Choosing the right secondary school is one of the most important decisions a family can make, and with so many options available, it can often feel overwhelming.
For most parents, the decision comes when their child is preparing to move from primary school into Year 7. But for others, changing schools partway through their education may be the right choice.
Whatever the circumstances, there are a number of important factors to consider when finding the best environment for your child to thrive.
Shelby Fleming, Admissions Registrar at Austin Friars School in Carlisle, has put together a guide highlighting some key points to consider.
Small class sizes
When comparing state school options to their independent counterparts, one of the biggest differences is the pupil-to-teacher ratio.
Schools such as Austin Friars have smaller class sizes, allowing teachers to know individual children far better.
Attention is given when needed in a more proactive way to ensure the best possible outcomes are achieved and no pupil goes under the radar.
Some exam classes at A-Level age can run as one-to-one ratio with completely bespoke teaching.
Academics
Whilst schools such as Austin Friars aim to educate the whole person rather than focus solely on examinations – strong academic outcomes naturally follow.
Pupils consistently achieve excellent results and go on to a wide range of successful destinations.
Bespoke curriculum and freedom to innovate
One of the most significant benefits of independent education is that schools are able to teach freely of the National Curriculum, and they can be broader in their educational provision.
You can find subjects like classical civilisation and Mandarin on pupils’ timetables at Austin Friars alongside the traditional core subjects of maths, English and science.
Investment in the future
Austin Friars continues to position itself as a modern and forward-thinking school while remaining true to its traditional values.
By investing in projects which benefit current and future pupils, as well as the wider community, the school is cementing its legacy as the go-to facility in Carlisle.
Recently launched projects include:
- On-site forest school area
- Four purpose-built padel courts
- A food technology department with ‘cook to camera’ teaching capabilities
- An art and design centre – with Mac computers, a kiln room, dark room for film photography, gallery space and more
Lots of exciting projects are also working their way to completion, such as a 3G multisport pitch, which will allow pupils as well as local grassroots teams to practice in any weather conditions.
Extra-curricular activities
At Austin Friars, opportunities beyond the classroom are not viewed as ‘extra’, they are an integral part of school life and a key part of educating the whole person.
Pupils can choose from a wide range of clubs and activities designed to develop new skills and build confidence.
The school’s current programme includes:
- Athletics
- Cricket
- Football
- Rugby
- Hockey
- Rounders
- Tennis
- Gymnastics
- Chess
- STEM
- Science
- Cookery
- Forest school
- Arts and crafts
- Historical society
- Gaming
- Running club
- French
- Duke of Edinburgh’s Award
- Arts Award
- Music ensembles
- Choirs and instrumental groups
- Dedicated homework and study support sessions
Activities take place throughout the school week and pupils are encouraged to discover new interests and challenge themselves beyond the curriculum.
These experiences help nurture well-rounded, resilient young people, equipping them with the confidence needed to thrive both in school and beyond.
Pastoral Care
In smaller and independent schools such as Austin Friars, the level of pastoral care and attention available is one of the most reassuring facets for parents.
Good pastoral care plays a crucial part in supporting children’s mental, social, physical and intellectual development.
In schools where every teacher knows every pupil, changes in behaviour and close monitoring of any potential issues means that interventions can be proactive instead of reactive and often prevent situations from escalating.
At Austin Friars, a dedicated hierarchy of pastoral leads work to ensure the wellbeing of all pupils is promoted and protected at all levels of schooling.
Campus and History
Well-established schools tend to stick around for good reasons and Austin Friars is no exception.
With its 75th anniversary celebrations due to take place during the next academic year, there are lots of plans to honour its history while looking forward to the future with a host of exciting commemorative events.
Alumni Services
Having access to a wealth of knowledge and advice from people working in a variety of industries can be a key part of your child’s hunt to find the job of their dreams.
Schools with strong alumni links, including Austin Friars, tap into this network built over decades on a frequent basis and run special workshops which are taught by former pupils.
Costs Involved
Costs to consider include any possible school fees, uniform, school lunches, trips, sports equipment, instruments and more.
Fee-paying schools, such as Austin Friars, offer bursary support to families on a case-by-case basis and are always happy to discuss options for children who would benefit from the advantages of studying within their independent school setting.
To find out more about Austin Friars, you can contact the school by calling Shelby Fleming (Admissions Registrar) on 01228 550706 or emailing at [email protected].
