Age range. 11–18.
Number in school. 76 students.
Founded in 1982, Canbury School is a unique co-educational independent day school catering to students aged 11 to 18. Situated on the outskirts of London next to Richmond Park, we pride ourselves on fostering an inclusive learning environment that actively embraces diversity. At Canbury, we acknowledge that each individual is unique and learns in their own distinct manner. This belief shapes our pedagogical approach; we tailor our teaching styles to accommodate various learning preferences and paces. With class sizes limited to 15 students, our enthusiastic staff ensure that each student’s needs are met. Moreover, our commitment to excellent pastoral care fosters a supportive atmosphere where students feel comfortable to forge friendships and develop academically. At Canbury School, we celebrate individuality and champion the strengths of every learner, enabling them to thrive on their educational journey.
Entry requirements. Canbury School is dedicated to nurturing the unique potential of each student. We do not seek to fit applicants into a standard mould; rather, we strive to foster individual growth in a supportive environment. All prospective students undertake a baseline assessment, ensuring that we can best accommodate their educational needs. For entry at Year 7, we review reports from primary schools alongside any relevant documentation before inviting selected candidates to spend a day with us. Should this visit prove successful, a formal offer may follow. In instances where occasional places are available in other year groups, candidates will be invited to experience three days at our school. It is essential that all reports and paperwork are submitted prior to a meeting with the Head.
Curriculum. At Canbury School, we offer a broad range of academic subjects and co-curricular activities.
In Years 7 to 8, the students’ timetable includes the following: Maths, English, Science, Geography, Art, Craft and Design, Therapy Group, Social Group, Personal, Social Health Education (PSHE), Spanish, Social, Moral, Spiritual and Cultural Education (SMSC), ICT, Drama, History, Wellbeing, Music, Games and Physical Education (PE).
In Year 9 students begin their GCSE in Combined Science course alongside continuing with: Maths, English, Geography, Art, Craft and Design, Social Group, Personal, Social Health Education (PSHE), Spanish, ICT, Drama, History, Wellbeing, Music, Games and Physical Education (PE).
In Years 10 and 11 students can take up to nine subjects, most of which are GCSEs, but we also offer a small range of Entry Level, Functional Skills and BTEC qualifications. Compulsory subjects are Maths, English and Combined Science. Students may then choose from a range of other options, including Art, Craft and Design, Business Studies, Drama, Geography, History, ICT, Photography, Statistics and Spanish, and BTEC Level 2s in Travel & Tourism and Sport. All students continue to have lessons in PSHE, Physical Education and Games.
Our one-year 6th form offer is thoughtfully designed to equip students with essential life skills that prepare them for their next educational journey. By integrating practical experiences with academic learning, we foster critical thinking, effective communication, and resilience, ensuring that our students are not only ready for further studies but also equipped to thrive in a rapidly changing world. Students undertake one day a week work experience that sits alongside a certification in employability skills. They also study a Level 2 qualification in Personal and Social Development, a Level 3 Extended Project Qualification, a wide range of short courses to match students interests, AQA Unit Award Scheme and any required English and Maths re-sits (GCSE or Functional Skills Level 1 or 2). All students continue to have lessons in PSHE, Physical Education and Games.
In Games, students are offered a choice of activities. Winter sports may include cross country, kayaking, dodgeball, football, climbing and netball. Summer sports may include athletics, cricket, tennis and rounders. Teams participate in inter-school matches. In PE lessons, activities such as basketball, badminton, gymnastics and health-related fitness are taught, thereby providing a wide diversity of opportunities for all.
We run a wide range of extracurricular activities and clubs including (but not limited to) drama, art, self-defence, sports, board games, chess and Lego. Students may ask for a club to be run, or lead one, if there is enough interest.
Students participate in the school council, which is led by our two Head Students. The Prefect Team is responsible for Charity, Sport, and House activities. Students are all members of our very active House system, led by Heads of Houses from the Prefect team.
Facilities. We are a small, friendly school with well-equipped classrooms. We have a dedicated science laboratory, classrooms, art studio with kiln, a playground and a separate Sixth Form building. Furthermore, we access local facilities for a wide range of seasonal sporting activities.
Fees per term (2024-2025). £6,641 (exclusive of VAT) Years 7–11; £7,226 (exclusive of VAT) Sixth Form.
Bursaries are means tested and are available at the discretion of the School subject to satisfactory completion of the School’s Bursary Form.
Charitable status. Canbury School is a Registered Charity, number 803766. It exists to provide education to a broad range of students who find working in a smaller environment much better.