Both high schools are popular choices among Jamaican students taking the Primary Exit Profile (PEP) examinations.
[2] Wolmer's Boys' and Girls' have been deemed some of the top schools in the Caribbean and perform well in exit examinations (CSEC/CAPE), especially in the Sciences and Mathematics.
It turned into a group of schools, which was completely overhauled during the educational reforms of Governor John Peter Grant, who brought two new schoolmasters over from England.
The trustees of the school sold this land (Wolmer’s Pen) to the ‘authorities’, who wanted to secure a better water supply to the Camp, in 1820.
When the English captured Jamaica from Spain in 1655, their main focus was in gaining as much wealth as possible in the shortest possible time, from the colony.
Buccaneering raids on Spanish settlements and ships and the establishment of sugar plantations worked by imported enslaved African labour, became two of the most significant economic activities in Jamaica.
Largely illiterate and uneducated settlers poured into the island seeking their fortune, hoping to return to England as wealthy, respectable citizens.
It was the early Trustees who, in establishing the Wolmer’s Trust, introduced a racial bias and allowed only white children to attend the school initially.
It was also used as a courthouse for the county of Surrey, so when classes resumed in 1757, the school was moved to rented premises at Parade and remained there until 1777.
In 1807, the two northernmost lots of land of the school property was sold to the city of Kingston for the construction of a Poor House.
The Preparatory School moved to its current location on the ‘Cavaliers’ lands on Connolley Avenue in the 1960s, after a new building was constructed for it, through the donation of Dr. Ludlow Moodie.
Latin phrase meaning “whatever you do, do it to the best of your ability.” The more popular interpretation is “whatever you do, do it well.” The motto is attributed to Mr. William Cowper, who was principal of the Boys’ school between 1901 and 1915.
In the week after Armistice Day (November 11), a ceremony is held there, with the laying of wreaths by representatives from the W.O.B.A and W.O.G.A and present students.
On August 21st and 22nd, 2014, the cenotaph was moved to its current position near to the main entrance gate, to make space for the school’s auditorium being constructed.
Important landmarks 3) The Mico fence: It forms part of the official border demarking the parish of Kingston from that of St. Andrew.
Excavations carried out in the area between the Sixth Form Block and the Senior Physics Laboratory in 1991, revealed the foundation of the great water fountain that was once part of the 1891 Exhibition.
May 21, 1729 – John Wolmer wrote his last will and testament, within which he left money for the founding of a free school in the parish where he should happen to die.
Dr. May started the library with gifts of dictionaries, grammars, Fables, an English Bible and 12 catechisms of the Church of England (Anglican).
October 1811 to August 1812 – Wolmer’s operated from Coke Chapel, while the school’s property on Church Street was being enlarged.
[9] 2019 — Governor-General Sir Patrick Allen declares Wolmer’s Day on May 21, in recognition of “its longevity, … sustained excellence in academics, sports, and creative arts.”[10] At Wolmer’s Schools, student life is intricately linked to academic excellence, with a strong emphasis on creating an environment that nurtures intellectual curiosity and personal development.
This board ensures the smooth governance of the institutions and will intervene if necessary to address issues related to administration, performance, or any significant operational concerns.
The academic structure includes senior teachers who act as curriculum coordinators and heads of years for each grade level, ensuring that the educational experience is comprehensive and targets students' needs.
These departments, including Biology, Business Studies, Design & Technology, and Physical Education & Sports, benefit from the oversight of each vice principal, ensuring both effective operation and strategic direction.
Academic awards at Wolmer’s Schools play a pivotal role in recognizing and celebrating students’ achievements and dedication to their studies.
These awards were created to recognize and celebrate significant improvements and exceptional academic performances, with the aim of inspiring both students and faculty to strive for higher standards of excellence.
The Wolmer's School are renowned for its exceptional extracurricular programs, which play a crucial role in shaping well-rounded students.
Among its many activities, football, debate, cricket, track and field and tennis stand out, each excelling at the national level and bringing a sense of pride and accomplishment to the school community.
At Wolmer's Schools, Sports Day is an eagerly anticipated event that showcases not only the athletic talent of the students but also the vibrant spirit of competition among the different houses.
Each school hosts separate Sports Days which involve students representing their houses and competing for points which will be used to adjudge a winner.
The schools over a variety of subject offerings inclusive of the Humanities, Arts, and Sciences, which students pursue throughout their CSEC and CAPE years (fourth-sixth form).