Frequently Asked Questions
General
Do you take children throughout the year?
We admit children throughout the school year – subject to satisfactory school reports, qualifications and availability.
When does the school day start and finish?
Fledglings Day Care – 8.00am-6.00pm
Nursery – 8.00am - 4.00pm
Reception, Prep 1 & Prep 2 - 8.30am - 3.30pm (optional clubs)
Breakfast Club available from 8.00am and After School Care available up until 6.00pm
Prep 3 - 6 – 8.30am – 3.45pm (optional clubs)
Breakfast Club available from 8.00am and After School Care available up until 6.00pm
Senior Department – 8.50am – 3.50pm (optional clubs)
Breakfast Club available from 8.00am
Is school transport available?
The School operates two daily bus runs (mornings only) following the routes below. The routes are subject to variation and there is a degree of flexibility. For information regarding prices or to book a place on the bus, please email andrew.major@saintjamesschool.co.uk
Brigg Bus
Barnetby Top Approx. pick up time: 7:55a.m.
Grasby/Audleby Approx. pick up time: 8:05a.m.
Caistor Market Place Approx. pick up time: 8:10a.m.
Swallow Approx. pick up time: 8:15a.m.
Irby Approx. pick up time: 8:20a.m.
Louth Bus
Louth Market Place Approx. pick up time: 8:00a.m.
Utterby Approx. pick up time: 8:10a.m.
Cheapside, Waltham Approx. pick up time: 8:20a.m.
Grimsby Rd, Waltham Approx. pick up time: 8:25a.m.
Scartho Top Approx. pick up time: 8:35a.m.
What is the average class size?
St. James’ School offers small class sizes to ensure all children gain personal attention and have a chance to contribute well to class discussion. Our average class size is 14 and we endeavour to have no more than 20 in a class.
Does the school offer financial assistance?
A restricted number of Scholarships are available for children talented in particular areas: academic, dramatic, artistic and musical children may be rewarded in this way. The School also has a bursary scheme in place, where financial assistance is offered where appropriate. Please consult the school for more details.
Do you have many pupils with Learning Difficulties?
We have an excellent Learning Support department which tests all applicants with special needs such as dyslexia, dyscalculia and dyspraxia. These are by no means indicators of reduced intelligence and the special needs department provides discreet coaching to enable the pupils to compensate for their needs.
What is your policy on bullying?
We have a very effective bullying policy and any bullying issues are resolved quickly and discreetly. All our school policies may be accessed via the Information for Parents section of this website.
Boarding
Which is the closest airport and do you offer Airport transfers?
Humberside Airport is only 20 miles from St. James’ School and there are daily connections from Schipol Airport. Manchester is only 100 miles from the school and there is a regular direct train to Grimsby Town station.
We will happily arrange taxi/minibus collection from any airport and we will simply add the charges to that terms invoice.
How many boarders do you have at St. James’ School?
There are around 20 boys and 20 girls currently boarding here. St. James’ is a small family like day and boarding school and we pride ourselves in offering an excellent all-round education to children of all ages and cultures. Our aim is to ensure that all children within our school achieve their full potential – whatever that may be.
Where do your boarders come from?
We have boarders from UK Forces families, Germany, Hong Kong, China, France and Sweden, to name but a few.
What type of boarding do you offer?
We offer great flexibility in terms of boarding, offering full boarding, weekly boarding and day boarding. We aim to cater for all the needs of our families. Full boarding: 7 days per week boarding for each term, going to parents or guardians at half term. Weekly boarders: 5 days a week boarding returning to parents or guardians for the weekend. Occasional boarding: we can accommodate pupils from a few days to a week at a time when parents are away on business etc.
What happens at weekends for boarders?
We offer a varied programme of social and cultural activities including quad biking, skiing, ten-pin bowling, cinema, walks in the countryside, cultural trips to London, theatre trips, visits to local museums and art galleries. In addition to the organised activities the boarders have access to school facilities at weekend, including the Sports Hall and gym.
What pastoral support is available for boarders?
Within the two Boarding Houses we have a boys’ Housemaster, girls’ Housemistress and assistants. The school matron is on site during school hours and all boarders are registered with a local doctor. For many pupils their housemaster or mistress becomes a surrogate parent, they can be assured that there is always someone to talk to and share their concerns and celebrations. All staff aim to fulfil their 'duty of care' to the highest standard and always seek to 'safeguard and promote' the welfare of each individual.
‘Child protection is very well managed within the school. Boarders and staff are fully aware of who the child protection co-ordinator is and when to report issues of concern’
Ofsted Boarding Inspection, 2008
Can a child try boarding before we commit?
We are happy to allow a prospective student to stay over for a couple of nights in the boarding house before the final decision is made about entering the school, particularly if the student is new to boarding.
Does it matter if I want to arrive late and leave early - being overseas makes term dates difficult?
Yes, although we understand the difficulties and expense in arranging flights, it is important for all students to attend as many school days as possible. Please do everything you can to make sure your child is there for the start of term, when everyone gets acquainted, and there for the end, because the last days of term can be the most fun and often have important occasions. Don't let your child miss these vital experiences in a British boarding school.
