Whitgift plays a full part in the life of the wider community and has well established links with institutions and local groups. Boys have many opportunities to involve themselves in community service, charity work and fund-raising. A major commitment is made to Whitgift SNAP, a special needs play scheme which gives children with special learning difficulties the chance to enjoy the facilities of the School. Boys are also involved in various projects such as riding for the disabled and with care homes for the elderly including Whitgift House, the Whitgift Foundation's own complex of accommodation for older residents.

Art, photographic and other local and national exhibitions are held and there are strong links with many local and national businesses as well as national institutions such as the Victoria and Albert Museum and the National Maritime Museum. These links are widely shared with local primary and other schools, through the Croydon Education Business Partnership. Whitgift has for many years hosted the Croydon Music Festival which brings visitors and many hundreds of musicians to perform at the School.