Founded in 1629 by Archbishop Samuel Harsnett and set in open countryside, Chigwell School is a relatively small HMC school well known for its distinctive and friendly atmosphere. Much of this comes from the School's location, history and tradition.
The School is located in historic Chigwell Village in Essex which has at its heart the School, the parish church of St Mary and the King's Head, the latter made famous as The Maypole in Charles Dickens' Barnaby Rudge. The most famous old pupil was William Penn (1644-1718), founder of the state of Pennsylvania and described by President Thomas Jefferson as the 'greatest lawgiver the world has produced'. The School motto Aut Viam Inveniam Aut Faciam' translates at 'find a way or make a way' so relevant to Chigwell's reputation for producing citizens of the world.
The School is made up of the Junior School (aged 7-13 - See separate entry) and the Senior School (aged 13-18) and operates a House system with four houses, Caswells', Lambourne, Penn's and Swallow's. 375 senior and 340 junior pupils enjoy great personal attention in 70 acres of grounds and countryside. In September 1997, the School moves to becoming fully co-educational by accepting girls at ages 7, 8 and 11. Sixth Form girls have been an integral part of School life since 1973.
Academic standards are consistently high - in excess of 90% at GCSE and A level. One in eight of university applicants were offered places at Oxbridge in 1996. Pastoral care is a key element for all pupils helped by the School's House and boarding systems. This ensures there are many activities taking place outside school hours. Sport, music and art are particularly strong at Chigwell but there is a wide range of activities to choose from.
The School is 8 miles from the City of London and is 2 miles from the M11, 4 miles from the M25 and has its own London Underground station - Chigwell, a ten minute walk away. It is within an hour to 70 minutes drive from all the major international airports.
For further information on any aspect of Chigwell School please call the Admissions Secretary on 0181 501 5702.
