York school expands its offer with specialist teaching, new outdoor spaces and a teaching research centre

St Peter’s School in York has opened a new Junior School, taking pupils from Pre-School through to Year 6.

The launch, which took place this September, represents a substantial investment in junior education at the independent school, which already educates pupils through to Sixth Form on its 50-acre site in the city.

Children will receive specialist teaching in science, art, design technology, music and sport, with access to dedicated laboratories, creative studios and the school’s sports facilities. New outdoor play and learning areas have also been created.

Music continues to play a central role, with the school maintaining its long-standing link with York Minster, whose choristers are educated at St Peter’s.

Outside lessons, the programme includes Forest School sessions, educational visits and residential trips, along with a cultural exchange to Spain and optional ski trips.

At the same time, the school is developing a Centre for Excellence in Teaching and Learning, intended to bring current educational research into the classroom.

Phil Hardy, Head of St Peter’s Junior School, said the aim was for children to be eager to arrive each morning and to go home with stories to tell.

“Ultimately, what makes a school special is not the buildings, however impressive they may be. It is the people within them,” he said.

Places are limited. Families interested in applying should contact the admissions team at admissions@stpetersyork.org.uk.