Main School
We are very conscious at St Andrew’s of the need to equip pupils with the knowledge and skills which will not only help them to pass into senior schools at Common Entrance or Scholarship level, but will also stand them in good stead for the rest of their lives. The curriculum reflects this aim and is deliberately broad.
Traditional subjects, which have a central place, sit happily alongside subjects which anticipate children’s future needs. Hence there is a considerable emphasis on Modern Languages, Technology and Study Skills. A large number of educational and recreational outings are organized, including trips abroad.
The school day begins at 8.25am and finishes at 5.20pm (Juniors) or 6pm (Seniors). The day includes plenty of time for recreation and sport, and there are Quiet Study periods when children work independently. Daily ‘prep’ (homework) is set only in the top two years.
There are no class lessons at weekends. Saturdays are used for some sports fixtures, parent/teacher meetings and various school events. Apart from any commitment to these, children are free at weekends.
The school’s admissions policy caters for a range of abilities.
We have a Learning Support Department to help children with mild dyslexia or other learning difficulty. Equally, children who have the ability to perform outstandingly are coached to distinction in senior school scholarship examinations, where our record is very good indeed. Pupils also win accolades in local and national competitions.
Children’s progress is continually evaluated. Reports and assessments are sent to parents throughout the year. We have a pleasant tradition of close staff/parent liaison. Apart from regular formal meetings, parents and relatives are always welcome to come to the school during the term to watch matches, to attend concerts and plays, to join in with many other activities, or just to have a chat. All parents are members of the Friends of St. Andrew’s (FOSA) whose committee organizes many social functions for the whole ‘family’ of the school.
