Welcome to the Junior School, where pupils make their first marks on the blank canvas of their St Dunstan’s shield as they begin their College adventure.
It is here that children learn who they are and discover a true love of lifelong learning from the very earliest stages of their education.
Our academic ambition is cultivated through a balance of challenge, rigour, immersive learning experiences and independent exploration. Our broad and engaging curriculum is unapologetically aspirational for every pupil, regardless of their starting point, and equips them with the skills needed to thrive as proactive global citizens in a rapidly changing world.
Pupils quickly see that through learning, they gain a deeper understanding of who they are, what they can achieve, and what they may accomplish in the future.
At St Dunstan’s, we are brave in the choices we make for our pupils. We can do this because of the strong, trusting relationships we hold with parents and carers, who choose our school because of the way we nurture natural curiosity and support children in discovering where and how they fit into the world. Learning here is never restricted to the classroom. It takes place everywhere: through our co-curricular Forder Programme (with over 90 activities each week), performing on professional stages, overcoming fears on residential trips, developing teamwork on the sports field, or deepening an understanding of the natural world in our Woodland Classroom.
We are a co-educational Junior School for children from Nursery to Year 6, and we take pride in a modern, forward-thinking curriculum taught by our highly skilled teachers. Every day is different, and every experience is designed to encourage children to be creative, curious and courageous. This holistic approach ensures pupils feel safe, happy and fulfilled, while growing into well-rounded individuals who are prepared to succeed.
As part of the wider College, our pupils benefit from the consistency of a Form Teacher and the specialist expertise and facilities of the Senior School. From art, drama and music, to swimming, sport, design technology, computing, languages and the Stuart Curriculum (PSHEE), children make rapid progress across all areas. We are particularly proud of our bespoke 'Albam Exorna' Curriculum - based around six key strands (Healthy Lifestyle and Living, Finance and Enterprise, Practical Life Skills, Technology and Innovation, Community and Character and Personal Development). It has been designed thoughtfully to prepare children with the life skills they need to thrive in tomorrow's world. Through this exposure, they not only achieve academically but also discover new passions, develop confidence in their skills, and thrive within strong teacher-pupil relationships.
Above all, our Junior School is a community full of energy and joy. Stories are shared, friendships are made, and children are given the freedom to grow as individuals whilst being part of something bigger.
The best way to experience the spirit of St Dunstan’s is to visit us in person. I warmly invite you to join us for one of our discovery mornings or our College Open Day, where you will see first-hand how unique and exciting education is here at St Dunstan’s Junior School. I look forward to welcoming you soon.
Miss Laura Whitwood
Head of Junior School
Children in the early years and pupils throughout the junior school are respectful of each other, reflecting the respectful and thoughtful approach shown to them by the staff. They are comfortable demonstrating their individuality, develop positive relationships and are interested in each other’s ideas.
- Independent Schools Inspectorate, April 2024
Junior School Welcome
