Our student body plays an integral part in the continual development of all areas of the school. They have influenced our curriculum design and usage of school facilities, supported their peers to develop our dynamic and family-like atmosphere while in positions of responsibility, while conceiving and championing genuinely valuable thoughts and ideas.
Every voice in our school is important to us; and perhaps this is what makes St Chris a place where you can truly be yourself. The school is safe and supportive while giving pupils the freedom to challenge, be curious, make mistakes and explore. At the bottom line, we want our students to love going to school and develop a thirst for learning new things; whether that be how to solve a mathematical equation, or about your character through drama productions, or in nature while spending time with the alpacas in the Arunwood Ecocentre.
Distinctive School Culture
St Chris has the advantage of being situated in a beautiful rural setting, within arm’s reach of London and Cambridge and with convenient transport links, and the campus ensures that pupils have the best facilities they need to develop a wide range of skills inside and outside the classroom. Perhaps the most poignant thing about St Chris for onlookers is that we are a non-uniform school and have a relaxed and friendly nature. Rather than calling teachers "Mr" or "Mrs," you'll hear our community for who they really are: "Nat," "Simone," "Yvonne," "Aziz," and "Jazz". These traditions, established in 1915, are an essential part of our school culture and ensure that the student is the focus and centre of all we do.
Lessons at St Chris are progressive in their outlook. We challenge pupils to consider more than merely the obvious: to ask the difficult questions and be prepared to have values and ideas challenged. This dynamic best prepares our students for the real world where they face the dilemmas of navigating adulthood and working life. Our small class sizes, and our strong personal relationships based on mutual respect and understanding, ensures that students feel safe enough to be brave and 'have a go'. It is for these reasons that students and staff are genuinely happy here. I constantly see smiling faces and laughter everywhere I go, and there's never a dull day at St Chris. Students are keen to show what they have achieved and congratulate their peers on their achievements - no matter what subject. We all welcome all, whatever your beliefs, likes and interests.
“School years are the most important years of your life. Not only are great memories made, values and purpose are developed and stay with you for the rest of your life. We are proud of the students that leave St Chris in year 13 - they are ready. Pupils are ready to challenge themselves further in whatever they decide to do. Ready to give to the world. Ready to explore the world. Ready!”
Nat Baker, Deputy Head
