th e boys and girls of st leonards are · situated in a beautiful campus in the inspiring...

3

St Leonards is Scotland’s leading independent school.

Situated in a beautiful campus in the inspiring university

town of St Andrews, St Leonards is a forward-thinking

boarding and day school for boys and girls aged 5-18.

Our aim is to provide an outstanding education, off ering

both academic and co-curricular opportunities for every

pupil to excel, in an unrivalled location.

We inform and inspire, with learning at our heart, both

inside and outside the classroom. We off er deeper learning,

wider options and richer minds.

St Leonards is the fi rst school in Scotland to be accredited

as an all-through IB school, delivering the globally-

recognised curriculum from Year 1 through to Year 13.

It is a consistent and coherent learner journey, starting

at age 5 with the excellent Primary Years Programme

and culminating in the Diploma Programme in the

Sixth Form. It is an approach fi t for the 21st century,

internationally recognised, not hamstrung by the

unnecessary narrowing of options at too early an age.

Learning really is for life and all its unpredictable twists

and turns, and the style of learning exemplifi ed by the IB

embodies this far better than anything else.

We are truly fortunate to have as our motto ‘Ad Vitam’,

which we interpret as meaning ‘for life’. Th e boys and

girls of St Leonards are being prepared ‘for life’ in its

fullest sense; a life of challenges and opportunities.

Founded in 1877, spanning almost 150 years of history,

St Leonards continues to develop and progress, and this

year has been no exception: we are immensely proud to

have been named as Scotland’s Independent School of the

Year 2019, by the Sunday Times Schools Guide.

For three years running, St Leonards has also been ranked

by the Sunday Times as the Top Independent School Sixth

Form in Scotland for IB/A Level results, with leavers going

on to study at top universities around the world.

Editor, Alastair McCall, has commended the school for its

recent academic success: “No Scottish independent school

can match St Leonards’ achievements in the sixth form

averaged over the past four years”.

We continue to invest, not only in our pupils, but in

the facilities we off er. All three boarding houses have

recently undergone an extensive £4 million refurbishment,

creating smart yet homely social spaces and modern study

bedrooms.

St Leonards is a valued part of the St Andrews community

at a number of levels; primarily as a centre of educational

excellence but also as a contributor to the social and

cultural life of the town. Th e school has excellent relations

with the University of St Andrews, opening up further

opportunities for our pupils.

St Leonards is truly an exceptional place to learn and grow.

Every day is an open day. We hope to welcome you to

St Andrews and to see our school in action.

Dr Michael Carslaw BCs, MBA, PhDHeadmaster, St Leonards School

Th e boys and girls of St Leonards are

being prepared ‘for life’ in its fullest sense;

a life of challenges and opportunities.

4 5

ETHOS Th e curriculum is underpinned by well-established

values that permeate the school from start to fi nish.

From the youngest pupil in our Junior School to the

oldest Sixth Former, St Leonards students are guided

by the enlightening principles of the International

Baccalaureate Learner Profi le. We aim for children to

become communicators, inquirers, risk-takers and thinkers

who are balanced, caring, open-minded, principled,

knowledgeable and refl ective. Our goal is to bring out

the best in each pupil by recognising, encouraging and

developing their unique skills. We treat our students as

individuals who think for themselves, with their own

aspirations, potential and talents.

St Leonards off ers unrivalled opportunities for sport,

music, drama and art, and we have an extensive

programme of co-curricular activities.

6 7

CAMPUSSt Leonards boasts one of the most impressive campuses in

the UK, with a beautiful set-up in the heart of St Andrews,

incorporating historic landmarks, purpose-built facilities,

vast green playing fi elds, a 25m swimming pool and

magnifi cent views of the sea and the surrounding town.

On one side the pupils look on to St Andrews Bay, and on

the other, the ancient ruins of St Andrews Cathedral.

Th e campus is bounded by medieval walls which once

marked the perimeter of the ancient town priory,

providing our students with a safe, secure and serene

environment in which to learn.

Everything is within walking distance of the school: three

minutes to St Andrews Castle, two minutes from the

beach and one minute from our favourite ice cream shop!

Th e old cobbled streets of St Andrews are lined with

shops, restaurants and cafes, a cinema and theatre,

museums, and seven championship golf courses, all on the

school’s doorstep for pupils to enjoy.

8 9

LOCATION Th e university town of St Andrews is situated on the

coast, north-east of Edinburgh in the ‘Kingdom of Fife’.

St Leonards is well served by public transport with regular

local bus services and Leuchars railway station, which is

on the East Coast Mainline and just ten minutes away.

Th e school is conveniently located just 20 minutes from

Dundee, home to the V&A, 60 minutes from Edinburgh

and 90 minutes from Glasgow.

Th e school runs its own subsidised bus services from

surrounding towns and villages including Cupar, Dundee,

Kirkcaldy, Perth and the East Neuk. St Andrews is within

easy reach of the international airports of Edinburgh,

which fl ies to over 150 destinations worldwide, and

Glasgow.

10 11

JUNIOR SCHOOL

12 13

‘ Education is not the fi lling of a pail, but the lighting of a fi re’.

With family fi rmly at the heart, and with the support of

an immensely talented, caring and imaginative team of

staff , our ethos at St Leonards Junior School is simple: to

provide a nurturing, relaxed, yet ambitious and innovative

education for children aged 5-12. In a culture of testing

and assessment in UK schools, we have a rare opportunity

to off er children the chance to guide their own learning,

both in and out of the classroom. Learning is meant to be

fun, and we want to instil a passion for life-long learning

in all our children, whilst giving them the chance to

explore and experience a feast of exciting opportunities,

both within the classroom and across all areas of school

life. Th rough our leading curriculum, the International

Baccalaureate Primary Years and Middle Years Programme,

we foster curiosity, risk-taking and discovery, skills that

will remain with children for life.

St Leonards off ers the children an opportunity to

experience a breadth of education that encompasses a

creative curriculum, and a thrilling array of sport, music,

drama, art, design and activities. School should be a place

of adventure, and our programme of outdoor education

makes full use of our unrivalled location, set on the

stunning St Andrews coast. Most important, however,

is the happiness of each child. Happy children succeed,

and at St Leonards we place the relationships between

staff , children and parents at the forefront of our ethos for

education. We are proud to have a team who care deeply

about children, and have a commitment to fi nding each

individual child’s strengths thereby developing their self-

esteem. We would be absolutely delighted to welcome you

and your family to St Leonards in the near future to tour

the grounds, meet the staff and, most importantly, the

children, who make this school the special community it is.

ST LEONARDS PROSPECTUS | JUNIOR SCHOOLJUNIOR SCHOOL

14 15

COMPASSION AND KINDNESS Whilst the emphasis on the academic side of school life

is vital, it is the happy atmosphere of St Leonards which

makes an immediate impact on visitors. Our caring,

committed staff gently guide the children in forming

positive relationships with one another. We place great

importance on traditional values such as kindness,

courtesy and good manners. Our nurturing environment

supports and builds the children’s understanding of how

they fi t into the school community and wider world.

Developing a child’s self-belief and confi dence is crucial in

providing an outstanding education for life, and we truly

feel a happy and confi dent child will succeed in all areas.


CHALLENGING AND INQUIRING Our highly creative Primary Years curriculum provides

children with experiences that encourage a life-long love

of learning. Th rough imaginative teaching and learning,

our pupils are challenged to think outside the box, have

a fearless approach to making mistakes and take their

own learning in exciting new directions. Aiming high

in everything we do sits at the heart of life inside the

classroom, and we are academically very ambitious for our

children. Within very small classes, we encourage the girls

and boys to build a strong work ethic and to set the bar

high to realise their ambitions. In the Lower School (Years

1-3), the emphasis is on raising the children’s literacy and

numeracy levels, and through our phonics, reading and

maths programmes, we build solid foundations for them.

16 17

ST LEONARDS PROSPECTUS | JUNIOR SCHOOL

“A signifi cant number of children particularly at the early and middle stages are working beyond expected levels in reading and writing at St Leonards.” HMI Inspection extract (2017)

JUNIOR SCHOOL

18 19

In the Middle and Upper School (Years 4-7), we see the

children build up a range of skills necessary for life. Taking

risks with learning, building on exciting knowledge and

understanding, developing outstanding communication,

presentation and research skills will be crucial as they

move through their school careers, and these form the

focus of our curriculum.

Languages (French from Year 1, Latin from Year 6 and

Spanish and German in Year 7) Art, Drama, Music, PE

(including weekly swimming lessons) and Games are

taught individually by highly qualifi ed specialists.

Learn more about our inspiring Primary Years Programme

by reading our dedicated PYP booklet.


NURTURING AND TRANSFORMATIVE Schools should be places of joy, laughter, magical

enchantment and pure delight. Our family focus within a

genuinely supportive environment, is one of our greatest

strengths. Th is genuinely happy atmosphere permeates

throughout the school and every child is valued as an

individual, learning to live as part of a community.

Teaching staff know every child, and the Head and class

teachers monitor every child’s academic and personal

progress. A culture of praise runs through the school, and

through encouragement, confi dence and self-esteem come

naturally. Our house system generates a sense of belonging

and team spirit, and we have developed a ‘team every each’

child system for our pastoral care, whereby issues can be

picked up swiftly and dealt with through compassion and

kindness. Our relationship with parents is vital to achieve

a total community at St Leonards, and the Head operates

an ‘open door’ policy at all times to encourage parents

to take a full part in their son/daughter’s schooling. A

fl ourishing PA supports this mission, and it is widely

recognised that a successful and happy education has to

be achieved through a trusting and honest relationship

between the school and home.

20 21


“There’s a feeling of belonging and family environment, driven by the empowerment of older children to work with and support the younger ones in both play and work.” Current Parent

JUNIOR SCHOOL

22 23

IMAGINATIVE AND ENERGETIC Our thriving extra-curricular programme supports the

importance of giving children a proper childhood, and

plays an important part of school life. Our ‘Sport for all’

ethos at St Leonards off ers opportunities on the games

fi eld for all pupils. Good sportsmanship is taught together

with the acquisition of skills across all major sports:

football, rugby, tennis, rounders, netball, hockey, lacrosse,

cricket, golf and athletics. Also on off er are swimming,

judo, gymnastics and dance. We are fortunate to enjoy

extensive sports pitches, an indoor swimming pool, squash

courts, tennis courts, an AstroTurf and indoor sports hall.

Every child has a minimum of 6 PE / Games sessions

each week, and there are many opportunities to represent

the school in weekly competitive fi xtures. Golf is taken

seriously at St Leonards, and our Director of Golf (also a

professional for the Links Trust) oversees an exciting and

ambitious programme of golf instruction, competitions

and tournaments across the world-famous courses in

St Andrews.

Th e Creative Arts are equally strong at St Leonards, with

the Music, Drama, Art and Design Departments off ering

excellent opportunities to all children. Many children

learn a musical instrument and take part in regular

informal and formal concerts. Our three school choirs,

corps of drums and instrumental ensemble perform

regularly, and children are aff orded the opportunity to play

with the Senior School orchestras and ensembles. Drama

holds a very special place at St Leonards, with over 90

children taking part in LAMDA tuition and exams each

year. Every child performs on stage annually in a major

production, and our pupils learn to communicate through

weekly drama lessons, debating, poetry and public

speaking. Every year, the Perth Festival attracts many

outstanding entries and performances from St Leonards

pupils. Art is exceptional, and our children are inspired

by weekly lessons, art clubs and regular opportunities to

exhibit work.


24 25

DYNAMIC AND INSPIRING Children learn a great deal outside the classroom, and our

commitment to trips, excursions, and outdoor learning

supports this. As part of our inquiry-led curriculum, every

class regularly makes use of St Andrews and the wider

area to support their learning. Guest speakers, authors

and scientists come into school to inspire the pupils, and

a range of residential trips supports the development of

the whole child. Pupils in Year 7 have the opportunity

to visit France to enhance their language skills and

understanding of another culture. Year 6 spend time at a

residential adventure camp, and a range of outward bound

and camping trips operate throughout the year. Children

assist with charity fundraising events that tie in with their

learning, helping them to understand their greater role

within society.

Pupils have the opportunity to develop their leadership

skills as they move up the school, and the ‘St Leonards

Award’ is in development, which will set a framework

for each child to acquire new skills, take on challenges

and serve the community. Th rough our love of outdoor

learning, children will learn bush craft skills and be

exposed to a number of opportunities to develop their

confi dence, self-belief and team work skills. In the

upper years, children are motivated to be appointed to

positions of responsibility such as House Captains, School

Council Representatives, Eco-Council Representatives,

Peer Listeners, as well as more informal opportunities

to support one another. Such roles build confi dence in

voicing their own opinions and co-operating with others.


“Our family’s favourite event is the sandcastle competition – the whole of the Junior School walk down to the beach and build sandcastles in teams – a fantastic afternoon of creativity and fresh air using the local landscape to its advantage.”Current Parent

JUNIOR SCHOOL

26 27

INNOVATIVE St Leonards is very much one school; close interaction

exists between the Junior and Senior Schools and

many of the facilities are shared. Like their Senior

School colleagues, Junior School pupils are guided

by the enlightening principles of the International

Baccalaureate Learner Profi le: we aim for children to

become communicators, inquirers and thinkers who are

balanced, caring, open-minded, principled, courageous,

knowledgeable and refl ective. At the top of the school,

children in Year 7 are prepared for entry to the Senior

School by sharing the same Middle Years Curriculum as

Years 8 and 9, allowing a smooth and coherent transition.


“We chose St Leonards because of its exceptional location, and the rather idyllic life the children have. It’s a very beautiful, healthy place, where they are thriving.”Current Parent

JUNIOR SCHOOL

28 29

HOME FROM HOMESt Leonards is a boarding and day school, off ering full,

fl exi, weekly and occasional boarding from Year 6 and

above.

Our boarding facilities have undergone extensive

redevelopment over the last 3 years, most recently focusing

on St Rule Boarding House, our ‘home from home’ for

younger pupils from the age of 10, where the St Leonards

boarding journey begins.

With family at the centre, the brief was to create a warm

and welcoming environment for our younger boys and

girls, and this is encapsulated well in the house design,

features and fi nishings. Th is major refurbishment of

the mixed house began in summer 2019, focusing in

particular on the ground fl oor social spaces, where pupils

can have fun, relax and unwind after a busy school day.

A brand-new kitchen and dining room has been installed,

to act as the hub of the house and where lots of cooking,

baking, activities and socialising can happen. Many of the

bedrooms have sea views beyond the playing fi elds, and

out towards the countryside and beyond.

Th e simple yet playful interior was chosen to appeal to

our boys and girls, and there will be plenty of opportunity

for our boarders to add their own personalities to the

house. With lots of space for games and movie nights, the

children enjoy spending time here, which is so important.

St Leonards is proud to welcome pupils from all over

the world, and we aim to ensure everyone feels happy,

supported and part of our close-knit boarding community.

St Rule is where friendships are made for life, and

although it is a smaller house, it is arguably the loudest!

Our dedicated team of Houseparents regard St Rule as an

extension of their own families and are always there to care

for the children.

Similar to the other boarding houses, an amazing activities

programme is in place for pupils to enjoy every Sunday.

Activity suggestions are formed and chosen by our

boarders, of course – which can include anything from

bubble football to go-karting to house trips to the cinema.

Th e exciting transformation of St Rule will continue in

stages, next phase planned for summer 2020.


30 31

DARE TO BE DIFFERENT St Leonards is a school where individuality is celebrated,

children can make and learn from mistakes, and be part

of a caring and compassionate community. Above all else,

it is our aim that pupils should have a developed sense of

who they are and what they can achieve. Th ey should leave

every lesson, day, week, term, and eventually the school,

equipped with confi dence and self-esteem. Our passion

for learning, happiness and innovation, and our vision to

fashion imagination and compassion in our children, cuts

right through our school. We can’t wait to show you.


“St Andrews provides an idyllic backdrop: medieval walls, cathedral ruins and an in-your-face sea breeze.”Tatler School Guide 2017

JUNIOR SCHOOL

32 33

SENIOR SCHOOL

34 35

ST LEONARDS PROSPECTUS | SENIOR SCHOOLSENIOR SCHOOL

“There is a genuine community here and they are really great teachers.” Current Student

SENIOR SCHOOLTh e Senior School off ers boarding and day education for

girls and boys aged 12-18.

Students aged 12-14 benefi t from our forward-thinking

Middle Years curriculum in Years 7 (Junior School)

8 and 9 (Senior School), which is designed to allow a

seamless transition as part of the overall learner journey,

maximising the potential of each and every student. We

teach our students to work eff ectively, communicate

articulately, respect others and participate with purpose.

In Years 10 and 11, students take GCSEs and IGCSEs,

choosing from almost 20 subjects, including the chance

to study the three separate sciences, French, German or

Spanish and Latin as well as a range of creative options.

A one-year course (also including GCSEs and IGCSEs)

and known as the ‘Pre-IB’ is available as a means of

preparation for the International Baccalaureate Diploma

and is popular with students moving from the Scottish

state school system as well as international students.

36 37


SIXTH FORMTh e International Baccalaureate (IB) provides a broad-

based school leavers’ qualifi cation which is recognised

worldwide by universities and employers. As an alternative

to A Levels, IB Diploma Programme students study

six courses in the Sixth Form, three at higher level and

three at standard level over two years. Th is ensures

not only a breadth of experience in languages, social

studies, the experimental sciences and mathematics

but the opportunity to specialise in key subjects as

required, keeping their options open. In addition the

programme has three core requirements: a research-based

Extended Essay; a Th eory of Knowledge course designed

to encourage each student to refl ect on the nature of

knowledge, and CAS (creativity, activity and service),

which requires that students actively learn from the

experience of doing real tasks beyond the classroom.

Th e Pearson BTEC in Business and in Sport is available

for students in the Sixth Form who do not wish to study

for the full IB Diploma. Th is option, which combines

eight units of BTEC study with two or three IB courses,

serves as good preparation for either university, college or

the world of work.

38 39

MUSICTh e St Leonards Music School is a hive of tuneful activity,

playing host throughout the day to approximately

250 individual music lessons, band and ensemble

rehearsals and concerts. Facilities comprise a concert

auditorium, nine teaching/practice rooms and two full-

sized classrooms. Th e building features work stations

with the most up-to-date computers and software,

providing opportunities for innovative composition and

performance. As well as classes starting as early as Year

1 in the Junior School, music is off ered as a subject at

both GCSE and IB Diploma level. Th e School has several

choirs, orchestras and ensembles, including brass, string,

wind, jazz, fl ute and a pipe band.

ST LEONARDS PROSPECTUS | SENIOR SCHOOL

“The teaching staff demonstrate a fi ne balance between professionalism and friendliness that allows a channel of mutual respect between pupil and teacher. This approach creates a perfect environment for learning.” Current Parent

SENIOR SCHOOL

40 41

FACILITIES Th e historic priory walls which bound the secure campus

might be ancient but, within them, our facilities are

thoroughly modern. Th ey include: a purpose-built music

school and auditorium; a science block, an ICT suite;

a dedicated inspirational art department and a drama

studio; an indoor swimming pool; squash courts; all-

weather sports pitches; extensive grass playing fi elds, and

an award-winning school dining hall.


42 43

ACTIVITIES We off er an extensive range of after-school and weekend

activities which give our students the chance to broaden

their horizons and develop key life skills. Th ese can be

practical and active, for example learning business and

leadership skills in the Young Enterprise company or

developing team-building and problem-solving capabilities

through the Duke of Edinburgh award scheme. We also

appeal to the intellectual with chess and science clubs or

beginners’ Mandarin lessons, and to the ethical with the

Amnesty International Group and the Debating Society.

We celebrate the Arts with drama clubs, choirs and bands,

art exhibitions, creative writing for one of the student-led

publications and even some Scottish Country Dancing:

Burns’ Night celebrations and St Andrew’s Day are just

some of the highlights of the year!


44 45

SPORT We are passionate about sport and our aim is to give our

students a love of physical exercise that will stay with

them for life. Th ere are sporting opportunities for all at

St Leonards. Timetabled Games and PE lessons include

rugby, hockey, lacrosse, football, athletics, cricket, tennis,

swimming and, of course, golf. Students take part in

regular matches against other schools, as well as travelling

further afi eld for regional and national fi xtures and

competitions. We off er a range of clubs for sports from

crossfi t to horse riding, basketball and sailing. St Leonards

students regularly receive regional and national sporting

honours.


“I’m on the hockey, lacrosse, tennis, golf teams. I represented the school at multiple sports fi xtures. They have really great facilities here, and great opportunities to take part in competitions or sports each day or on the weekend. There’s always something going on that you can participate in.”Current Student

SENIOR SCHOOL

46 47

GOLFWith the most famous golf links in the world on our

doorstep, St Leonards students have an unrivalled

chance to learn and play the game in its most revered

location. Th ey have access to the seven St Andrews Links

championship courses, including the world-famous Old

Course, and benefi t from the all-weather, fl oodlit practice

facilities at St Andrews Links Golf Academy. Th e Golf

Programme at St Leonards is led by our Director of Golf

who is also a PGA accredited Senior Instructor at the

St Andrews Links. Students receive coaching as part of

their timetabled Games lessons and/or as a co-curricular

activity choice. For those who demonstrate a talent for

the game or are keen to develop their passion further, St

Leonards off ers fi ve Golf Programme tiers: St Leonards

Minis, Introduction to Golf, Q School, Performance

Development Squad and High-Performance Squad.

Th e school also hosts prestigious annual tournaments,

including the Sir Michael Bonallack Championship and

the Tom Morris Championship.

In addition, St Leonards celebrates outstanding

achievement in golf with the Tom Morris Golf

Scholarship, which was introduced in 2017. Th is coveted

award recognises talent, dedication and determination

on the golf course, and is awarded at the discretion of the

Director of Golf.


48 49


DRAMADrama is taught as part of the timetabled curriculum and

includes a Performing Arts GCSE and an IB Diploma

Th eatre Arts course. Students can also take Trinity

Guildhall speech and drama exams in both Junior and

Senior School. Drama is off ered as a co-curricular activity

and many students appear in the school productions

which are often performed in a professional theatre over

the course of the school year. Opportunities to assist with

stage management and production are also encouraged.

Keen theatre lovers have the excitement of going on the

biennial trip to New York, participating in workshops

on Broadway, or to Italy, learning about the performing

arts in Venice and Verona. Meanwhile, our actors and

technical crews frequently enjoy the challenge of taking a

show to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

50 51


ART & DESIGNSituated within two beautiful, historic buildings, St

Leonards Art Department is home to art classes and clubs,

as well as the annual school Art Exhibition, at which

candidates showcase their work. Th is is a true highlight

of the school calendar, and is open to all families and

members of the public.

In addition to timetabled lessons in Years 8 and 9, pupils

can choose to study Art and Design at GCSE and IB

Diploma level.

Th e department believes that art is a form of

communication: that it is a means of expression, aesthetic

experience and problem solving. Th roughout all year

groups, our aim is to encourage, stimulate and develop

the students through personal expression, imagination,

conceptual thinking and practical skill.

Th e art staff off er great expertise in drawing and painting,

printmaking, sculpture, black and white photography,

digital photography, textiles, computer-aided design and

video art. We have our own Artist in Residence, and

arrange regular trips to galleries and exhibitions.

52 53

INTERNATIONAL OUTLOOKTh e decision 13 years ago to off er the gold standard

qualifi cation of the IB at St Leonards means we attract

students not only from Scotland and the UK but from

across the globe. Our beautiful setting and excellent results

ensure that we are the school of choice for many overseas

students, who bring a refreshing, cosmopolitan air to our

school community. We celebrate and share the diversity of

around 30 nationalities represented in our student body,

both in lessons and at special events such as International

Day, Chinese New Year, Russian Christmas and

St Nicholas’ Day, not forgetting St Andrew’s Day!


“I like the community, all the people around me. They really help to study, to revise and I’ve made great friends, and I think they will be friends for life.” Current Student

54 55

BOARDINGBoarding is at the heart of St Leonards and we welcome

full, weekly, fl exi and occasional boarders. Each of the

boarding houses has its own unique character, but an

overarching, welcoming ethos ensures that boarding is

always friendly, with an emphasis on family atmosphere.

We provide a home away from home for 140 students

who are cared for by their Housemaster or Housemistress

and Resident House Tutors. Th is fi gure includes around

50% of the Sixth Form.

Each of the houses is equipped with study bedrooms,

common rooms, state-of-the-art kitchen facilities, games

rooms and stylish social spaces. With their impressive

staircases, expansive communal areas and beautifully

maintained period details, our houses have a distinct

country house feel. Th ere is a rolling programme of

exciting refurbishments currently under way in the

boarding houses. In 2016, over £3m was invested in

transforming Bishopshall, and in summer 2019, the

second phase of the Ollerenshaw redevelopment reached

completion, ensuring that the boarding facilities we off er

continue to be of an exceptionally high standard.

Th e fi rst phase of the St Rule refurbishment commenced

in summer 2019, creating a welcoming and homely heart

to the house by integrating sociable open-plan spaces on

the ground fl oor, including a state-of-the-art kitchen/

dining area, perfect for hot chocolates and house activities

in the evenings.


56 57

UNIVERSITY OF ST ANDREWS Th e School enjoys strong links with the University

of St Andrews, Scotland’s oldest university. Th ese are

exemplifi ed by the annual appointment of an Associate

Researcher to guide our students on the world of research.

IB Diploma students also receive lectures from visiting

members of the University’s academic staff . St Leonards

students have access to the University Library and other

facilities.


“I love St Andrews and the close integration with the University. I use the university gym and we go to lectures there.” Current Student

SENIOR SCHOOL

58 59


PASTORALOur students are supported by a strong staff team. Each

student has a tutor and a Head of Year who oversee his or

her personal development. Every student at St Leonards

is a member of an activity house to foster community

spirit. All Sixth Form students are members of one of the

boarding houses in which they come under the daily care

of the Housemaster or Housemistress.

Th e School’s experienced Medical Centre staff provide

expert care whenever needed and we also have a

confi dential Independent Listener and a pastoral care

team.

Meals are taken in the Central Dining Room, which

has recently been redeveloped with a new, sophisticated

look and feel. To match the stylish interiors, our newly

appointed catering team is proud to use fresh produce and

local suppliers, as sustainability is one of their passions. St

Leonards is one of the only schools in the country to have

received the Scottish Consumer Council’s Healthy Living

Plus Award. All meals and snacks are provided as part of

the school fees.

60 61

COMMUNITYSt Leonards is part of a community beyond the school

walls. Th e International Baccalaureate places great

emphasis on students becoming valued and responsible

members of society and Sixth Formers take part in a

range of community-based initiatives. Students in other

year groups regularly volunteer their services to local

organisations, too. Our students take part in conservation

projects, help out in charity shops, play a part in civic

events and raise funds for good causes. St Leonards

students and teachers regularly share their knowledge and

expertise in a range of subjects with students from local

schools and we also share our facilities with many local

groups.


62 63

DAY STUDENTSOur day students travel in from a radius of over 30 miles,

many using the St Leonards bus services. Th e school day

begins at 8.30am, with most activities ending at 5.30pm.

Parents of day students can also use our convenient fl exi or

occasional boarding arrangements during the week. Th ere

are no distinctions between day and boarding students at

St Leonards; they are all part of the same friendly family.

Day students therefore play a full part in boarding life.

In the Sixth Form they become members of one of the

boarding houses and socialise, relax and study there. Th ey

can also join in weekend activities and excursions and

represent their house in inter-house competitions.


64 65

HISTORYSt Leonards campus is rich in history, having served as a

place of education almost continuously since 1512, when

it was fi rst used as St Leonard’s College for poor clerks.

St Leonards was established as a girls’ school in 1877 by

St Andrews University professors and their wives. It was

the fi rst place where women’s lacrosse was played, and it

is believed to be the inspiration for Enid Blyton’s Mallory

Towers novels. In 1999, St Leonards became fully co-

educational and now the school has equal numbers of boys

and girls in attendance. Queen Mary’s House, where Mary

Queen of Scots is believed to have stayed, was opened as

Queen Mary’s Library in 1927; today it houses a range of

research and learning resources for students.


66 67

SIXTH FORM

68 69

SIXTH FORMSt Leonards provides a world of opportunity, combining

exceptional academic and co-curricular achievement

with a friendly atmosphere. Th e school develops Sixth

Form students into mature, thoughtful and confi dent

individuals.

Entering the Sixth Form is an exciting step and often

regarded as the pinnacle of the St Leonards journey.

Respected by their peers and looked up to by the younger

school community, many of our students have gradually

worked towards this point of their school experience: a

greater sense of independence and the opportunity to take

on more responsibility; preparing for life beyond school.

Wearing suits, being assigned to a house, taking on roles

of responsibility such as Prefects, and Captains or Heads

of School, making new friends and choosing their subjects

for their IB Diploma studies are all parts of this.

Th e Sixth Form is designed for students to gradually

transition from teacher-led learning to student-led

learning.

Students follow the IB Diploma Programme, which

has been praised by students, parents and university

admissions offi cers for its focus on deepening learning,

off ering wider subject options, and enriching minds.

Class sizes are small, and students choose a unique

combination of six core subjects (three at standard and

three at higher level) from an extensive list from Maths,

English, Psychology, to Business Management, History to

Italian and Chemistry to Japanese. Th is ensures students

have a vast range of options open to them for further

study and careers.

At St Leonards, Sixth Form education is far more than

preparation for academic results; you are joining an

international community of students with a commitment

to making a diff erence in the world. Students learn about

their diff erent cultures – for it is only by an appreciation

and acceptance of our diff erences that we can bring people

together across perceived divides.

We are proud that not only has St Leonards been awarded

Scottish Independent School of the Year by Th e Sunday

Times, but we have been named the Top Independent

Secondary School Sixth Form in Scotland for IB/A Level

results in 2016, 2017 and 2018.

ST LEONARDS PROSPECTUS | SIXTH FORMSIXTH FORM

70 71


THE INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATETh e International Baccalaureate was founded in

Switzerland in 1968 in order to provide a broad-based

school leavers’ qualifi cation which would be recognised

around the world by universities and employers. Today,

the IB programme is followed in 150 countries by more

than a million students. Th e International Baccalaureate

is a gold standard curriculum and has the highest of

aims. Its mission statement says: “Th e aim of all IB

programmes is to develop internationally minded people

who, recognizing their common humanity and shared

guardianship of the planet, help to create a better and

more peaceful world.”

St Leonards has been off ering the IB Diploma as its

exclusive curriculum in the Sixth Form for 13 years.

THE IB DIPLOMA PROGRAMMETh e IB Diploma is equivalent to A levels and Highers/

Advanced Highers. On the International Baccalaureate

Diploma Programme, students study six courses, three at

Higher Level and three at Standard Level over two years.

Th is ensures not only a breadth of experience in languages,

social studies, the experimental sciences and mathematics

but also the opportunity to specialise in key subjects as

required. We off er an enviable range of subjects from

which they can choose: Art & Design; Biology; Business

Management; Chemistry; Computer Science; Economics;

English; Classical Greek; Geography; History; History of

Art; ITGS; Languages (including French, German, Italian,

Spanish, Russian, Mandarin and Japanese); Latin; Maths;

Music; Physics; Psychology; Sports, Education and Health

Science; Th eatre and Visual Arts.

DIPLOMA PROGRAMME COREIn addition to the six subjects, the IB programme has

three core requirements:

• Th e Extended Essay; A requirement for students to

engage in independent research through an in-depth

study of a question relating to one of the subjects they

are studying.

• Th eory of Knowledge; A course designed to encourage

each student to refl ect on the nature of knowledge

by critically examining diff erent ways of knowing

(perception, emotion, language and reason) and

diff erent kinds of knowledge (scientifi c, artistic,

mathematical and historical).

• CAS; Creativity, Activity and Service – Th is element

requires that students actively learn from the

experience of doing real tasks beyond the classroom.

72 73

CREATIVITYTh e IB encourages creativity. Sixth Formers can take up

a musical instrument and also be part of a choir, band,

orchestra or ensemble. Th ere are other performance

opportunities in the Drama Club or school productions

and even the challenge of taking a show to the Edinburgh

Festival. Students can also pursue art, design and

photography or take part in creative writing activities.


“I enjoy the after-school drama club. You get to know people better through activities and it’s really good fun.”Current Sixth Form Student

74 75

ACTIVITYIB students must show examples of physical exertion

contributing to a healthy lifestyle and complementing

their academic work, for example in the Duke of

Edinburgh Award scheme. Students also help set up

sports activities and play in teams. Th ey can choose from

a wide variety of sports including athletics, cricket, tennis,

swimming, hockey, football, rugby, watersports or even

contemporary dance. Golfers have access to the seven

St Andrews Links courses, including the world-famous

Old Course, and benefi t from the all-weather, fl oodlit

practice facilities and golf technology at St Andrews Links

Golf Academy.


76 77

SERVICETh e International Baccalaureate places great emphasis

on students becoming valued and responsible members

of society and Sixth Form students take part in a range

of community-based initiatives. Th ey help in local

charity shops or community organisations, take part in

conservation projects, fundraising events and have even

abseiled down the Forth Rail Bridge to raise money for

good causes.


78 79

UNIVERSITY ADMISSIONSSince its inception, the IB Diploma qualifi cation has

remained constant: there has been no grade infl ation and

the syllabus fi nds huge favour with university admissions

offi cers. Research has shown that IB Diploma students

are more likely to go to a top 20 UK university, more

likely to achieve a 1st or 2:1 degree, and more likely to be

employed in graduate level and higher paid jobs.

“Th e IB is an extremely good qualifi cation in

allowing students to transition between high school

and university. King’s is one of the number one

destinations in Europe for IB learners.” Paul Teulon, Director of Admissions and Registry Services

at King’s College London

UNIVERSITY DESTINATIONSApproximately one third of our students go on to study

at a Scottish university. Recent destinations have included

Aberdeen, Edinburgh, Glasgow and St Andrews. A further

third go on to study elsewhere in the UK including

Oxford, Cambridge, the London School of Economics

and Durham or Exeter. Th e remaining third take up

places at universities all over the world, most recently in

Boston, Munich and Montreal. Courses have included

Law, Medicine, International Relations, Engineering,

Chemistry, Art, Geography and Classics.

ST LEONARDS PROSPECTUS | SIXTH FORM

“I really enjoy the academic side of St Leonards and the small classes sizes…and the sport is amazing.” Current Sixth Form Student

SIXTH FORM

80 81

INTERNATIONAL OUTLOOKSt Leonards is proud of its Scottish heritage and traditions

and draws the majority of its students from Scotland and

the rest of the UK. However, the appeal of the IB has

also enabled an international outlook to fl ourish within

the School, with students from around 30 diff erent

nationalities rubbing shoulders in the classroom and

making life-long friendships. It is an excellent way for

our students to learn about the global nature of the world

today.


82 83

BTECTh e Pearson BTEC in Business and in Sport is available

to students in the Sixth Form who do not wish to study

for the full IB Diploma. Th is option, which combines 8

units of BTEC study with two or three IB courses, serves

as good preparation for either university, college or the

world of work. Introduced at St Leonards in 2018, the

BTEC programme gives students the ability to tailor

their choices, whilst acquiring relevant skills for further

study and for business through vocational learning. Th e

qualifi cation at the end of two years of study is equivalent

to two A Levels.

Th e BTEC in Business introduces students to the

business sector and asks them to consider the world

around them, applying concepts to diff erent business

scenarios and following current aff airs. Units off ered at

St Leonards include ‘Principles of Management’, ‘Market

Research’, ‘International Business’, ‘Managing an Event’,

‘Personal and Business Finance’, ‘Exploring Business’ and

‘Developing a Marketing Campaign.’ Th is is strengthened

by a dedicated work experience unit, equipping students

with real-life learning in a sector of their choice.

For students choosing to study the BTEC in Sport,

a varied timetable covers the following subject areas:

‘Anatomy and Physiology’, Fitness Training and

Programming for Health, Sport and Well-being’,

‘Professional Development in the Sports Industry’, ‘Sports

Leadership’, ‘Application of Fitness Testing’, ‘Practical

Sports Performance’, ‘Sports Event Organisation’,

‘Investigating Business in the Sport and Active Leisure

Industry’, and ‘Skill Acquisition in Sport’. Combined,

this course gives students a solid understanding of the

sports industry, and is well suited to those interested

in a career in sport, whether as a player or in any other

capacity.

At St Leonards, both BTEC programmes are studied

alongside two or three IB courses, selected by the

student from the wide range of subjects on off er, thereby

combining academic study with practical learning.

Students who opt for this combination can go on to study

at university or college, take on an apprenticeship, or

progress straight into employment.


84 85

LINKS WITH THE UNIVERSITY OF ST ANDREWSSt Leonards students benefi t from lectures given by visiting

members of the University’s academic staff and from

having access to the University library. In addition, Sixth

Formers also have a direct link to the research community

of Scotland’s oldest university via the St Andrews Associate

Researcher. Th e appointed Researcher assists students

with their Th eory of Knowledge studies, guides them on

research and acts as a general point of contact within the

University.


“This is an exchange that undoubtedly contributes to the intellectual profi le of the town.” Professor Dina Iordanova, former Provost of St Leonard’s College and Dean of Graduate Studies at the University of St Andrews

SIXTH FORM

86 87

PASTORAL CARE & BOARDINGAll Sixth Form students are members of one of the

School’s boarding houses, where they can socialise,

relax and study. Th ey come under the daily care of

the Housemaster or Housemistress and are also given

academic support by a personal tutor and a Head of Year.

Boarding is at the heart of St Leonards and we welcome

full, weekly, fl exi and occasional boarder. We provide

a home away from home for students who choose to

board, which includes around 50% of the Sixth Form.

Each of the Houses are equipped with study bedrooms,

common rooms, kitchen facilities, wi-fi , games rooms

and stylish social spaces. Th ere is a rolling programme of

exciting refurbishments currently being implemented in

the boarding houses. In 2016, over £3m was invested in

transforming Bishopshall, the largest of the three houses

for girls in Years 10 - 13. In summer 2019, the second

phase of the Ollerenshaw (our boys’ house for Years

10-13) redevelopment reached completion, ensuring

that the boarding facilities we off er continue to be of an

exceptionally high standard.


88 89

SIXTH FORM LIFE IN ST ANDREWSAs young adults, St Leonards’ Sixth Formers enjoy the

advantages of their school being situated in a small, safe

and friendly town. Home to Scotland’s fi rst university

and world-famous golf courses, St Andrews is considered

a cosmopolitan destination with excellent facilities. In

their free time, students can visit endless coff ee shops and

restaurants, enjoy shopping trips and visits to the local

theatre and cinema, and walk along the beautiful beaches

and down to the harbour.


“I love St Andrews and the fact that the school is in the middle of the town. There is everything you need in St Andrews and there is always so much to do. I have now applied to study at the University.”Current Sixth Form Student

SIXTH FORM

90 91

St Leonards:

Scotland’s Independent School of the Year 2019THE SUNDAY TIMES

SCHOOLS GUIDE

92 93

USEFUL INFORMATION

94 95

ST LEONARDS ADMISSIONS POLICY

Students are admitted to St Leonards regardless of native

language, ethnicity, gender, religion and disability (where

practicable) as long as other entrance requirements are

met.

As it is essential that all students at St Leonards have

the opportunity to develop their full potential, parents

are required to disclose any difficulties which their child

is known to have. To ensure everyone has maximum

information and opportunity, there is a more detailed

admissions procedure for those students where a specific

learning difficulty is already known.

The selection procedures for all applicants are based

on ability and aptitude. Those with additional support

needs are admitted according to the same criteria as other

students, including performance in entrance examinations,

provided that admission is compatible with:

a) the provision of efficient education for the students

with whom he/she will be educated;

b) the efficient use of resources and the level of support

the School is able to provide.

Prospective students are expected to complete any

entrance papers without assistance. This will give the

relevant departments, including Support for Learning,

maximum information on the ability of the candidate to

process written material unaided.

Notes:

a) A further charge is made for learning support in the

Senior School and Sixth Form.

b) The School reserves the right to request a confidential

report from any prospective student’s current school,

whether or not a student has additional support needs.

c) Applications by the siblings of students already at St

Leonards will be treated in the same way as any other

applications.

GENERAL ADMISSIONS PROCEDURE

Although the main intake is at the start of each academic

year, applications can be considered at any time during

the school year, subject to available space. All prospective

students are interviewed by the Headmaster of St Leonards

or the Head of St Leonards Junior School. International

students who cannot attend for interview will be asked

to submit a detailed personal statement and may be

interviewed by Skype.

There will be an entrance test day (normally in November

or January) for students entering the Senior School or

Sixth Form, although dates can be arranged individually

at other times. Parents are expected to have advised their

child’s current school by this stage of the application to St

Leonards. A formal offer will be made once the outcome

of the tests is known and, if required, a confidential report

has been received from the applicant’s current school.

Payment of a deposit is required at least one month after

receipt of offer.

Applications are considered strictly in chronological

order of receipt of both the completed application form

and payment of the application fee of £100. A waiting

list will be established when a year group becomes fully

subscribed. Once a place becomes available it will be

offered, subject to the usual entry procedures, to the first

applicant on the waiting list.

The Headmaster or the Registrar is happy to discuss with

parents a) any decision not to offer a place to a candidate

and b) the admissions policy in general. If parents

still have concerns, they may write to the Headmaster

requesting a meeting.

St Leonards Junior School (Years 1-7)

Children seeking entry are normally required to spend

either a morning or afternoon in school to enable

teaching staff to assess their abilities in reading, language

and numbers, as well as their social skills. This helps to

establish the correct level of entry for each child. Those

wishing to enter Years 4 – 7 are assessed using the CAT4

tests, either during the day in school, or at some other

agreed time.

Any support for learning issue highlighted is investigated

further using the same procedures as those where an

additional support need is already known (see later).

St Leonards Senior School Years 8, 9, 10 and 11 (Pre-IB)

Entry is by means of CAT4 assessment or Common

Entrance. Students seeking entry are also recommended to

spend a day in school. This helps to establish the correct

level of entry for each student. Entrance examinations

are held at individually arranged times. Any support

for learning issue highlighted by these assessments or

otherwise is investigated further using the same procedures

as those where an additional support need is already

known (see later).

St Leonards Sixth Form

Students entering the Lower Sixth Form Year 12 are

usually expected to have gained:

• At least GCSE Grade B for Higher Level subjects

and grade C for Standard Level subjects or the SQA

National 5 equivalent;

• An acceptable international equivalent to those

mentioned above.

All students will also be required to sit CAT4 assessments.

Students for whom English is not their first language are

expected to have obtained a standard of English equivalent

to the Cambridge First Certificate or IELTS academic

grade 6.

USEFUL INFORMATION 2019-2020

ST LEONARDS PROSPECTUS | USEFUL INFORMATION

96 97

ADMISSIONS PROCEDURE FOR STUDENTS WITH KNOWN SPECIFIC LEARNING NEEDS

Where a child has a known specific learning need, previous

psychological assessments, IEPs/CSPs and school reports

will be studied carefully in conjunction with the entrance

tests taken. Where appropriate, further assessment will be

carried out to ensure that such prospective students are

not disadvantaged by a disability, provided the criteria for

admission are sustained.

The admissions procedure is as follows, whether or not a

child has already been formally registered for entry:

• Where the school deems it necessary, the child will

spend a day with the relevant year group for an

informal assessment of how they cope with the work

of the class and fit in with the other students. The

Head of Support for Learning will meet with the

child during the course of the day and carry out any

informal assessments appropriate to this stage in the

admissions process.

• Parents may be asked to provide samples of the books

used/work done by the child for the Head of Support

for Learning and other appropriate members of staff to

review.

• The Head of Support for Learning/Head of School/

Head of Year Group will provide the Registrar with a

report in writing for discussion with the Headmaster.

• Parents will then be invited to a meeting with the

Registrar/Head of Support for Learning / Headmaster

to discuss the outcome. (This may be necessary only if

the informal assessment indicates a possible need for a

level of support greater than the school can provide or

where further discussion is desirable following review

of all the information gathered to date.)

• If parents wish to proceed with registration after

informal assessment, a report will be requested from

the child’s current school and a date set for formal

entrance tests, if appropriate.

• Once the entrance tests have been marked, comments

on the tests and a recommendation as to the level of

support required by the child will be made by the

Head of Support for Learning, taking into account the

entrance tests and all other oral and written evidence

gathered during the admissions process.

• Parents will again be invited to a meeting to discuss

the outcome. At this stage an offer of a place in school

may, or may not, be made.

Please note that the Admissions Policy of St Leonards is

monitored and reviewed regularly and may be subject to

change.

SCHOLARSHIPS

Context

Scholarships are solely awarded as means of recognising

achievement and excellence whether academic or in

art, drama, music, sport or golf. Scholarships are not

associated with any remission on fees. Most remissions

offered by the School take the form of Academic Bursaries.

For more information contact the Registrar or Chief

Operating Officer.

Scholarships will be awarded:

• At the end of Year 7 for entry into Year 8;

• At the end of Year 8 for sustained excellent

performance through the year;

• At the end of Year 9 for entry into Year 10;

• At the start of Year 12 after the publication of GCSE

results in August;

• Following the end of Year 12 exams for entry into Year

13;

• For entry into the one year Pre-IB course (Year 11)

(non-academic only).

Scholarships will be awarded in the following areas of

achievement:

• Academic • Drama • Music • Art • Sport • Golf

Length of award

The award remains with the scholar until he/she leaves

St Leonards. A scholarship may be withdrawn if

performance falls to an unsatisfactory level.

Requirements for award

The standards required are deliberately high.

Academic: A scholarship award winner is expected to be

a likely candidate for entry to Oxford or Cambridge or

another elite university.

Art: A scholarship award winner needs to demonstrate

an excellent understanding of the basic visual elements,

compositional accuracy and outstanding artistic ability. An

accompanying portfolio is desired.

Music: A scholarship award winner is expected to

demonstrate a high degree of proficiency or potential

on one or preferably more instruments (or voice).

Composition specialists may also be considered, with

an appropriate portfolio. Award winners must be

prepared to commit themselves fully to the life of the

Music Department through participation in choirs and

ensembles.

Drama: A scholarship award winner is expected to display

outstanding theatrical knowledge and skills as well as

proficiency for devised drama. An accompanying portfolio

is desired.

Sports: A scholarship award winner is expected to have

national or regional honours in one or possibly more

sports or be likely to achieve them.

Golf: A scholarship award winner is expected to have

national or regional honours in golf or be likely to achieve

them.

Tom Morris: The award winner must demonstrate

outstanding achievement in golf. There can only be one

holder of the prestigious scholarship at one time. Further

details can be obtained from the Director of Golf.


98 99

ASSESSMENT

Academic Scholarships

The assessment of academic performance will take the

form of:

• A review of the end of year assessments in Year 7, the

sitting of a one hour logic paper; interview by the

Headmaster and Head of Year Group (for external

candidates – entrance assessments; logic paper and

interview).

• A review of the end of year exams in Year 8 and

a review of performance through the year by the

Headmaster and the Head of Year Group (for external


interview).

• A review of the end of year exams in Year 9 and the

sitting of a one hour logic paper; interview by the



interview).

• A review of the final GCSE results and of academic

performance through Years 10 and Year 11 by the


candidates – entrance assessments and ideally an

interview).

• A review of the end of Year 12 exam results and

interview by the Headmaster and Head of the Sixth

Form.

Procedure

Pupils in Year 7 of St Leonards Junior School who are

appropriate candidates for an award will be recommended

by the Head of St Leonards Junior School following their

end of year assessments;

Suitable external candidates will be recommended by the

Head of Year Group following their entrance assessments.

Parents of pupils will not be able to enter their son or

daughter for an award and entry will be primarily based

on sustained high levels of achievement as indicated by

exam results or performance through the preceding year.

Pupils in other year groups will be recommended for entry

to the Headmaster either by the Head Year Group or the

Head of Sixth Form.

Drama Scholarships

Procedure: The Head of Drama will conduct an audition

which will consist of prepared pieces and devised work.

Music Scholarships

Procedure: The Director of Music will conduct an audition

and informal interview. Candidates should perform a

prepared piece on each of their chosen instruments, and

will be given sight reading and aural tests at an appropriate

level.

Art Scholarships

Procedure: The art scholarship exam is to complete a piece

of artwork. It is helpful, particularly with new students

coming from other schools, to bring a portfolio of their

work in other disciplines.

Sport Scholarships

Procedure: The Director of Sport will conduct an informal

interview with candidates and assess their performance in

their chosen sport or sports. Current ability, potential and

commitment to the school will also be assessed.

Golf Scholarships

Procedure: The Director of Golf will assess candidates

golfing ability across a range of clubs looking at aspects of

the candidate’s game. This will be followed by an informal

interview with the Director of Sport. The Golf Scholarship

award will take the form of a voucher up to the value of

£50 and a certificate. The Tom Morris Scholar will receive

a remission on school fees as well as a funded place on the

golf programme and a certificate. Both will be presented at

an appropriate assembly.

ST LEONARDS CURRICULUM

The stages of the education we offer provide for both

academic continuity and the opportunity to join St

Leonards at strategic points without compromising

progress.

Pupils in the Junior School follow the St Leonards

Primary Years Programme. This is underpinned by the

values of the St Leonards learner profile which is in turn

influenced by the ethos of the International Baccalaureate.

The Curriculum is based on investigative learning and

inspires pupils to be inquirers; knowledgeable; thinkers;

communicators; principled; open-minded; caring; risk-

takers; balanced; reflective.

The academic curriculum in Year 7 of the Junior School

and Years 8 and 9 of the Senior School is similarly

underpinned by the values of the St Leonards learner

profile and is called the Middle Years Programme, with

additional options and schemes of work that extend

and expand the subject core. Years 10 and 11 follow the

English Curriculum of GCSEs and IGCSEs.

Students in the Sixth Form study the Diploma Programme

of the International Baccalaureate.

At all stages there are extensive programmes of co-

curricular and curriculum-based activities.

St Leonards Age (approx)

St LeonardsCurriculum

English Equivalents (approx)

Scottish Equivalents(approx)

St Leonards

Junior School

Y1 – Y6 5 – 11 Primary Years

Curriculum

Y1 – Y7

Key Stages 1 and 2

leading to part of

KS3

P1 – P7

SQA “Curriculum for

Excellence”

St Leonards

Junior School

Y7 11 – 12 Middle Years

Curriculum

Y7

Key Stage 2 leading

to part of KS3

P7


Excellence”

St Leonards

Senior School

Y8, Y9 12 – 14 Middle Years

Curriculum

Y8, Y9

Key Stage 3

S1, S2, S3


Excellence”. A broad

general education

Y10

(Y11/Pre-IB)

14 – 16 GCSEs/IGCSEs Y10, Y11

GCSEs/ IGCSEs

S4 National 4s and 5s

St Leonards

Sixth Form

Y12, Y13 16 – 19 IB Diploma

Programme

Y12, Y13 GCE

AS and A Levels

S5 Highers

S6 Advanced Highers


100 101

ST LEONARDS JUNIOR SCHOOL

Years 1 to 6

The St Leonards Junior School Curriculum from Years 1

– 6 focuses on the development of the whole child as the

inquirer, both in the classroom and in the world outside.

The curriculum is a mixture of class-based and subject-

based teaching; each lesson encouraging children to

question, explore and communicate. Maths and English

are timetabled and taught individually, as well as

Languages, Art, Drama, Music, PE (including weekly

swimming lessons) and Games sessions. The humanity

subjects are taught as part of a ‘Unit of Inquiry’, learning

through themes. Languages are introduced from an early

age: French from Year 1, Latin from Year 6 and other

Modern Foreign Languages in after-school clubs.

The pupils have the advantage of having access to

the facilities of the Senior School, including Science

Laboratories, Music Centre, Art Department, PE and

sports areas. There is an extensive co-curricular activities

programme, with over 35 after-school clubs available.

The main point of entry to the Junior School is Year 1,

however we welcome new boys and girls into any year,

subject to availability.

Year 7

The Year 7 Curriculum is matched with that of Years 8 and

9 to provide a seamless and coherent transition. They also

share the Senior School facilities.

THE SENIOR SCHOOL

Year 8 and Year 9

Year 7 in the Junior School and Years 8 and 9 in the

Senior School are part of the St Leonards Middle Years

Curriculum. All teaching is delivered by subject specialists,

providing the perfect foundation platform for the GCSE

course.

• All pupils study English, Maths, Science (taught

as Biology, Chemistry and Physics), French, ICT,

History, Geography, Religious Studies, Art & Design,

Latin, Music, PE and Games.

• Pupils complete taster lessons in Spanish and German

in Year 7 and then choose which language they would

like to progress in Year 8 and into Year 9.

• Design and Technology is taught in Year 8.

• The ‘Ad Vitam’ classes are the route to delivery of

PSHE and careers guidance. All year groups participate

in this programme.

• Year 8 and Year 9 students study Drama.

• Activity sessions are offered after school from 4.30-

5.30pm, as is supervised prep.

Year 10 and Year 11 (Pre-IB)

• Pupils normally study 8, 9 or 10 GCSE subjects

depending on ability and aptitude. In addition a

comprehensive programme incorporating Ad Vitam,

PE, Games, PSHE and co-curricular activities.

• The core subjects at GCSE include English Language,

English Literature, a modern foreign language,

Religious Studies, Mathematics and a balanced science

course involving all three sciences. The modern foreign

languages on offer in this compulsory section are

French, German and Spanish.

• The options are then based on a three-column system

and include Art and Design, Classical Civilisation,

Geography, History, PE, Drama, Music, Latin and

a second modern language from a choice of French,

Spanish and German.

• The balanced science course enables pupils to take

Biology, Chemistry and Physics as separate GCSE

subjects or as Science GCSE.

• Subject choices are made on an individual basis and

there are full consultation procedures amongst staff,

parents and pupils before final decisions are made.

• As for Years 8 and 9, activity and supervised prep

sessions are offered after school from 4.30-5.30pm.

Full details on the choices in the Sixth Form may be found

in the IB Diploma Handbook.

The curriculum is based on the Diploma Programme of

the International Baccalaureate Organisation (www.ibo.

org). Students studying the Diploma Programme must

select a subject from each of the six groups:

Group 1: Language A*: Native or near native language English, Chinese, German, Italian, Russian, Spanish*

Group 2: Language A **: Native or near native language

Language B*: Second language

English

eg English, French, German, Spanish or Latin or Ab Initio:

Foreign language for students with no previous experience

of the chosen language: eg Italian or Spanish

Group 3: Individuals and Society: Economics, Geography, History or History of Art, Business

Management, ITGS (Information Technology in a Global

Society), Psychology

Group 4: Experimental Sciences: Biology, Chemistry, Physics or Environmental Systems and

Societies, Computer Science, Health and Sports Science

Group 5: Mathematics: Mathematics or Mathematical Studies

Group 6: Arts and Electives: Visual Arts, Music or Theatre or second subject from Group

1-4 acording to availability

GCSE English and GCSE Mathematics may be on offer in

the Sixth Form. There is an extra charge for such tuition.

• In addition to a full academic programme, students

follow curriculum enrichment courses, attend careers

seminars and take full advantage of the extensive games

and fitness provision. A full co-curricular programme

is also an integral part of the timetabled week.

• The School reserves the right not to offer a subject

should the numbers wishing to study it not justify

running the course. Any student enrolled on a course

is, however, guaranteed tuition until the end of the

course.

*Some Language A and Language B Ab Initio choices

incur extra costs for tuition.

**Courses will only run according to demand


102 103

ASSESSMENT

Continuous assessment is an integral part of our day-to-

day teaching and learning at all stages, but the following

formal assessments take place during the year:

St Leonards Junior School

All years have assessments in the Autumn Term and at the

end of the Summer Term. Years 5 to 7 also have INCAS

assessments in English, Mathematics, Verbal Reasoning

and Non-verbal Reasoning in October. These assessments

are marked with a raw score, which is then converted

into a standardised score. Standardised scores enable us to

compare our pupils with a large, nationally represented

sample.

Senior School

Year 8 and Year 9

September

Internal base-line testing takes place in English,

Mathematics and Science to determine National

Curriculum levels.

June

End of year school examinations

Year 10

December and June Internal school examinations

Year 11 (Pre-IB)

January Mock GCSE examinations

May/June

Externally marked GCSE examinations

There is a timetable set for GCSE Coursework, which

ensures that each department has an appropriate

and separate time interval to complete their required

coursework.

Sixth Form

Externally marked examinations for the IB Diploma

Course are in May/June of Year 13. Internal examinations

will be set at the end of the Autumn and Summer Terms

in Year 12 and internal ‘preliminary final’ examinations in

February/March of Year 13.

OTHER INFORMATION

Passports and Visas

It is the responsibility of the parent and/or guardian to

ensure that all students who are not UK nationals have the

required passport and visa (if outside the EEA) in place.

The school cannot accept responsibility for any problems

arising from out-of-date passports or visas. All enquiries

regarding the provision of CAS for visa applications

should be referred to the Registrar, at least six weeks prior

to the expiration of the current visa.

Learning Support

We will contact you should we feel that your child would

benefit from Learning Support. However, if you have

any concern about your child’s academic progress, please

contact us.

Extra-Curricular Activities

The School offers a wide range of activities. Many of these

activities are free of charge but some do incur a fee. Please

note the half-term’s notice for ceasing charged ‘extra’

activities. Once your son/daughter has signed up for an

activity they are expected to attend for at least a term

unless otherwise agreed with school.

Private Instruction

Pupils extracted for private instruction are expected to

catch up on schoolwork missed in their own time. A rota

system is used to spread the loss of class time. Fees for

extra tuition can be found on the Fee Sheet. Please note

that a half-term’s notice must be given to cease any private

lessons.

Prep

Prep is set on a regular basis from Year 3 onwards. This

allows pupils to review and consolidate what has been

learned in class, along with extension work. Supervised

prep is available after school but, if your son/daughter

is participating in an after-school activity, or if it is not

convenient for them to stay, please ensure that your child

completes their prep at home. Prep should be written into

the pupil’s homework diaries.

Queen Mary’s Library

Queen Mary’s Library is available to all pupils. Pupils

may borrow books from the Library as they wish, but it is

important that each pupil signs out their chosen book.

Trips

Educational visits are arranged on a regular basis. They

are related to the current topics/themes and are therefore

most beneficial for the pupils as they are able to learn

from ‘hands on’ experience providing an extension to their

classroom experiences. Residential School trips are offered

from time to time. To encourage co-operation and self-

sufficiency all pupils should be encouraged to participate

in these trips.

Academic Lesson Costs – Recharge

At St Leonards, we are able to offer a wide range of

different IGCSE and IB Diploma subject choices. A small

minority of IGCSE and IB Diploma subjects incur an

additional cost. A list of these subjects can be found on

the relevant option choice forms but, as an example, this

includes a number of Language A and Ab Initio courses

and for IGCSE these subjects are mainly foreign language

mother tongue courses. For next academic year the price

structure per term can be obtained from the accounts

office – Mr Bannan [email protected] or

the Academic Deputy Head – Mrs Pemberton-Hislop

[email protected].


104 105

EXAMINATION RESULTS: GCSE AND IB DIPLOMA

Results Analysis 2015 – 2019

GCSE IB Diploma

% A* - C Grades % A*/A Grades Average Points Score % 5-7 at HL

2019 91 45 33 76

2018 97 51 32 76

2017 87 39 33 82

2016 90 33 34 86

2015 92 42 33 73

Dedicated School Buses

Th e school currently operates the following dedicated bus

services for day students:

• From Kirkcaldy via Glenrothes, Leven, Lundin Links,

Upper Largo and Largoward. Th e bus leaves Kirkcaldy

at 7.20am.

• From Kilconquhar via Elie, St Monans, Pittenweem,

Anstruther, Cellardyke and Crail. Th e bus leaves

Kilconquhar at 7.35am.

• From Auchtermuchty via Trafalgar Cross Roads, Cupar

and Ceres. Th e bus leaves Auchtermuchty at 7.35am.

• From Dundee via Tay Bridge Access, Tayport,

Leuchars Station and Strathkinness. Th e bus leaves

Dundee at 7.45am.

• From Perth via Invergowrie. Th e bus leaves Perth at

7.05am.

Buses for the return journey leave St Leonards at 5.40pm.

Further details about the school bus services and fares are

available from the Domestic Bursar, Mr Colin Knight

c.knight@stleonards-fi fe.org

CATERING:

All catering at St Leonards is provided by Th omas Franks,

with a focus on local and seasonal produce. In addition to

providing creative menus for delicious breakfasts, lunches,

suppers and snacks throughout the year, the Catering

Team hosts regular ‘theme nights’ to showcase local

suppliers and ingredients and celebrate calendar events,

including Burns’ Night, Halloween, Christmas, bake sales

and Tex-Mex and BBQ evenings.

Any dietary requirements can be catered for by

arrangement with the Catering Manager, who will be

happy to assist.

Th e menu changes weekly, off ering a wide range of

options at every meal. A sample menu is included overleaf

to show a typical week in the CDR at St Leonards.


106 107

Breakfast ExampleSmall Oranges, Pears, Bananas,

Green And Red Apples.

A Premium Range of Breakfast

Cereals Available with Ice Cold

Milk of your choice

Wholegrain Toasted Bread with

your choice of Spreads to Include

Handmade Mixed Fruit Jam, Low

Fat Spread, Butter, Handmade

Marmalade, Honey

MAIN EVENT CHOICE 1

Handmade Multigrain Pancakes

with Maple Syrup & Soft Forest

Fruits or Chocolate Spread

CHOICE 2

Grilled Smoked Bacon, Local

Butcher Sausages, Scrambled

Eggs, Potato Scone, Hash Brown,

Black Pudding, Morning Rolls,

Baked Beans

CHOICE 3

Rolled Scottish Oat Porridge or

Natural Yogurt with your choice

of toppings to include Handmade

Fruit Compote, Honey,

Cinnamon Sugar, Blueberries and

Natural Whole Grain Granola

Lunch ExampleSOUP OF THE DAY

Tuscan Tomato & Pasta Soup

MAIN CHOICE 1

Hand Carved Honey Roast

Gammon with Pineapple and

Chilli Salsa

MAIN CHOICE 2

New York Deli Style Flatbreads

with Pastrami, Gherkins, Melted

Swiss Cheese, Rocket & Caesar

Dressing

MAIN CHOICE 3

Wild Mushroom & Barley Risotto

with Rocket & Parmesan Shavings

SIDES FOR ABOVE

Roast Potatoes Wok Fried Greens

Roast Chantenay Carrots

MAIN CHOICE 4

Tagliatelle or Salt Baked Sweet,

or Local Potatoes with a range of

Cold and Hot Fillings and

Toppings

HOT PUDDING

Black Forrest Fruit Crumble with

Custard

Supper ExampleHOT DELI

BBQ Beef Quarter Pounder,

Cajun Spiced Chicken Fillet

Pulled BBQ Jack Fruit

Brioche Finger Bun 10” Flour

Tortilla Wrap Toasted Sesame

Seed Bun

Chef ’s Own Tomato Ketchup

Garlic and Herb Mayonnaise

BBQ Sauce Sweet Chilli Sauce

Oven Baked Potato Wedges

Sliced Tomato Sliced Monterey

Jack Cheese Crisp Iceberg

Lettuce

Onions

SWEET

Individual Double Chocolate

Mousse

Stage Per Year Per Term

Sixth Form Full Boarding Year 12 - Year 13 £37,452 £12,484

Sixth Form Day Year 12 - Year 13 £15,474 £5,158

Senior School Full Boarding Years 9 -11 £37,452 £12,484

Senior School Full Boarding Year 8 £24,651 £8,217

Senior School Day Years 8-11 £15,474 £5,158

Junior School Full Boarding Year 6-7 £24,741 £8,217

Junior School Years 6-7 £12,741 £4,247

Junior School Years 4-5 £11,388 £3,796

Junior School Years 1-3* £9,552 £3,184

In addition, there is a compulsory ICT capitation charge of £200 per year per pupil.

Fees Cover: Curriculum tuition, returnable text books,

three course lunch plus morning snack, after school

activities taken by St Leonards Staff, full-board for

boarding students, Learning Support in the Junior School.

Parents are reminded that the yearly fee is, for their

convenience, divided into three equal instalments (even

though the Autumn term is considerably longer than the

other two). Thus, no refund is due to parents of Year 13

students because the IB Diploma examinations finish at

the end of May.

Payment options

There is an option to pay school fees by monthly Direct

Debit for which there is no additional charge.

Fees Do Not Cover: Non-returnable and damaged

textbooks, uniform, trips and outings, examination

costs (see following page), after school activities taken

by external tutors (see following page), stationery, school

bus, tuition for some languages, Learning Support in the

Senior School and Sixth Form.

A deposit is required upon acceptance of a place at St

Leonards. This deposit is refunded, minus any outstanding

charges, when students leave St Leonards. Details

regarding deposits can be obtained by contacting the

Registrar.

Sibling Remissions

Means tested Sibling Remissions are available to families

with more than one child at St Leonards.

Fee Assistance

A number of charities exist to provide financial assistance

for educational purposes. A limited number of requests

for financial assistance with fees will be considered on

a means tested basis by the School Finance Committee

upon submission of a confidential and detailed statement

of personal finances. Please apply to the Chief Operating

Officer for details.


FEES: 2019/2020

108 109

Temporary Removal of a Pupil

There may be occasions when a parent may request

their child to leave for a period of time without leaving

permanently. In such cases, as well as giving the school

the required notice, the pupil will contractually have left

the school and their place will be offered to the next pupil

on the waiting list. At the School’s discretion it may be

possible to retain the pupil’s place. However, the parents

of the child would be required to pay a ‘retainer fee’ to St

Leonards. This fee would be at the level of the fees they

would have paid had they remained a pupil inclusive of

any remissions they would receive. Any younger siblings

would also retain any remissions they receive as if the

absent sibling was still in attendance. In short, the original

contract with the School remains in force.

Examination Fees

IB Diploma students pay postage costs for their

examinations of up to £50, dependent on examination

marking location. This is an additional cost, which will be

charged when the student enters the second year of their

IB studies.*

* Please note, IB Diploma fees are subject to review annually by the IBO.

GCSE Examination Fees

While there is no overall registration fee for GCSE, there

is a charge for each examination students take. The figure

varies according to the subject but would typically range

from £36 to £70 per subject taken. Therefore, a student’s

GCSE examination costs could total up to £370. A small

amount of this will be charged during the spring term of

Year 10 to cover early modules and the remainder will be

charged in the spring term of Year 11 (Pre-IB).

The fees given above for the IB Diploma and GCSE

Examinations are for the 2019-2020, assuming the fees

themselves haven’t changed.

Native Language Tuition

Due to the excellent connections with St Andrews

University, St Leonards is able to offer a wide range of

native language tuition in all year groups. However, please

be aware that some of this tuition may be subject to an

additional charge, dependent on Year Group, the number

of students and language.

Learning Support

Lessons £33.50 per lesson.

ACTIVITIES: SENIOR SCHOOL CHARGES (2019-20)

Length of lesson Charge per lesson Comment

30 minutes £19.00 Maximum 30 lessons per year

45 minutes £28.50

60 minutes £38.00

ACTIVITIES: SENIOR SCHOOL CHARGES (2019-20)

Music

Instrument Hire: £6.25 per lesson

Speech and Drama: ESB Speech & Trinity Guild Hall Examination Course

Size of class Charge per lesson

Individual £19.00

Pair £9.50

Group £7.50

Golf

Programme Charge

High Performance Squad £1,775

Performance Development Squad £1,150

Q School Golf Programme £850

Introduction to Golf £725

St Leonards Minis £300

*The Season Ticket covers play until 31 March 2020. A new Season Ticket will be required for play between 1 April 2020

and 31 March 2021. However, the cost for this will not be known until February 2020 when prices are set by the St Andrews

Links Trust.

Prices for individual golf lessons are available on request. The costs vary dependant on the tutor and type of lesson and also

whether individual or group lessons.

Watersports are charged per session and charges are available on request.

ACTIVITIES: ST LEONARDS JUNIOR SCHOOL CHARGES (2019-20)

Activity Charge

Music (30 minutes) £19.00 per lesson

Speech and Drama (individual) £19.00 per lesson

Speech and Drama (pair) £9.50 per lesson

Speech and Drama (group) £7.50 per lesson

Judo (Autumn Term) £71.00 per term

Judo (Spring Term) £53.00 per term

Judo (Summer Term) £41.00 per term

Ballet £4.90 per lesson

Modern/Jazz dance £4.90 per lesson

Riding £18.00 per lesson (1 hour)

Cooking (Autumn & Spring Term) £35.00

Yoga & Dance £5 per lesson


110 111

AUTUMN 2019

Friday 23 August New Staff Induction

Monday 26 August INSET/Staff Meetings

Tuesday 27 August INSET/Staff Meetings From 2.00 pm Boarding Houses open for:- new Senior School Yrs 8 – 11

boarders and new and returning Yr 12 boarders

Wednesday 28 August Yr 12 (all students) Diploma Programme Induction

From 2.00 pm onwards all remaining boarders to return 6.30 pm Supper for boarders

Thursday 29 August 8.30 am Term begins

Friday 11 October 4.15 pm Half-term begins 5.00 pm Boarding Houses close

Sunday 27 October Half-term ends, 1.00 pm Boarding Houses open 6.30 pm Supper for Boarders

( UK clocks go back 27 October )

Monday 28 October 8.30 am Term resumes

Friday 13 December 12.00 Term ends 5.00 pm Boarding Houses close

SPRING 2020

Monday 6 January Staff Inset Boarders return. Boarding Houses open from 9.00 am 6.30 pm Supper for Boarders

Tuesday 7 January 8.30 am Term begins

Friday 7 February 4.15 pm Half-term begins 5.00 pm Boarding Houses close

Sunday 16 February Half-term ends 1.00 pm Boarding Houses open 6.30 pm Supper for Boarders

Monday 17 February 8.30 am Term resumes

Friday 27 March 12.00 Term ends 5.00 pm Boarding Houses close (Easter Sunday: 12 April)

(UK clocks go forward 29 March)

SUMMER 2020

Thursday 16 April Staff Meetings/INSET – Day 1 of 2

Friday 17 April Staff Meetings/INSET – Day 2 of 2

Sunday 19 April Boarders return. Boarding Houses open from 9.00 am

6.30 pm Supper for Boarders

Monday 20 April 8.30 am Term begins

Friday 22 May 4.15 pm Half-term begins 4.15 pm IB Diploma course ends. Yr 13 students return for Leavers’

Speeches and Prizegiving on Wednesday 17 June 5.00 pm Boarding Houses close

Sunday 31 May Half-term ends 1.00 pm Boarding Houses open 6.30 pm Supper for Boarders

Monday 1 June 8.30 am Term resumes

Wednesday 17 June Prizegiving Ceremony

Thursday 25 June 4.15 pm Senior School Term ends

Friday 26 June 11.00 am Junior School Prizegiving 12.00 Boarding Houses close

12.00 Term ends for Junior School

AUTUMN 2020

Thursday 20 August Boarding only - New House Staff Induction

Friday 21 August Staff Meetings/INSET (inc New Teaching Staff Induction)

Saturday 22 August Boarding Houses open from 10.00am for all new Boarders

Sunday 23 August Boarding Houses open for all returning Boarders Start of Year Family BBQ

Monday 24 August Staff Meetings / INSET Boarding Houses: Outing with Resident House Tutors

Tuesday 25 August Staff Meetings / INSET Yr 12 – Diploma Programme Induction

Wednesday 26 August 8.30am Term begins

Friday 9 October 4.15pm Half-term begins 5.00pm Boarding Houses close

Sunday 25 October Half-term ends 1.00pm Boarding Houses open 6.30pm Supper for Boarders

( UK clocks go back 25 October )

Monday 26 October 8.30am Term resumes

Friday 11 December 12.00pm Term ends 5.00pm Boarding Houses close

SPRING 2021

Monday 4 January Staff INSET Boarders return. Boarding Houses open from 9.00am 6.30pm Supper for Boarders

Tuesday 5 January 8.30am Term begins

Friday 5 February 4.15pm Half-term begins 5.00pm Boarding Houses close

Sunday 14 February Half-term ends 1.00pm Boarders return 6.30pm Supper for Boarders

Monday 15 February 8.30am Term resumes

Friday 19 March 12.00pm Term ends 5.00pm Boarding Houses close Easter Sunday: 4 April

(UK clocks go forward 29 March)

SUMMER 2021

Thursday 8 April Staff INSET – Day 1 of 2

Friday 9 April Staff INSET – Day 2 of 2

Sunday 11 April Boarders return Boarding Houses open from 9.00am 6.30pm Supper for Boarders

Monday 12 April 8.30am Term begins

Friday 28 May 4.15pm Half-term begins

IB Diploma course ends. Yr13 students return for Leavers Speeches and Prizegiving in June (date tbc)

5.00pm Boarding Houses close

Sunday 6 June Half-term ends

1.00pm Boarding Houses open

6.30pm Supper for Boarders

Monday 7 June 8.30am Term resumes

Wednesday 23 June 4.15pm Senior School and Yr 12 Term ends

Thursday 24 June 11.00am St Leonards Junior School Prizegiving

12.00pm Boarding Houses close

Prizegiving Ceremony: Wednesday 16 June (tbc)


TERM DATES Senior School day students return to school by 8.25 am and Junior School pupils return to school by 8.40 am on the first

day of each term

112 113

114

St Leonards is truly an exceptional

place to learn and grow.

th e boys and girls of st leonards are · situated in a beautiful campus in the inspiring...

Documents