St. George’s Weybridge

On a Friday afternoon visit towards the end of a busy term, the staff and pupils at St George’s Weybridge could not have been more welcoming to us for our Educatus Explorer visit.

We first visited the College, and from the moment we arrived, the campus made a striking first impression. A sweeping driveway leads to a collection of beautiful buildings centred around the white, elegant main house. Behind it sits a state-of-the-art sports and activities centre, with extensive playing fields stretching out beyond. It is the kind of space that instantly feels both impressive and inviting.

At the heart of the school sits the chapel, a beautiful and serene space that reflects St George’s Catholic heritage while remaining warmly inclusive. While 30 per cent of families are Catholic, the school is intentional in welcoming pupils of all faiths, as well as those with no faith background.

Daily tutor time includes a collective moment of reflection or prayer, but this is just as likely to commemorate Eid, Hanukkah, Pride or International Women’s Day. The chapel also hosts regular assemblies and a variety of school gatherings.

What struck the Educatus Explorer most during the visit was how clearly St George’s philosophy of “perfectly balanced” education comes to life. Academic achievement is important, but so too are creativity, sport, life skills and community outreach. This holistic approach really prepares pupils to contribute meaningfully to society, and it is recognised nationally too. The Good Schools Guide lists St George’s among the UK’s top three schools for producing “good all-rounders”.

The sporting offer is exceptional. The multi sports and activity centre is one of the most impressive we have seen, reflecting significant investment and real ambition. Pupils enjoy a wide range of sporting opportunities both on campus and within the local community. Rowing, for example, moves indoors during the winter when the Thames is inaccessible, with the school’s boathouse located nearby in Walton. At the Junior School campus just down the road, specialist sports teaching starts in the lower Nursery, and St George’s has a track record of national success across numerous disciplines. Their hockey programme is particularly outstanding, supported by two new astro pitches and an international size indoor court at the College. An aspect we loved most is how the school balances elite sport with a genuine sport for all approach, encouraging every pupil to adopt a healthy and active lifestyle.

Both the Junior School and the College were judged ‘fully compliant’ by the Independent Schools Inspectorate in 2024, and academic results sit comfortably above national averages. A stand out strength is their value added score, which puts them in the top 1% of schools in the country. Pastoral care is a real strength, and it’s easy to see why ISI inspectors have highlighted it as a notable feature. The house system creates a family-like structure across year groups, and the pastoral team works hard to make sure every new pupil feels supported and settled, wherever they’re joining from..

Technology is also real part of everyday school life at St George’s. The 1:1 digital learning programme at the College means pupils are confident and comfortable using tech. The design and technology workshops are equally impressive, with laser cutters, 3D printers and modern fabrication tools giving pupils real hands-on experience in modern design and innovation.

Additionally, it’s clear that creativity sits at the heart of the school. There are purpose-built performing arts centres at both schools, and they are real hubs of energy, with productions ranging from whole-school musicals to year group showcases. Music is clearly thriving too, with opportunities from jazz band and chamber choir to rock groups, lunchtime recitals and termly concerts.

The Educatus Explorer was also pleased to see how community and service are woven through daily life. Pupils support local food banks, take part in outreach partnerships, and sixth form students have taught English to refugees. The Kennedy Club offers sixth formers the chance to work with young people seeking sanctuary in the UK, and the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award scheme is another way pupils build confidence, resilience and a strong sense of citizenship. With over 100 clubs and societies available each week, pupils in Years 7 to 9 are encouraged to explore their interests and develop independence beyond the classroom.

St George’s also welcomes additional students into the Sixth Form, although places are competitive. The school is rightly proud of its A Level results and the destinations the pupils go on to, whether that’s university or top art colleges. Scholarships are available at 11+, 13+ and 16+ across academics, art, drama, music and sport.

Even on a Friday afternoon at the end of term, The Educatus Explorer felt truly welcomed. There was a genuine sense of warmth, community and continuity at St George’s Weybridge. We would encourage any relocating families to experience the St George’s welcome for themselves.

Rowena McArthur

Joining in September 2023 after having relocated with her family back to the UK from the United Arab Emirates. Rowena has first-hand experience of relocating with teenage boys!

Rowena taught in an outstanding international school in the United Arab Emirates for 8 years as a class teacher, head of year and Academic Deputy Head. She worked closely with the admissions team and has considerable experience working with incoming families, pupil assessment and with children who have English as an additional language.

Before working overseas Rowena taught for over 20 years in Primary school settings across the South of England where she held a variety of leadership positions. Prior to having her own children, she was Deputy Head teacher of a Primary School in West Sussex. Rowena subsequently went on to work for the Local Education Authority leading teacher training and sharing her passion for reading and children’s literature. She also has many years’ experience supporting school improvement across the region and serving as Chair of Governors of an outstanding Infant School in Brighton Sussex. 

Rowena has a first-class honours degree from the University of Warwick and has achieved the National Professional Qualification for Headteachers.

Here at Educatus, she has most enjoyed the challenge of finding the perfect match of school for children and their families, and finds it particularly rewarding when the offer of a school place comes in. The relief for all concerned is tangible!

https://educatus.org.uk/rowenamcarthur
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