St John's School (Leatherhead)

Since August 2023, Alex Tate. Came to teaching after his history degree from Oxford led to an initial career in shipping. ‘I’ve always loved the community of schools, but my father advised I get some life experience first.’ Following 11 years with

Applications from over 100 schools for around 95 places at 11+ and 45 at 13+. Four applications for every place – up 27 per cent in last year. St John’s seeks children who will contribute to the whole school experience and ‘break the stereotypes of

School commits to seeing pupils all the way through. Those that choose to depart after GCSEs (up to 15 per cent) usually head to state sixth form colleges. University application support described as ‘phenomenal’, with several parents detailing

In 2025, 72 per cent 9- 7 at GCSE; 82 per cent A*-B at A level.

‘We will deliver,’ claims head when asked about academics. Indeed, school’s latest results are hot on the heels of, and in some cases, surpassing, neighbouring Surrey powerhouses.

Whilst St John’s offers a gentler academic environment, it remains

School says it welcomes pupils with additional learning needs but recognises the challenges of being ‘a busy, frenetic environment’. We advise parental due diligence to ensure individual needs can be supported appropriately.

All students are

Star of the show is school’s effervescent director of performing arts who all parties agree has ‘transformed’ the department. We catch him joyfully conducting the swing band at lunchtime, fizzing with passion and energy; he exemplifies inspiring

Our review would be wasted documenting the expansive and impressive facilities which are listed on school’s website. Ninety-two per cent of pupils represent the school competitively and pupils and parents alike say it’s around the sports pitches at

'The most flexible approach to boarding in the country,’ claims school. It's certainly St John’s USP. Families can pick and choose regular or ad hoc nights on a termly basis. No stipulation to board on joining the school but numbers are strong and

All rate school’s ‘unique’ house system as ‘the best thing’ about St John’s. Students get assigned their houses from year 9 and almost every aspect of school life is bound up in them. Pupils start each day in their houses and socialise, study and

Around 30 per cent from within a 10 mile radius and a further 30 per cent coming from further along the A3 corridor, mostly Wimbledon. School says it attracts many first time buyers and say around two-thirds are dual income families. Parents tell us

School concedes it is ‘a little pricier’ than some of the local day school options but asserts fees have been kept to a minimum in recent years. They do also cover a longer school day than others with the vast majority of after school clubs and

School describes itself as ‘a quiet jewel’ and indeed the St John’s community is not a flash one. This is a grounded school founded on kindness. With a committed new head, St John’s is shining brighter than ever.