Founded in 1920, the School was purchased by the Merchant Taylors' Educational Trust in 1984, since that time an extensive building programme has been undertaken. In 1986 a purpose built self-contained pre prep school was opened and a gymnasium completed. In 1989 a further building was completed which affords two fine laboratories, a music school and a centre for design and technology. A junior classroom block was opened in 1992 and a new information technology suite has just been completed. The School has recently extended its considerable grounds with the purchase of an area of grassland and woodland for ecological and environmental study. This addition increases the School's site to over 30 acres of playing fields, formal gardens and natural habitat.
Most of the boys enter the pre prep school at the age of four, although there is a separate entry to the main school at seven. Boys are prepared for all independent schools, but the links with Merchant Taylors' School, Northwood, are particularly strong. St John's has a fine record of success in scholarship and Common Entrance examinations. The aims of the School are much wider than examination preparation, we seek to develop the whole personality and to foster good manners and courteous behaviour towards others. The main games are rugby, cricket and athletics, in addition, a wide variety of other sports and extra curricular activities are offered.
The School is a Church of England foundation, but boys of all religions and denominations are welcome.
