Saint Augustine's Priory School

Education for Life

An Education for Life

"Girls are allowed to breathe here, to develop naturally and are given the self-confidence to stand on their own."
(Senior School Form Mistress)

We aim to provide girls not only with academic success but with those experiences which will develop their individuality and skills, so that they can face the challenges of the 21st century. In addition to the school-based General Studies programme, Sixth Form students also have the chance to take part in a range of additional activities to try out new sports or skills and meet people from other schools. Students also take part in a two week work experience placement, when they are seconded to a variety of organisations, institutions and businesses to gain a practical insight into employment and areas of interest for future study.

We encourage girls to think about their next step and to make informed decisions at every stage of their development. The Sixth Form is supported by the Careers and UCAS Advisory Department providing advice and guidance. The Department works with the students to consider their many future options, assisting with university and course selection, preparation for Oxbridge and other university applications and subsequent interviews. This process is supplemented by an annual Careers Conference with guest speakers, mentors and experts in key fields invited in to speak and to offer advice and insight.

'.. the school provides a wide range of high quality enrichment activities which make learning interesting and which pupils enjoy.'
(Ofsted Inspection Report July 2006)

Working with the Careers and UCAS Advisory department, every girl is encouraged to examine her own strengths and to explore possibilities suitable for her interests and personal abilities. Talks, conferences, seminars and courses, a visit to a Careers Fair and University Open Days, career profiling, as well as a well-stocked, up-to-date Careers library and the Internet, allow all our students to keep abreast of opportunities on offer. All of this support builds on the guidance received throughout the school. When our girls leave here for university, they take with them not only impressive qualifications but also kindness, an understanding of, and the ability to adapt to, the world in which they live, the confidence to succeed in whatever they choose to do and above all, friendships which will last them through life.

'Pupils' social development is outstanding. They have positive attitudes to learning and life…their support for one another is exceptional. The very strong emphasis on speaking and listening helps pupils develop excellent communication skills and prepares them well for the next stage of their education and for the outside world.'
(Ofsted Inspection Report July 2006)