Where
everything
develops

Middle School

Years 9 - 11

The Middle School is one of the most exciting periods for a Paulina. Students start taking on roles of responsibility and enjoy a range of enriching experiences. It is a time of growth and making choices.

The Middle School begins when students enter the LV (Year 9). By then, they have settled into St Paul’s and are able to confidently navigate the school and their everyday routines. Their friendship groups have developed and they have had the opportunity to try a variety of clubs and societies. Now they are ready to take the next step in their education.

In the LV students select their GCSE options, which gives them the chance to focus on the subjects they enjoy most and to deepen their knowledge. Most of their GCSE courses start in the V (Year 10) and culminate in exams in the VI (Year 11).

This is an important academic stage for Paulinas, giving them the opportunity to put the study skills they have developed into practice as they prepare for their first set of external exams. In the VI (Year 11), students will also select their A level subjects.

The choices they make at this stage will set them on course for further education, and students are given guidance through the Middle School to support their decision-making. In the V (Year 10), students complete the Morrisby Careers Profile to help them establish where their interests and strengths lie.

The careers programme, which launches formally in the LV (Year 9), incorporates an annual careers conference, visits to a range of companies and talks from alumnae, giving students an exciting insight into the world beyond St Paul’s.

Middle School students on the Marble

Beyond the classroom

There is much fun to be had in the Middle School. Students in the LV, V and VI (Years 9, 10 and 11) are valued members of the co-curricular life of the school, with many playing key roles in student journalism, musical ensembles, sports teams and more. Familiarity with the school enables them to take risks and to try out a myriad of new clubs and societies, from our Launch engineering club to life drawing

As a result of their increased independence, students are able to venture further afield and there is an array of trips on offer, including language and cultural exchanges, an exchange visit to Washington DC and the annual ski trip. Additionally there are many opportunities for day trips including year group bonding days at locations such as Thorpe Park and Campaign Paintball, theatre trips, geography field trips to East London and Dorset, an art and design research day at Kew Gardens, a visit to London Central Mosque in Regent’s Park, and more.

The Middle School is also an important period of personal development. Form groups are mixed up at the beginning of the LV (Year 9), enabling students to broaden their social groups and encouraging adaptability.

Many students take on positions of responsibility, as year reps for SPEAC (St Paul’s Environmental Action Committee), members of school council, Middle School Ambassadors, sports leaders and more. This gives them an opportunity to develop their skills as inclusive, empathetic leaders and to prepare for life in the Senior School.

VI students in a classroom

Discover
St Paul's

There is no better way to get to know a school than by taking a look around. Visit us to explore the school for yourself and discover some of our Paulinas’ favourite spots, from The Marble, the lively entrance hall situated at the heart of the school, to The Great Hall, home of assemblies, concerts, art exhibitions and more.

Visit us

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Senior School

Senior School