Downside School
Downside School
For students ages 11 to 18, Downside School is a coed, autonomous, Catholic boarding and day school that follows the English public school model. It is connected to Downside Abbey and is situated between the towns of Bath, Frome, Wells, and Bruton.
It was originally founded in 1617 by English and Welsh monks exiled in Douai, France, as a school for English Catholic boys. In 1795, the monastic community relocated to England. At first, the community and its school were housed in Sir Edward Smythe's Shropshire residence since Smythe was a previous student. The abbey and school were returned by 1814, and they were located in Somerset. In 2005, Downside School officially transitioned to co-ed enrollment across all year levels.
Programs in Downside School
The school's pursuit to academic success is unwavering. In many situations, the "price of entry" into the top universities both domestically and overseas is an outstanding set of A levels. It is not surprising that the great majority of students enroll in the university of their first choice and that a satisfying percentage of them graduate with First Class Honors there.
The system of a specialized tutor for every student ensures that progress is constant and sustained, and it has been demonstrated that the school considerably enhances the value of entry level tests. The school timetable allots time each week for important co-curricular pursuits that will further your child's development.
Over a third of students at Downside School pursue a modern language after receiving their GCSEs, breaking the national trend and continuing the school's long reputation of achievement in modern foreign languages.
All three languages are taught from the beginning: French, German, and Spanish. Students begin learning French in Year 7 and a second Modern Foreign Language in Year 9. Additionally, Year 9 offers students the opportunity to begin studying French for the first time.
The department has seven employees, some of whom teach two languages up to the GCSE level but just one language at the A-level.
The department at Downside School works hard to foster an atmosphere where all students feel able to contribute with confidence because the school firmly believes that communication is the most crucial aspect of language learning. It is especially heartening to see this confidence grow throughout the academic year. As stated in the most recent ISI inspection report, "An excellent grasp of grammar enables them to analyze errors and improve their work in modern languages." Downside School also firmly believes that a rigorous understanding of grammar is important, particularly at A-level. Students are very well supported in this area.
For all of the international students at Downside School for whom English is not their home tongue, learning English as an Additional Language (EAL) is of utmost importance. As a division, Downside School works to fully support international students in accessing the complete curriculum and works to ensure that they are swiftly assimilated into the Downside School community. The 'full immersion' experience starts right away, and as a result, natural language acquisition begins on the first day. In addition, Downside School supports students in honing their English study techniques. Both the receptive skills of hearing and reading as well as the productive skills of speaking and writing are emphasized in EAL lessons. Specific grammar drills, vocabulary growth, and the crucial practice of pronunciation are all included in this program.
Students may pursue a recognized ESL qualification (PET/FCE/CAE) in Years 7, 8, and 9. Students in Years 10 and 11 may still be pursuing one of these goals, but they will often be focusing on either IGCSE or GCSE English. Most students who are in the sixth form will need to study toward an IELTS certification in order to help them get a suitable university placement.
A department at Downside School makes sure that students can work easily in an environment that develops confidence and allows them to strengthen their language skills while also enhancing their self-esteem and academic performance because communication is essential to all language proficiency.
The Humanities Faculty is unique in that it includes both the sciences and the arts. Business studies, economics, geography, history, art history, and psychology make up the faculty. The topics covered in class are still very current and are frequently regarded as being necessary for many different careers. The Faculty is proud of its highly qualified workforce, which has achieved outstanding GCSE, A Level, and Pre-U outcomes. The faculty at Downside School takes pride in having dedicated and highly qualified professionals that inspire students to thrive in their chosen disciplines during their stay at the school. Humanities have always been a strong academic area.
Additionally, the Faculty has had great success placing students in postsecondary institutions, frequently at some of the greatest colleges in the UK and the rest of the globe, such as Oxbridge and the Ivy League universities in the USA. Additionally, the faculty promotes a love of study by offering a wide range of Academic Enrichment Programs. This includes field trips with a focus on a particular subject, university visits, seminars with nearby schools, and guest lecturers. Recent excursions have included the yearly history trip to the World War One battlefields, the history of art trip to Paris, and the geography department trip to Iceland.
In a Roman Catholic Benedictine community like Downside School, the theology faculty seeks to comprehend the Catholic mind and character and, where necessary, aid in the formation of thoughtful Catholic minds and personalities.
This is accomplished by critically examining the richness of the Catholic tradition of faith and life and its engagement with the larger culture; by learning about and comprehending how faith responds to the most important questions about human life, including its origins and purpose; and by assessing moral and religious dilemmas.
Science is a way of thinking that can reliably, precisely, and predictably lead us from perplexity to comprehension. Every session is delivered in fully functional science labs, which are assisted by a number of data-logging computers. All students are exposed to investigative science through an overarching practical skills method, and a strong emphasis is placed on making science a dynamic and participatory learning experience. Teaching emphasizes how science is applied in technology and medicine while also offering a strong conceptual framework for understanding the physical cosmos.
Co-curricular activities, guest lecturers, and an annual Science and Engineering week that includes a science fair based on the American High School model all assist academic study. Excellent test scores lead to students enrolling in a wide range of science-related courses at prestigious universities, including a remarkable crop of physicians in recent years.
School Life in Downside School
Co-curricular activities, clubs, and organizations at Downside School offer essential opportunities and experiences, exposing students to fresh perspectives, practical knowledge, and new friendships.
The co-curricular program, which takes place throughout the week and on weekends, is open to all students. There are more than 100 possibilities available, and there is something for everyone, from sports and adventure to creative arts and service.
You'll find that students at Downside School enjoy art, drama, music, and design & technology very much, both as GCSE and A Level courses as well as extracurricular activities and events.
The majestic Abbey Church hosts concerts all year long, while the recently renovated 450-seat Theatre hosts plays. The design workshops at Downside School are equipped with the most up-to-date technology, including 3D printers and an iMac suite, and have an Artist-in-Residence who inspires the students on a regular basis.
The six boarding houses are the focus of school boarding life. Prior to transferring into one of the older boys' houses, Barlow, Roberts, or Smythe, First, Second, and Third Form boys first reside in Powell House. Girls join either Caverel or Isabella House, similarly.
The houses at Downside School each have their own distinct personality and traditions, which are endearing traits of classic British boarding institutions. However, students interact freely and establish strong bonds with classmates from different year groups as well as with day students who are also members of a house.
Future Prospects
You can select the appropriate courses at every stage of your life at Downside School and beyond with the help of further education advisers. The Sixth Form Centre (JCR) at Downside School is well-equipped and under the direction of the Head of Careers and UCAS and HE Coordinator.
During the academic year, you have the chance to attend university open houses and fairs. Downside School teachers can provide guidance on which courses will best prepare you for your desired degree program. You'll get all the assistance you need to do it correctly. Your objectives for your future outside of school can be evaluated and accomplished.
For students hoping to enroll in a scientific or math program at Oxford University or in a program leading to a career in medicine, dentistry, or veterinary medicine, a weekly session is held. Candidates from the school are frequently sent to Oxbridge and medical schools in the UK and overseas. The seminar-style workshops include discussion, application-making, and interview preparation. Similar sessions are available for applicants for non-science subjects.
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