Address Austin Friars St Monica's School, Etterby Scaur, Carlisle, Cumbria CA3 9PB
Pupils 547, Upper sixth 42
Enquiries the Marketing and Admissions Manager
Description Founded in 1951 by the Hermit Friars of the Order of St Augustine as a boys' school, it first accepted girls in 1986. It is situated in spacious grounds overlooking the historic city of Carlisle. A Catholic foundation, it is open to all denominations. The aim is to foster pupils spiritually, academically, socially and physically and all pupils are encouraged to develop their potential. A wide-ranging education is provided and examination results are good. There is a variety of sports and activities and a number of county representatives. An increasing commitment to local community schemes and the Duke of Edinburgh's Award Scheme. Good use is made of the cultural and physical attributes of the Borders and Lake District.
School Head Headmaster: Chris Lumb, in post from 2004. Educated at universities of Cambridge and Manchester (chemistry, PGCE). Previously Deputy Head at Mount St Mary's College (Spinkhill). Teaching staff: 49 full time, 13 part time.
Results GCSE: 70 in fifth form; 83% gained at least grade C in 8+ subjects, 10% in 5-7 subjects. A-levels: 22 in upper sixth, passing an average of 3.4 subjects with a final point score of 359.
Furtherhigher 95% of sixth form leavers go on to a degree course (14% after a gap year). 5% take courses in medicine, dentistry and veterinary science, 32% in science and engineering, 32% in humanities and social sciences, 13% in the arts, 13% in vocational subjects.
Arts Music: 33% of pupils learn a musical instrument; instrumental exams can be taken. Musical groups include swing band, chamber music groups, 2 choirs, wind band and brass, saxophone, guitar and string ensembles. Members of city, county and regional youth orchestras. Drama and dance: Both offered. LAMDA exams may be taken. Many pupils are involved in school and house/other productions. Art and design: Currently 27 studying for A-level art and photography.
Sport Sport: Rugby, hockey, cricket, athletics, tennis, netball, cross-country compulsory. Soccer, badminton, dance, gymnastics, volleyball, basketball, swimming, golf optional. National representatives at rugby, cross-country, athletics and sailing. County honours in a wide range of sports. Activities: Pupils take bronze, silver and gold Duke of Edinburgh's Award. Community service optional at age 16. Annual ski trips to Europe and America; climbing/walking trips to Scotland and Lakes. Up to 20 clubs, including computer, debating, chess, bridge, dance, indoor cricket, rock climbing and music.
