Wolmer's Schools, secondary school and school in Kingston, Jamaica
Wolmer's Schools is a group of four schools in Kingston that includes a preschool, a preparatory school, and two separate high schools for boys and girls. Each school has its own building but shares the same crest and identity, with about 3,000 students taught by around 150 teachers.
The schools were founded in 1729 when goldsmith John Wolmer left his estate to establish a free school, creating the oldest school in the West Indies. After a major earthquake in 1907 destroyed the buildings, the school relocated to a new site near what is now National Heroes Park.
The schools bear their founder's name and are viewed with great pride by students and alumni. The school uniform and Latin motto "Age Quod Agis" (do your best in everything) shape daily life and create a strong sense of community across all the school divisions.
The schools are located in Kingston and are easily reached by public transport. Keep in mind that this is a working school and is normally more accessible during school holidays than during active instruction periods.
In 2019, Jamaica's government declared May 21st as official Wolmer's Day, making this the only school in the country with its own national commemoration day. Additionally, graduates from these schools have earned 23 Rhodes Scholarships, more than any other school in the Caribbean.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
