Opportunities

The bene ts of an independent education are numerous and wellknown. Independent schools are renowned for their outstanding academic results, o ering smaller class sizes and academic exibility complemented by a vast array of cocurricular activities. Studying at an independent school will enable your child to make the most of their abilities in preparation for a successful, ful lled life.

For those families who are new to independent education, applying to schools in this sector can be a daunting prospect. Yet the vast array of schools on o er means that you’ll have plenty of opportunities to nd the right school for your child. e achievement of academic potential is of course central, and independent schools traditionally o er a wider range of subjects at GCSE and A-level, as well as the Extended Project Quali cation and SEN support.

However, an education based solely on quali cations is limited. One of the main advantages of an independent education is that children enjoy an all-round educational experience, with skills, interests and values being just as important as good grades.

At St Peter’s School, York, we o er more than 80 di erent cocurricular activities, ranging from Debating and Duke of Edinburgh to Eco Club and Community Action. We want our pupils to establish interests that stay with them for life, as well as learning the skills that will make them stand out in a fast-changing world.

Participation is valued above all else, and every child nds something they really love doing. e children are encouraged to try new things and support each other as they grow

Extracurricular activities are a strength of independent schools

Independent schools often work to a six-day schedule

Independent schools provide beautiful learning backdrops

Nurturing each pupil is central to a school’s pastoral care system

and develop through the school.

Independent schools also give pupils the space they need to thrive, with outstanding facilities, soaring architecture, and extensive green campuses providing an inspirational backdrop for your child’s education. St Peter’s School’s 47-acre green campus at the heart of York features industry-recognised sports pitches, sports halls, a swimming pool and a boat house on the River Ouse.

With 15 sports and more than 250 sports teams, there really is something for everyone at St Peter’s, and each child can participate and compete at a level which is right for them. Teachers and sports coaches provide the encouragement and support to get the very best out of every pupil, leading to national success across all our main sports in recent years.

Wellbeing is central to everything we do at St Peter’s and the house system is at the heart of pastoral care at our school. House parents and staff take the time to get to know every single individual, allowing them to adapt their approach to each child’s unique characteristics, strengths and areas to develop. Each school house is comprised of pupils from different year groups, fostering relationships and support which will endure for a child’s entire time at the school.

As a boarding school, we operate on a full six-day schedule for our older pupils - any less and there wouldn’t be time for all that we do. Longer school days and Saturday school give older children the opportunity to try new things, step out of their comfort zone, and develop intellectual curiosity outside the classroom. After-school activities and parttime boarding options also provide holistic, wrap-around care which is highly valued by busy parents.

Boarding also enables children to make more time for the things they love. Boarders are nurtured and supported by a caring and culturally diverse boarding community, where the children support each other to achieve their true potential.

Of course, the best way to understand what it’s really like to study at an independent school is to come and see for yourself. All independent schools welcome families for individual visits throughout the year, as well as hosting open events where you can explore the campus and meet the school’s staff and pupils. You’ll receive advice tailored to your family’s individual needs, including information about different entry points and the opportunities available for your child.