08 Jan 2026

St James Schools begins transition to co-education for 2027 senior cohort

New chapter, same promise: A St James Schools pupil leaves with strong results, alongside a sense of purpose: calm in mind, kind in heart, alive with curiosity.

St James Schools will begin a transition to co-education, welcoming both boys and girls into Year 7 and Year 12 from September 2027, at both the Ashford, Surrey and Kensington Olympia sites.

Strong Commitment

Throughout this transition, we remain committed to maintaining St James’ distinctive blend of academic ambition and philosophical ethos, supporting every pupil to thrive academically, socially and spiritually.

Jeremy Sinclair, Chair of Trustees said;

“This marks an important and exciting moment in the schools’ history. The decision is grounded in strong parental interest and a shared belief that co-education will open new opportunities for our pupils academically, socially and in preparing them for life beyond school.

At the same time, what makes our schools distinctive will remain unchanged: our ethos of academic ambition, mindfulness, stillness and respect, which generations of pupils have experienced and cherished. Whatever changes come, our commitment is that the schools will remain recognisably the places families know, while embracing the next chapter in their evolution.”

The Journey

The schools are committed to a carefully-planned phased transition to ensure that every pupil benefits from a supportive and enriching experience. This will be aided by St James Preparatory School’s experience of successfully transitioning to co-education in 2022.

Subject to DofE approval, a phased entry approach will be followed:

2027/28: Year 7 and Year 12

2028/29: Years 7, 8, 12 and 13

2029/30: Years 7–9 and 12–13

2030/31: Years 7–10 and 12–13

2031/32: Fully co-educational across the schools

If you would like to join the new era of St James, or learn more about their transition to co-education, please enquire with senior school registrars below.

St James Senior School Ashford, Surrey: Ms Rebecca Tocknell, [email protected], 01784 266 933.

St James Senior School Kensington Olympia: Mrs Patricia Snowdon, [email protected], 020 7348 1748.

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16 Jul 2025

Exciting Expansion of the St James Nursery Provision

St James Nursery & Preparatory School is delighted to announce the expansion of its Nursery provision to better support local families’ needs.

Starting this September, the nursery will be open 48 weeks a year, with extended hours from 7.30am to 6.00pm.

With this exciting new chapter comes a new name, as the Nursery becomes “Little Shells Nursery at St James”.

This development builds on St James' long-standing commitment to providing an inspirational and balanced introduction to school life, where creativity, academic foundations, and holistic wellbeing go hand-in-hand. With access to Forest School, a fully-equipped Teaching Kitchen, and specialist sessions with the Prep School Performing Arts teachers, children will continue to enjoy a playful and enriching early learning experience.

As Little Shells Nursery at St James, the school will continue to offer the same caring team, varied curriculum, and joyful atmosphere, now with the added benefit of a more accessible and flexible structure to meet the needs of modern family life.

Families are warmly invited to visit and experience for themselves the special environment the Nursery provides.

To learn more or arrange a tour, please contact Admissions Registrar Mrs Clark at [email protected] or call 020 7348 1793.

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19 Mar 2025

St James Nursery & Preparatory School receives the Wellbeing Award for Schools!

St James Nursery & Preparatory School is thrilled to have received the Wellbeing Award for Schools!

This accreditation recognises the school's commitment to fostering a supportive and nurturing environment for every child.

Through dedicated initiatives such as "Feel Good Fridays", Listening Ear support and Wellbeing Ambassador Programme, St James is empowering pupils to thrive.

This award is a testament to the hard work of staff and the engagement of parents in ensuring the children develop to be happy and confident.

"Well done to Mr Jones for the all the work put into our application and for the wonderful initiatives put in place to enhance our Wellbeing programmes!" says Mrs Hilary Wyatt, Headmistress.

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