Wells Cathedral School has announced that His Majesty King Charles III will remain the Patron of the school.
The King made this announcement following a major review of more than 1,000 royal patronages and charity presidencies. Buckingham Palace undertook the review following the King’s accession in September 2022. Although he has had to relinquish hundreds of charities and organisations, Buckingham Palace said that King Charles III has retained patronages that highlight causes supporting communities, conservation and culture among others.
Alastair Tighe, Head Master of Wells Cathedral School, commented, “We are thrilled and deeply honoured that His Majesty has chosen to continue his patronage of Wells Cathedral School, especially when we know his support is valued by so many other important institutions and organisations.
“Given the foundation of the school was on the instruction of King Edward the Elder (second King of England) in AD909, we are especially grateful and proud that the current King has chosen to retain the school’s historic link to royalty as well as his own personal long-standing association with us while he was Prince of Wales. In turn, we are committed to continuing to champion the many worthwhile causes which are so important to His Majesty.”
Wells Cathedral School is one of the world’s oldest and most famous schools. Originally founded solely to educate the boy choristers of the Cathedral. In the 21st century the school is a thriving and forward-thinking international community of more than 730 pupils – from Little Wellies nursery to the Sixth Form – celebrated around the world for its music, sport, academic success and commitment to pastoral care.
A recent ISI inspection awarded the school the highest possible description of ‘Excellent’ for the academic and personal development of the pupils, and noted that, ‘Wells Cathedral School is an excellent example where a wide range of individuals: extremely gifted musicians, mathematicians, sports players, boarding and day pupils and the neurodiverse interact with respect, sensitivity and tolerance.’
For more information visit wells.cathedral.school
Photograph: Hugo Burnand/Royal Household 2024/Cabinet Office