance.
- Allow students and parents to explore the college.
- Determine if MPW can provide a suitable academic program.
- Answer any questions from the student or parents.
- Interview Conduct: Interviews are conducted by senior staff or the International Recruitment Team, often in collaboration with relevant Heads of Department.
Step 2: Assessments
- Entrance Tests:
- Prospective GCSE students may be required to take a Mathematics and English Language entry test.
- Students whose first language isn't English will likely need to take an IELTS or PASSWORD test. International students also require entry tests for Math and English unless they can provide official evidence of meeting entry requirements.
- Prospective A-level students typically need at least six GCSEs at grades 9-4 (A*-C) or an equivalent qualification. Specific grades in subjects like Math and Modern Languages may be required if continuing those subjects at A-level.
- NCUK students need minimum passes in five separate GCSEs at grades 9-5 (A*-low B) or equivalent, fluency in English (demonstrated through IELTS, GCSE English at grade 5 or above, etc.), and a strong background in high school science (for Science and Engineering streams).
Step 3: References
- Requirement: A satisfactory reference from the applicant's previous school is required for a place offer.
- Reference Content: The reference request includes a pro-forma form with details about safeguarding, academic ability, motivation, and behavior. Recent school reports are also requested. In some cases, phone references from senior teachers may be obtained.
- Processing Timeline: References may be delayed during peak admission periods (mid-August to early September) due to school closures. However, references are followed up as soon as possible. The college reserves the right to revoke an offer if the reference contains relevant information not disclosed during the interview.
Step 4: Special Needs and Disabilities
- MPW Facilities: While current facilities for the disabled are limited, the college will make reasonable adjustments to comply with legal and moral responsibilities under the Equality Act 2010 and SEN and Disability Code of Practice to accommodate student needs.
- Disclosure: Parents must provide full details of any disability or special needs before or during the admissions process.
- Needs Assessment: A special needs assessment may be conducted by the Head of Academic Support to determine if MPW can accommodate the student and the nature of necessary academic support.
- Ongoing Support: If a student registers, the Head of Academic Support will gather relevant information to create a Student SEN Profile. If a disability arises after admission, the college will work with parents to find reasonable adjustments.
Step 5: Offer and Registration
- Interview Requirement: No student receives an offer without attending an interview.
- Offer Notification: After the interview, parents receive a letter summarizing educational advice and confirming an offer (conditional unless stated otherwise). If a student under 18 attends the interview alone, further communication with the parent is required before registration.
- Registration Process: Upon receiving an offer, parents will be issued with relevant registration forms. Completing and returning these forms, followed by MPW's acknowledgement, completes the enrollment process. Payment of the registration fee (part of the enrollment process) confirms acceptance of the college's terms and conditions (outlined in the registration form and prospectus).
MPW London Fees
Tuition Fees for the Academic Year 2024-2025
Fees are due before each term.
MPW London offers a flexible fee structure that is tailored to individual student needs. The tuition fees vary depending on the number and level of courses being studied.
Key Points:
- No Fixed Annual Fee: The college does not have a fixed annual fee for each year group.
- Flexible Course Combinations: Students can combine courses across different year groups to suit their academic goals.
- Basic Full-Time Fee: The basic fee for full-time students at both A-level and GCSE levels is £12,210 per term.