Originally founded in 1917 to train boys for a career at sea the College has subsequently developed into a fully fledged co-educational public school preparing pupils for life. The emphasis remains on timeless qualities such as leadership, teamwork, self discipline and friendship, energy, enthusiasm and service to others.
Academically, while pursuing a deliberate policy of recruiting a broad spectrum of ability, it looks for talent of various kinds, believing that its task is to enable each individual to make the very best of his or her potential no matter where strengths lie. While the best students will go to Oxford or Cambridge, the majority will proceed to degree courses at other universities prior to a wide range of exciting careers.
The College boasts a high level of enterprise epitomised by its cultural and sporting activity. Excellent Music, Drama and, most unusually, a prize-winning Film Unit contribute to a vibrant and exciting atmosphere, while a policy of recruiting high-quality, specialist coaches has led to success at county, national and international level in a number of sports.
Alumni - Older Pangbournians mostly followed naval careers; in 1996 five serving Admirals were Pangbournians. The mature leaver, armed with a university degree, makes his mark in any number of careers and will be in much demand in the 21st Century.
