Wellington College International Announces First African School in Lagos Opening in 2027
Wellington College International to Open in Lagos
In a significant announcement, Wellington College International has revealed plans for its inaugural African school, set to launch in Alaro City, Lagos, by September 2027. This milestone represents a major step in expanding world-class British education across the African continent.
The official launch ceremony, held at the Metropolitan Club in Lagos, was attended by prominent figures, including executives from both Wellington College International and Rendeavour, along with government officials, business leaders, and diplomatic representatives. This impressive gathering underscored the importance of the initiative and the collaborative effort behind it.
The new institution, Wellington College International Lagos, will serve as a co-educational boarding and day school, providing education for up to 1,500 students aged between 3 and 18. The curriculum will follow the English National Curriculum, from Key Stage 1 to A-Levels, combining Wellington College's esteemed academic tradition with local and regional strengths to offer a holistic education aimed at developing intellect, character, and entrepreneurial spirit.
A State-of-the-Art Campus
Located in the flagship Alaro City, a new development in the Lekki Free Trade Zone created by Rendeavour, the school will occupy a sprawling 12.5-hectare campus. Designed by the award-winning MICA Architects from the UK, the campus promises cutting-edge facilities that support excellence in academics, sports, music, arts, and pastoral care. Additionally, Wellington College International Lagos aims to be at the forefront of innovation, integrating fields like artificial intelligence and entrepreneurship into its educational approach.
Notably, the school will feature the first 50-meter Olympic swimming pool in a Lagos private school, a state-of-the-art performing arts theater, fully equipped medical facilities, integrated STEM labs, an indoor sports complex, multi-purpose outdoor courts, a 400-meter athletics track, and a full-size rugby field. These exceptional facilities are designed to empower students to excel in various domains while promoting a well-rounded educational experience.
Paresh Thakrar, the Managing Director of Wellington College International, emphasized that this partnership establishes a firm foundation for educational excellence. He stated, "The long-standing reputation of Wellington College as a leading co-educational school in the UK, combined with Rendeavour's expertise in developing ambitious new cities in Africa, sets a new benchmark for education on the continent and empowers youth to thrive in a rapidly changing world."
Stephen Jennings, Founder and CEO of Rendeavour, reinforced the importance of education in Africa's long-term growth. He commented, "Wellington College International Lagos signifies a significant investment in Africa's future, helping prepare the next generation of leaders who will drive innovation, prosperity, and inclusive development across the continent."
The establishment of this school also enhances Alaro City’s profile as a fully integrated urban ecosystem. Spread across 2,000 hectares, Alaro City encompasses residential areas, commercial and industrial zones, schools, healthcare facilities, and over 150 hectares of green and recreational spaces.
This will be the Wellington College's debut in Africa, adding to its global network of institutions situated in the UK, China, Thailand, Indonesia, and India, which collectively educate over 10,000 students worldwide.
In summary, the opening of Wellington College International Lagos heralds a new chapter in African education, bringing with it opportunities for students to receive a high-quality British education in a rapidly evolving urban landscape. As the school edges closer to its 2027 launch, it represents hope and progress in the realm of educational development across the continent.