St Edmund's College is in a rural setting, conveniently near to the M25 and central London.
Approaching the impressive facade of the main building, set in 400 acres of parkland, the visitor's first impression is framed by the sense of history and tradition which surrounds the school. Tracing its foundation back to 1568, the College derives its strength from its Catholic heritage of high standards of achievement and strong moral values.
However, any visitor will soon realise that the College is an effective blend of the traditional and the most modern. Fully-equipped computer rooms, science laboratories, art and technology workshops and multi-sports hall are the tools of future success. In the dedicated sixth form centre, GNVQ courses in Business and Art and Design sit comfortably alongside the more traditional range of A level subjects we offer. The traditional sports of Rugby, Hockey, Cricket and Netball develop a team spirit, while Golf, Squash, Weight-training and Judo are part of a wider palette of modern sport to appeal to the active individual.
Pupils are encouraged to participate in the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, charity fund-raising, CCF and voluntary community service, while at the same time some pupils choose to join the annual Pilgrimage to Lourdes, or the College choir performing at Westminster Cathedral.
Our first responsibility is to make it possible for all of our pupils to reach the highest levels of proficiency in their study. We are proud of the academic achievements of our pupils, and in 1995 92% of our A Level candidates gained university places. Similarly, we had a 100% pass rate at GNVQ. But St Edmund's offers more.
All through the school, from children who join us aged 4, up to the young adults about to enter university at 18, whether full boarders or day pupils, all are encouraged to achieve their potential in all spheres of life and learn to accept responsibility. They should have regard to the welfare of others and be of service in the community. In this way they are equipped with the maturity, ability and confidence to help guide the world into the twenty-first century.