Community
Embracing Community Spirit at St Chris
At St Christopher School, community is at the core of all we do.
Since our establishment in 1915, we've fostered a culture that emphasises the importance of connection, collaboration, and giving back. Our commitment to community extends locally, globally, and in everything we do. Schools are – in truth – nothing more than a collection of people working together, and it is on that understanding that all the incredible things achieved at St Chris come to be.
Local Connections in Hertfordshire
St Chris and Letchworth: As an integral part of Letchworth Garden City and its heritage, we take pride in our deep-rooted connection with the local community. Our students, staff and community are encouraged to deepen their connections with the local community. Students often complete community service with and for local charities in Stevenage, Luton, and Bedfordshire.
Partnerships with Local Businesses: St Chris collaborates with local businesses to create a symbiotic relationship. From career workshops to internships, our students benefit from real-world experiences, while local enterprises gain fresh perspectives and youthful energy. A primary example of this is the popularity of Letchworth-based small businesses when students undertake work experience.
Charity Initiatives: Making a Difference Beyond School Gates
The St Chris Community Service Program is a pillar in our Year 12 students’ education. These students actively participate in our community service program, dedicating a minimum of 10 hours to volunteer work at local charities and organizations. This hands-on experience fosters empathy, humility, and a sense of responsibility.
Examples of organisations they supported recently include:
- Dogs on the Streets
- NOAH Homeless Charity
- Howard Cottage Social Centre
- North Herts Centre for Voluntary Service
- Herts Disability Sports Foundation
- Herts MS Therapy Centre
- Letchworth Settlement
- The White House Nursing Home
- Local charity shops (Scope, Age UK, British Heart Foundation, Garden House Hospice)
- Woolgrove School, Special Needs Academy
Collaboration with Local Schools
St Chris actively collaborates with other local schools, fostering educational partnerships that benefit students across institutions. Shared resources, joint events, and collaborative projects enrich the learning experience for everyone involved. Each year, we hold our Recycled Fashion Show, which sees local students participate in a long-running fashion show demonstrating creativity and sustainability. Primary and Prep Schools are also frequently invited to the Arunwood Ecocentre, our on-site animal husbandry centre which houses our alpacas, goats, chinchillas, sugar gliders, hamsters, guinea pigs, rabbits and degus.
There is a lovely irony that learning for intrinsic – not extrinsic – reasons often produces far better extrinsic results.
During school breaks, St Chris opens its doors to the community, working with local businesses and providers to offer engaging holiday workshops for students of all ages. These workshops provide not only academic enrichment but also a chance for local children to experience our welcoming environment.
Local Events and Festivals
St Chris is a proud participant in local events and festivals and our students showcase their talents, celebrate diversity, and actively contribute to the rich cultural life of Letchworth Garden City.
Community Outreach
Our sports and arts programs include outreach initiatives benefiting local youth including Grass Roots. From coaching sessions to collaborative performances, we believe in sharing the joy of sports and arts with the wider community.
The impact of St Chris resonates through the achievements of our alumni. Many continue to contribute to the local community, embodying the values instilled during their time at St Chris.