Head of Junior School

At Austin Friars we are committed to the pursuit of outstanding teaching and learning and to optimising the outcomes of our students. The attraction of our community lies in the radiance cast by the love of its members; and in our community, every child really does matter. The jewel in our crown is the cohesion of “family” that underpins all that we do. The relationships between students and staff, parents and staff and amongst staff themselves are supportive, constructive and built on the firm foundations of respect and trust. This wholly inclusive ideal allows us to eloquently express the three key tenets of our foundation; unity, truth and charity.

The School has a strong reputation in the north of Cumbria and in south-west Scotland for providing an all-round, high quality education which meets the individual needs of each child.

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
We celebrate the Christian liturgical calendar in ways which reflect our Catholic roots and the traditions of the wider Christian family, catering for the needs of all students in a truly inclusive environment. At Austin Friars, where all are made to feel very welcome, spiritual and moral well-being are at the heart of what we offer.

Christian values are at the core of our School community. We have a common purpose which is shaped and inspired by a Christian vision of the world. From celebrating the importance of each individual, to the way we look after one another and the wider world, we believe in a culture of kindness, a search for truth and a commitment to justice.

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.