Our Story
A Legacy of Individual Potential
An individual mission
When Sir John Bayley founded Wrekin College in 1880, he envisioned more than just a school—he imagined a place where education would never be one-size-fits-all. “The danger of any school,” he said, “is that of falling into a narrow groove of teaching all children as though they were turned out by Mother Nature in stereotyped fashion… Any successful school is one where each pupil receives individual attention.”
That pioneering spirit still drives us today.
At Wrekin College, we believe education should be transformative.
Our mission is simple yet powerful: to help every pupil discover and become their best self. Everything we do—from our academic curriculum to our co-curricular opportunities—is designed to stretch, challenge, and inspire. Academic excellence is our foundation, but it is personal growth that defines us. Here, pupils are encouraged to reach for their best—because success is not a comparison, but a journey of individual achievement.
This commitment to excellence and personal attention is deeply rooted in our heritage—one that began even earlier, in 1845, with the founding of The Old Hall School, Shropshire’s oldest prep school.
A collective vision
In 2006, a natural evolution took place: Old Hall became part of Wrekin College, forming the Wrekin Old Hall Trust. It was a union built on shared values, longstanding relationships, and a collective vision to provide a continuous and coherent educational journey.
That journey takes its next step in 2025.
From September 2025, Wrekin College enters a new chapter as one united school, educating pupils from age 4 to 18. Old Hall becomes Wrekin Prep, while Wrekin Senior and Wrekin Sixth continue to shape confident, capable young adults. Together, these three stages form a single, integrated school—Wrekin College.
One school. One vision. One extraordinary education.
Our Heritage
Over 150 years of education history
Wrekin Prep started as The Old Hall School in 1845, making it the oldest prep school in Shropshire, while Wrekin College was founded in 1880 with a strong focus on individual care and all-round development. Both schools have grown side by side, sharing values and a commitment to helping every child thrive. Today, they come together on one campus, with Wrekin Prep fully integrated into the Wrekin College family in 2025.
Our Team
The People Who Make Wrekin Home
Our team made up of passionate, expert staff inspire and support every student. With a wealth of experience and a genuine commitment to personal growth, they guide pupils through the challenges and opportunities of these crucial years. Together, they create a vibrant community where every young person is known, valued, and encouraged to thrive.