At St. Augustine’s Priory, we believe in the transformative power of education.

While we welcome boys in the Preps and Pre-Preps school also, as an institution dedicated to fostering academic excellence, personal growth, and social responsibility, we are proud to stand as advocates for girls’ education in the senior school, forming girls into the compassionate, driven young women of the future.

In this blog post, we’ll explore why St. Augustine’s Priory is the ideal choice for parents seeking a school that prioritises healthy child development and empowerment of their daughters.

Why St. Augustine’s Priory is a girls’ school

St. Augustine’s Priory is more than just a school. It’s a community where young girls are encouraged to thrive intellectually, emotionally, and socially.

Our commitment to single-sex education in the senior school stems from the belief that girls deserve an environment tailored to their unique needs and aspirations. In our all-girls senior school setting, students are free to express themselves authentically, pursue their passions without inhibition, and develop strong bonds of friendship and support that last a lifetime.

Promoting a supportive, inclusive environment

Central to our mission is the creation of a supportive and inclusive environment where every student feels valued and respected. Our school and staff are dedicated to nurturing a culture of acceptance and understanding, where differences are celebrated and individual voices are heard. Through diverse student-led clubs and organisations, we actively foster empathy, compassion, and social awareness among our students.

Offering a relevant and engaging curriculum

At St. Augustine’s Priory, we understand the importance of providing a curriculum that is not only rigorous and challenging but also relevant and engaging for girls.

Our academic programmes are designed to inspire curiosity, critical thinking, and a love of learning. We teach our students about how female saints are role models for today; STEM initiatives and a broad arts and humanities curriculum; a healthy PSHEE course throughout the years. With a diverse range of courses, we encourage girls to explore their interests, expand their horizons, and reach their full potential.

Plus,the data shows that students in single-sex senior schools outperform those in co-ed senior schools. Girls in girls’ senior schools in particular continue to perform better than students in co-ed senior schools across all schools, and also when looking at independent schools versus mainstream schools.

We know that academic excellence at St. Augustine’s Priory is supported by the supportive, single-sex senior school environment that cultivates high achievers.

Addressing gender stereotypes

In a world where gender stereotypes still persist, we are committed to challenging outdated notions and empowering girls to defy expectations. Through classroom discussions, extracurricular activities, and guest speaker events, we encourage girls to explore non-traditional fields, pursue leadership roles, and embrace their unique identities. By dismantling stereotypes and fostering a culture of inclusivity, we help students to chart their own paths and pursue their dreams without limitations.

How do we foster interactions with the opposite sex?

Our girls enter numerous competitions with mixed schools and many have attended co-ed Preps and Pre-Preps schools. We encourage students to join communities and clubs outside of school also in addition to our vast range of co-curricular opportunities. We have links with boys schools and have collaborated on projects in the past such as Your Life, You Choose, Debating and so on. We also hold numerous events in conjunction with our fantastic Parents’ Association; these include a Summer Fair/Association Day, Pyrotechnics evening, theatre productions (both at the school and in Questors Theatre in Ealing, Music concerts, Art Exhibitions and more which whole families and many are open to the community.

Supporting girls’ confidence and self-esteem

Building confidence and self-esteem is essential for girls to succeed in school and beyond.

At St. Augustine’s Priory, we prioritise the social and emotional well-being of our students, providing them with the tools and support they need to thrive.

In our warm community, different year groups know each other. Our Sixth Formers are trained in listening. We use the Girls on Board programme to help girls sail through friendships with skills for life. Our co-curricular programme provides for the most gregarious, to the child who is happy in her own company.

Through mentorship programmes, leadership opportunities, and personalised guidance, we inspire girls to believe in themselves, advocate for their needs, and navigate life’s challenges with resilience and grace.

Addressing barriers to education

We recognise that access to education is not always equitable, especially for girls from marginalised communities. That’s why we are committed to breaking down barriers and ensuring that every girl has the opportunity to receive a quality education. Through scholarships, bursaries, and community outreach initiatives, we strive to make education accessible to all, regardless of socio-economic background or circumstance.

Providing comprehensive sexuality education

Empowering girls means equipping them with the knowledge and resources to make informed choices about their bodies, health, and relationships. At St. Augustine’s Priory, we provide comprehensive sexuality education, informed by our Catholic values of prioritising the family, that goes beyond the basics, addressing topics such as consent and reproductive health. By fostering open dialogue and promoting healthy attitudes towards sexuality, we help girls to make choices that align with their values and beliefs.

Engaging parents and communities

We believe that education is a partnership between school, parents, and the broader community. That’s why we actively involve parents in their daughters’ educational journey, offering opportunities for collaboration, communication, and involvement.

Through parent–teacher conferences, workshops, and volunteer programmes, we encourage parents to play an active role in supporting their daughters’ academic and personal growth. Additionally, we engage with local organisations and community leaders to create a network of support that extends beyond the school walls.

In addition to the above, St Augustine’s Priory offers the additional advantage of providing a religious education; a foundation for moral and ethical principles that guide students in interactions and decision-making and instils a strong sense of values rooted in compassion, justice and respect. We believe it also encourages critical thinking and intellectual inquiry as well as spiritual growth and a sense of belonging, purpose and fulfilment.

Study at St. Augustine’s Priory

We have been educating girls since 1634 when the school was founded in Paris.

Our founding story gives us a mission to make sure that our girls are provided with the knowledge, skills, and support they need to excel. Our students are brave, principled, and agile in the face of change – we believe, because of our way of teaching, instilling values of truth and integrity.

Girls here are free to be themselves. They are caring, innovative, and ready to change the world. We invite parents and students to join us on this journey, and together, we can carve out a future where every girl has the opportunity to succeed.

Our educational mission

We recognise the importance of providing a supportive and inclusive environment that nurtures every aspect of a child’s development. We firmly believe in the benefits of single-sex senior school education rather than alternative schools, as the environment allows girls to develop at their own pace and explore their interests without the constraints often associated with mainstream education.

Our curriculum, from nursery to sixth form, is designed to address developmental milestones as each child grows, and cater to mixed abilities, with the support of dedicated teachers, pastoral care, and teaching assistants who understand the unique needs of each student.

To us, inclusive education means ensuring that children develop empathy, respect, and acceptance for others. Additionally, we work closely with parents and, when necessary, a child’s doctor to provide special educational support, ensuring that every child grows and thrives academically, socially, and emotionally.

At St. Augustine’s Priory, we believe in the transformative power of outdoor learning, where the natural world becomes our classroom.

Nestled within our school grounds lies the Priory Farm, a vibrant hub of agricultural activity and learning. Here, students have the opportunity to embrace sustainability, understand the farm-to-fork philosophy, and engage in a wide range of activities that positively impact their emotional wellbeing and holistic development.

A parent recently called the Priory Farm ‘the beating heart of our community’. Everyone at St. Augustine’s Priory wholeheartedly agrees. From our orchard, with trees over 100 years old; to our lovingly cared-for animals; to the produce that our girls are encouraged to sell – the Farm is a truly special space for all.

Read on to find out why we believe outdoor learning is the key to a fulfilling education.

Embrace sustainability

Outdoor learning at St. Augustine’s Priory encourages students to connect with nature and develop a deep appreciation for the environment. Through hands-on experiences on the Priory Farm, students learn about sustainable farming practices, such as composting, crop rotation, and water conservation. By actively participating in these activities, they develop a sense of responsibility towards the planet and gain valuable skills for sustainable living.

Understand farm-to-fork philosophy

Our outdoor learning curriculum is rooted in the farm-to-fork philosophy, which emphasises the importance of understanding where our food comes from and how it is produced.

Students have the opportunity to plant, cultivate, and harvest a variety of fruits, vegetables, and herbs on the Priory Farm. Through this process, they gain a deeper understanding of the food production cycle and the significance of making informed choices about food consumption.

Positive impact on emotional wellbeing

Spending time outdoors has been shown to have a positive impact on emotional wellbeing, reducing stress and promoting feelings of happiness and relaxation. Outdoor learning, therefore, is essential to healthy human development.

At St. Augustine’s Priory, outdoor learning provides students with a welcome respite from the pressures of academic life. Whether tending to the garden, caring for animals, or simply enjoying the fresh air, students have the opportunity to recharge and rejuvenate in a natural setting.

Caring for animals

The Priory Farm is home to a variety of animals, including chickens, ducks, pigs, and an endangered species of sheep, providing students with the unique opportunity to learn about animal husbandry and welfare.

Caring for animals fosters empathy, responsibility, and respect for living creatures. Through hands-on experiences and active learning, students develop important life skills such as teamwork, communication, and problem-solving, all while forging meaningful connections with the natural world.

Scientific education

Outdoor learning at St. Augustine’s Priory extends beyond traditional subjects to encompass scientific exploration and discovery.

Our students engage in fieldwork, experiments, and observations, gaining practical experience in biology, ecology, and environmental science. By applying classroom concepts in real-world contexts, students develop a deeper understanding of scientific principles and the interconnectedness of living organisms within ecosystems.

Learn politics of food security

Understanding the politics of food security is essential in today’s world. Through outdoor learning experiences, students explore issues related to food production, distribution, and access, gaining insights into the social, economic, and environmental factors that influence food security. By critically examining these issues, students develop a sense of agency and empowerment to advocate for positive change in their communities and beyond.

Child development

Outdoor learning plays a crucial role in a child’s development, nurturing curiosity and creativity, and fostering developmental milestones crucial for early childhood and beyond.

Through unstructured play and exploration, children develop their physical abilities, problem-solving skills, and self-confidence. Outdoor environments stimulate brain development and encourage sensory exploration, providing opportunities for meaningful interactions and early relationships, which are integral to a child’s emotional development and social skills.

By nurturing a connection to nature from an early age, outdoor learning lays the foundation for a holistic approach to a child’s life, fostering healthy development in an education that extends into their journey as young adults.

An outdoor education at St. Augustine’s Priory

Outdoor learning at St. Augustine’s Priory offers a wealth of benefits for students, enriching their educational experience.

Through hands-on experiences on the Priory Farm, students gain valuable skills, knowledge, and insights that will serve them well throughout their lives. As we continue to embrace the great outdoors, we remain committed to fostering a culture of curiosity, connection, and sustainability that empowers our students to thrive.

The transition between secondary school and sixth form can be overwhelming. Students are faced with plenty of decisions, such as which sixth form college to attend, and choosing A Levels can be a significant source of stress.

We are well aware of the impact of this decision at St. Augustine’s Priory – but we would urge our students, both current and potential, to take their time in making this choice.

In this blog post, we aim to offer our guidance to students struggling with choosing their sixth form subjects. Read on to find out how we recommend finding the right subjects for you.

Sixth Form education at St. Augustine’s Priory

Priory Sixth is a part of our school that fills us with pride. Again and again, we watch our sixth form students grow into compassionate, courageous, conscientious people in just two years.

We maintain the highest expectations for our students and expect each student to hold themselves to these too; independent study, intellectual curiosity and engagement are all crucial components for A Level (and lifelong) success.

We offer a bespoke and individualised teaching environment, with small, intimate teaching groups. This prepares our students for higher education, emulating the seminar-style teaching of universities.

Priory Sixth benefits from a well-equipped, separate sixth form study area. This incorporates space for private study and collaborative group work, encompassing all students’ needs. Our students also have access to an excellent range of carefully chosen journals and publications to support them in their studies.

In addition to choosing from a wide array of A Level courses, many students also opt to undertake the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ). This encourages students to pursue their interests beyond the curriculum, as well as developing crucial skills including research, analytical writing and presentation.

Our Sixth Form community

Every student in our Priory Sixth community reaches success. With exceptional results, an impressive range of university destinations, and highly ambitious career opportunities, we help our pupils decide what success means to them.

Our support and guidance throughout their life at Priory Sixth enables them to achieve greatness, in whatever shape that takes.

Leading the Catholic life and mission of the school, our Priory Sixth students are, without exception, highly generous and creative individuals. They consistently engage in partnerships, projects and outcomes for a sustainable and prosperous future.

Here are our top pieces of advice for students choosing their sixth form subjects.

Consider your interests and strengths

Understanding yourself as a person plays a crucial role in selecting the right subjects. Reflect on what subjects ignite your passion, and where your strengths lie. Whether you’re interested in the complexities of mathematics, if you’re gifted at languages, or if you want to start unravelling the nuances of literature – choose subjects that resonate with you.

Research career aspirations

Peering into the future can provide invaluable guidance in selecting subjects. Research potential career paths and identify the subjects that can pave the way towards your desired profession. Whether you aspire to become a scientist, an artist, or an entrepreneur, align your subject choices with your long-term goals.

At Priory Sixth, we have a strong, personalised careers programme which enables students to explore the multitude of pathways available to them, and to receive individualised advice and guidance from their tutor and the Director of Priory Sixth.

They are also supported by a thorough programme of Higher Education guidance, including ‘Futures Fortnight’, which encourages students to explore the UCAS process as well as the many different pathways available to them.  We know that this area is a real strength of Priory Sixth; our unique ability to get to know our sixth form students so well enables us to provide exceptionally bespoke guidance and opportunities.

Consult teachers or pastoral care

The wisdom and experience of teachers and pastoral care staff are invaluable assets in the subject selection process. Seek their guidance and tap into their expertise to gain insights into the suitability of subjects based on your strengths, interests, and career aspirations.

Our sixth form teaching staff are, without exception, highly qualified and experienced subject teachers, and experts in their chosen fields, whose passion for their subjects transfers to the students they are working with. They are people that Priory Sixth students can rely on – do feel free to reach out to them in your decision-making process.

Review course requirements

Each subject comes with its own set of prerequisites and expectations. Take the time to review the course requirements to ensure compatibility with your academic capabilities and aspirations.

If you’re planning to go into higher education, consider any prerequisites for your desired university courses, or career paths to make informed decisions.

Balance your subjects

Striking a balance between different subject areas is essential for a well-rounded education. Opt for a combination of subjects that challenge you intellectually while offering a diverse skill set. Balance humanities with sciences, arts with languages, to broaden your horizons and foster a holistic approach to learning.

Assess workload and difficulty

While it’s essential to pursue subjects that challenge and inspire you, it’s equally important to assess the workload and difficulty level. Be realistic about your capabilities and commitments, and ensure that your subject choices align with your capacity to manage workload and maintain a healthy work-life balance.

Explore new subjects

Sixth form is a time for exploration and discovery. Don’t hesitate to step out of your comfort zone and explore new subjects that pique your curiosity. Embrace the opportunity to broaden your intellectual horizons and uncover hidden talents.

Think about long-term prospects

Look beyond the immediate academic landscape and consider the long-term prospects of your subject choices. Evaluate how your chosen subjects align with your future career aspirations and the opportunities they may unlock in the ever-evolving job market.

Our bespoke ‘Preparing Your Future’ course at Priory Sixth helps our students to develop essential skills with which to equip themselves for their future studies and careers. This includes opportunity for presentation, debate and discussion, social justice, RSE, critical thinking, study skills, financial literacy, IT literacy, careers education, PSHCE and opportunities to explore and pursue the values of Catholic Social Teaching.

Seek advice from peers

Your peers can offer valuable insights and perspectives based on their own experiences and knowledge. Engage in conversations with classmates, seniors, and alumni to gain diverse viewpoints and make informed decisions about your subject choices.

Be flexible

Flexibility plays a crucial role in adapting to changing circumstances and seizing new opportunities. Remain open-minded throughout the subject selection process and be willing to reassess your choices based on evolving interests, aspirations, and circumstances.

Explore your options at St Augustine’s Priory

At St. Augustine’s Priory, we recognise the pivotal role that subject selection plays in shaping your academic journey and future endeavours. By considering your interests, strengths, and aspirations, and with the guidance of our experienced teachers and pastoral care staff, you can make informed decisions that set the stage for success.

As one of the leading schools in the education sector, we are committed to nurturing your talents, fostering holistic development, and preparing you to thrive.

Join us at St. Augustine’s Priory Sixth, where your journey from early years, to primary school, to pre-U education is met with unparalleled support and opportunities for growth.

Apply now for a transformative educational experience that not only enriches your life, but also contributes to the economic growth and advancement of society through our dedication to excellence in education policies and practices, in sixth form and beyond.

As parents, we are constantly seeking to provide the best possible education for our children, one that not only equips them with academic skills but also nurtures their character and values.

At St Augustine’s Priory, as an independent Catholic school, we understand the profound importance of religious education in shaping well-rounded individuals who are prepared to navigate the complexities of our world with compassion, understanding, and integrity.

At the heart of our educational philosophy lies a commitment to providing a comprehensive religious education that embraces diversity and inclusivity. While we proudly identify as a Catholic school, we welcome students from all faith backgrounds and beliefs. To us, an inclusive education means recognising the richness that comes from learning and growing together in a community that celebrates diversity.

So, why is religious education so essential in today’s world?

Moral and ethical development

First and foremost, religious education provides a foundation of moral and ethical principles that guide students in their interactions with others and their decision-making processes.

In a world where moral relativism often prevails, it is crucial to instil in our children a strong sense of values rooted in compassion, justice, and respect for all individuals, regardless of their differences.

Critical thinking

An effective religious education encourages critical thinking and intellectual inquiry by engaging students in discussions about the big questions of life, the nature of existence, and the human condition. By exploring different religious perspectives and philosophical traditions, students develop the capacity to think critically, analyse complex issues, and articulate their own beliefs and values thoughtfully.

Spiritual growth

Religious education fosters spiritual development and a sense of connection to something greater than oneself. We believe that it is essential to look past prioritising material wealth and superficial success, and instead to nurture the spiritual dimension of our children’s lives, helping them to find purpose and fulfilment beyond the pursuit of worldly achievements.

Understanding of diversity

Promoting cultural literacy and understanding by exploring the beliefs, practices, and traditions of various religious and cultural communities is essential. Fostering cultural competence and empathy is key for building bridges of understanding and co-operation across differences.

Social justice advocacy

By examining issues such as poverty, racism, sexism, and environmental degradation through a religious and ethical lens, students can develop a critical consciousness that enables them to recognise and challenge systemic injustices in their communities and beyond.

Religious education equips students with the knowledge, skills, and resources to become effective advocates for social change. Through opportunities for dialogue, debate, and community engagement, students learn how to articulate their beliefs, mobilise support for causes they care about, and advocate for policy reforms that promote justice and equality. The prioritisation of religious education inspires solidarity and collective action, giving students the drive to fight for their beliefs.

Holistic education

As parents, we understand that our role extends beyond simply ensuring our children excel academically. We want to raise compassionate, empathetic, and socially responsible individuals who contribute positively to society. Religious education plays a crucial role in this endeavour, providing a holistic approach to education that nurtures the mind, body, and spirit.

Sense of belonging and identity

At St. Augustine’s Priory, we are committed to providing a religious education that honours the dignity and worth of every individual, regardless of their background or beliefs. We believe that by embracing diversity and fostering understanding, we can create a community where all students feel valued, respected, and empowered to reach their full potential.

Preparation for life

We wholeheartedly believe that a wide religious education prepares students for life outside of school. Religious education is instrumental in preparing students for life by providing them with a robust ethical foundation, fostering character development, and helping them find purpose. Through critical thinking and engagement with diverse religious and cultural perspectives, students gain valuable insights into the complexities of the world.

We teach religious education to play a pivotal role in shaping well-rounded individuals who are prepared to lead meaningful and fulfilling lives, contribute to their communities, and make a positive impact on the world.

St Augustine’s Priory: helping students succeed

The importance of a wide and inclusive religious education in our independent Catholic school cannot be overstated. It is a cornerstone of our educational mission, guiding students on a journey of self-discovery, moral growth, and spiritual development.

A wide and inclusive religious education, such as the one provided at St. Augustine’s Priory, is rooted in the fundamental principles of the Catholic faith while respecting the beliefs of all individuals. At our school, we recognise the importance of teaching religious education in a manner that is inclusive and accessible to students from diverse backgrounds.

Religious education at our school

Our lessons go beyond simply imparting knowledge about the religious instruction of the Catholic Church. They also explore the rich tapestry of religious traditions and beliefs represented within our community and beyond. By studying the core tenets of the Christian church alongside other faiths and major world religions, students gain a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of humanity and the universal values that underpin all religious traditions.

Our inclusive approach to religious education is reflected in our curriculum, which aligns with the national curriculum while incorporating elements of Catholic teaching and values. From our primary and secondary schools, we strive to provide students with a well-rounded education.

We are proud to uphold the tradition of Catholic education while embracing our community and the world around us. By teaching religious education lessons that foster critical thinking, empathy, and cultural literacy, we prepare our students to become informed and engaged members of the Church universal, and global citizens who are equipped to navigate the complexities of our multicultural society with compassion and integrity.

As Catholic Christians, we are committed to continuing our mission of providing an education that is guided by the principles of our faith and the values of love, justice, and service to others. And, as parents, we hope you embrace the opportunity to partner with our school in nurturing the hearts and minds of our children, shaping them into compassionate and principled leaders of tomorrow.