Exeter Cathedral School, located at the heart of Exeter, is a distinguished independent preparatory school with a rich history dating back to the 12th century. Originally founded as a choir school, it has evolved into a vibrant educational institution offering a forward-thinking and creative learning environment for boys and girls aged two to 13. The school’s Christian affiliation underpins its ethos, providing a nurturing and inclusive atmosphere where children are encouraged to develop both academically and personally.
Under the leadership of Headmaster James Featherstone since 2016, the school has undergone significant transformation. Featherstone, who previously served as head of the lower school at Perse School in Cambridge, brings an intuitive understanding of educational environments, having grown up in schools himself. His dynamic approach has been instrumental in reinventing and reconfiguring the school’s structure, enhancing both pastoral care and co-curricular offerings. His passion for music is evident, having been a choral scholar at Durham Cathedral and later part of various choirs and musical groups.
The school prides itself on its small class sizes, allowing for individualised attention and personalised learning experiences. This commitment to nurturing each pupil is reflected in the diverse range of extra-curricular activities available, from sports to music and drama. The school’s emphasis on developing the whole child is evident in its outstanding provision in sport and world-class musical education. As one of only 44 choral schools in the UK, music plays a central role in school life, with every child participating in a choir and numerous opportunities to perform.
Academically, the school provides excellent preparation for senior education. Pupils typically move on to prestigious independent schools such as Exeter School, Wellington School, Blundell’s, Downside, Sherborne, Charterhouse, and the Purcell School. In 2024 alone, 15 scholarships and awards were achieved by pupils moving on to these institutions. The school’s non-selective entry policy for nursery and pre-prep ensures a diverse intake, with a focus on teaching rather than testing potential pupils.
The facilities at Exeter Cathedral School are impressive despite its city centre location. While it lacks onsite green playing fields, pupils benefit from access to county-standard sports facilities through partnerships with local institutions like Exeter University. The school offers an extensive range of sports including judo, squash, swimming, cross-country running, athletics, climbing, kayaking, and Dartmoor walks. These activities are complemented by regular trips that make the most of the local area’s rich history and natural beauty.
The pastoral care system is robust, with an emphasis on wellbeing and emotional support. The recruitment of a Head of Learning Support demonstrates the school’s commitment to catering for all learning needs. Small class sizes facilitate this personalised approach, ensuring that pupils with specific requirements receive appropriate support.
Exeter Cathedral School’s artistic offerings are equally impressive. Art classes take place in a light-filled room overlooking the Dean’s Garden, where pupils engage in creative projects using recycled materials. Drama opportunities abound with annual performances and smaller productions that explore English classics like Shakespearean plays.
The sense of community at Exeter Cathedral School is palpable. Parents speak highly of the kindness shown by older pupils towards younger ones and appreciate the family feel that makes settling into the school environment easy for both children and parents alike. This supportive atmosphere extends beyond the classroom to include outdoor spaces like the Dean’s Garden—a favoured spot for break-time gatherings and outdoor lessons.
Overall, Exeter Cathedral School stands out as an institution that successfully blends its historical roots with modern educational practices. Its commitment to nurturing individual talents while maintaining high academic standards makes it an attractive choice for families seeking a well-rounded education for their children.
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