The Island
Schools in Castletown, Isle of Man
Castletown is one of the few places in the British Isles where you can walk to an independent IB school by the sea. King William's College and its preparatory school, The Buchan School, are both in the town, alongside the state secondary, Castle Rushen High School.
King William's College
Founded in 1833, King William's College is an independent boarding and day school for girls and boys aged 11 to 18. It is an IB World School, and describes itself as one of the most established International Baccalaureate schools in the British Isles.
- Ages 11 to 18, girls and boys
- International Baccalaureate (IB World School)
- Day and boarding, with two boarding houses
- Main campus on the shore of Castletown Bay, a short walk from Ronaldsway Airport
The Buchan School
The Buchan School is the preparatory school of King William's College, for younger children, in the Westhill area of Castletown. Together the two schools offer an independent education from Early Years through to Sixth Form, all in Castletown.
State schools
Castle Rushen High School, on Arbory Road in Castletown, is a co-educational state secondary school serving the south of the island. State primary schools nearby include Ballasalla and Arbory. For catchment areas and admissions, contact the Isle of Man Department of Education, Sport and Culture.
Living near the schools
Bay House on College Green is within walking distance of both King William's College and The Buchan School: a six-bedroom waterfront family house, available to let at £5,000 per month or for sale at a guide price of £2,500,000.
School details change from year to year. Always confirm ages, fees, admissions and boarding directly with each school, and visit on an open day.
Frequently asked questions
What ages does King William's College take?
King William's College is an independent boarding and day school for girls and boys aged 11 to 18. Its preparatory school, The Buchan School, takes younger children, so together they cover Early Years to Sixth Form.
Does King William's College offer the International Baccalaureate?
Yes. King William's College is an IB World School and describes itself as one of the most established International Baccalaureate schools in the British Isles.
Does King William's College take boarders?
Yes. It has two boarding houses, with both local and international boarders.
What is the state secondary school in Castletown?
Castle Rushen High School, on Arbory Road in Castletown, is a co-educational state secondary school serving the south of the island.
How far is Bay House from the schools?
King William's College and The Buchan School are both within walking distance of Bay House on College Green.