Wellington College International to Open First African School in Lagos by 2027

Wellington College International to Launch its First African School

Wellington College International has officially announced the establishment of its first school on the African continent, Wellington College International Lagos. This groundbreaking initiative marks a significant milestone in expanding world-class British education within Africa. The formal announcement took place during a ceremony held at the prestigious Metropolitan Club in Lagos, attended by esteemed leaders from Wellington College Education and Rendeavour, alongside representatives from government, business, and the diplomatic community.

Scheduled to open its doors in September 2027, Wellington College International Lagos will operate as a co-educational boarding and day school, accommodating up to 1,500 students aged 3 to 18 years. The school will implement the English national curriculum, covering all key stages from Key Stage 1 through to A-Levels. By melding Wellington College's rich academic heritage with local Nigerian and regional strengths, the institution aims to provide a comprehensive education that nurtures intellect, character, and leadership.

Located in Alaro City, the flagship new city developed by Rendeavour within the Lekki Free Zone, the school's expansive 12.5-hectare campus has been meticulously designed by the award-winning British firm MICA Architects. The facilities will support excellence in various disciplines, including academics, sports, music, arts, and pastoral care while positioning itself at the forefront of innovation in fields like artificial intelligence and entrepreneurship.

Noteworthy features of the school will include Nigeria's first private Olympic-size swimming pool, a state-of-the-art performing arts theatre, a fully equipped medical center, integrated STEM laboratories, a multipurpose sports complex, outdoor courts, a 400-meter athletics track, and a full-sized rugby field.

Paresh Thakrar, the Managing Director of Wellington College International, shared that this partnership lays a strong foundation for excellence. “The long-standing reputation of Wellington College as a leading UK boarding and day school, combined with Rendeavour's expertise in building Africa's most ambitious new cities, sets a new benchmark for education on the continent and prepares youth to thrive in a rapidly changing world.”

Stephen Jennings, the Founder and CEO of Rendeavour, highlighted the essential role of education in ensuring Africa’s long-term growth. “Wellington College International Lagos represents a significant investment in Africa's future, helping to prepare the next generation of leaders who will drive innovation, prosperity, and inclusive development across the continent.”

The new institution will further enhance Alaro City’s position as a fully integrated urban ecosystem. Envisioned on a sprawling 2,000-hectare site, Alaro City will feature residential neighborhoods, commercial and industrial districts, healthcare, hospitality services, and more than 150 hectares of green and recreational spaces.

Wellington College International Lagos will be the first of its kind in Africa and the eleventh globally, joining a network spanning the UK, China, Thailand, Indonesia, and India, which collectively educates over 10,000 students worldwide.