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At City of London Freemen’s School, a shared commitment to learn, lead, and make a difference is at the heart of everything. Pupils are encouraged to embrace their individuality, supported by dedicated teachers who inspire them to explore new ideas, challenge themselves, and develop a lifelong love of learning. With curiosity and ambition, they grow into confident, independent individuals who are not only prepared to step into the world but to shape it.
Situated within the stunning 57-acre Ashtead Park in Surrey, just 30 minutes from central London, Freemen’s offers a unique blend of historic charm and state-of-the-art facilities. More than just a beautiful setting, it is a thriving, inclusive community where pupils from over 30 countries come together to learn, grow, and discover their potential. Here, every child is supported to develop their strengths, excel academically and personally, and find their own path – both at Freemen’s and beyond.
Freemen’s is a co-educational day and boarding school for students aged 7 to 18, and its results speak for themselves. Year after year, students achieve exceptional academic success, with 72% of A Level students recently securing A*/A grades and 68% of GCSE students earning A*s. However, success at Freemen’s is about far more than just grades – it is about developing well-rounded individuals who are prepared to lead, innovate, and make a meaningful impact on the world.
Freemen’s was originally founded in 1854, becoming one of three schools to be owned by the City of London Corporation. Source: City of London Freemen’s School
Learning Beyond the Classroom
Education at Freemen’s extends well beyond traditional academics. The school’s dynamic co-curricular programme fosters resilience, teamwork, and communication – essential life skills that help shape students’ futures. With activities taking place before and after school, as well as during lunch breaks, students have endless opportunities to explore their interests and passions.
“We see students surprised by what they’re capable of, and this confidence stays with them – helping them tackle challenges with enthusiasm and an open mind, both at school and in the wider world,” says Jamie Shore-Nye, Head of Co-Curricular.
With over 150 clubs to choose from, there is truly something for everyone. Around 90% of students take part in sports such as football, hockey, and swimming, while others immerse themselves in music, drama, and dance. Some even pursue unique interests like karaoke and origami.
Perhaps most importantly, these activities cultivate leadership. Older students are encouraged to establish their own clubs, creating inspiring and supportive spaces for younger students to learn new skills and find role models among their peers. The origami club, for instance, was founded by two Sixth Formers who recently led younger students in calming paper bird-making sessions.
“Leadership is at the heart of our ethos, and it’s incredible to see Sixth Formers establishing their own clubs,” Shore-Nye adds. “These opportunities not only prepare our students for university teams and future endeavours but also gives them the confidence to innovate, take initiative, and lead with purpose.”
Beyond the school grounds, Freemen’s students take part in enriching experiences through programmes such as the Combined Cadet Force (CCF) and the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE). School trips frequently take students abroad, with past excursions spanning Europe, the USA, and Africa, where they visit local businesses, learn from guest speakers, and gain new perspectives on the world.
Freemen’s continues to support their students even after they graduate, providing them with an extensive alumni network. Source: City of London Freemen’s School
Preparing for the Future
Freemen’s dedication to its students extends well beyond their time at school. The school offers a strong alumni network and lifelong support, helping them navigate their university and career journeys.
As one of three independent schools owned by the City of London Corporation, Freemen’s provides students with access to prestigious opportunities. Take Heads of School, Jonah and Natalia, for example. In December 2024, they attended the Lord Mayor’s Banquet at Guildhall, where they met UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer.
“It was lovely and quite a privilege to be able to take part in such an old tradition and meet so many politically significant people,” says Natalia. “The bond that the school has with the City of London is really special.”
For Jonah, the experience was equally memorable. “Meeting the Prime Minister was a special moment, and his openness to talk to us students was particularly impressive,” he says. “Being in a room with some of the country’s most powerful leaders was a humbling and unforgettable experience.”
Opportunities like these are an integral part of the Freemen’s journey. The school’s connections to livery companies, Guilds, and the City of London open doors to prizes, travel awards, career guidance, and exclusive events. More than that, they inspire students to understand their role in a broader societal context – giving them the confidence to contribute meaningfully to the world.
From the classroom to the wider community, Freemen’s nurtures young people who are ready to learn, lead, and make a difference. Wherever their paths take them next, they carry with them the values, knowledge, and experiences that set them up for success.
