Bootham School york

Friendly....with a discreet (universal) spiritual angle. Silence is at the core of the school's philosophy and values. The holistic experience is the context for pupils whose parents can afford the fees (10% less than the big names). A priceless gift that will keep on giving. Highly recommended by someone educated at one of those bigger establishments, but whose pocket is ssmaller than many. Happy days.....

Both of our boys are at the Junior School and this is the final year for the oldest. The school has been excellent, with a strongly experiential approach to learning. The focus is holistic rather than narrowly academic, recognising that building confidence, courage, resilience and curiosity are at least as important as any academic focus. There are also many opportunities to participate in and be encouraged in sport, music and other non academic activities. Over the three years our eldest has been there he has achieved grade five and grade four in two instruments through excellent teaching. Highly recommended as an all around school.

As a former pupil, I cannot sing their praises high enough. I came from a school (St Olaves) where I was bullied for many years. I was generally miserable and had low self confidence. Bootham brought me out of that shell. The teachers were all lovely, I may not have liked every subject, but i still liked the teachers. The ethos and attitude of staff and pupils quickly formed me into a totally different more caring person. I was much happier, my grades rose and I joined as many after school activities as I could. At my previous school I never wanted to stay longer than I had to. At Bootham I never wanted to leave. School lunches were also amazing, In the 7 years since I left I have tried to keep my home food as varied and healthy as the lunches I got at school. Friends and family love the food I make and I still don't think it is as good as my school food was. I wasn't the only pupil to go to Bootham after being bullied, I think it attracts a lot of kids who are kind and bright but have been stifled through adverse experiences. I would highly recommend it for anyone who is more introverted and wants to develop in a caring and protective environment which still prepares you for the world ahead. My friends and employers have commented on how kind and hard working I am. These are qualities I am certain I formed during my time at Bootham. In the sixth form they give you more freedom and if staff think you are capable they stop spoon feeding information. Deferring to guiding your own research. This was a invaluable skill when it came to university.

As parents we find Bootham School brimming with many qualities, there is a calming atmosphere punctuated with a strong sense of purpose,- forming a perfect baseline to facilitate learning and self confidence. "Adventurous & Liberating" is the School mantra. Our two children have made some wonderful friends and from starting Bootham in year seven, have never looked back. The teaching staff are supportive and motivating. The activities after 1600 hrs add another dimension to the learning and development of children, giving them a taste of things they (and we) would probably never think of in the fast paced world in which we live. Finally, the food is consistently of the highest quality and the children (& us on Saturdays),look forward to every meal !

I disagree with the other review. Quite frankly, I find Bootham to be an exceptional school and my only regret is that I didn't start my children there earlier.