Bootham School

Bootham School continues to build on its national reputation as a school with a difference.  This Quaker school has been leading the way in intelligent education since 1823 and has been dubbed by the Good School Guide as ’the thinking parent’s school.’ Founded by York’s leading Quaker families, the School values more than just academic success; it encourages students to be creative thinkers, peacemakers and confident humanitarians.

Students benefit from the small class sizes, inspirational teaching and the wide-ranging activity programme you would expect from a leading independent school. However, its heritage and ethos bring something extra; a solid foundation of moral principles, public duty and a positive view of the world and its people.

Set in a beautiful campus just minutes away from York Minster, the School enjoys an enviable location, just two hours away from London by train. Boarders are housed in beautifully refurbished Georgian buildings and sixth form students enjoy the recently renovated College study areas. The impressive facilities include an on-site observatory and GCSE Astronomy remains a popular addition to the timetable.

With excellent academic results, an extensive activity programme and outstanding pastoral care, Bootham continues to attract girls and boys from across Yorkshire, the UK and the world. Bootham students are encouraged to change the world and the School employs a dedicated Social Action Co-Ordinator. Leavers gain entry to some of the UK’s leading universities including Cambridge, Oxford, Durham, UCL, King’s College, Central St. Martin’s and the Royal College of Music. The School also has a well-earned reputation for producing future engineers and students are regular holders of the prestigious Arkwright Scholarship.

“What makes me proud is how generous and kind we are as a school. The charity work, environmental action, raising awareness and how accepting people are, are just some of the many things that spring to mind when I think of the Bootham community.” ~ Year 8 student

“You can see that the children thrive. Those adults I know who have been through the school are very well rounded, kind and thoughtful and often people who have done a lot for the community rather than just thinking about themselves.” ~ Current parent