St Leonards Prospectus 2022-2023

Founded in 1877, St Leonards is an independent, coeducational, boarding and day school for pupils aged 5-18 that is international and progressive in outlook, yet rooted in Scottish traditions. We are proud of our educational heritage, and offer a unique and inspirational education, with a focus on preparing our pupils in line with our motto, ‘Ad Vitam’, for life.

St Leonards prides itself on being just the right size: small enough for each pupil to be known by name, yet big in ambition and with a wealth of curricular and cocurricular opportunities. Indeed, it was named Independent School of the Year 2019 by The Sunday Times Schools Guide.

St Leonards boasts an idyllic, leafy campus at the heart of the university town of St Andrews, with sandy beaches, world-class Links golf courses, and historic sites on its doorstep. As a school community, we are immersed in the vibrant social, cultural, academic, and sporting life of the town - be that through our leading five-tier Golf Programme, the rich calendar of talks and lectures run in partnership with the University of St Andrews, or wider opportunities.

The International Baccalaureate curriculum is unparalleled. It is designed such that young people develop both their academic strengths and their weaknesses, work collaboratively, are forever inquisitive, and develop a real sense of purpose in their lives.

St Leonards was the first school in Scotland to be accredited as an all-through International Baccalaureate school, delivering this globally-recognised curriculum from Year 1 through to Year 13. Pupils have a seamless learner journey, and become truly knowledgeable, balanced, reflective, open-minded, and principled inquirers, thinkers, communicators, and risk-takers.

We seek to equip pupils with the skills, qualities, experiences, and qualifications that will enable them to participate with purpose, communicate effectively, and be lifelong learners and caring citizens.

We continue to invest, not only in our pupils, but in our facilities too: our boarding houses have undergone an extensive £5 million refurbishment programme, and we have continued to enhance our Outdoor Learning Programme with the construction of two yurts, complete with wood burning stoves, to name just some examples.

St Leonards is a truly exceptional place to learn and grow. I hope that you enjoy perusing the prospectus for a flavour of what life is like at St Leonards, and I extend to you the warmest of invitations to visit us and see our school in action.

Simon Brian MA Head, St Leonards School

St Leonards prides itself on being just the right size: small enough for each pupil to be known by name, yet big in ambition and with a wealth of curricular and cocurricular opportunities.

ETHOS

The curriculum is underpinned by well-established values that permeate the school from start to finish. From the youngest pupil in our Junior years to the oldest Sixth Former, St Leonards pupils are guided by the enlightening principles of the International Baccalaureate Learner Profile. We aim for children to become communicators, inquirers, risk-takers and thinkers who are balanced, caring, open-minded, principled, knowledgeable and reflective. Our goal is to bring out the best in each pupil by recognising, encouraging and developing their unique skills. We treat our pupils as individuals who think for themselves, with their own aspirations, potential and talents.

St Leonards offers unrivalled opportunities for sport, music, drama and art, and we have an extensive programme of co-curricular activities.

CAMPUS

St Leonards boasts one of the most impressive campuses in the UK, with a beautiful set-up in the heart of St Andrews, incorporating historic landmarks, purpose-built facilities, vast green playing fields, a 25m swimming pool and magnificent views of the sea and the surrounding town. On one side the pupils look on to St Andrews Bay, and on the other, the ancient ruins of St Andrews Cathedral.

The campus is bounded by medieval walls which once marked the perimeter of the ancient town priory, providing our pupils with a safe, secure and serene environment in which to learn.

Everything is within walking distance of the school: three minutes to St Andrews Castle, two minutes from the beach and one minute from our favourite ice cream shop!

The old cobbled streets of St Andrews are lined with shops, restaurants and cafes, a cinema and theatre, museums, and seven championship golf courses, all on the school’s doorstep for pupils to enjoy.

LOCATION

The university town of St Andrews is situated on the coast, north-east of Edinburgh in the ‘Kingdom of Fife’. St Leonards is well served by public transport with regular local bus services and Leuchars railway station, which is on the East Coast Mainline and just ten minutes away. The school is conveniently located just 20 minutes from Dundee, home to the V&A, 60 minutes from Edinburgh and 90 minutes from Glasgow.

The school runs its own subsidised bus services from surrounding towns and villages including Cupar, Dundee, Kirkcaldy, Perth and the East Neuk. St Andrews is within easy reach of the international airports of Edinburgh, which flies to over 150 destinations worldwide, and Glasgow.

JUNIOR

With family firmly at the heart, and with the support of an immensely talented, caring and imaginative team of staff, our ethos in the Junior years at St Leonards is simple: to provide a nurturing, relaxed, yet ambitious and innovative education for children aged 5-11. In a culture of testing and assessment in UK schools, we have a rare opportunity to offer children the chance to guide their own learning, both in and out of the classroom. Learning is meant to be fun, and we want to instil a passion for life-long learning in all our children, whilst giving them the chance to explore and experience a feast of exciting opportunities, both within the classroom and across all areas of school life. Through our leading curriculum, the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme, we foster curiosity, risk-taking and discovery, skills that will remain with children for life.

St Leonards offers the children an opportunity to experience a breadth of education that encompasses a creative curriculum, and a thrilling array of sport, music, drama, art, design and activities. School should be a place of adventure, and our programme of outdoor education makes full use of our unrivalled location, set on the stunning St Andrews coast. Most important, however, is the happiness of each child. Happy children succeed, and at St Leonards we place the relationships between staff, children and parents at the forefront of our ethos for education. We are proud to have a team who care deeply about children, and have a commitment to finding each individual child’s strengths thereby developing their selfesteem. We would be absolutely delighted to welcome you and your family to St Leonards in the near future to tour the grounds, meet the staff and, most importantly, the children, who make this school the special community it is.

‘Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire’.

COMPASSION AND KINDNESS

Whilst the emphasis on the academic side of school life is vital, it is the happy atmosphere of St Leonards which makes an immediate impact on visitors. Our caring, committed staff gently guide the children in forming positive relationships with one another. We place great importance on traditional values such as kindness, courtesy and good manners. Our nurturing environment supports and builds the children’s understanding of how they fit into the school community and wider world. Developing a child’s self-belief and confidence is crucial in providing an outstanding education for life, and we truly feel a happy and confident child will succeed in all areas.

CHALLENGING AND INQUIRING

Our highly creative Primary Years curriculum provides children with experiences that encourage a life-long love of learning. Through imaginative teaching and learning, our pupils are challenged to think outside the box, have a fearless approach to making mistakes and take their own learning in exciting new directions. Aiming high in everything we do sits at the heart of life inside the classroom, and we are academically very ambitious for our children. Within very small classes, we encourage the pupils to build a strong work ethic and to set the bar high to realise their ambitions. In Years 1-3, the emphasis is on raising the children’s literacy and numeracy levels, and through our phonics, reading and maths programmes, we build solid foundations for them.

In Years 4-6, we see the children build up a range of skills necessary for life. Taking risks with learning, building on exciting knowledge and understanding, developing outstanding communication, presentation and research skills will be crucial as they move through their school careers, and these form the focus of our curriculum.

Languages (French from Year 1, Spanish from Year 5 alongside French, and Latin from Year 6), Art, Drama, Music, PE (including weekly swimming lessons), and Games are taught by highly qualified specialists.

Learn more about our inspiring Primary Years Programme by reading our dedicated PYP curriculum guide.

NURTURING AND TRANSFORMATIVE

Schools should be places of joy, laughter, magical enchantment and pure delight. Our family focus within a genuinely supportive environment, is one of our greatest strengths. This atmosphere permeates throughout the school and every child is valued as an individual, learning to live as part of a community. Teaching staff know every child, and the Head of Year and class teachers monitor every child’s academic and personal progress. A culture of praise runs through the school, and through encouragement, confidence and self-esteem come naturally. Our house system generates a sense of belonging and team spirit, and we have developed a ‘team every each’ child system for our pastoral care, whereby issues can be picked up swiftly and dealt with through compassion and kindness. Our relationship with parents is vital to achieve a total community at St Leonards, and the Heads of Years operate an ‘open door’ policy at all times to encourage parents to take a full part in their son/ daughter’s schooling. The Parents Association supports this mission, and it is widely recognised that a successful and happy education has to be achieved through a trusting and honest relationship between the school and home.

“There’s a feeling of belonging and family environment, driven by the empowerment of older children to work with and support the younger ones in both play and work.”

St Leonards Parent

IMAGINATIVE AND ENERGETIC

Our thriving extracurricular programme supports the importance of giving children a proper childhood, and plays an important part of school life. Our ‘sport for all’ ethos at St Leonards offers opportunities on the games field for all pupils. Good sportsmanship is taught together with the acquisition of skills across all major sports: football, rugby, tennis, rounders, netball, hockey, lacrosse, cricket, golf and athletics. Also on offer are swimming, judo, gymnastics and dance. We are fortunate to enjoy extensive sports pitches, an indoor swimming pool, squash courts, tennis courts, an AstroTurf and indoor sports hall. Every child has a minimum of six PE / Games sessions each week, and there are many opportunities to represent the school in weekly competitive fixtures. Golf is taken seriously at St Leonards, and our Director of Golf (also a professional for the Links Trust) oversees an exciting and ambitious programme of golf instruction, competitions and tournaments across the world-famous courses in St Andrews.

The Creative Arts are equally strong, with the Music, Drama, Art and Design Departments offering excellent opportunities to all children. Many children learn a musical instrument and take part in regular informal and formal concerts. Our three Junior choirs, corps of drums and instrumental ensembles perform regularly, and children are afforded the opportunity to play with the Senior orchestras and ensembles, too. Drama is incredibly important to pupils at St Leonards, with over 90 children taking part in LAMDA tuition and exams each year. Every child performs on stage annually in a major production, and our pupils learn to communicate through weekly drama lessons, debating, poetry and public speaking. Every year, the Perth Festival attracts many outstanding entries and performances from St Leonards pupils. Art is exceptional, and our children are inspired by weekly lessons, art clubs and regular opportunities to exhibit work.

DYNAMIC AND INSPIRING

Children learn a great deal outside the classroom, and our commitment to trips, excursions, and outdoor learning supports this. As part of our inquiry-led curriculum, every class regularly makes use of St Andrews and the wider area to support their learning. Guest speakers, authors and scientists come into school to inspire the pupils, and a range of residential trips supports the development of the whole child. The Year 6 pupils spend time at a residential adventure camp, and a range of outward bound and camping trips operate throughout the year. Children assist with charity fundraising events that tie in with their learning, helping them to understand their greater role within society.

Pupils have the opportunity to develop their leadership skills as they move up the school, acquiring new abilities, taking on challenges and serving the community. Through our love of outdoor learning, children will learn bush craft skills and be exposed to a number of opportunities to develop their confidence, self-belief and team work skills. In the upper years, children are motivated to be appointed to positions of responsibility such as Island Captains, School Council Representatives, Green Team Representatives, Peer Listeners, as well as more informal opportunities to support one another. Such roles build confidence in voicing their own opinions and co-operating with others.

“Our family’s favourite event is the sandcastle competition – all pupils in Years 1-6 walk down to the beach and build sandcastles in teams – a fantastic afternoon of creativity and fresh air using the local landscape to its advantage.”

St Leonards Parent

INNOVATIVE

St Leonards is very much one school; close interaction exists between the Junior and Senior sections, and many of the facilities are shared. Pupils from Year 1 through to Year 13 are guided by the enlightening principles of the International Baccalaureate Learner Profile, and this facilitates a smooth and coherent learner journey. We aim for our pupils to become communicators, inquirers, and thinkers who are balanced, caring, open-minded, principled, courageous, knowledgeable and reflective.

“We chose St Leonards because of its exceptional location, and the rather idyllic life the children have. It’s a very beautiful, healthy place, where they are thriving.”

St Leonards Parent

HOME FROM HOME

St Leonards is a boarding and day school, offering full, flexi, weekly and occasional boarding from age 10 and above.

Our boarding facilities have undergone an extensive £5 million redevelopment, transforming our three houses, including St Rule, which is our home from home for younger boarders.

With family at the heart, all our houses have been designed to feel warm, welcoming, comfortable and homely, yet stylish, and well equipped. Pupils can relax in the Games Room, tuck into house meals and hot chocolates in the state-of-the-art kitchen, and come together for film nights in the smart, yet cosy Common Room.

There are plenty of spaces to unwind after a busy day at school, and to relax with friends, enjoying house activities such as baking, crafting, games, quizzes and movies, or simply taking time out.

Upstairs, many of the bedrooms have sea views beyond the playing fields, and out towards the countryside and beyond.

St Leonards is proud to welcome pupils from all over the world, and our aim is to ensure everyone feels happy and supported as part of our close-knit boarding community. St Rule, and indeed our Bishopshall and Ollerenshaw boarding houses for older pupils, are where friendships are made for life.

Our experienced boarding team is led by the Deputy Head (boarding), and all our staff view the houses, and those who live in them, as an extension of their own families. They are there to listen, support, motivate, and care.

An exciting programme of weekend and evening activities ensures there is always something to do, whether it’s trying out watersports on the West Sands, playing bubble football, or taking a house trip to the cinema.

DARE TO BE DIFFERENT

St Leonards is a school where individuality is celebrated, children can make and learn from mistakes, and be part of a caring and compassionate community. Above all else, it is our aim that pupils should have a developed sense of who they are and what they can achieve. They should leave every lesson, day, week, term, and eventually the school, equipped with confidence and self-esteem. Our passion for learning, happiness and innovation, and our vision to fashion imagination and compassion in our children, cuts right through our school. We can’t wait to show you.

“St Andrews provides an idyllic backdrop: medieval walls, cathedral ruins and an in-yourface sea breeze.”

Tatler Schools Guide

SENIOR

SENIOR YEARS

The Senior years at St Leonards offer an outstanding boarding and day education for pupils aged 11-18.

In Year 7, pupils begin the forward-thinking Middle Years Programme. This builds upon foundations established in the Primary Years Programme that is studied in the Junior years at St Leonards, and ensures that there is a seamless transition in the pupils’ learner journey. Year 7 acts as a transition year between the Junior and Senior sections of the school, and we are delighted to welcome new pupils at this key entry point. The pupils are supported and guided through this transition, and taught to work effectively, communicate articulately, respect others, and participate with purpose.

Pupils in Years 8 and 9 also follow the forward-thinking Middle Years curriculum.

In Years 10 and 11, pupils take GCSEs and IGCSEs, choosing from almost 20 subjects, including the chance to study the three separate sciences, French, German or Spanish and Latin as well as a range of creative options.

A one-year course (also including GCSEs and IGCSEs) and known as the ‘Pre-IB’ is available as a means of preparation for the International Baccalaureate Diploma or the Career-related Programme and is popular with pupils moving from the Scottish state school system as well as international pupils.

“There is a genuine community here and they are really great teachers.”

St Leonards Pupil

SIXTH FORM

In Years 12-13, our pupils choose between the globallyrecognised IB Diploma Programme (IBDP) and the IB Career-related Programme (IBCP).

IBDP pupils study six courses in the Sixth Form, three at Higher Level and three at Standard Level over two years. This ensures not only a breadth of experience in languages, social studies, the experimental sciences, and mathematics, but the opportunity to specialise in key subjects as required, keeping their options open. In addition, the programme has three core requirements: a research-based Extended Essay; a Theory of Knowledge course designed to encourage each pupil to reflect on the nature of knowledge, and CAS (creativity, activity, and service), which requires that pupils actively learn from the experience of doing real tasks beyond the classroom.

IBCP pupils study at least two Diploma courses at Higher Level or Standard Level, alongside their Diploma Programme counterparts. In addition, they undertake a career-related study in the form of a Pearson BTEC qualification in Business. The programme also has four core requirements, which allow pupils to gain transferrable professional skills and personal qualities that will help them stand out as candidates and transition into the workplace. The core requirements are: Service Learning, which gives pupils an opportunity to meet an identified and authentic community need; a Reflective Project, based upon an issue that has arisen in their career-related studies; Language Development; and the PPS (Personal and Professional Skills) course.

MUSIC

The St Leonards Music School is a hive of tuneful activity, playing host throughout the day to approximately 250 individual music lessons, band and ensemble rehearsals and concerts. Facilities comprise a concert auditorium, nine teaching/practice rooms and two fullsized classrooms. The building features work stations with the most up-to-date computers and software, providing opportunities for innovative composition and performance. Music is taught as an academic subject from Year 1 upwards, and is also offered as a subject choice at GCSE and in the Sixth Form. The School has several choirs, orchestras and ensembles, including brass, string, wind, jazz, flute and a pipe band.

“The teaching staff demonstrate a fine balance between professionalism and friendliness that allows a channel of mutual respect between pupil and teacher. This approach creates a perfect environment for learning.”

St Leonards Parent

FACILITIES

The historic priory walls which bound the secure campus might be ancient but, within them, our facilities are fit for 21st century living and learning. They include: a purpose-built Music School and Auditorium; Science laboratories; an inspirational Art Department; two Drama yurts complete with wood-burning stoves; a dedicated Wellbeing Hub; a 25-metre indoor swimming pool; allweather sports pitches; extensive grass playing fields; and an award-winning school dining hall, Restaurant 1877.

ACTIVITIES

We offer an extensive range of after-school and weekend activities which give our pupils the chance to broaden their horizons and develop key life skills. These can be practical and active, for example learning business and leadership skills in the Young Enterprise company or developing team-building and problem-solving capabilities through the Duke of Edinburgh award scheme. We also appeal to the intellectual with chess and science clubs or beginners’ Mandarin lessons, and to the ethical with the Eco Committee and the Debating Society.

We celebrate the Arts with drama clubs, choirs and bands, art exhibitions, creative writing for one of the pupil-led publications and even some Scottish Country Dancing: Burns’ Night celebrations and St Andrew’s Day are just some of the highlights of the year!

SPORT

We are passionate about sport and our aim is to give our pupils a love of physical exercise that will stay with them for life. There are sporting opportunities for all at St Leonards. Timetabled Games and PE lessons include rugby, hockey, lacrosse, football, athletics, cricket, tennis, swimming and, of course, golf. Pupils take part in regular matches against other schools, as well as travelling further afield for regional and national fixtures and competitions. We offer a range of clubs for sports from crossfit to horse riding, basketball and sailing. St Leonards pupils regularly compete on a regional and national level, with most recent national achievements including cross country running, rugby, golf and sailing.

“I’m on the hockey, lacrosse, tennis, golf teams. I represented the school at multiple sports fixtures. They have really great facilities here, and great opportunities to take part in competitions or sports each day or on the weekend. There’s always something going on that you can participate in.”

St Leonards Pupil

GOLF

With the most famous golf links in the world on our doorstep, St Leonards pupils have an unrivalled chance to learn and play the game in its most revered location. They have access to the seven St Andrews Links championship courses, including the world-famous Old Course, and benefit from the all-weather, floodlit practice facilities at St Andrews Links Golf Academy.

The Golf Programme at St Leonards is led by our Director of Golf who is also a PGA accredited Senior Instructor at the St Andrews Links. Pupils receive coaching as part of their timetabled Games lessons and/or as a co-curricular activity choice. For those who demonstrate a talent for the game or are keen to develop their passion further, St Leonards offers six Golf Programme tiers: St Leonards Minis, Introduction to Golf, Q School Programme, Development Programme, Performance Squad and High Performance Squad. The school also hosts prestigious annual tournaments, including the Sir Michael Bonallack Championship and the Tom Morris Championship.

In addition, St Leonards celebrates outstanding achievement in golf with the Tom Morris Golf Scholarship. This coveted award recognises talent, dedication and determination on the golf course, and is awarded at the discretion of the Director of Golf.

DRAMA

Drama is taught as part of the timetabled curriculum and includes a Performing Arts GCSE and an IB Diploma Theatre Arts course. Pupils can also take Trinity Guildhall speech and drama exams in both the Junior and Senior sections. Drama is offered as a co-curricular activity and many pupils appear in the school productions which are often performed in a professional theatre over the course of the school year. Opportunities to assist with stage management and production are also encouraged. Keen theatre lovers have the excitement of going on the biennial trip to New York, participating in workshops on Broadway, or to Italy, learning about the performing arts in Venice and Verona. Meanwhile, our actors and technical crews frequently enjoy the challenge of taking a show to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

ART & DESIGN

Situated within two beautiful, historic buildings, St Leonards’ Art Department is home to art classes and clubs, as well as the annual school Art Exhibition, at which candidates showcase their work. This is a true highlight of the school calendar, and is open to all families and members of the public.

In addition to timetabled lessons in Years 7, 8 and 9, pupils can choose to study Art and Design at GCSE and IB Diploma level.

The department believes that art is a form of communication: that it is a means of expression, aesthetic experience and problem solving. Throughout all year groups, our aim is to encourage, stimulate and develop the pupils through personal expression, imagination, conceptual thinking and practical skill.

The art staff offer great expertise in drawing and painting, printmaking, sculpture, black and white photography, digital photography, textiles, computer-aided design and video art. We have our own Artist in Residence, and arrange regular trips to galleries and exhibitions.

“I like the community, all the people around me. They really help to study, to revise and I’ve made great friends, and I think they will be friends for life.”

St Leonards Pupil

BOARDING

Boarding is at the heart of St Leonards, and we provide a unique Scottish boarding experience that is rooted in tradition, but international in outlook, continually adapting and evolving to meet the needs of today’s young people. We provide a ‘home from home’ for 140 pupils, with full, weekly, flexi, and occasional boarders joining us from age 10 upwards. This figure includes around 50% of the Sixth Form. Each of the boarding houses has its own unique character, but an overarching, welcoming ethos ensures that the boarding community has a family atmosphere. It is the fantastic pastoral support and the deep friendships which make boarding at St Leonards a formative, enriching, and enjoyable experience.

Following an ambitious and extensive refurbishment programme, our boarders reside in three houses with state-of-the-art kitchens and spacious, stylish communal areas. With their impressive staircases, beautifully maintained period details, and expansive communal areas, our boarding houses have a distinct country house feel. Bedrooms are fitted with built-in beds and study spaces with modern storage and lighting, and many rooms have stunning views over the town’s medieval cathedral ruins and the North Sea.

There is a thriving weekend activities programme, with everything from sushi-making to skiing, cooking to coastal walks, and film nights to football.

UNIVERSITY OF ST ANDREWS

The School enjoys strong links with the University of St Andrews, Scotland’s oldest university. Sixth Form pupils receive lectures from visiting members of the University’s academic staff, while the University Debating Society leads pupil competitions in school, coaching them in the arts of persuasive argument and public speaking. St Leonards pupils also have access to the University Library, opening doors to a world of academic research, and to strength and conditioning facilities at the Saints Sports Centre.

“I love St Andrews and the close integration with the University. I use the university gym and we go to lectures there.”

St Leonards Pupil

PASTORAL

We strive to deliver the best pastoral care for our young people. Pupils are supported by a strong staff team. Each pupil has a tutor and a Head of Year who oversee his or her personal development. Every pupil at St Leonards is a member of an activity house to foster community spirit.

The School’s experienced Medical Centre staff are based on site and provide expert care whenever needed; we have a team of wellbeing professionals who are based in our Wellbeing Hub - our safe space for pupil and staff use, and employ a confidential Independent Listener.

Meals are taken in Restaurant 1877, which has recently been redeveloped with a new, sophisticated look and feel. To match the stylish interiors, our catering team is proud to use fresh produce and local suppliers, as sustainability is one of their passions. St Leonards is one of the only schools in the country to have received the Scottish Consumer Council’s Healthy Living Plus Award. All meals and snacks are provided as part of the school fees.

COMMUNITY

St Leonards is part of a community beyond the school walls. The International Baccalaureate qualifications taught at St Leonards place great emphasis on pupils becoming valued and responsible members of society, and Sixth Formers take part in a variety of community-based initiatives. Pupils in other year groups regularly volunteer their services to local organisations, too, including the Year 9 pupils as part of the MYP Community Project. Our pupils take part in conservation projects, help out in charity shops, play a part in civic events and raise funds for good causes. St Leonards pupils and teachers regularly share their knowledge and expertise in a range of subjects with pupils from local schools and we also share our facilities with many local groups.

DAY PUPILS

Our day pupils travel in from a radius of over 30 miles, many using the St Leonards bus services. The school day begins at 8.30am, with most activities ending by 5.30pm. Parents of day pupils can also use our convenient flexi or occasional boarding arrangements during the week. There are no distinctions between day and boarding pupils at St Leonards; they are all part of the same friendly family. Day pupils therefore play a full part in boarding life. They can join in weekend activities and excursions and represent their house in inter-house competitions.

HISTORY

St Leonards’ campus is rich in history, having served as a place of education almost continuously since 1512, when it was first used as St Leonard’s College for poor clerks. St Leonards was established as a girls’ school in 1877 by St Andrews University professors and their wives. It was the first place where women’s lacrosse was played, and it is believed to be the inspiration for Enid Blyton’s Mallory Towers novels. In 1999, St Leonards became fully coeducational and now the school has equal numbers of boys and girls in attendance. Queen Mary’s House, where Mary Queen of Scots is believed to have stayed, was opened as Queen Mary’s Library in 1927; today it houses a range of research and learning resources for pupils.

SIXTH FORM

SIXTH FORM

St Leonards provides a world of opportunity, combining exceptional academic and co-curricular achievement with a friendly atmosphere. The school develops Sixth Form pupils into mature, thoughtful and confident individuals.

Entering the Sixth Form is an exciting step and often regarded as the pinnacle of the St Leonards journey. Respected by their peers and looked up to by the younger school community, many of our pupils have gradually worked towards this point of their school experience: a greater sense of independence and the opportunity to take on more responsibility; preparing for life beyond school. Wearing suits, being assigned to a house, taking on roles of responsibility such as Prefects, and Captains or Heads of School, making new friends and choosing their subjects for their IB Diploma or Career-related Programme studies are all parts of this.

The Sixth Form is designed for pupils to gradually transition from teacher-led learning to pupil-led learning.

Pupils follow the IB Diploma Programme or the IB Career-related Programme, which have been praised by pupils, parents and university admissions officers for its focus on deepening learning, offering wider subject options, and enriching minds.

At St Leonards, Sixth Form education is far more than preparation for academic results; you are joining an international community of pupils with a commitment to making a difference in the world. Pupils learn about their different cultures – for it is only by an appreciation and acceptance of our differences that we can bring people together across perceived divides.

St Leonards has received a number of prestigious accolades including The Sunday Times Scottish Independent School of the Year in 2019, and the Top Independent Secondary School Sixth Form in Scotland for IB/A Level results in 2016, 2017, and 2018.

THE INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE

The International Baccalaureate was founded in Switzerland in 1968 in order to provide a broad-based school leavers’ qualification which would be recognised around the world by universities and employers. Today, the IB programme is followed in 150 countries by more than a million pupils. The International Baccalaureate is a gold standard curriculum and has the highest of aims. Its mission statement says: “The aim of all IB programmes is to develop internationally minded people who, recognizing their common humanity and shared guardianship of the planet, help to create a better and more peaceful world.” St Leonards has exclusively taught International Baccalaureate qualifications in the Sixth Form for over 15 years.

THE IB DIPLOMA PROGRAMME

The IB Diploma is equivalent to A levels and Highers/ Advanced Highers. On the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme, pupils study six courses, three at Higher Level and three at Standard Level over two years. This ensures not only a breadth of experience in languages, social studies, the experimental sciences and mathematics but also the opportunity to specialise in key subjects as required. We offer an enviable range of subjects from which they can choose: Art & Design; Biology; Business Management; Chemistry; Economics; English; Geography; History; Languages (including French, German, Italian, Spanish, Russian and Mandarin); Latin; Maths; Music; Physics; Psychology; Theatre and Visual Arts.

DIPLOMA PROGRAMME CORE

In addition to the six subjects, the IBDP has three core requirements:

• The Extended Essay: A requirement for pupils to engage in independent research through an in-depth study of a question relating to one of the subjects they are studying.

• Theory of Knowledge: A course designed to encourage each pupil to reflect on the nature of knowledge by critically examining different ways of knowing

(perception, emotion, language and reason) and different kinds of knowledge (scientific, artistic, mathematical and historical).

• CAS - Creativity, Activity and Service: – This element requires that pupils actively learn from the experience of doing real tasks beyond the classroom.

THE IB CAREER-RELATED PROGRAMME

The IB Career-related Programme is designed for pupils who are interested in continuing academic study, but also wish to develop skills for employment and career development through practical, hands-on experience. A real strength of the programme is that it is holistic and flexible — pupils can shape the programme to meet their own interests and needs. Like the Diploma Programme, it is equivalent to A levels and Highers/Advanced Highers.

CAREER-RELATED PROGRAMME CORE

In addition to at least two Diploma courses and the Pearson BTEC qualification in Business, the IBCP has four core requirements:

• Service Learning — this course is focused on the development and application of knowledge and skills that will enable the pupil to meet an identified and authentic community need.

• Reflective Project — each pupil must identify, analyse, critically discuss, and evaluate an ethical issue that has arisen in their career-related studies. This culminates in an in-depth report.

• Language Development — an opportunity to gain knowledge of the language and culture of another country, without the pressure of a written examination.

• Personal and Professional Skills (PPS) — this course is designed to help pupils develop skills, attitudes, and strategies that will be useful in the workplace, including personal organisation, critical thinking, intercultural understanding, and effective communication.

CREATIVITY

The IB encourages creativity. Sixth Formers can take up a musical instrument and also be part of a choir, band, orchestra or ensemble. There are other performance opportunities in the Drama Club or school productions and even the challenge of taking a show to the Edinburgh Festival. Pupils can also pursue art, design and photography or take part in creative writing activities.

“I enjoy the after-school drama club. You get to know people better through activities and it’s really good fun.”

St Leonards Sixth Form Pupil

ACTIVITY

Sixth Form pupils must show examples of physical exertion contributing to a healthy lifestyle and complementing their academic work, for example in the Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme. Pupils also help set up sports activities and play in teams. They can choose from a wide variety of sports including athletics, cricket, tennis, swimming, hockey, football, rugby, watersports or even contemporary dance. Golfers have access to the seven St Andrews Links courses, including the world-famous Old Course, and benefit from the all-weather, floodlit practice facilities and golf technology at St Andrews Links Golf Academy.

SERVICE

The International Baccalaureate places great emphasis on pupils becoming valued and responsible members of society and Sixth Form pupils take part in a range of community-based initiatives. They help in local charity shops or community organisations, take part in conservation projects, fundraising events and have even abseiled down the Forth Rail Bridge to raise money for good causes.

UNIVERSITY ADMISSIONS

Since its inception, the IB Diploma qualification has remained constant: there has been no grade inflation and the syllabus finds huge favour with university admissions officers. Research has shown that IB Diploma pupils are more likely to go to a top 20 UK university, more likely to achieve a 1st or 2:1 degree, and more likely to be employed in graduate level and higher paid jobs.

“The IB is an extremely good qualification in allowing pupils to transition between high school and university. King’s is one of the number one destinations in Europe for IB learners.”

Paul Teulon, Director of Admissions and Registry Services at King’s College London

The IB Career-related Programme is also a widelyrecognised and accepted qualification, with universities and employers recognising the fantastic knowledge and skills that an IBCP candidate will have acquired over the two-year programme.

UNIVERSITY DESTINATIONS

Approximately one third of our pupils go on to study at a Scottish university. Recent destinations have included Aberdeen, Edinburgh, Glasgow and St Andrews. A further third go on to study elsewhere in the UK including Oxford, Cambridge, the London School of Economics and Durham or Exeter. The remaining third take up places at universities all over the world, most recently in Boston, Munich and Montreal. Courses have included Law, Medicine, International Relations, Engineering, Chemistry, Art, Geography and Classics.

“I really enjoy the academic side of St Leonards and the small class sizes…and the sport is amazing.”

St Leonards Sixth Form Pupil

INTERNATIONAL OUTLOOK

St Leonards is proud of its Scottish heritage and traditions and draws the majority of its pupils from Scotland and the rest of the UK. However, the appeal of the IB has also enabled an international outlook to flourish within the School, with pupils from around 35 different nationalities rubbing shoulders in the classroom and making life-long friendships. It is an excellent way for our pupils to learn about the global nature of the world today.

LINKS WITH THE UNIVERSITY OF ST ANDREWS

The University of St Andrews was founded in 1413, and was named the UK’s top university in 2021 by The Times. St Leonards pupils enjoy regular interactions with visiting students in their Science, Geography and Theory of Knowledge lessons, giving them an insight into undergraduate-level study skills and concepts.

As a university town, St Andrews is vibrant and cosmopolitan. The icing on the cake for St Leonards pupils is crossing the stage at the Younger Hall at Prizegiving upon completing their IB Diploma or Career-related Programme, following in the footsteps of generations of graduands of the University of St Andrews.

“This is an exchange that undoubtedly contributes to the intellectual profile of the town.”

Professor Dina Iordanova, former Provost of St Leonard’s College and Dean of Graduate Studies at the University of St Andrews

PASTORAL CARE & BOARDING

Boarding is at the heart of St Leonards and we welcome full, weekly, flexi and occasional boarders. We provide a ‘home from home’ for pupils who choose to board, which includes around 50% of the Sixth Form. Each of the houses is equipped with study bedrooms, common rooms, kitchen facilities, wifi, games rooms, and stylish social spaces. There has been an extensive programme of refurbishment across our three boarding housesBishopshall, St Rule and Ollerenshaw - with over £5 million invested to ensure that the boarding facilities we offer continue to be of the highest standard.

SIXTH FORM LIFE IN ST ANDREWS

As young adults, St Leonards’ Sixth Formers enjoy the advantages of their school being situated in a small, safe and friendly town. Home to Scotland’s first university and world-famous golf courses, St Andrews is considered a cosmopolitan destination with excellent facilities. In their free time, pupils can visit endless coffee shops and restaurants, enjoy shopping trips and visits to the local theatre and cinema, and walk along the beautiful beaches and down to the harbour.

“I love St Andrews and the fact that the school is in the middle of the town. There is everything you need in St Andrews and there is always so much to do. I have now applied to study at the University.”

St Leonards Sixth Form Pupil

St Leonards is truly an exceptional place to learn and grow.