St Dunstan’s College, operating in the vicinity of South East London, is a co-educational independent school that has been making significant strides in the educational landscape. With a Church of England ethos, the school caters to students aged three to 18, providing a comprehensive education that balances academic excellence with a robust extra-curricular programme. The college’s recent rise in the Times 2024 Parent Power Rankings from 92 to 78 is a testament to its growing reputation and commitment to quality education.
Under the leadership of Nicholas Hewlett since 2014, St Dunstan’s has undergone a transformative journey. Mr Hewlett, with his background in geography and teaching experience at prestigious institutions like Dulwich College and Magdalen College School, has brought a dynamic vision to the school. His efforts have culminated in a £30 million development programme that includes a new junior school, sixth form centre, and STEM block. This investment reflects the school’s dedication to providing state-of-the-art facilities and an innovative curriculum that goes beyond the national standards.
Academically, St Dunstan’s College has demonstrated commendable performance. In 2024, the school achieved 78% of GCSE grades at 9-7 and 61% of A-levels at A*/A, with an impressive 88% achieving A*-B. These results underscore the school’s focus on high academic standards while ensuring students receive a well-rounded education. The college offers a diverse range of subjects up to Year 9, including Music, Art, Sport, and unique options like Warhammer and Chess. This breadth of curriculum aims to foster neuroplasticity and enhance learning capabilities among students.
The college’s approach to teaching is characterised by energetic and engaging staff who encourage students to explore new ideas and subjects. Classics remains compulsory until Year 10, alongside French, Spanish, or German, with plans to introduce Mandarin as an option. The introduction of A-level Politics further broadens the academic offerings at the senior level.
St Dunstan’s College places significant emphasis on pastoral care and inclusivity. The wellness centre, established in 2018, focuses on student mental and physical wellbeing. The presence of a chaplain, counsellor, and full-time nurse ensures comprehensive support for students. Inclusivity is evident in the school’s infrastructure, with science laboratory desks adjustable for wheelchair users and a lift for accessibility.
The college’s co-curricular programme is extensive, ensuring arts are integrated into the daily schedule. Music is particularly strong, with various choirs available for students and parents alike. The Design and Engineering department boasts excellent facilities within the new STEM building, reflecting its popularity among students pursuing engineering subjects at university.
Sport is another key aspect of life at St Dunstan’s College. The campus offers large sports fields and facilities like netball and tennis courts, football pitches, and multi-use games areas. A gender-neutral sports programme provides access to cricket, rugby, hockey, netball, swimming, and football. The school’s success in basketball at the Lewisham and London Youth Games highlights its competitive spirit.
The ethos of St Dunstan’s College is deeply rooted in its heritage since its founding in 1888. Academic programmes are named after former headmasters, reflecting a respect for tradition while embracing modernity. The resurrection of the St Dunstan’s Festival exemplifies this blend of past and present.
The college’s commitment to diversity is evident in its student body composition. Parents appreciate the down-to-earth nature of students who recognise their privilege without entitlement. The school’s location in an area with strong community ties contributes to its contemporary outlook on education.
St Dunstan’s College has produced notable alumni across various fields, including politics, media, sports, and academia. This legacy speaks volumes about the quality of education provided by the institution.
Financially accessible compared to other schools in the area, St Dunstan’s offers generous means-tested bursaries alongside scholarships in Music, Drama, Sport, Art, and Design Engineering at 16+. This financial support ensures that talented students from diverse backgrounds can benefit from the college’s offerings.
In conclusion, St Dunstan’s College stands out as an inspiring institution that combines academic rigour with a forward-thinking approach to education. Its diverse curriculum, dedicated staff, and inclusive environment make it an excellent choice for families seeking a progressive educational experience for their children.
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