Leighton Park School is a distinguished co-educational independent institution in the United Kingdom. The school's primary objective is to cultivate well-rounded individuals characterized by strong character, independence, and self-assurance, with a resolute commitment to making a positive impact on the world. This educational philosophy is rooted in a unique blend of Quaker values, fostering meaningful relationships between students and faculty.

The school provides exceptional academic and pastoral support, underpinned by a holistic approach to learning. The school's nurturing and supportive environment, characterized by a strong sense of community, consistently delivers an outstanding values-based education that fosters academic excellence.

Leighton Park School offers a progression of academic programs designed to cater to students of varying ages:

• Years 11-13: Lower School
• Years 13-14: Year 9 Programme
• Years 14-16: Two-Year GCSE Programme
• Years 15-16: One-Year Pre-Sixth Programme
• Years 16-17: A-Level Programme
• Years 16-17: International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme

History of Leighton Park School

Established in 1890 by the Quaker community, Leighton Park School was founded upon the principle of providing a balanced and inclusive educational experience that fosters academic excellence, personal integrity, and a strong sense of social responsibility. Deeply rooted in Quaker values, Leighton Park School has consistently upheld its commitment to equality, social justice, and the holistic development of each individual, encompassing intellectual, physical, and spiritual growth.

Leighton Park School has consistently adapted to meet the evolving needs of its students. While female students were first admitted to the Sixth Form in 1975, the school transitioned to full co-education in 1993, reflecting its unwavering commitment to inclusivity and equality.

Education System at Leighton Park School

Years 7 and 8

Throughout Years 7 and 8, the curriculum emphasizes project-based learning, fostering collaboration, critical thinking, and creative problem-solving skills. By integrating these essential skills across all subject areas, the school aims to cultivate self-confidence and a strong sense of academic ability in every student. This comprehensive approach provides a robust foundation for their subsequent transition to the senior school in Year 9.

Students in Years 7 and 8 have the opportunity to engage in introductory courses in Engineering and Music Technology.

Year 9

Year 9 signifies the commencement of the Senior School experience at Leighton Park. Students are afforded the opportunity to explore a diverse range of subjects, facilitating informed decisions regarding their academic pathways as they select from 26 GCSE-level options in Year 10. The school emphasizes the development of key transferable skills, including communication, organization, and teamwork, preparing students for the rigors of external examinations and fostering greater independence.

Furthermore, the school actively cultivates student growth beyond the traditional classroom through a comprehensive co-curricular program, providing opportunities for contextual learning, in-depth scholarly pursuits, external visits, and engaging activities. This holistic approach not only enriches the educational experience but also facilitates a smooth transition for Year 9 students into the Senior School environment, enabling them to quickly establish lasting friendships within the school community.

GCSE:

Years 10 and 11

The GCSE program, spanning Years 10 and 11, offers a diverse range of academic options. Students typically undertake nine or ten subjects, encompassing core subjects such as English Language and Literature, Mathematics, and Science, which are mandatory for all students. Elective subjects are chosen from a comprehensive list of options, with the inclusion of a designated reserve subject.

In addition to traditional GCSEs, the school offers a BTEC qualification in Creative Digital Media Production. Furthermore, the curriculum encompasses GCSEs in subjects such as Dance, Engineering, Global Perspectives, and Food Preparation & Nutrition, providing students with a broad spectrum of academic and vocational pathways.

Intensive Pre-Sixth course

The intensive Pre-Sixth course is meticulously designed to equip students with the necessary academic foundation for successful Sixth Form entry. With a limited enrollment of fifteen students annually, early application is strongly recommended to secure a place on the program.

Primarily intended for international students seeking a seamless transition into the UK education system or desiring a year of academic immersion within the British context, the Pre-Sixth course provides an excellent opportunity to acquire internationally recognized qualifications.

Sixth form

A-Level

The A-Level program is ideally suited for students who demonstrate exceptional aptitude in specific subject areas and desire to pursue in-depth study within these disciplines. This two-year academic program allows students to specialize in three subjects, selected from a comprehensive list of twenty options. Exceptional students may, with the approval of the Head of Sixth Form, undertake four A-Levels.

The program strongly encourages students to challenge themselves by undertaking the Extended Project Qualification, an independent research project that enhances critical thinking and research skills.

A-Level examinations are primarily assessed through rigorous examinations, necessitating the development of effective time management and independent study skills.

The A-Level qualification is highly regarded internationally, providing a strong foundation for further academic pursuits or entry into professional careers.

IB Diploma Programme

The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) is an academically rigorous program particularly well-suited for intellectually curious students with diverse academic interests. This two-year program encourages a broad and balanced education, allowing students to explore a wide range of subjects without prematurely narrowing their academic focus.

The IBDP curriculum requires students to study six subjects, three at Higher Level and three at Standard Level, from a selection of 24 options. Core components of the program include the Theory of Knowledge module, which fosters critical thinking and interdisciplinary learning, and an independent extended essay that cultivates research and writing skills.

The program emphasizes a holistic approach to learning, with students earning points for their academic performance across all subjects as well as their participation in co-curricular activities. The curriculum incorporates an international perspective, particularly evident in subjects such as History, English, and Psychology. Furthermore, the IBDP places significant emphasis on coursework and interdisciplinary study.

The IB Diploma is highly regarded by universities worldwide, with 97% of university admissions officers considering it the most effective preparation for higher education.

Boarding at Leighton Park School

Fryer boarders

Fryer boarders are an active and engaged cohort who actively participate in the wide array of opportunities available at Leighton Park. While enjoying the benefits of a dedicated "school within a school" environment with specialized staff and tailored facilities, Fryer students also cultivate meaningful connections with older students through mentorship programs and a diverse range of co-curricular activities.

The school's ethos is deeply rooted in Quaker values, emphasizing Simplicity, Truth, Respect, Integrity, Peace, Equality, and Sustainability. These values underscore the importance of kindness, mutual respect, and personal growth, encouraging students to strive for success while remaining true to their authentic selves.

Modern boarding for girls and boys

• Senior Boarding Houses:
  • Separate houses for boys and girls in Years 10-13.
  • Offer a more independent living experience.
  • Provide opportunities for students to develop greater responsibility and self-reliance.
• Full-Time Boarding:
  • Students reside at the school throughout the academic year.
  • Provides a consistent and immersive educational experience.
• Weekly Boarding:
  • Students return home for weekends.
  • Offers a balance between school life and family life.  
• Flexible Boarding:
  • Allows students to board on a more flexible basis, such as occasional overnight stays or during specific periods.

Co-Curricular program

The Co-Curricular program at Leighton Park School is a vital component of the overall educational experience. It encompasses a wide range of activities designed to enrich student life beyond the academic curriculum. Here's a glimpse into what it offers:

• Extensive Variety: The program boasts a diverse array of options, catering to a wide range of interests. Students can explore their passions through involvement in sports, music, drama, art, debating, and many other clubs and societies.
• Holistic Development: Co-curricular activities play a crucial role in fostering well-rounded individuals. They contribute to the development of essential life skills such as teamwork, leadership, communication, and resilience.
• Personal Growth: Students have the opportunity to discover new talents, pursue personal interests, and develop a sense of self-confidence through their involvement in co-curricular activities.
• Community Building: The program fosters a strong sense of community within the school, encouraging interaction between students from different year groups and backgrounds.
• Enrichment Opportunities: Co-curricular activities provide valuable opportunities for personal and intellectual growth, expanding students' horizons and preparing them for life beyond school.

Admission process

UK Applications for September 2025 and Beyond

The Registration Form is intended for students who are permanent residents of the United Kingdom. As part of the application process, parents or guardians are required to upload a copy of the child's most recent school report and passport. A non-refundable registration fee of £150 is payable upon completion of the registration form.

Year 7 Entry (September 2025): Entrance examinations will be conducted on Saturday, 11th January 2025.

For Entry into Year 9 (September 2027 or 2028):

• Applicants may apply for a deferred place while their child is in Year 6.
• Alternatively, applications can be submitted during the child's Year 8.
• The appropriate academic year of entry (e.g., 2027-2028) must be selected at the time of initial registration.

International students:

International applications for Leighton Park School are accepted on a rolling basis throughout the academic year preceding the intended year of entry, with applications encouraged between September and March.

The admissions process for international students comprises two stages. The initial step involves the completion of the designated Admissions Enquiry Form for International Students.

Following the review of the Admissions Enquiry Form for International Students, the school will invite applicants to proceed to the next stage by completing the relevant registration form. This form can be accessed via the designated Checklist item within the Admissions Portal. Upon successful completion of the registration form, applicants are required to remit the non-refundable registration fee via credit or debit card. The registration fee for nationals of European Economic Area (EEA) countries is £150, while the fee for non-EEA nationals is £200.

Entrance Examinations

For applicants to Years 7 to 10, the admissions process typically includes a series of entrance examinations. These examinations typically encompass Mathematics, English (including both comprehension and creative writing), and may incorporate an interview component. For international students, arrangements can be made for remote examination at a mutually convenient time, conducted under the supervision of the student's current school or a designated educational agent.

For Sixth Form applicants, entrance examinations are generally not required for students actively pursuing GCSE or IGCSE qualifications. However, applicants who are not undertaking these examinations will be required to complete assessments in Mathematics and English. Furthermore, students whose first language is not English will be required to undertake an English as an Additional Language (EAL) assessment.

Interview

All applicants will participate in a brief interview with a senior member of the school's academic staff.

For international applicants, alternative arrangements can be made to accommodate remote participation in both the entrance examinations and the interview process.

Fees

Registration and Acceptance Deposits

• Registration Fee (non-refundable and inclusive of VAT):
  • UK/EEA Residents: £150
  • Non-UK/EEA Residents: £225
• Acceptance Deposit (credited to the student's final account upon departure from the school):
  • UK Residents: £1,500
  • EEA Residents: £5,000
  • Non-UK/EEA Residents: One term's tuition fees

Tuition Fees for Spring and Summer 2025 (Inclusive of VAT)

• Junior (Years 7 & 8)
  • Full Boarder: £14,225
  • Weekly Boarder: £12,350
  • Day Student: £8,995
• Senior (Years 9 & Above)
  • Full Boarder: £17,635
  • Weekly Boarder: £14,905
  • Day Student: £10,965