Downside School, geographically positioned in Radstock, is a co-educational secondary institution that has been a significant part of England’s educational landscape since its founding in 1606. Known for its Roman Catholic ethos, the school operates with a strong sense of community and tradition, which is evident in its commitment to academic excellence and pastoral care.
The school offers a comprehensive education for boys and girls aged 11 to 18, with a variety of boarding options including day, weekly/flexible, and full boarding. The majority of students are full boarders, creating a vibrant and diverse community where 40% of pupils hail from overseas. This international presence enriches the cultural tapestry of the school, providing students with a global perspective.
Academically, Downside School prioritises outstanding examination results. In the Times 2024 Parent Power Rankings, the school is placed at 266, reflecting its commitment to high academic standards. The A-level results show a strong performance with 13.9% achieving A*, 36.9% securing A*/A, and 65.2% attaining A*/B grades. At GCSE level, 25.6% of students achieved A*/9/8 grades, while 46.2% secured A*/A/9/8/7 grades. These figures underscore the school’s dedication to fostering academic success among its pupils.
The curriculum at Downside is broad and balanced, encouraging students to explore a wide range of subjects. Modern languages are an integral part of the curriculum, with French being taught from the outset and options to study Spanish or German in later years. For those with a keen interest in languages, private lessons in Russian, Chinese, or Italian are available. The school also offers an impressive array of extra-curricular activities that cater to diverse interests, from STEM clubs to performing arts.
The arts hold a special place at Downside School, with excellent facilities supporting music and drama education. The Grade I listed abbey church serves as both a spiritual centre and an acoustically stunning venue for musical performances. The school’s music programme is robust, featuring four auditioned choirs and opportunities for instrumentalists to participate in orchestras and bands. Drama is equally well-supported with a refurbished theatre that hosts various productions throughout the year.
Sport is another area where Downside excels. The school’s distinctive maroon and mustard kit is easily spotted on pitches and AstroTurf fields that stretch across beautiful green spaces. Traditional sports like rugby, cricket, hockey, netball, and tennis are complemented by activities such as sailing and weight-training. The emphasis on personal bests over winning at all costs instils values of discipline and stewardship in students.
Pastoral care at Downside is highly regarded by both students and parents. The school provides numerous support systems including tutors, housemasters/mistresses, house mothers (matrons), an independent listener, and a chaplaincy team dedicated to students’ spiritual wellbeing. The health centre operates around the clock to ensure students’ physical health needs are met.
Under the leadership of Andrew Hobbs since 2018, Downside School has navigated through changes while maintaining its core values rooted in Benedictine traditions. Mr Hobbs’ approachable nature and commitment to education have made him a respected figure within the school community.
The school’s ethos is firmly Catholic but inclusive, welcoming students from all faiths who respect its religious practices. Benedictine values such as listening and reverence are integral to the school’s culture, fostering an environment where students can discuss faith openly.
In conclusion, Downside School offers a unique educational experience that combines academic rigour with spiritual growth within a supportive community setting. Its long history and commitment to excellence make it an attractive choice for families seeking a well-rounded education for their children.
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