St Leonards School, St.Andrews

@Tearsandlaughter I’ve heard the same re the Head that left quickly. Agree if that’s the case it is very disappointing. Hardly demonstrating acceptance and wider world view. Shame as they were appointed to address the attainment issues which are still an issue.

Just this evening I met a Junior school parent who is deeply disappointed and schooling at home to top up with the basics.

The school used to offer some accommodation for staff but don’t now other than for the Head and House staff so it’s very difficult to attract staff as
housing in the town is so expensive.

oh I’m glad I wasn’t alone in hearing those rumours. I’d imagine there was some truth to them considering the sudden departure without any farewells.
I think the housing situation is a huge issue, although they seem to have managed to accommodate a big family, but I guess that if the face fits and you meet the criteria for those with the power.
shame about your contact experiencing similar issues, I can truly sympathise. I began to think I was failing my children, then I realised the school did.

@Tearsandlaughter I don’t think you’re alone in feeling that. We try so hard for our children and inherently trust the school we send them to so when it’s the school that’s failing it’s hard to see. It sounds like you’re all sorted now. You’ll be very glad to be out of it.

I want my children somewhere progressive for the world we live in. Not based on old fashioned values and progression via nepotism.

Your story echoes my own experiences may I ask what school you moved your children to?

My children moved to a school in central Scotland
Feel free to PM me if you want to discuss further
You definitely aren't alone. Feel rather sick when I consider the money we spent for them not to have an enjoyable time at school!

I would not recommend this school. The education pathway lacks coherence and is inconsistently taught, the quality of teaching is mixed and there is limited pupil feedback, there is poor integration between the day and boarding pupils at the upper end of the school and the sports offer is weak. The new leadership seems distant with few signs of engagement on the issues above.

very interesting mirroring our own current situation, i am looking elsewhere , which independent schools would you recommend instead of st Leonards?Thanks in advance!

Hello catsanddogs , thank you for the valuable insight, what schools would you recommend for snr school/ myp for age 10/11 instead of st l?

@pto that is a big question. It depends on where you are living, what your child’s needs / interests are and if you’re willing to have them board or want them to be day pupils. Was there a particular reason you were considering the IB curriculum?

Wherever you look try to look beyond what the school tells you. They’re all very good at tours and open days but that doesn’t really tell you anything.