Cambridge Education Guide

GUIDEEDUCATIONCAMBRIDGE

Brought to you by Cambridge Edition magazine | www.cambsedition.co.uk

SPRING/SUMMER 2015

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2 | Cambridge Education Guide | SPRING/SUMMER 2015

WELCOME

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Cambridge Education Guide | SPRING/SUMMER 2015 | 3

WELCOME

EDITORIALEDITORNicola Foley 01223 499459 [email protected]

CONTRIBUTOR Charlotte Phillips

ADVERTISINGSALES EXECUTIVELauren Widdowson 01223 [email protected]

KEY ACCOUNT MANAGERMaria Francis 01223 [email protected]

DESIGN DESIGNER Emily Stowe 01223 [email protected]

PUBLISHING DIRECTORSAndy Brogden & Matt Pluck01223 499450

www.bright-publishing.com

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WELCOME

OPRAH WINFREY GAINED HER LOVE OF learning in fourth grade, while for Laura Bush the impetus to keep going until she’d achieved a master’s was kick-started by a second-grade teacher.

Not for nothing do most celebrity interviews frequently name-check a teacher in the background who – often years ago – spotted their talent and determination and nurtured it, sometimes against the odds, with encouragement and inspiration.

The bottom line is that brilliant teaching makes stars of us all – and in our area, it’s going on all round us. As the guide you're reading shows, schools here vary enormously in size, age range and location. What they share, however, is teams of teachers whose passion and dedication shines through.

It’s a two-way process, of course.

BRILLIANT TEACHING MAKES STARS OF US

ALL – AND IN OUR AREA IT’S GOING ON

ALL AROUND US

Celebrities may feel they owe their teachers a huge debt of gratitude but, as teachers will tell you, they’re in it for the warm glow that comes with setting a child on the right path for life, whether or not it’s linked to fame and fortune.

Eureka moments take work and can be days, weeks or months in the making, but they’re the gold at the end of the rainbow, the thing that makes the job worth doing, breakthroughs that could be as small as helping a six-year-old master the reading book they’ve struggled to complete – or as big as helping a senior school pupil exceed expectations by achieving a top GCSE grade.

The rewards can be just as great in adult education, where miracles are regularly achieved, from novice knitters completing their first confection in wool

WELCOME

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WELCOME

to ecstatic career changers whose hard-won qualification finally allows them to move into the job sector they’ve dreamed of cracking.

As jobs go, it’s one of the most challenging there is, even though few superheroes have teacher alter egos. (Spider Man, who scores a high school science department reference now and again – depending on which biography you read – is an exception).

Go to an open day in any of our schools and you’ll almost certainly be wowed by amazing facilities, from forest schools (mud and creepy-crawlies a speciality) to astounding art, scintillating science and dazzling drama. What you won’t see is the real work: the quality teaching that goes on, day in and day out, behind the scenes, that skilful process of revelation and inspiration

that adds magic to the learning experience. So let’s hear it for the people on the

chalk face, the teachers and tutors who do so much for learners in our area. However tough the job and di�cult the challenges, the educational picture is one copiously burnished and re-burnished with gold.

GO TO AN OPEN DAY IN OUR AREA AND

YOU'LL ALMOST CERTAINLY BE

WOWED BY THE AMAZING FACILITIES

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CONTENTS

CONTENTS8 | Cambridge International School, Cherry Hinton Hall, Cambridge CB1 8DW01223 416938 | www.cambridgeinternationalschool.co.ukThe Cambridge International School is an independent day school o� ering an exciting, challenging and international education for boys and girls aged 3-16. Pupils from all over the world, as well as from Britain, are taught a wide range of engaging lessons in small classes. All pupils are given an individualised education in a caring environment.

16 | West Street, Comberton CB23 7DU01223 262503 | www.combertonacademytrust.orgFormed in 2011, Comberton Academy Trust oversees three village colleges: Comberton (including Comberton Sixth Form), Melbourn and Cambourne. Although all are di� erent they share clear, common goals – excellence for all and ensuring that every student achieves his or her full, positive potential through a broad and high-quality education.

18 | Friends’ School, Mount Pleas ant Road, Sa� ron Walden, Essex CB11 3EB01799 525351 | www.friends.org.ukFriends’ School is a lively, caring and vibrant community situated in Sa� ron Walden, a small market town close to Cambridge. O� ering education from nursery to sixth form on one beautiful site, which allows for a seamless transition to each stage: Nursery to Junior School, Junior to Senior School and Senior to Sixth Form.

20 | Kimbolton, Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire PE28 0EA01480 860505 | www.kimbolton.cambs.sch.ukAn independent co-educational day and boarding school, Kimbolton o� ers a busy and stimulating environment for pupils between the ages of four and 18. The school is renowned for achieving excellent academic results whilst producing well-rounded, confi dent young adults.

22 | Barton Road, Ely, Cambridgeshire CB7 4DB01353 660700 | www.kingsely.orgA prestigious day and boarding school, King’s Ely o� ers an outstanding education for children and young people aged from three to 18. Located 20 minutes north of Cambridge, the school provides a broad and balanced curriculum, with a focus on nurturing the talents and abilities of each pupil.

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CONTENTS

25 | Trumpington Road, Cambridge CB2 8AG01223 352073 | www.stfaiths.co.ukSt Faith’s School is an independent preparatory day school for boys and girls aged four to 13. The school prides itself on its dynamic community and warm, welcoming personality. It has a reputation for excellent standards, not just academically but across a huge breadth of subjects and activities.

26 | 73 Grange Road, Cambridge CB3 9AB01223 353532 | www.sjcs.co.ukSt John’s College School, winner of the national Best Prep School and Best Prep School Headmaster in the Tatler School Awards, is an independent co-educational day and boarding school, which o� ers an exceptional educational experience to pupils aged 4-13.

28 | Bateman Street, Cambridge CB2 1LY01223 353253 | www.stmaryscambridge.co.ukSt Mary’s School, Cambridge is an independent girls’ day and boarding school educating students from age four to 18. Situated in the heart of the academically and culturally vibrant city of Cambridge, the school o� ers a safe and secure learning environment for girls. The school has a unique atmosphere which supports learning and development, and fosters self-esteem, confi dence and friendship.

32 | St. Francis’ College, Broadway, Letchworth Garden City SG6 3PJ01462 670511 | www.st-francis.herts.sch.ukSt. Francis’ College is a vibrant school o� ering a modern education with traditional values. Located in Letchworth Garden City, just 30 minutes from Cambridge, the college o� ers an education tailored to the needs of girls aged from three to 18 years of age, and prides itself on its academic rigour and huge extracurricular programme.

36 | Hills Road, Cambridge CB2 8QF01223 403800 | www.perse.co.uk The Perse School o� ers a stimulating and rounded education for boys and girls from three to 18. Pupils are encouraged to be intellectually curious and enjoy a huge range of exciting extracurricular activities in a community characterised by encouragement and care, where they can be themselves with confi dence.

38 | Union Road, Cambridge CB2 1HF01223 454700 | www.stephenperse.comThe Stephen Perse Foundation is a group of six independent schools, located in Cambridge, Madingley and Sa� ron Walden, for ages three to 18. They provide excellent opportunities for students and achieve exceptional exam results without sticking blindly to the syllabus or cramming facts and fi gures – what you learn in class is only half the story.

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ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

CAMBRIDGE INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

THE CAMBRIDGE INTERNATIONAL School oers a unique setting for international and British pupils: a challenging, exciting and individualised education in a happy and nurturing environment. The school population is made up of around 60% international pupils and 40% British and at the moment there are pupils from more than 40 countries. Class sizes throughout the school are kept to a maximum of 16 pupils.

As a school that welcomes pupils from all over the world, language teaching is an area of excellence. Early language learning is a priority. As well as French and Spanish, Mandarin is taught to all Infants pupils. This initiative has proved such a success that the Mandarin programme has now been extended to the Junior Department.

Many pupils receive the top grades in their language examinations several years before they reach Year 11. GCSE and IGCSE results in a wide variety of subjects are excellent.

Our Mother Tongue programme stands alone in its breadth and range. All pupils are oered a Mother Tongue programme and the cost of this tuition is included within their fees. We oer small group tuition in 13 dierent languages at present, taught by native speakers, during the school day. We currently oer Mother Tongue lessons in Swedish, French, German, Dutch, Italian, Danish, Chinese, Norwegian, Spanish, Slovenian, Hebrew, Russian and Arabic. If a parent has a dierent home language that they would like their child to focus on, we are happy to arrange this.

Infant and Junior pupils are based at Cherry Hinton Hall, an Edwardian building set in 27 acres of parkland. This is easily accessible by public transport or by school bus. Pupils enjoy a weekly Forest School session in the adjacent woodland.

The Senior Department of the School is based South of the city in Little Abington, Cambridgeshire. The facility is set in 40 acres of rural grounds, with recently acquired fields designated to become our new sports pitches. Pupils at the Senior School enjoy the opportunity to experience a wide range of subjects; engineering is now oered and computer programming has recently been added to the curriculum. The new eco-pod, which houses philosophy and psychology, is a great hit with all and was featured on the BBC’s Grand Designs.

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The extensive grounds allow pupils to enjoy a wide and varied sporting programme and pupils compete regularly against other schools in matches and tournaments.

The Careers Hub is a very helpful service for pupils in Years 10 and 11. This o�ers information on all the further education colleges in the Cambridgeshire area, the courses and qualifications they o�er and the admissions criteria they require. Careers information advisors visit the school and work experience is organised for all pupils. Every pupil is given a great deal of time and support in preparing for this next stage in their education.

All Cambridge International School (CIS)pupils are given many opportunities to enjoy learning experiences outside the

classroom. Many students from Year 9 and 10 recently enjoyed a week’s scuba diving as part of their science provision. A trip to Iceland is planned for the Senior science and geography groups this autumn; they will experience some amazing sights, including a visit to a live volcano! Pupils studying Latin are given the opportunity to visit Pompeii; this is a very popular trip and both sta� and pupils enjoy studying the ancient ruins whilst soaking up the Italian sunshine.

More local trips include excursions to the range of theatres, galleries, museums and universities in Cambridge. CIS pupils have been very successful in several general knowledge tournaments hosted by Cambridgeshire schools.

Drama forms an important part of school life and all our pupils are introduced to public speaking at an early age. Last summer the school staged an amazing and ambitious production of Joseph and The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. This was shown at the Mumford Theatre in central Cambridge and the cast included pupils from Year 2 through to Year 11. The school orchestra provided the musical accompaniment and the show was deemed to be a triumph by all.

The Junior Department performed in a play called Robin Hood and the Sherwood Hoodies. This was also hugely well received by the audience; the enthusiastic singing, acting and comedic talents of the Junior School came together to produce a wonderfully amusing, entertaining and heart-warming event.

Transporting your child to and from school is made easy at CIS. The school’s fleet of minibuses o�ers a comprehensive transport network for pupils to and from the city centre and many of the outlying towns and villages.

CONTACT INFORMATIONProspective families are welcome to make an appointment to come and view the school and meet our sta and pupils. Please contact the Admissions O�ce:[email protected] Telephone: 01223 778290 Website: www.cambridgeinternationalschool.co.uk

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EDUCATION SCHOOLS

TRUST IN TEACHERS

Our area boasts many brilliant schools, but at the heart of each and every one are the

talented teachers inspiring a love of learning

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EDUCATION SCHOOLS

YOU WOULDN’T ON THE WHOLE EXPECT to do a job whose purpose was as yet largely unknown. That, however, is what we take for granted in our teachers, whose day to day work consists of training tomorrow’s workforce. Not only do those in the hot seat have to be brilliant at teaching, they also have to be able to understand how it relates to the changing world their students will have to negotiate as young adults.

Now children, their first payslip could be a decade or more away; their future careers, shaped by global pressures and technological innovation – which doesn’t come much more revolutionary than round here – in many cases unguessable. Get it wrong and it’s not just the individual but ultimately society as a whole that su�ers. No pressure, then.

A thirst for knowledge and a capacity to embrace change are undoubtedly important attributes, so it’s to local schools’ credit

WHILE TEACHERS COME IN MANY VARIETIES,

THE GOOD ONES TEND TO SHARE THE SAME MAGICAL QUALITIES



EDUCATION SCHOOLS

that the inspirational teaching this requires continues to get glowing reports.

And while teachers come in as many varieties as ice cream, the good ones tend to share the same magical qualities.

When the Sutton Trust wanted to find out what those top attainment-boosting techniques were, they didn’t stint on their homework, trawling through over 200 pieces of research into teaching methods.

Unsurprisingly, they report, an infectious passion for the subject is crucial, as is academic know-how. Teachers need to be firing on all cylinders and at the top of their game. They must be able to “convey complex ideas with ease and clarity”, agrees headmistress Charlotte Avery at St Mary’s, Cambridge, as well as ensuring they cover the pupil range, regardless of age, ability and interest levels, from the ‘brightest and most engaged upper sixth student’ first thing on Monday morning to a struggling Year 7 last thing on a Friday afternoon.

Get it right and their talent “for finding myriad ways to communicate a concept enables them to reach every child in the class,” thinks Ed Elliott at The Perse.

Having an armoury of attention grabbing teaching techniques such as e�ective questioning and the use of assessment is also hugely important, reports the Sutton

INFECTIOUS PASSION FOR THE SUBJECT IS AS CRUCIAL AS ACADEMIC KNOW-HOW



EDUCATION SCHOOLS

Trust. Students – like the rest of us – focus better if actively engaged. Debate, creativity, storytelling, competition and performance are among the engaging methods used to keep pupils glued to their seats at the Perse – and elsewhere, too.

Obvious though it sounds, great teachers also like and value their pupils. Schools like St Mary’s stress the need to know them as individuals so hidden talents are uncovered, nurtured and able to blossom.

It may sound easy but inevitably it takes some doing. Great teachers need the support of great schools so that they – as well as the pupils – are constantly challenged and re-energised, becoming part of the learning process themselves.

In a profession where much of the vital work goes on outside the classroom and it’s “most definitely not nine-to-five job,” says Ed Elliott, what parent wouldn’t be reassured to learn their child’s teacher loved their work so much that they were

GREAT TEACHERS NEED THE SUPPORT OF

GREAT SCHOOLS SO THEY ARE CONSTANTLY

CHALLENGED AND RE-ENERGISED



EDUCATION SCHOOLS

undertaking research or studying for an additional qualification?

Given the resources on the doorstep, it would be rude not to. Teacher training here is outstanding, with some schools opting to grow their own top flight sta� via the Schools Direct scheme.

“A great teacher is one who knows their subject, is good at putting it across and really enjoys teaching. Cambridge attracts many more people who want to be teachers than it has places and so is able to select those who show up best on these qualities. This has made it one of the top – often the very top – universities in which to train as a teacher,” confirms education guru Professor Alan Smithers at the University of Buckingham.

So what makes teachers want to do the job? In the end, it’s all down to the moral purpose, forged in the white heat of post-

war euphoria when the notion of universal education really took hold. The facilities and technology may be very di�erent but for today’s great teachers, that sense of service is as strong as it ever was, even if it isn’t matched by the financial prizes.

But as any of our area’s terrific teachers will tell you, it’s the intangible rewards that go with the territory – encouraging a pupil to make the extra e�ort that pulls in the desired exam grade or giving them the encouragement to overcome disappointment and move on – that make it worthwhile. Not for nothing do celebrity interviews regularly include references to a teacher who took their dreams seriously and put them on the path to success – and that applies to many of the rest of us too. “A great teacher knows that the lesson doesn’t end when the bell rings,” points out Ed Elliott. And that really is superhero stu�.

A GREAT TEACHER KNOWS THAT THE

LESSON DOESN’T END WHEN THE BELL RINGS




COMBERTON ACADEMY TRUST

THE COMBERTON ACADEMY TRUST, formed in 2011, oversees three educational establishments in Cambridgeshire; Comberton Village College (including Comberton Sixth Form), Melbourn Village College and Cambourne Village College.

Although all are di� erent they share a clear, common goal – Excellence for All.

At the heart of their work lie the fi ve core principles of the Comberton Academy Trust, which drive everything they do. These are:• The excellence principle. Education must be of the very highest standard.

• The comprehensive principle. Excellence must be for all. Every type of student can achieve.• The community principle. Every academy must be at the heart of its local community and serve it well.• The partnership principle. Each academy must seek to work positively in partnership with others for mutual benefi t.• The international principle. The curriculum inside and outside the classroom must have a clear international dimension.

COMBERTON SIXTH FORM opened in 2011 in state-of-the-art purpose-built facilities and has established itself as a leading sixth form centre in the area. With 400 students, it is large enough to be a vibrant and dynamic place to study and yet small enough to provide a supportive community.

Students can tailor programmes of study to suit their individual needs, complemented at every step by an exceptional range of enrichment and leadership opportunities. Outcomes have been impressive, with university and prestigious management training positions both popular choices.

Website: combertonsixthform.org Email: [email protected]: 01223 265470 Open evening: November 2015 (see website)

These principles guide the aims and values of all our academies. All want to ensure that every individual pupil achieves his or her full, positive potential through a broad and high-quality education.

The academies work together to recruit and train the highest quality sta� , share ideas, resources and best practice, as well as educational and extracurricular opportunities. All work closely with their feeder schools, ensuring innovative practice is widely disseminated and providing smooth transition, at age 11 or post-16.

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COMBERTON VILLAGE COLLEGE, which opened in 1960 for 240 pupils, is now a thriving community of 1400 students in Years 7-11. Its GCSE results have long been among the best for any all-ability state school in the country.

After the last inspection in 2013 Ofsted commented that Comberton “is a highly successful school which enables its pupils to achieve not only academic excellence but also to become mature, confi dent, thoughtful and rounded individuals with clear goals for their future lives.”

Comberton Village College aims to provide a personalised and fl exible curriculum to meet the needs of individual pupils and help every student make the greatest possible progress whatever their starting point.

Website: www.combertonvc.org Email: [email protected] Phone: 01223 262503 Open evening: Thursday 8 October 2015, 7-9pm

MELBOURN VILLAGE COLLEGE was confi rmed as a “good and improving school” with an ambitious leadership at its last Ofsted inspection in 2013.

With around 500 pupils in Key Stages 3 and 4, Melbourn prides itself on knowing each child and meeting their individual needs, but with the benefi ts associated with being in a larger Trust of schools. This enables all students to fl ourish within a supportive environment. Value added results are consistently in the top 25% of schools nationally, with individual departments regularly in the top 10%.

Website: www.mvc.org.uk Email: o� [email protected]: 01763 223400 Open evening: Monday 28 September 28 2015, 6.30-8.30pm

CAMBOURNE VILLAGE COLLEGE is a £20m new build, which opened its doors to Year 7 students in September 2013. It now has Year 7 and 8 students. Cambourne follows a curriculum based on that of Comberton Village College and all students are challenged to achieve the highest possible grades. High achievement also means pupils developing in a wider educational context, hence the widest possible range of extracurricular opportunities.

Website: www.cambournevc.org Email: [email protected]: 01954 284000 Open evening: Wednesday 8 October 2015, 7-9pm


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FRIENDS’ SCHOOL IS A SCHOOL WITH a di erence: small, diverse, vibrant, and located in the heart of Sa ron Walden, a beautiful market town just 20 minutes from Cambridge. Friends’ welcomes students of all faiths, or none, and o ers education for students aged three to 18 with boarding from age eleven.

There is a Senior and Junior School on the same site, which allows for a seamless transition between Year 6 and 7, and also Nursery and Reception. Moreover, sharing the site means that Senior pupils have opportunities to help out in the Junior

School, and Junior pupils have access to specialist teaching such as modern languages and Design Technology, using the sta and facilities of the Senior School.

An impressive new building has recently been constructed to house the Junior School complete with dedicated Early Years facilities, outdoor classroom, Art Room, Computer Suite, Library and Assembly Hall, which o ers Friends’ youngest learners the best possible start to their education. There is also a Forest School and this is used by all sections of the school, from the youngest

FRIENDS’ SCHOOL SAFFRON WALDEN

to the Biology A Level students for their fieldwork.

Pastoral care at Friends' is excellent because the sta really do get to know each pupil and there is always a listening ear or a helping hand throughout the school. There is also a Medical Centre, sta ed by two qualified nurses.

The school has an excellent record of achievement at both GCSE and A Level, with a wide choice of subject options available. There is an extensive programme of extra-curricular and weekend activities

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for boarders and day pupils in the Senior School and many popular clubs for our younger pupils including swimming, art and architecture, and photography. There is provision for those in the Junior School who need to stay on at school until 6pm.

The School has a number of minibuses, two of which serve the Cambridge area and another taking students to and from Audley End station, Sa� ron Walden’s closest railway station.

Friends’ SchoolSAFFRON WALDEN

CONTACT INFORMATIONVisit Friends’ on their next Open Morning or call Alison Stanbury on 01799 525351 or email [email protected] for further information, or to make an appointment.

KEY INFOWorking Open Morning - Wednesday 11th MarchWorking Open Morning - Wednesday 20th MayTaster Day for Year 5 pupils - June - for Year 7 entry September 2016

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KIMBOLTON SCHOOLCAMBRIDGESHIRE

KIMBOLTON SCHOOL IS A REALLY special place where pupils aren’t just a number or a great set of grades. Individual talent is nurtured from Reception Year through to the Sixth Form and boys and girls, aged 4 to 18, thrive in our school’s happy and safe environment. Pupils develop into grounded, confident and capable individuals, interested in the world around them and able to express their ideas and personalities.

INSPIRING INDEPENDENT THINKERSOur school enjoys an historic setting but we have a modern outlook and facilities for the digital age, including a brand-new Science and Maths Centre due to open this year. The use of iPads by every pupil in our Senior School has given teachers a powerful creative tool with which to enthuse children to e�ectively organise, communicate, learn and

study. Our teachers utilising this technology alongside traditional methods gives children a strong advantage in future learning and employment.

Almost all our students gain places at the universities of their choice, with many heading to Oxbridge colleges and Russell Group universities. We have a strong track record of students receiving o�ers for the most competitive courses including medicine, dentistry and veterinary sciences.

CREATING REAL CONNECTIONSWhile academic excellence is at the heart of everything we do, the Kimbolton experience o�ers so much more. We are renowned for our caring, family ethos; visitors frequently comment on the kindness, consideration and respect that underpins our 950-strong community.

Small class sizes and an established House system mean that every pupil has a strong sense of belonging. Children forge a broad range of friendships across all ages and are keen to welcome newcomers and help them to settle in quickly.

FROM CODING TO CANOEING More than 120 clubs and societies flourish at Kimbolton, playing a key part of pupils’

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development into interesting adults and o ering them a remarkable range of opportunities beyond the classroom. From coding in Robotics Club to competing in the 125-mile Devizes to Westminster International Canoe Race, opportunities abound in sport, drama, art, music and outdoor pursuits. We also have a thriving Combined Cadet Force, a Community Service Unit and an extensive programme of trips and visits.

Such a wide variety of extracurricular experiences helps to build children’s social

BE PART OF OUR SCHOOLKimbolton is about half an hour from Cambridge and 40 minutes by train from London. Scholarships and means-tested bursaries are available. To arrange a visit please call our Registrar on 01480 860505 or visit www.kimbolton.cambs.sch.uk.

OPEN DAYSOur next Open Days are on 7 May (Preparatory School) and 3 October (Preparatory School and Senior School). We look forward to welcoming you to Kimbolton.

skills and self-esteem – the bedrock for a happy and fulfi lled life.

SUPPORTING BUSY FAMILIESOut-of-hours options provide high-quality support to working parents. A before- and after-school club for the younger pupils, plus activities and homework sessions extend the school day. Many of our children use our dedicated bus service, while others choose from our range of fl exible and cost-e ective boarding options (rated Outstanding by Ofsted).


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KING’S ELY STEEPED IN 1000 YEARS OF TRADITION yet with a cutting-edge approach to education, King’s Ely welcomes your child to embark on an exciting journey. Whether they join at two years old or even younger (please note the King’s Ely family has just got even bigger with the establishment of Little Explorers aged just one!) or at seven, 13 or 16, or indeed anywhere in between, your child will experience first-hand the adventure that learning can be.

Feats that test the courage, individual triumphs and productions that reflect months and years of honing of skills and developing of talents, sporting

achievements and service that is selfless and creative in making life better for someone else: all of these things set King’s Ely aside from other schools. It is that blend between community, individual courage and the sense of fun and adventure that is the current that flows beneath so many of our activities and drives the pulse that is King’s Ely.

Through a broad and balanced curriculum, King’s Ely pupils will develop the self-knowledge and inner resilience that will enable them to face the challenges of an ever-changing world. Our aim is to create responsible, resilient, engaged and caring

young people who have developed learning habits that successfully prepare them for public examinations, higher education and the world of work.

A King’s Ely education is all about learning in the deepest and richest sense. The need to achieve highly in public examinations remains our imperative as good qualifications o�er both the choice and opportunities to which students aspire. This was borne out in the pride that was felt on results day this year when it was revealed that the Year 13 leavers had achieved record-breaking results with many achieving 100% A* or A grades.

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King’s Ely pupils of all ages are encouraged to develop their imaginations and creativity as well as their analytical skills. Whether it be in political debating, working on individual film projects or even, like our very youngest children, interviewing elderly care home residents about their memories of the First World War, pupils identify the key questions they want to ask and then find answers that they can support through their own learning. Issues are explored rigorously from

multiple perspectives and assumptions, including their own, then critically analysed by the class. Consequently, conclusions reached are supported with reasoned arguments and evidence.

A King’s Ely education seeks to create open-minded young people with a zest for learning. And outside the classroom, beyond the laboratory, there is a world of opportunity. From climbing and mountaineering to rowing and stagecraft, there are challenges and activities for each individual. Your child will be encouraged




CONTACT INFORMATIONTo visit our open events or make an individual appointment, please call 01353 660702 or email [email protected]. For further information, visit www.kingsely.org. Follow us on Twitter @Kings_Ely.

to tackle things they have never tried before and challenged to push themselves beyond what they felt possible to experience the satisfaction of achievement.

Innovative approaches to teaching and learning are the hallmark of every section of the school. Once more breaking the boundaries of the children’s imaginations, in one year alone, the King’s Ely Acremont teachers took their pupils on a journey through time, propelled them into space, turned them into detectives, firefighters and world travellers. Young performers across the school spread their wings on stage in plays and challenging musicals that captivated and intrigued audiences. The U14 girls were crowned County Hockey Champions and three U16 footballers were picked for England. A group of courageous students took on a major expedition to the Tavan Bogd in Mongolia, a sixth former is preparing for the challenge of a lifetime after becoming the first recipient of the school’s Tall Ships Youth Trust award and another student has performed with the Junior Prime Brass at the Royal Albert Hall.

Others celebrated their Oxbridge successes, while a member of the prestigious Ely Cathedral Girls’ Choir, all King’s Ely boarders, sang in front of royalty at the NSPCC’s London concert, Carols by Candlelight.

The range of achievements from mathematical challenges to mountain climbing, national representative honours to academic successes is each year astounding and each year there is evidence of the compassion and social conscience that characterises the King’s Ely community.

Community is something that sets us apart. We as a school are privileged to have

one of the finest cathedrals in the world as a daily extension to our workspace, our school chapel and a place of outstanding beauty and spirituality that forms the backcloth of school life for current pupils and lives on in the memories of our former pupils.

King’s Ely is a family, a 24/7 community that is vibrant, nurturing, inclusive. It is a school that takes each child on a seamless journey, travelling from one section to the next, giving support and challenges and tailoring the o�ering to the needs of every child in its care. Can you dare to miss out on such an opportunity for your child?




ST FAITH’S CAMBRIDGE

OUTSTANDING ACADEMIC STANDARDSSt Faith’s has a reputation for outstanding academic standards, enabling each individual to achieve their best across a staggering breadth of subjects and activities. St Faith’s is part of The Leys and St Faith’s Education Foundation.

Inclusive in nature, valuing diversity, we welcome children from all religious and cultural backgrounds. St Faith’s o�ers small classes and teaching by subject specialists. Over a third of our pupils gain scholarships to their senior schools of choice.

EXCELLENCE AND INNOVATION The pre-eminent teachers at St Faith’s bring out the best in their pupils. Our latest ISI inspection report commended our excellent and innovative teaching. The Good School Guide reported “a child-centred educational philosophy, turning out sparky individuals with high all-round expectations and the skills to meet them. St Faith’s does well for all but can really extend those at the top, encouraging them to achieve at a national level.”

Recognised particularly for our excellent teaching of Spanish, science, maths and computer science, we are an associate school of the Spanish Embassy, the Royal Society and a lead school in the Department for Education’s Network of Teaching Excellence for Computer Science.

BROAD OPPORTUNITIESSt Faith’s o�ers a diverse curriculum, regular use of local facilities and expertise as well as links with the Cambridge University. Ten o�-timetable enrichment days a year, a wide range of trips and more than 70 activities each week keep our children busy.

EXCEPTIONAL FACILITIESAs the largest prep school in Cambridge, we have the best range of specialist teaching facilities, extensive sports facilities and wide open spaces. Our foundation with The Leys also provides access to more than 20 acres of sports playing fields, an indoor swimming pool and the wonderful new performance facilities in Great Hall.

CONTACT INFORMATIONWe would be delighted to show you in person why we believe your child will thrive at St Faith’s. Please call Anna Cornell, Registrar, 01223 352073 to arrange a tour.Visit www.stfaiths.co.uk. Follow us on twitter @st_faiths

KEY DATES3 October 2015 – Open morning30 November 2015 – Deadline for applications

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ST JOHN’S IS THE ONLY SCHOOL TO have been awarded national Best Prep School and Best Prep School Head in the Tatler Schools Awards. It is the only prep school to have its teaching rated “inspirational” by school inspectors, and to have achieved the coveted ‘Exceptional’ grade for children’s attainment from ISI. It is described by The Good Schools Guide as “magically happy”. What is it that makes St John’s unique?

At St John’s, we believe in a childhood filled with a�ection, a childhood in which children know that they are known and valued, in which they learn to trust themselves and each other, in which they find and express their voice, discover the di�erence they can make for themselves and others, learn to think for themselves, to question, to collaborate, to be independent, to own and take charge of their learning and their lives.

Our education is about the whole child. It is a wonderful gift to a child to grow knowing that who she is, how she feels, how she comes to possess and express herself, to read and respond to others, matter at home and at school as much as what she can do. Such children will become independent learners, creative thinkers prepared to question, with their curiosity very much alive. Such children inevitably get the best from themselves and achieve very highly within and beyond the classroom, as ours do. Such children will develop a real generosity of spirit, will know and care about how to get the best for others, as ours do. Such children will do well when they are with us and when they are long beyond our shores.

QUESTIONING AND THINKING SKILLSOur youngest children are full of questions, rich with curiosity. We work to preserve

ST JOHN’S COLLEGE SCHOOL

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and strengthen their questioning and thinking skills. From the earliest age, we give them the essential tools of knowledge and understanding but we aim to give them more. We teach them critical thinking, we discuss with them what is a good question, we ask them what questions they would like to ask, even what topics they would like to investigate. By the time they are eight, we are teaching them philosophy and how to be philosophers themselves.

ATTAINMENTA curriculum that believes in children draws from them the highest and deepest levels of attainment. The achievement of our children is described by inspectors as “exceptional”. Though we are not selective in our kindergarten, our children are, on average, at the 85th centile on national tests

of ability before they leave. Our exam results are outstanding and our 60 leavers gain, on average, around 25 scholarships to the strongest schools. Up to one-third of our past pupils, in due course, gain Oxbridge places each year, more than in the most academically selective of schools: our children continue to be exceptional learners.

KNOWING AND CARING FOR YOUR CHILDEducation at its best is a deep act of care. If we care, then we will notice. If we notice, then we will act on a child’s behalf. If we act for each child, then each of our children will grow best, will achieve best, will become their best selves. To be known, to be noticed, to be valued, to be cared for: fundamental things for all of us, these are the essentials of a good childhood and they are at the heart of the St John’s way.

CONTACT INFORMATION Telephone: 01223 353652 Email: [email protected] Grange Road, Cambridge CB3 9AB www.sjcs.co.uk

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ST MARY’S SCHOOL, CAMBRIDGE

A PROUD 400 YEARS OF TRADITIONSt Mary’s School, Cambridge is no ordinary school. In fact, it o�ers an extraordinary environment, ethos and education based on a founding vision about education for girls which is over 400 years old. We have achieved “excellence in every possible area of educational provision”, according to our 2014 school inspection by the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI).

We are an independent day and boarding school for girls aged four to 18, where every girl can thrive and achieve academic excellence. Fostering a love of life and learning, we grow the academic talents and spiritual well-being of each individual. We do this in conjunction with our parents, who work alongside our talented, dedicated teachers and support sta� in building an ethos of mutual understanding and trust, respect and support, compassion and fun.

Ours is not a one-size-fits-all approach; we o�er tailored education, understanding and individual support which encourage our students not just to have more but to look beyond themselves so that they enter adulthood aspiring to be more and to give more. Investing in the individual, we invite a variety of speakers, from musicians and story tellers to athletes, who inspire our girls with their drive, expertise and passion. Our community provides the support structure and environment for developing confidence, independence and leadership.

NURTURING A SENSE OF SELFAt St Mary’s School, Cambridge, our small class sizes allow us to get to know each student, building relationships alongside developing academic prowess, so that we gain a rounded view of the areas in which each girl excels, as well as those she finds

more challenging. This insight enables us to develop your daughter’s individual learning journey, providing the right level of challenge and opportunity for her to hone and develop her learning, across our broad curriculum.

FOSTERING A LOVE OF LEARNINGWe tailor our teaching and pastoral care specifically for our girls at St Mary’s School, Cambridge, taking account of the di�erences in their learning styles and playing to our students’ collaborative, problem-solving tendencies. Our curriculum is designed to nurture the needs and abilities of each individual student, enabling her to reach the highest level of personal achievement. We are proud to o�er textiles and food technology alongside computer science in our Technology department and to o�er dance alongside rowing in our Physical Education department.

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ACADEMIC RESULTS We are proud of our strong academic record and excellent public examination results. We are delighted that 93.3% of our A-Level results and 99% of GCSE results were graded A* to C in 2014, while 46.1% of our A-Level and 73% of our GCSE and IGCSE results achieved an A* or A.

We add value to each individual student’s academic success: our students consistently achieve results above other students with the same academic profile as them at other

schools in the UK. Many of our students achieve a whole grade above that which was indicated by their academic profile.

OUR INTERNATIONAL OUTLOOKWe embrace globalisation, opening our doors to students from di�erent countries and cultures. Reflecting the cosmopolitan community of Cambridge, 14% of pupils at the school are from overseas, from 34 countries worldwide. We are fortunate to have a diverse student body at our school, from Reception through to our Sixth Form, adding richness to our warm and welcoming school environment.

OUR VIBRANT CITY LOCATIONOur school sits in the midst of the gardens, museums, theatres and concert halls of one of the UK’s most vibrant and culturally exciting cities. We have the Cambridge University Botanic Garden on our doorstep and, of course, one of the most prestigious universities in the world, with its beautiful and extraordinary architecture and facilities.

BOARDINGThe quality of our boarding provision is evidenced by the results of our 2014 ISI report, which judged it as Excellent – the highest grade that can be given. During our most recent Ofsted inspection, the lead inspector said that our boarding provision was the most impressive she had seen in her nine-year career. As a result, demand for boarding places is ever increasing; the capacity for boarders has grown steadily during the last five years and now 100 of our 500 Senior School and Sixth Form students board with us.

ETHOSWe are a Christian school in the Catholic tradition. We welcome girls from all denominations and faiths, because a strong Christian framework firmly underpins our school, helping to build and protect the spiritual well-being of each student. We believe in respecting and caring for the individual – others as well as ourselves, both in school and in the wider community.




EVENTS:Comparing schools to find the best option for your daughter’s school career can be daunting. We are here to help you decide whether St Mary’s School, Cambridge is right for her. To book your place at one of our events, please contact our admissions team by telephone on 01223 224167 or email [email protected]

Junior School In Action Day Friday 1 May 2015 11.00am – 12.30pm and 2.00pm – 3.30pm

Senior School In Action Day Friday 1 May 2015 11.00am – 12.30pm and 2.00pm – 3.30pm

Junior School Taster Workshop Saturday 6 June 2015 10.00am to 12 noon

Senior School Taster Workshop for Year 7 entry (11+) Saturday 6 June 2015 9.00am to 12 noon

CONTACT INFORMATION stmaryscambridge.co.uk Christepher Hald, Head of Juniors, 6 Chaucer Road, Cambridge, CB2 7EBAdmissions: 01223 224167 Reception: 01223 311666 Charlotte Avery, Headmistress, Bateman Street, Cambridge, CB2 1LYAdmissions: 01223 224167 Reception: 01223 353253

We would be delighted to show you around our school so that you can see for yourself the enriching environment in which our students thrive and visit our delightful Junior School, our lively Art Centre, tour our vibrant Music and Performing Arts departments and hear about our sporting achievements. Please contact Assistant Registrar, Jenny Boscoe to arrange a visit on 01223 224 167 or [email protected].


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ST FRANCIS’ COLLEGE LETCHWORTH GARDEN CITY

ST. FRANCIS’ COLLEGE IS A HAPPY, vibrant and distinctive school o� ering a modern education with a strong ethos and traditional values which leads many to say we “feel di� erent”. We believe this is because our founding traditions continue to reinforce the values that lie at the heart of our community: academic rigour, trust, respect, integrity and responsibility. Our founders called it: “One heart, one soul”, the girls call it “a St. Francis’ thing, meaning that even if you are busy, you will always make time for others, demonstrating unending patience, kindness and support.

The College has for the last 80 years o� ered an education tailored to the needs of girls from three to 18 years of age. Located in leafy Letchworth Garden City, the world’s fi rst garden city, we are under 30 minutes from Cambridge by our own direct minibus service. The College has a Prep School for day girls and a Senior School of 360 girls, of whom 85 are

full boarders. The community is further enriched by a number of weekly boarders to a total of 92.

Our academic results speak for themselves, with consistently excellent results year after year at both GCSE and A level, leading to all the girls gaining places at the universities of their choice. During the Sixth Form years, the girls receive extensive guidance and support, not only to identify the most suitable courses, but also the best universities at which to study their chosen subject. The College is very proud of the wide range of subjects that our girls go on to study.

Whilst results are very important, education is not just about academic rigour. Excellent on-site facilities, including an indoor swimming pool and a 330-seat purpose-built theatre, support a huge extra-curricular programme, with the girls excelling in a range of performing arts, dance, drama and music from

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CONTACT INFORMATIONTo show how we “feel di� erent”, we have two open days a year in May and October, or to arrange a private visit please contact Mrs Lisa Cogan on 01462 670511 or email [email protected].

orchestras to choirs (recently returned from performing in the Vatican), to jazz and rock bands. The College holds the Arts Council England Artsmark Gold for our arts provision, covering a wide range of disciplines, from art, music, drama and dance to literature. Despite being a medium-sized school, we have county and national representatives across a wide range of sports, such as badminton, tennis, athletics, hockey and netball.

We believe passionately that we are preparing our girls to take their place as leaders in an increasingly global community and this is refl ected in all that we do, through our visiting speakers, our UK and overseas excursions in support of academic subjects, sport, music and cultural activities. In addition, we work with and visit our partner school in India and have a long-running association with a charitable project in Uganda.


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THE PERSE SCHOOL, CAMBRIDGE

Three quarters of A-Level and Pre-U entries graded at A* or A

Top co-ed school for GCSE results in The Times league table

THE PERSE SCHOOL WAS FOUNDED in 1615 by Dr Stephen Perse, a fellow of Gonville and Caius College, who left a considerable sum to establish a ‘free grammar school’ for pupils from all backgrounds.

400 years on, the School retains close links with the University of Cambridge, and through its £1 million per annum means-tested bursary programme educates more than 120 pupils whose families would not otherwise be able to a� ord a Perse education.

The School, now fully co-educational, looks confi dently to the future, having invested more than £30 million in new facilities over the last decade.

GIRLS AND BOYS FROM 3-18The Perse is a 3-18 school on three sites – the Pelican, the Prep and the Upper – each enjoying green and open surroundings in the south of Cambridge, on the doorstep of the University’s biomedical campus. Academics, researchers, authors, spiritual leaders and entrepreneurs frequently visit to share expertise and inspire students.

While each part of School has a distinct personality, all share a common ethos and values. Each is just a short way from the others, so older students routinely work with younger pupils, acting as positive role models and gaining leadership skills.

WHERE IT’S COOL TO BE BRIGHTThe Perse is a place where pupils fi nd subjects fascinating and want to go beyond the curriculum, and where success is as likely to be celebrated by classmates as by teachers. Pupils spark o� one another and create a culture of healthy competition, intellectual enquiry and diligence. Teachers are passionate about their subjects and dedicated to getting the best from their pupils; they match stretching expectations with encouragement and support. The ability to navigate complexity, think creatively, focus on what counts and communicate clearly and simply is at the heart of a Perse education.

CHOOSE YOUR ADVENTUREThere is a buzz about daily life here. While the School’s academic credentials are well known, some are surprised to discover the range of exciting extra-curricular opportunities, whether cultivating a particular talent and competing against the best or taking part for fun. Quality time spent on the pitch, stage, trail and in the studio helps students develop self-confi dence, organisation and resilience and, more often than not, interests for life. From Pelicans tasting campfi re-toasted marshmallows on a fi rst sleepover to sixth formers embarking on a Himalayan trek, the opportunities turn a Perse education into an adventure.

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KEY DATES SUMMER OPEN DAYSBooking essential – visit www.perse.co.uk Pelican Friday 1 May and Friday 8 May Prep Friday 22 May Upper Friday 19 June The Perse o�ers means-tested bursaries, along with scholarships.

PREPHead: James PiperTrumpington Road280 pupils aged 7-11Main entry point: Year 3T: 01223 403920E: [email protected]

UPPERHead: Ed ElliottHills Road1100 pupils aged 11–18, including around 300 in the Sixth FormMain entry points: Years 7, 9 and Lower SixthT: 01223 403805E: [email protected]

CONTACT DETAILSPELICAN NURSERY AND PRE-PREPHead: Sarah WaddingtonGlebe Road150 pupils aged 3-7Main entry point: NurseryT: 01223 403940E: [email protected]

www.perse.co.ukFollow The Perse on Twitter @ThePerseSchool. Read the Head’s blog at theperseschool.wordpress.com

DOWN TO EARTH Students come from diverse backgrounds, thanks to the School’s bursary programme and the selection process, which prioritises academic ability and potential. This diversity, coupled with the size of the School, means that however original a child’s interests might appear, they invariably make a like minded friend at The Perse.

Students are taught to respect others’ opinions and interests, to be self-assured but not arrogant, and to ensure that while they can make a compelling argument they also carefully consider an alternative viewpoint. The result is a down-to-earth school where children can be themselves with confidence.

CARING FOR EACH OTHERThe Perse community is characterised by mutual respect, encouragement and care; students look out for one another. Students

mix with others of di�erent ages through their House. Form teachers, pastoral tutors and teaching assistants provide a listening ear for students and work with parents to ensure pupils are happy and successful.

The sense of solidarity extends beyond the school gates. There is an active programme of charitable fundraising, and as pupils grow older they have the chance to become involved in communities locally and further afield, from sharing subject expertise with primary school pupils to working in deprived areas overseas.

NATIONAL FINALISTS 2015 girls’ U16 indoor hockey and 1st VII netball; boys’ U18 and U16

indoor hockey.

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STEPHEN PERSE FOUNDATION

Our vision is to push the boundaries of pedagogy in order to equip our students to face the unknown as well as the known challenges of the future. We achieve exceptional examination results, but our focus is never the exam. We base our approach to education around the needs of the individual: put simply, we always start with the child and are committed to breadth of learning all the way through from age three to 18.

Combined with talented students and the opportunities a orded in Cambridge, we have the leading results in the region at GCSE, A level and International Baccalaureate Diploma — in fact, our IB results in 2013 were the joint highest in the world. We were awarded The Sunday Times Parent Power IB School of the Year in 2010 and 2013 in

THE STEPHEN PERSE FOUNDATION IS a group of six independent schools in Cambridge, Madingley and Sa ron Walden. Founded in 1881 as the Perse School for Girls, we have always been in the forefront of educational developments. You may know us as the school that inspired St Trinian’s. We are not quite like that now, but our historical roots are important to our current developments. In 2014 we were awarded the title Independent School of the Year.

Our pre-prep and sixth form are co-educational and we are developing a diamond model of schooling which has enabled boys to join our Junior School (from 2014) and then our Senior School from 2018. In 2013 we merged with the highly successful Dame Bradbury’s prep school and kindergarten in Sa ron Walden.

recognition of the amazing work of our students and teachers.

We believe it is right to look first at the student’s potential. When applying to study with us, you will not simply be sat in a room to answer an examination paper and then have an interview. Rather, we want to talk to you about any school experience so far and see what we can understand about how you work and think. Having lots of knowledge is great, but it is not the same as the ability to use information and to think flexibly. It is often said that people need to learn to think outside of the box. We agree.

Learning takes place throughout life – children are far more than a simple list of subjects! That is why there are plenty of project days and events to enjoy, particularly in the junior years before there is any worry about examinations. Even when GCSEs start to kick in, we still have lots of opportunity for learning that is not tested and where there is no formal homework.

School years should be rich in opportunity as well as challenge. That’s why, no matter whether you are looking at our Pre-Preps (in Cambridge, Sa ron Walden or Madingley), Junior Schools (in Cambridge or Sa ron Walden), Senior School or Sixth Form College, there is something for everyone to enjoy outside of ‘normal classes’. Join our orchestra as a beginner or as a soloist in one of our concerts in West Road Concert Hall, an act on stage in one

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of our libraries or in our main hall, or the Mumford Theatre, perhaps. Maybe it is an overseas adventure for language learning – how does Japan take you, or maybe closer to home in Spain? What about an outreach project here in Cambridge in our local community or, as an older student, helping to inspire our younger pupils within the Foundation?

Sport is important to us – both on our main sites and at Latham Road on our all-weather pitches. There's canoeing from our jetty on the Cam (just walk through our own nature reserve to fi nd it), hockey, cricket, netball, football or perhaps an individual or small-group sport: golf, equestrian or sailing, maybe? We like to think there is a place for all abilities. We have absolute beginners and we have national champions.

We are a community of learners. Teachers, students and support sta� are all integral to realising this vision for education, and all are learners. Digital technology is integral to realising our vision, although it is just one tool amongst many.

It is all about learning, it is not all about technology. The digital world is, however, a major gateway to the world of learning and to global connectivity. We rolled out iPads for all our Senior School students in 2012 and to the Sixth Form in 2013. Dame Bradbury’s, the Junior School and Pre-Prep also use iPads and iPad minis. Our iBooks and iTunes U courses are the next phase along with app creation and coding – everyone from Juniors up is involved.




There are a number of places where you can find out more:www.stephenperse.com is our main website – the ‘about us’ and ‘news’ sections are a good place to start.www.stephenpersefoundationlearning.com is our showcase of learning and our approach.www.damebradburys.com is our school in Sa�ron Walden.stephenperse.wordpress.com is our principal’s blog and is an expression of the ethos of the school.www.youtube.com/user/TheStephenperse – our school YouTube channel.www.flickr.com/photos/stephenperse/sets – a selection of images from activities and trips on our Flickr account.stephenperse.tumblr.com and damebradburys.tumblr.com – our Pre-Prep schools have their own Tumblr blog feeds to show the daily life of learning from our youngest pupils.@SPFSchools - we maintain an extensive range of Twitter feeds for our di�erent schools and departments, several of which are embedded in our website.itunes.com/stephenpersefoundation - we have our own iTunes room where you can download our free iBooks Textbooks and iTunesU courses.

CONTACT INFORMATION To see how we work in practice, do come to one of our open days or get in touch with the admissions oce to arrange a private visit. Your preconceptions are unlikely to last out the visit. To book a place at any of our events, arrange an individual tour of the school or to make an appointment, please contact our admissions team, who will be happy to help. Telephone 01223 454722 Email [email protected] Stephen Perse Foundation, Union Road, Cambridge CB2 1HF www.stephenperse.com

OPEN DAYSSaturday 19 September - Senior SchoolSaturday 10 October - City Pre-prep and Junior SchoolSaturday 17 October - Madingley Pre-prep and Dame Bradbury'sWednesday 4 November - 6th Form College

If you wish to participate in the January assessment days for entrance in September 2016, completed registration forms must be submitted by 9 December 2015 ( or 12 November for the 6th Form College). If places are still available at any of our schools, we welcome applications throughout the spring and summer terms.



SCHOOLS DIRECTORY

BASSINGBOURN VILLAGE COLLEGEAge range: 11-16Description: A small, supportive academy placing great importance on the individual. Excellent educational opportunities and a wide range of extracurricular activities. Address: South End, Bassingbourn SG8 5NJTel: 01763 242344www.bassingbournvc.net

BOTTISHAM VILLAGE COLLEGE Age range: 11-16Description: A comprehensive independent academy with outstanding results in a number of fields.Address: Lode Road, Bottisham CB25 9DLTel: 01223 811250www.bottishamvc.org

BRANDESTON HALL Age range: 2½-13Description: An independent C of E prep school in Suffolk for boys and girls, set in beautiful surroundings. Takes boarders.Address: Brandeston, Suffolk IP13 7AHTel: 01728 685331www.framcollege.co.uk

CAMBOURNE VILLAGE COLLEGEAge range: 11-16Description: Cambridgeshire’s newest secondary offers modern facilities and an environment to encourage and inspire.Address: Sheepfold Lane, Cambourne CB23 6FRTel: 01954 284000www.cambournevc.org

CASTLE SCHOOLAge range: 2-19Description: A successful school for pupils with special educational needs, aiming to make learning fun, develop every pupil in a safe, caring and professional environment and prepare students from the wider world.Address: Courtney Way, CB4 2EETel: 01223 442400www.castleschool.info

CHESTERTON COMMUNITY COLLEGEAge range: 11-16Description: A multicultural community college aiming to instill a love of learning in every pupil and provide a broad education.Address: Gilbert Road, Cambridge CB4 3NYTel: 01223 712150www.chestertoncc.net

COMBERTON VILLAGE COLLEGEAge range: 11-18Description: A village-based academy committed to providing the best education possible for all its pupils.Address: West Street, Comberton CB23 7DUTel: 01223 262503www.combertonvc.org

COTTENHAM VILLAGE COLLEGEAge range: 11-18Description: A popular and well-respected school with a passion for teaching and bringing out the best in their students.Address: High Street, Cottenham CB24 8UATel: 01954 288944www.cvcweb.net

DAME BRADBURY’S SCHOOLAge range: 3-11Description: An independent C of E school in Saffron Walden for boys and girls.Address: Ashdon Road, Saffron Walden CB10 2ALTel: 01799 522348www.damebradburys.com

ELY COLLEGEAge range: 11-18Description: One of the country’s 100 best improving schools with exciting future plans.Address: Downham Road, Ely CB6 2SHTel: 01353 667763www.elycollege.com

FAIRSTEAD HOUSEAge range: 3-11Description: A co-educational independent day school and nursery for children aged 3-11, situated close to the centre of historic Newmarket in Suffolk. Address: Fordham Road, Newmarket, Suffolk CB8 7AATel: 01638 662318 www.fairsteadhouseschool.co.uk

FRAMLINGHAM COLLEGEAge range: 13-18Description: An independent college in Suffolk for boys and girls, set in beautiful surroundings. Takes boarders.Address: College Road, Framlingham, Woodbridge IP13 9EYTel: 01728 723789www.framcollege.co.uk

SCHOOLS DIRECTORY

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SCHOOLS DIRECTORY

GRANTA SCHOOLAge range: 2-19Description: One of the county’s six special schools, focusing on pupils’ individual needs, offering a personalised curriculum. Address: Linton CB21 4NNTel: 01223 896890www.granta.cambs.sch.uk

GRESHAMSAge range: 3-18Description: A vibrant and high achieving co-educational boarding school in Norfolk. Address: Holt, Norfolk NR25 6EATel: 01263 714500www.greshams.com

HERITAGE SCHOOLAge range: 4-16Description: An independent day school for boys and girls. Small class sizes, school trips and a focus on more than just exam results.Address: 19 Brookside, Cambridge CB2 1JETel: 01223 350615www.heritageschool.org.uk

HIGHFIELD SCHOOL ELYAge range: 2-19Description: Offering a vibrant learning community for children with special educational needs, with an excellent reputation and places in high demand.Address: Downham Road, Ely CB6 1BDTel: 01353 662085www.highfieldschoolely.co.uk

IMPINGTON VILLAGE COLLEGEAge range: 11-18Description: A co-ed school with sixth form, inspired by Henry Morris’ vision to be inclusive, international and inspirational.

Address: New Road, Impington CB24 9LXTel: 01223 200400www.impington.cambs.sch.uk

KING’S COLLEGE SCHOOLAge range: 4-13Description: A leading independent day and boarding school for boys and girls, which is ideal for musically gifted children.Address: West Road, Cambridge CB3 9DNTel: 01223 365814www.kcs.cambs.sch.uk

LA DANTEAge range: AllDescription: The first bilingual Italian and English cultural study centre, offering courses and workshops by highly qualified Italian tutors. Address: The Lodge, Hawthorn Way, Cambridge CB4 1BTTel: 01223 315191www.ladante-in-cambridge.org

LINTON VILLAGE COLLEGEAge range: 11-18Description: An academy school with a friendly, family atmosphere, providing a good all-round education.Address: Cambridge Road, Linton CB21 4JBTel: 01223 891233www.lvc.org

MELBOURN VILLAGE COLLEGEAge range: 11-16Description: An academically strong school with a supportive, community atmosphere.Address: The Moor, Melbourn, Hertfordshire SG8 6EFTel: 01763 223400www.mvc.org.uk

NORTH CAMBRIDGE ACADEMYAge range: 11-18Description: Following the values of the Cambridge Meridian Academies Trust, with an emphasis on science, sport and the arts.Address: Arbury Road, Cambridge CB4 2JFTel: 01223 508742www.northcambridgeacademy.org

ORWELL PARKAge range: 2½-13 Description: A co-educational prep school for day pupils and boarders.Address: Nacton, Ipswich IP10 0ERTel: 01473 659225www.orwellpark.co.uk

PARKSIDE FEDERATION ACADEMIESAge range: 11-18Description: The two community colleges, Coleridge and Parkside, are relatively small to offer education on a ‘human scale’. Address: Parkside, Cambridge CB1 1EH; Radegund Road, Cambridge CB1 3RJTel: 01223 712600; 712300www.parksidefederation.org.uk

SANCTON WOOD SCHOOLAge range: 3-16Description: An independent girls and boys school, housed in a beautiful building, with a focus on small class sizes.Address: 2 St Paul’s Road, CB1 2EZTel: 01223 471703www.sanctonwood.co.uk

SAWSTON VILLAGE COLLEGEAge range: 11-16Description: A large, mixed comprehensive academy, underpinned by quality teaching.Address: New Road, Sawston CB22 3BP



SCHOOLS DIRECTORY

Tel: 01223 712777www.sawstonvc.org

SOHAM VILLAGE COLLEGEAge range: 11-16Description: Offering a flexible, high-standard curriculum, the college is well known for its sport and arts. Address: Sand Street, Soham CB7 5AATel: 01353 724100www.sohamvc.org

ST BEDE’SAge range: 11-16Description: An inter-church school and the only Christian secondary school in Cambridgeshire. Judged Outstanding by Ofsted in 2013.Address: Birdwood Road, CB1 3TDTel: 01223 568816www.st-bedes.org.uk

STEINER SCHOOLAge range: 3-11Description: An independent school based on the principles of Rudolf Steiner, with a focus on creativity.Address: Fulbourn, CB21 5DZTel: 01223 822727www.cambridge-steiner-school.co.uk

SWAVESEY VILLAGE COLLEGEAge range: 11-16Description: One of the top non-selective state schools in the country. Address: Swavesey, CB24 4RSTel: 01954 230366www.swaveseyvc.co.uk

THE COUNTY SCHOOLAge range: 11-16

Description: Aiming to build confidence through achievement, the school helps all students fulfil their potential and readies each student for post-16 learning.Address: Ascham Road, Cambridge CB4 2BD (also Wisbech & Huntingdon)Tel: 01223 712908 www.thecountyschool.cambs.sch.uk

THE HARBOUR SCHOOLAge range: 5-17Description: A residential and day school for boys with social, emotional and behavioural difficulties. Offering a residential block.Address: Station Road, Wilburton CB6 3RRTel: 01353 740229www.harbour.cambs.sch.uk

THE LEYSAge range: 11-18Description: A highly regarded independent school for boys and girls. Takes boarders.Address: Cambridge CB2 7ADTel: 01223 508904www.theleys.net

THE NETHERHALL SCHOOLAge range: 11-18Description: A thriving co-educational school. Creating a stimulating, ambitious environment to bring out the best in pupils.Address: Queen Ediths Way, CB1 8NNTel: 01223 242931www.netherhall.org

THE PHOENIX SCHOOLAge range: 3-11Description: The Phoenix Prep School for boys and girls prides itself on offering personalised education and cultivating a love of learning and healthy competitiveness.

Address: 50 Church Street, Willingham, Cambridge CB24 5HTTel: 01954 263113www.thephoenixschool.co.uk

TRINITY SCHOOLAge range: 11-16Description: Trinity School offers a comprehensive education for pupils with social, emotional and behavioural difficulties. The ethos is: belong, grow and achieve.Address: 2 Algores Way, Wisbech PE13 2TQTel: 01945 583235www.trinity.cambs.sch.uk

TUTOR DOCTOR CAMBRIDGEAge range: All age groups Description: A leading provider of one-to-one in-home tuition. Address: Emson Close, Saffron Walden CB10 1XPTel: 01799 525005www.tutordoctor-cambridge.co.uk

WHITEHALL SCHOOL & NURSERYAge range: 10 months to 11 yearsDescription: A unique independent day school for boys and girls, where children thrive personally, academically and socially.Address: High Street, Somersham PE28 3EHTel: 01487 840966www.whitehallschool.com

WITCHFORD VILLAGE COLLEGEAge range: 11-16Description: An academy school with a sports focus, comprising modern buildings, including specialist music and drama rooms.Address: Manor Road, Witchford, CB6 2JATel: 01353 662053www.witchfordvc.co.uk



SIXTH FORMS DIRECTORY

SIXTH FORMS DIRECTORYABBEY COLLEGE CAMBRIDGEAge range: Not specifiedDescription: An independent sixth form college in which sta� and students work together to achieve academic success.Address: 17 Station Road, CB1 2JBTel: 01223 578280www.abbeycambridge.co.uk

BELLERBYS COLLEGEAge range: Not specifiedDescription: An experienced international college, helping students achieve their potential. Set over two campuses. Address: Queens Campus, Bateman Street, Cambridge CB2 1LUTel: 0800 6345522www.bellerbys.com

CAMBRIDGE CENTRE FOR SIXTH FORM STUDIES (CCSS) Age range: 15-21 Description: Centrally located college o�ering GCSE and A levels with very small class sizes (an average of six students in each). The teachers are experts in their field and experienced at getting students into top universities. Address: 4-5 Bene’t Place, Lensfield Road, Cambridge CB2 1ELTel: 01223 716890www.ccss.co.uk

CAMBRIDGE REGIONAL COLLEGEAge range: Not specifiedDescription: One of the largest further education colleges in the region, providing excellent full-time and part-time courses, apprenticeships and higher education programmes.Address: Kings Hedges Road, CB4 2QTTel: 01223 418200www.camre.ac.uk

THE COLLEGE OF WEST ANGLIA (CWA)Age range: 16+Description: One of the largest and most successful education and training providers in the Eastern region, CWA o�ers a wide choice of learning opportunities and has campuses in Cambridge, Wisbech and King’s Lynn. Address: Landbeach Road, Milton CB24 6DBTel: 01223 860701www.cwa.ac.uk

LONG ROAD SIXTH FORM COLLEGE Age range: 16-19 Description: A 16+ education institution specialising in the provision of A level, GCSE and vocational programmes.Address: Long Road, Cambridge CB2 8PXTel: 01223 507400 www.longroad.ac.uk

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SIXTH FORMS DIRECTORY

MANDER PORTMAN WOODWARD (MPW) Age range: Not specifiedDescription: A friendly college o�ering A levels and GCSE courses and specialising in providing bespoke and flexible timetables geared to individual circumstances. Address: 3-4 Brookside, CB2 1JETel: 01223 350158www.mpw.co.uk/Cambridge

PARKSIDE SIXTHAge range: Not specifiedDescription: Parkside Sixth has campuses around the city centre and o�ers courses in business and management, health and social care, performing arts, sports, coaching and fitness, as well as the International Baccalaureate. Address: The Eden Centre, 47 City Road, Cambridge CB1 1DPTel: 01223 310118www.parksidesixth.org.uk

ST ANDREW’S COLLEGEAge range: 16-19Description: A co-ed independent sixth form college with boarding and day places. A level, GCSE and university foundation courses o�ered.Address: 89 Regent Street, Cambridge CB2 1AWTel: 01223 358073www.standrewscambridge.co.uk

UNIVERSITY TECHNICAL COLLEGE CAMBRIDGE Age range: 14-19Description: A specialist Science college which provides a dynamic and inspirational curriculum in biomedical and environmental science and technology.Address: UTC Cambridge, Robinson Way, Cambridge CB2 0SZTel: 01223 724300 utccambridge.co.uk

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ADULT EDUCATION

ADULT LEARNING

Whether you’re taking up a new hobby or gaining a new skill, the tutor can be

the key to your success

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ADULT EDUCATION

OUR AREA IS SO RICH IN ADULT education courses that the options are overwhelming, to the point where it can seem almost easier to try and work out what can’t be studied.

There’s the undeniably serious. Confronting Death and other Existential Issues is a course designed to help students work out how to approach this most di�cult of subjects in a way that opens up the discussion. But there’s plenty on a far lighter note, such as ballroom and Latin dancing, leading to at least partial mastery of the quickstep, rumba and cha cha cha, amongst others (all on o�er at Hills Road).

Enthusiasts can sign up for a weekend course (with 150 to choose from at Madingley Hall, you could be working through the list for years), opt for Media Make-up (potential gateway to a range of careers in the film and television industry), sign up for basic car maintenance or grab the opportunity to learn sign language (all at Cambridge Regional College).

For the many adult learners already living a rich life but with an unfulfilled dream nagging away at them – an itch that needs

OUR AREA IS SO RICH IN ADULT EDUCATION

COURSES THAT THE OPTIONS ARE

OVERWHELMING

to be scratched – whether it’s learning to paint, knit, stitch or dismantle and reassemble a bicycle, making the decision to sign up for a class a low-trauma activity.

For others, however, it can be a far more significant event, particularly if it rekindles earlier, unhappy memories of formal education, turning it into a high stakes decision with potentially momentous consequences.

As the National Institute of Adult Continuing Education (NIACE) point out,

50% of adults in the EU do not have at least basic computer skills, despite the fact that they are now required in around 90% of jobs, something which points to an urgent need for large-scale training to bridge the gap. It’s a similar story with literacy and numeracy, where mastering basic skills can transform lives.

And it’s here that the quality of teaching can make a vast di�erence. Adult education may be a homogenous sounding label but peel it o� and you’ll uncover a vast range



ADULT EDUCATION

GOOD TUTORS LET LEARNERS TELL THEM

WHAT THEY WANT TO ACHIEVE

of tutors, diverse in background, subject and route into teaching, and whose talents, attitudes and motivation make our area’s colleges exceptionally exciting places for learners to be.

Some begin by educating tinies, then move up the age range. Others start their working lives at the other end of the careers spectrum, doing something completely di�erent until their interests and lifestyle undergo a metamorphosis.

They may have honed their didactic skills over many years or be new to teaching, use their own experiences of living abroad to teach languages, run businesses selling their creative work or have other academic roles. You’ll find jewellery and printmaking courses run by practising artists and construction courses such as bricklaying, plumbing and plastering taught by skilled craftspeople.

And while the facilities are fabulous, from gracious learning in the 16th century splendour of Madingley Hall to the rather

more contemporary, but equally splendid, £3 million construction workshop at CRC, it’s great teachers who are – ultimately – the make or break factor.

Their enthusiasm and ability to motivate, positive and encouraging attitude are the key to creating what Joyce Black, assistant director for development and research at the National Institute of Adult Continuing Education (NIACE), describes as a welcoming learning environment.

Good tutors also tend to be good listeners who let learners tell them what they want to achieve rather than imposing their own views, something that sounds simple yet can make a huge di�erence. When you’ve been failed by school, it doesn’t take much to rekindle those feelings of insecurity, while even those taking up a hobby for the first time can find their morale in need of a hefty dose of encouragement.

Fortunately, there’s no shortage of good tutors whose skills include the ability to



ADULT EDUCATION

SEEING STUDENTS GO ON TO GREATER

THINGS IS THE MOST REWARDING PART OF

TUTORS’ WORK

put learners at the heart of the process. By recognising that, as adults, they will have their own knowledge and experience to contribute, tutors can help learners develop a sense of self-worth which could take them further than many had thought was possible. Not that it’s left to chance, with regular reviews and feedback, including comments from students, ensuring that tutors, too, learn how they can do even better.

Hobbies can remain just that or develop into something more – a burgeoning business idea or even a new career. Other adults in our area may find that a basic course ends up taking them into higher education, or use the acquisition of a new skill such as a language to help them gain promotion at work.

And whatever the subject, one thing is for sure. From construction to creative writing, ceramics to counselling, seeing students gain in confidence, skills and experience and go on to greater things is the most rewarding part of their tutors’ work.



ADULT DIRECTORY

ADULT LEARNING DIRECTORYALLIANCE FRANCAISDescription: Group classes, private classes, conversation classes and more, designed to help your knowledge of the French language. Check website for details on enrolment. Address: 60 Hills Road, Cambridge CB2 1LATel: 01223 561854www.alliance-cam.co.uk

ANGLIA RUSKIN UNIVERSITYDescription: Offering continued professional development courses in health, education, social care, science and technology. Full and part-time. Check website for details on open days.Address: East Road, Cambridge CB1 1PTTel: 01245 686868www.anglia.ac.uk

CAMBRIDGE REGIONAL COLLEGE Description: Study part-time on a range of courses, from leisure to professional qualifications. Make use of modern facilities to enhance your skills, gain a professional qualification, start a new career or ease yourself back into education. Classes include DIY, British Sign Language, beauty and more.Address: Kings Hedges Road, Cambridge CB4 2QTTel: 01223 418200www.camre.ac.uk/adult-learners

FIRST INTUITIONDescription: For CIMA, ACCA, AAT and ICAEW courses, taught by staff with a wealth of experience in accountancy training.Address: 35 Hills Road, Cambridge CB2 1NTTel: 01223 360405 www.firstintuition.co.uk

LA DANTE Description: An Italian and English cultural centre, offering courses and workshops by highly-qualified Italian tutors, plus wine tastings, Italian cooking courses and other cultural events.Address: The Lodge, Hawthorn Way, Cambridge CB4 1BTTel: 01223 315191www.ladante-in-cambridge.org

MADINGLEY HALLDescription: The University of Cambridge Institute of Continuing Education offers part-time and short courses for adults of all ages, ranging from weekends right up to two-year Master’s programmes.Address: Madingley Hall, Madingley, Cambridge CB23 8AQTel: 01223 746262www.ice.cam.ac.uk

OPEN UNIVERSITY (OU)Description: Get back into education at the OU, which has its East of England

headquarters in Cambridge. Offering face-to-face, email, online and phone-based tutorials in around 600 subjects.Address: Cintra House, 12 Hills Road, Cambridge CB2 1PFTel: 01223 364721www3.open.ac.uk

PARKSIDE FEDERATIONDescription: Courses run in the evenings, daytime and at weekends, at various locations throughout the city. Address: Parkside, Cambridge CB1 1EHTel: 01223 712340www.parksidefederation.org.uk

SPANISH AMIGOS Description: Specialising in teaching everyday Spanish, Spanish Amigos in Cambridge was set up by Lory Peresson.Address: St John’s Innovation Centre, Cowley Road, Cambridge CB4 0WSTel: 07882 404064www.spanishamigos.co.uk

VAMOS CAMBRIDGEDescription: Small group Spanish courses and workshops taught by highly qualified native teachers. Dynamic and engaging lessons. Cultural events including Spanish film nights, music and food events.Address: The Centre at St Paul’s, Hills Road, Cambridge CB2 1JPTel: 07817 171256www.cambridge-lessons.co.uk

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www.bright-publishing.comwww.cambsedition.co.uk

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Documents

Cambridge Education Guide