Founded in 1702 as a co-educational school by the Society of Friends (Quakers) and situated in the historic market town of Saffron Walden, on a 35 acre site with extensive playing fields. In line with its Quaker ethos of tolerance and mutual respect, there is dedicated pastoral care to support the welfare of each individual. A small family-oriented school, providing high standards of teaching and a flexible academic structure, the aim is to equip children with a broad educational foundation, in addition to promoting formal academic results. The importance of social skills, service to others and self-confidence without conceit is emphasised. There is an extensive programme of extra-curricular and weekend activities for boarders and day pupils. Art, drama, music, cookery, computing, Duke of Edinburgh's Award Scheme are all popular. Pupils regularly stage drama and music productions and exhibitions.
Pupils: Total age range 3-18; 400 pupils, 340 day (190 boys, 150 girls), 60 boarding (35 boys, 25 girls). Senior school 11-18; 250 pupils (140 boys, 110 girls). Entrance: Main entry age 3, 5, 7, 11 and 16. For sixth form entry, 5 GCSEs at least grade C (preferably grade B in sixth form subjects). All faiths welcome. 30% of senior pupils from state schools (plus small number to sixth form); many from own junior (enquiries to the Junior School Secretary, tel 01799 527235, email adminjs@friends.org.uk).
Academic scholarships are available; also 4 scholarships a term in Years 7 and 9, for sport, art, drama, music (value £500). Some bursaries for children of Quaker families. No application should be discouraged on financial grounds. Parents not expected to buy textbooks.
Head: Graham Wigley, in post from 2006. Educated at universities of Nottingham, Cambridge and the Open University. Previously Academic Deputy Head at Wakefield High School. Teaching staff: 38 full time, 10 part time. Annual turnover 7%. Average age 40.
GCSE: 42 pupils in Year 11: 70% gain at least grade C in 8+ subjects; 22% in 5-7 subjects. A-levels: 25 in upper sixth: 57% pass in 4 subjects; 32% in 3 subjects. Average final point score achieved by upper sixth formers 332.
Some 95% of sixth form leavers go on to a degree course (some after a gap year or art foundation course). 26% in science courses, 68% in humanities and social sciences, 5% in art and design. Others opt to go directly into employment.
GCSE, AS and A-levels. 19 AS/A-level subjects. Sixth form: Most sixth formers take 4 subjects at AS-level, 3 at A-level; in addition, most take general studies A-level. 30% take science A-levels; 60% arts/humanities; 10% both. Special provision: Study centre and ESOL support. Languages: French and German offered to GCSE, AS and A-level. Regular exchanges (Germany and France). ICT: Taught both as a discrete subject (up to A-level) and across the curriculum. 42 computers for pupil use (12 hours a day), all networked with internet access; some pupils have own laptop.
Music: Over 70% of pupils learn a musical instrument; instrumental exams can be taken. Musical groups including choir, instrumental group, orchestra, pop groups. Drama: Drama offered. GCSE drama, A-level theatre studies, LAMDA exams may be taken. Many pupils are involved in school productions. Art and design: On average, 25 take GCSE, 8 AS and A-level. Pottery, textiles, photography also offered. School art gallery displays works by pupils and professional artists.
Sport: Cricket, athletics, swimming, football, hockey, cross-country, tennis, basketball, badminton, volleyball, rugby. Activities: Community service for all ages. Sixth form help with swimming for disabled and in junior school. Up to 27 clubs, including photography, portrait painting, drama, badminton, motor club, Duke of Edinburgh's Award Scheme.
Uniform: School uniform worn except in the sixth form. Houses and prefects: No prefects; Quartet of 2 boys and 2 girls nominated by school and staff. School Council (representataives from all year groups). Religion: Quaker school welcoming all faiths. Social: Organised local events and trips abroad; skiing, exchange visits, etc. Pupils allowed to bring own bike to school. Meals self-service.
Progress in all areas supported by pastoral system that expects children to grow to understand themselves as individuals, their relationships with others and to particpate in society. Quaker ethos fosters inclusivity and integration and children expected to show respect for dignity of other pupils and staff. Pupils failing to produce homework once might expect detention. Aggression not tolerated. Homework club, detentions, gating, work around the school all used. Aim is to change behaviour rather than punish. Suspension and expulsion for serious offences.
Accommodation divided by age; sixth form in separate co-educational house with study bedrooms. Qualified nurse (non-resident). Central dining room. Exeats any weekend. Visits to local town allowed daily.
Tom Robinson (radio presenter and songwriter); Ralph Erskine (architect); Eric Beale (windsurfer); Deborah Norton (actress); Lord (Matthew) Evans (former Chairman Faber & Faber); Lord (Tony) Newton (Conservative politician); Martha Holmes (presenter); Imogen Heap (singer).
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