The Perse School

The school is committed to a '3D education' that aims to develop students' academic abilities and extra-curricular interests while providing high-quality pastoral care. It emphasizes inclusion, equality, and diversity, and is dedicated to the transformative effects of education. The school's purpose is supported by a governing body that includes experts in education, law, finance, and technology.

The school offers a comprehensive academic curriculum for students aged 3-18. The academic structure is divided into the Pelican (ages 3-7), Prep (ages 7-11), and the Upper School and Sixth Form (ages 11-18), which focus on preparing students for public examinations and university entrance. The curriculum is supported by specialist facilities for science, technology, arts, and performing arts.

The school is noted as a top-performing co-educational day school at A level. Students have achieved success in national competitions, including the British Schools Small-bore Rifle Association National Match and the Perse Coding Team Challenge. Pupils also regularly compete at national levels in sports such as hockey and cricket.

The school provides pastoral care and support for students, with specific interest in special educational needs and disabilities represented on the Governing Body. Bursary support is available for families experiencing financial hardship, including short-term assistance for Upper School pupils facing unforeseen changes in financial circumstances.

The school is a co-educational day school for children aged 3-18, divided into the Pelican (ages 3-7), Prep (ages 7-11), Upper (ages 11-16), and Sixth Form (ages 16-18). Prospective families can attend open events, including specific sessions for the Pelican, Prep, Upper, and Sixth Form, or book a tour. Means-tested bursaries are available for new pupils entering Year 7 and above, ranging from 5-100% of annual fees, with additional support for school lunches and device charges.

The school operates on a three-term system: Michaelmas, Lent, and Summer. The academic year typically begins in early September with pupil induction days for new students in Year 7, Year 9, and the Lower Sixth. Each term includes a half-term break, and the school year concludes in early July. The calendar also includes specific dates for staff INSET days, public exam periods, and events such as Prize Giving and Founder's Day.

The school operates across multiple sites, including the Pelican, Prep, and Upper schools, with access to 45 acres of outdoor space at Little Abington. Facilities include modern science labs, ICT and art suites, and the award-winning Peter Hall Performing Arts Centre, which features a 370-seat auditorium. The Perse Sports Centre, open to both students and the public, provides a 25-metre swimming pool, sports hall, climbing wall, and strength and conditioning suite.

Pupils participate in a wide range of activities, including competitive sports such as hockey and cricket, where teams have achieved regional and national success. The school offers opportunities in performing arts, including drama productions and music, and academic enrichment activities like the Perse Coding Team Challenge. Students also engage in outdoor pursuits and charitable initiatives, such as staff-led charity runs.