Academic achievement

In our learning environment where class sizes are small, academic achievement underpins all that we do, and our outstanding results speak for themselves. We work hard to create the conditions in which all students can achieve their best in a wide and varied range of subjects. The School is justifiably proud of its reputation for high academic standards. 

Our students are provided with every opportunity to develop their talents to the full, growing up in a happy and fulfilling environment where all are valued and encouraged.  Academic success at all levels across 3 – 18 age range, in GCSE and A level examinations and in the achievement of our Sixth Formers in securing higher education places at good universities have established Austin Friars as the top co-educational School in Cumbria.

A strong sense of community

In our supportive School Community which cares and shows mutual respect for one another, we provide an education for our students seeking to bring out the best in each child.

All students are encouraged to share their talents with and for others. We are a small and very friendly School in which the quality of pastoral care has a high priority.

All staff are very committed to promoting the welfare and happiness of each child. Staff get to know their students well ensuring that attention is given to individual needs.

Spiritual Well-Being

Let us be of one mind and one heart intent on God. (Rule of St Augustine)  The School’s greatest challenge is to live the Augustinian values of unity, truth and love as we go about our daily routines.  As an Augustinian school we are committed to the formation of the whole person; intellectual, physical, emotional, psychological and spiritual.  In essence, we endeavour to prepare our young men and women for, “life after Friars”, by equipping them with the skills necessary to succeed in a dynamic society.  

While maintaining our traditions, the School celebrates the Christian liturgical calendar in ways which reflect our history and ethos and the practice of the wider Christian family; catering for the needs of pupils in a truly inclusive environment where the qualities of truth, community, love, wisdom, generosity, well-being, friendship, interiority, humility, freedom, service and study are enshrined.   

Educating the 'whole' person

We are proud of the very successful, all round education which the School provides.  Beyond the classroom, an extensive extra curricular programme provides the opportunities which are so vital for a well-rounded education. 

We aim to provide for the education of the whole person.  Music, drama, creative and physical activity are integral to the curriculum alongside the pursuit of academic excellence.

Individual success is celebrated and healthy competition encouraged.  Our students look around and know that their contribution in the classroom or laboratory, on the stage or in the choir, on the games field or in a leadership role is greatly valued.  What they also know is that by trying hard, with the guidance of their teachers, they can make a real difference to the life of the School.