St James Senior Boys’ School
Welcome from the Head
The success of the education we offer at St James rests firmly upon the pupils we produce. A St James pupil should be a well-balanced individual who is open hearted, mature, independent in thought, a confident learner and possesses a natural desire to make a difference to the world. The world certainly needs such ‘Renaissance Men’ who are imbued with the strength, courage and sensitivity to make things happen for the benefit of all.
At St James we offer a distinctive education, uniting a philosophical approach to the development of essential life skills with an emphasis upon academic excellence. Our aim is to allow a boy to grow gracefully into a man of strength and good character, achieving at the academically at levels more than he thinks is possible.
We believe that behind the apparent differences of each individual, there is a conscious, intelligent and loving spirit which we all share. This sense of Oneness unites the whole human family. This Unity is most easily met and enjoyed in the space of silence, which is why we spend ten minutes of the morning and afternoon in Quiet Time. During this time, boys can meditate, pray, contemplate or simply sit quietly and enjoy their own peace. Experience tells us that this ‘mindfulness’ makes an enormous difference in pupil development and academic achievement.
Our approach to academic study begins with the understanding that within every boy, there is a brilliance and perfection waiting to be uncovered. Pupils at St James are not selected solely on their academic ability; the strength of character and future potential are also of equal significance. Over the past five years we have achieved a 100% pass rate in both GCSE and A Level examinations, with more than 90% of pupils achieving the top grades. The universities our senior boys join make for impressive reading.
The transition from boyhood to adulthood requires the provision of the finest material, this brings clarity to the mind and an openness of heart that we proudly enable at St James. Opportunities are provided to learn Shakespeare by heart, sing the finest music, debate philosophical and ethical issues and to discuss matters of social and spiritual import. From this happy capital the pupil will grow spiritually, emotionally, and physically, and this will reflect in the fruits of his actions.
Sport is important for the development of boys, and this takes place three times a week on our beautiful 32-acre site at Ashford, Surrey. This provides the physical space to pursue the school’s excellence in art, drama, music, and sport. It also allows our extensive extra-curricular activities including Cadets, The Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, Sailing Club, Climbing, Kayaking, and more, to flourish. An extensive range of educational trips and expeditions to Greece, France, Italy, Spain, Switzerland, and the USA extends learning into the wider world.
Transport services to the site are excellent. The railway station is just two minutes’ walk away, and the school bus routes easily bring pupils from Hammersmith, Chiswick, Richmond, Twickenham, Teddington, Hampton, Kingston, Malden, Ealing, Barnes and south to Slough and Windsor.
At St James, true education, which aims to release the brilliance in all pupils, requires dedicated staff with an open hearted approach to pastoral care that encompasses the whole child and accepts no limits. Such total care ensures that boys develop self-knowledge and inner confidence, leading to a smooth transition from adolescence to manhood. This is an educational approach that marries the best of a traditionally classical education with the latest research into mindfulness and effective teaching and learning.
St James Senior Boys’ School in Ashford in the heart of Surrey, offers a distinctive education for boys aged 11 to 18. St James is a dynamic school, leading the way in the education of the whole person with a strong philosophically based ethos, valuing stillness and meditation balanced with a strong academic focus.
The philosophy behind the St James ethos is the Philosophy of Unity. This philosophy emphasises the practice of self-awareness and the unity of all humanity. Self-awareness is practised during pausing and quiet time. Boys and staff are provided with the opportunity to connect with the peace and stillness behind all movement and encouraged to utilise this practice in their daily life.
To understand the nature of our school we encourage you to read our latest published report in The Good Schools Guide.
Our commitment to you
We provide exceptional professional development opportunities (CPD) and offer Mindfulness and Yoga sessions to all staff. Onsite benefits include free parking, gym access and daily refreshment provisions, including lunchtime meals. You can expect a competitive salary and annual performance reviews.
Safeguarding
St James Senior Boys’ School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All Teaching roles within the School are regarded as Regulated Activity; Applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the DBS.
You can view our Safeguarding policy here and our Recruitment and Selection and Disclosure policy here.
Anderson Quigley is acting as an advisor to St James Senior Boys’ School. An executive search process is being carried out by Anderson Quigley in addition to public advertisements.
Should you wish to discuss the role in strict confidence, please contact our advising consultant at Anderson Quigley: Hayley Mintern on +44 (0)7596 954 387 or hayley.mintern@andersonquigley.com.
The closing date for applications is noon, Tuesday 31 October 2023.
Applications should consist of:
Please include details of two referees in either your CV or cover letter. Note that we will not approach your referees without your prior consent, and only should you be successful in the recruitment process.