Background on St Edward’s School
St Edward’s School, affectionately known as “Teddies,” is a prestigious co-educational independent boarding and day school located in the vibrant city of Oxford. Established in 1863 by Thomas Chamberlain, the school combines rich history with modern educational practices. The school is set on a spacious 100-acre campus, offering a blend of historic and contemporary facilities that create an inspiring environment for learning.
St Edward’s School is known for its inclusive and diverse community, welcoming students from over 40 different countries. This international atmosphere enriches the educational experience, preparing students for a global future. The school’s ethos emphasizes nurturing individual talents, fostering intellectual curiosity, and promoting a sense of community and belonging.
Curriculum and Academic Programmes
St Edward’s School offers a broad and challenging curriculum designed to cater to a wide range of academic interests and future aspirations. The school’s educational approach combines traditional academic disciplines with modern pedagogical practices, ensuring that each student achieves their full potential.
- GCSE Programme: In Years 10 and 11, students undertake the GCSE curriculum, studying core subjects such as English, mathematics, sciences, a modern foreign language, and humanities. Additionally, elective subjects are available to align with students’ interests and future goals.
- Sixth Form Programme: In the Sixth Form (Years 12 and 13), students can choose between A-Level subjects and the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma, allowing them to specialise in areas they are passionate about and preparing them for higher education. Subjects offered include English literature, mathematics, further mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology, history, geography, economics, modern languages, and more.
- Special Programmes: St Edward’s places a strong emphasis on arts, music, drama, and sports. The school boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including a professional theatre, music rooms, art studios, and extensive sports facilities. These programmes support a vibrant extracurricular scene that complements the academic curriculum.
St Edward’s consistently achieves excellent academic results, with many students gaining admission to top universities in the UK and around the world, including Oxbridge and other prestigious institutions.
Admission Requirements
Admission to St Edward’s School is competitive, and early application is recommended. The school seeks to admit students who will benefit from and contribute to its vibrant academic and extracurricular environment.
- Application Process: Prospective students and their parents must complete an online application form and submit the required documents, including academic records, a personal statement, and references.
- Entrance Examinations: Applicants are required to take entrance exams in core subjects such as English and mathematics. These exams assess the applicant’s academic abilities and potential for success at St Edward’s.
- Interviews: Shortlisted candidates are invited for an interview with a member of the admissions team. The interview provides an opportunity for the school to learn more about the student’s interests, achievements, and aspirations.
- Additional Requirements for International Students: International applicants may need to provide proof of English language proficiency, such as IELTS or TOEFL scores. St Edward’s School offers support for students who require additional English language training.
Extracurricular Activities and Pastoral Care
St Edward’s School is renowned for its extensive extracurricular programme, offering students a wide range of opportunities to explore their interests and develop new skills.
- Extracurricular Activities: The school offers a diverse array of activities, including sports (cricket, rugby, football, rowing, hockey, etc.), music (orchestra, choir, instrumental lessons), drama (theatre productions, drama clubs), and various clubs and societies (debating, Model United Nations, science club, etc.). These activities are designed to complement the academic curriculum and provide students with a well-rounded education.
- Pastoral Care: The well-being of students is a top priority at St Edward’s. Each student is assigned to a house, each led by a housemaster who provides guidance and support. The house system fosters a strong sense of community and belonging, ensuring that students feel supported and valued. The school also has a dedicated team of counsellors who provide confidential support for students dealing with personal issues, stress, or anxiety.
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