Address: Concord College, Acton Burnell Hall, Shrewsbury, Shropshire SY5 7PF
Description: Founded in 1949, it is unusually fortunate in its site and buildings. These are part of a large rural estate, next to the pretty village of Acton Burnell in a particularly beautiful part of Shropshire. The principal building is a very elegant regency (1811) mansion. Other very attractive buildings are within a couple of minutes’ walk; all lie amidst lawns and gardens. There are many excellent modern facilities, including a science block, student social centre, sports hall and a music block and theatre. Boarding accommodation is comfortable in single or twin-study bedrooms (boys and girls in separate residential blocks). The college’s name is claimed to symbolise its life and ethos; it is multinational with representatives from some 30 countries. The staff/pupil ratio is a very favourable 1:8 and examination results are very good. Music and drama are well supported. There is a standard range of sports and games and regular excursions to the continent and further afield are organised. The school remains open to pupils in half terms and Easter holidays.
School Head: Neil Hawkins, in post from 2005. Educated at Cambridge University (history). Previously Director of Studies at The Leys, Cambridge. Also a Rotarian. Teaching staff: 74 full time, 17 part time.
Furtherhigher: 98% of sixth-form leavers go on to a degree course, 12% to Oxbridge. 60% took courses in STEM subjects (including medicine), 40% in humanities and social sciences.
Arts: Music: Up to 15% pupils learn a musical instrument; instrumental exams can be taken. 3 musical groups, orchestra and choir. Drama and dance: Drama and dance offered. Majority of pupils in college or other productions. Art and design: On average, 20 take GCSE, 10 A-level; design, pottery, textiles and photography also offered. Art facilities open to non-examination pupils.
Sport: Compulsory sport up to age 16, some compulsory thereafter: soccer, netball, basketball, squash, badminton, tennis, karate, archery, swimming and riding. Up to 20 clubs.
Boarding: 95% have own study bedrooms; 5% share with 1 other. Single-sex houses, divided by age group. Medical centre with team of qualified nurses. Students allowed to provide and cook own food in recreation time (own fully-fitted kitchen); full dining room meals provided. Weekend exeats by arrangement. College remains open during half terms and Easter holidays (no additional charge). Visits to the local town allowed two afternoons a week and to cinema on Saturday evenings for sixth formers and one afternoon a week for Lower School; transport provided by college.
