St James Senior Boys’ School, situated within Ashford, Surrey, offers a unique educational experience that combines a philosophical approach with academic excellence. The school caters exclusively to boys aged 11 to 18 and is known for its all-faiths ethos, which encourages inclusivity and diversity. With a current enrolment of 384 students, the school provides a nurturing environment where boys are encouraged to develop both academically and personally.
The school’s educational philosophy focuses on unfolding the twin powers of love and reason, aiming to produce well-rounded individuals who are thoughtful, curious, and cheerful. This approach is reflected in the selection process, where interviews with the Headmaster play a crucial role in assessing a candidate’s character and interests beyond mere exam results. The emphasis on character development is evident throughout the school’s curriculum and extra-curricular activities.
Rick Clarke, who took over as Headmaster in September 2024, brings a wealth of experience from his previous roles at prestigious institutions such as Cheltenham College and Wellington College. His leadership style is characterised by a focus on mindfulness and emotional intelligence, aligning with the school’s core values. Under his guidance, the school has continued to thrive academically while maintaining its commitment to developing young men of character.
Academically, the school offers a broad curriculum with an average class size of 20 students. The pupil-to-staff ratio ensures personalised attention, fostering an environment conducive to learning. The school’s academic performance is commendable, with 42% of GCSE results achieving grades 9-7 and 21% of A-level results attaining A*/A grades in 2024. Subjects such as Chemistry, Physics, Maths, and English consistently yield top results.
The teaching approach at St James Senior Boys’ School is distinctive due to its philosophical underpinning across all subjects. This method encourages students to understand the relevance of their learning in real-world contexts and how they can use it to impact others positively. Quiet time and meditation are integral parts of the daily routine, promoting mindfulness and reflection among students.
The school offers a diverse range of languages including Spanish, French, Latin, and Sanskrit. The latter is particularly popular among boys transitioning from the junior school. The arts are also well-represented, with music and drama being integral components of the curriculum. The Head of Drama is highly regarded for her enthusiastic approach to teaching, inspiring students to explore their creative potential.
Sports play a significant role in school life, with a wide variety of activities available to students. The newly built sports centre boasts state-of-the-art facilities including a climbing wall and gymnasium. Traditional sports such as rugby remain popular alongside football and cricket. Additionally, minor sports like martial arts and kayaking offer further opportunities for students to engage in physical activity.
The school’s pastoral care system is robust, ensuring that each student receives the support they need. A tutor system helps monitor student wellbeing while sixth formers act as mentors for younger pupils. The inclusive environment fosters open discussions on contemporary issues such as Black Lives Matter and Me Too, encouraging students to engage critically with societal challenges.
St James Senior Boys’ School has evolved from its origins rooted in Eastern philosophies while retaining elements that promote mindfulness and emotional intelligence. The vegetarian menu reflects this heritage but has been met with mixed reviews from students who desire more variety.
Parents appreciate the school’s focus on developing well-rounded individuals rather than solely prioritising academic success. The diverse student body includes boys from various ethnic backgrounds, reflecting the school’s commitment to inclusivity.
In conclusion, St James Senior Boys’ School provides an enriching educational experience that balances academic rigour with personal development. Its emphasis on character building through mindfulness and philosophy sets it apart from other institutions. To receive updates about this school including exam results, senior staff changes and open days please bookmark it using the button at the end of this review.
