Chair of Governors: Mark Wilson
Head: Miss Heidi Hughes, BA Hons, MEd, PGCE
Deputy Head: Mrs Veryan Rookes, BSc Hons, PGCE
Deputy Head: Mrs Vicky Drew, BA Hons, QTS
Assistant Head: Mrs Lucy Bendall, BA Hons, PGCE
Assistant Head: Mrs Kate Conway, BA Hons, PGCE
Age Range. 4–11.
Number of Pupils. 336. Infants 108; Juniors 228.
Fees per term (from January 2025). Juniors: Years 3–6 £4,437. Infants: Years 1 & 2 £4,123, Reception £3,774. Fees include lunch. (Fees include VAT.)
BGS Infants and Juniors is a vibrant and welcoming independent co-educational day school, dedicated to nurturing the growth and potential of children aged 4–11. Founded in 1900, the School has expanded since 2010 to include Infant provision, creating a seamless journey through the early and primary years of education. Located alongside Bristol Grammar Senior School (see entry in the HMC section), our Infant and Junior pupils have their own self-contained school buildings and play areas, whilst benefiting from shared access to state-of-the-art senior school facilities, such as the Sports Hall, Performing Arts Centre, and extensive Sports Grounds.
BGS Infants proudly holds the prestigious Bristol Standard for Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) provision. This showcases our commitment to fostering creativity, curiosity, and confidence in the youngest and our submissions for this recognition are shared across the city as exemplars of best practice. Entry into BGS Infants is by an informal assessment session, providing a warm and engaging introduction to our community. Additional places become available for entry at the start of Year 3 and Year 5, with entry via academic assessments in either the November or January preceding.
Our rich, broad, and balanced curriculum nurtures each child’s unique potential, blending academic rigour with opportunities for creative expression, physical activity, and personal development. Many subjects are taught by specialists, including teachers from the Senior School, enriching the learning experience.
From the hands-on adventures of Forest School and swimming lessons for all Infant pupils to weekly Activity sessions in Juniors, our children embrace challenges, explore new interests, and grow in confidence. Signature events such as the annual Performing Arts Day and MADD (Music, Art, Dance, and Drama) Evening highlight the vibrant creative life of the School.
Our extensive co-curricular programme offers something for every interest. From Coding and Ukulele to Gardening and Russian, children can explore diverse hobbies and develop new skills. Sport is a vital part of school life, with outstanding facilities at Failand’s playing fields and a modern indoor Sports Hall equipped with a climbing wall. Children benefit from expert coaching, fostering respect, teamwork and resilience.
Leadership and responsibility are integral to our ethos. Through the Infant and Junior School Councils, Sustainability Squad, and Charity Committee, pupils are empowered to make a difference, both within the School and in the wider community where our children partner with other schools.
Our warm and supportive environment ensures every child feels valued and cared for. Form Tutors and Assistant Heads take the lead in monitoring progress and well-being, supported by dedicated teaching staff and the Head. A strong House system fosters friendships across age groups, with mentors and buddies helping new pupils settle in, creating a sense of family and belonging.
Children who join BGS Infants and Juniors at Year 5 or earlier are assessed continuously for transition to the Senior School, while other pupils take the standard entrance test. Means-tested Peloquin bursaries awards are available in the Junior School, ensuring access to our enriching educational experience for a wide range of families.
Charitable Status: Bristol Grammar School is a Registered Charity (No. 1104425) dedicated to the provision of outstanding education in the City of Bristol and beyond.