St Dunstan's College

The school operates under the ethos of 'Excellence. Differently.', emphasizing a progressive, inquiry-based approach to education that values character development, intellectual agility, and human values. It promotes a 'blank shield' metaphor, encouraging each child to carve their own unique identity and journey. The school prioritizes a holistic education that prepares students for the future through research-led teaching and a focus on integrity, kindness, and compassion.

The school provides a continuous educational pathway from Nursery through to Sixth Form. The Junior School curriculum focuses on inquiry-based learning, while the Senior School offers a broad academic programme leading to GCSEs. The Sixth Form curriculum includes A Level subjects and the unique St Dunstan’s Diploma, which is designed to prepare students for university and the world of work.

The school achieves high academic results, with 89% of A Level grades at A*-B and 55% of GCSE grades at 9-8 in 2025. A significant majority of students secure places at their preferred universities, including high rates of entry to Russell Group institutions. Students also excel in co-curricular areas, receiving numerous nominations for national theatre awards and achieving high distinctions in music examinations.

The school provides specialist academic support through its Learning Resource Centre and dedicated staff. Pastoral care is integrated into the school structure, with a Wellness Centre providing counselling, chaplaincy, and peer mentoring services to support student mental and physical wellbeing. Individual needs are addressed through a collaborative approach involving teachers and specialist coordinators.

The school welcomes applications for entry into the Junior School, Senior School, and Sixth Form. The admissions process is supported by a dedicated team that guides families through the requirements for each entry point, including assessments for the Junior and Senior Schools. Prospective families are encouraged to visit the campus to experience the school's environment firsthand.

The academic year is divided into three terms: Michaelmas, Lent, and Trinity. The calendar includes scheduled exeat weekends, half-term breaks, and staff study days, with the school year typically concluding in early July. Specific dates for inductions, entrance exams, and major events like the St Dunstan’s Festival are published annually.

Set across 40 acres in Catford, the campus features a mix of Victorian architecture and modern developments, including a £25 million STEM Centre for Excellence and Innovation with 12 laboratories and engineering workshops. Performing arts facilities include a 170-seat theatre, rehearsal studios, and music technology classrooms. Sports facilities comprise a 31-metre indoor swimming pool, a fitness studio, climbing walls, and the 23-acre Jubilee Ground for field sports, alongside a dedicated Wellness Centre and a Learning Resource Centre.

The school offers an extensive co-curricular programme, featuring the 'Forder' programme which includes 300 activities per term in the Senior School and 90 clubs per week in the Junior School. Offerings span sports, arts, drama, and music, with students participating in events such as the St Dunstan’s Festival. The school also provides opportunities for adventure, including trips and expeditions designed to build resilience and independence.