“Pupils of all abilities and needs develop much self-confidence during their time in school. They have a strong understanding of their strengths and weaknesses and are accepting of both. Pupils of all ages are aware of the need for resilience.”
- ISI Inspection Report, 2021
Ours is a caring, vibrant and inspiring community, where pupils’ enthusiasm and creativity shine through in every aspect of school life.
As a Catholic school, universal and welcoming of all, we seek to educate the whole person, enabling every boy and girl to achieve their greatest potential and make the world a better place. This mission stems from our founder, Antonio Rosmini, who believed ‘a pupil must be allowed to grow and develop as an integrated human person.’
This is at the heart of our commitment to academic excellence, personal development, co-curricular opportunity and faith in action, underpinned by our school virtues of love, courage and wisdom.
To achieve academic excellence, we draw on the latest educational research to undertake rigorous curriculum review and prioritise active learning, memory recall and metacognition in teaching and learning. This is complemented by our ‘Minerva’ learning culture which lays the foundations of growth mindset, personal responsibility and high expectations for all.
The Personal Development Programme enables pupils to grow as rounded individuals, fostering essential life skills and a moral compass, equipping our pupils to navigate a changing world and contribute to their community as active citizens.
Beyond the classroom, cocurricular opportunity is integral to pupils’ growth and wellbeing. Organised thematically, each activity develops attributes of leadership, creativity, teamwork and wellbeing. A raft of clubs and societies is complemented by high participation in regional and national competitions, educational visits and a new guest speaker programme drawing on alumni networks, leading the Good Schools Guide to describe our offer as ‘an ocean of opportunity.’
To provide for spiritual and moral development, faith in action centres on practical application of Catholic values to school culture, charitable acts, service to others and the environment. We seek to nurture in every pupil a concern for the world around them, compassion for others and a deep sense of wonder.
As part of the Loughborough Schools Foundation, Amherst pupils enjoy sector-leading facilities, including the Midlands’ only ‘All-Steinway’ Music School, The Parkin Sports Centre, 70-acre playing fields, Forest School and swimming pool.
I hope that this prospectus will give you an insight into our uniquely close-knit, happy community where pupils thrive and develop into compassionate, resilient and responsible young people.
James Neville Headmaster
89% OF STUDENTS RECEIVED 1ST CHOICE UNIVERSITY OFFER
25 MILES SCHOOL BUS RADIUS
17 SCHOOL BUS ROUTES
300 PUPILS
28
16 A LEVEL SUBJECTS
50 ENSEMBLES, CHOIRS AND MUSIC CLUBS
AVAILABLE SIXTH FORM ENRICHMENT OPTIONS 30+
81% 9-5 41% 9-7 CO-EDUCATIONAL
2019 31% A-A *
22,500 INSTRUMENTAL LESSONS PER YEAR* *ACROSS THE FOUNDATION
• Early Years Curriculum is carefully crafted to promote literacy, numeracy, and social skills
• Small class sizes ensure personalised attention, allowing teachers to cater to individual learning styles and needs
• Regular assessments and feedback help track progress and set achievable goals
At Amherst School, our Reception to Year 6 provision is designed to foster a love of learning and provide a strong academic foundation. Our dedicated Early Years team creates a nurturing environment where children can explore and develop their curiosity through a blend of structured and play-based activities. The curriculum is carefully crafted to promote literacy, numeracy, and social skills, while also encouraging creativity and independence.
From Year 1 onwards, pupils benefit from a broad and balanced curriculum that encompasses core subjects, including English, Mathematics, and Science, as well as a rich variety of humanities, arts, and physical education. Small class sizes ensure personalised attention, allowing teachers to cater to individual learning styles and needs. The supportive atmosphere is complemented by a range of cocurricular activities, which help to develop wellrounded individuals and instil a lifelong passion for learning.
Our commitment to pastoral care ensures that each child feels valued and supported throughout their primary years. Regular assessments and feedback help track progress and set achievable goals, ensuring that pupils are well-prepared for the transition to the next phase of their education.
“This school is really good for trying new things because they’ve got loads of different lessons to help you have more fun and understand who you are.”
- Year 6 Pupil
“Right before leaving Prep at Amherst, my Year 6 teacher recommended I participate in the New Directors’ Season (NDS) once I join the Upper school. The concept of being directed by fellow students stuck out to me, and after three years I can honestly state that it feels like I have a whole Drama career ahead of me because of NDS.”
• A broad curriculum allows pupils to explore different disciplines and discover their strengths and interests
• Pupils benefit from an extensive co-curricular programme
• We have a strong focus on the emotional and social wellbeing of each pupil
In Years 7 to 9, Amherst School provides a comprehensive and challenging curriculum designed to prepare pupils for the demands of their GCSEs and beyond. This stage marks a crucial period of intellectual and personal development, where pupils are introduced to a wide array of subjects and begin to specialise in areas of interest.
The curriculum is broad, covering core subjects such as English, Mathematics, and Science, alongside Humanities, Modern Foreign Languages, and Creative Arts. This approach allows pupils to explore different disciplines and discover their strengths and interests. Dedicated teachers employ innovative teaching methods to engage pupils and encourage independent thought, critical analysis, and problem-solving skills.
Alongside academic learning, we place a strong emphasis on personal development and leadership. Our extensive co-curricular programme offers opportunities for pupils to participate in sports, music, drama, and various clubs, fostering a well-rounded education and helping pupils build confidence and resilience. Pastoral support remains a cornerstone of our approach, with a focus on the emotional and social wellbeing of each pupil. Regular mentoring and a structured support system ensure that pupils navigate their teenage years with guidance and encouragement.
• Pupils can study up to 10 GCSEs, with a mix of core and optional subjects available
• Regular assessment and mock examinations ensure pupils are best prepared for their GCSEs
• Co-curricular opportunities continue to be prevalent through the GCSE years
In Years 10 and 11, Amherst School provides an academically rigorous environment designed to prepare pupils for their GCSE examinations and future educational pursuits. During these critical years, pupils focus on consolidating their knowledge and developing advanced skills across a range of subjects.
The curriculum is tailored to meet individual needs, with pupils choosing their GCSE subjects based on their interests and future aspirations. Core subjects, including English Language and Literature, Mathematics, and Science, are complemented by elective options that allow pupils to specialise in areas such as Humanities, Languages, and Creative Arts. All pupils have the opportunity to study up to ten subjects and most will include a language at GCSE level (although this isn’t compulsory). As we are a Catholic School, our pupils all sit Religious Studies GCSE. Our dedicated teaching staff support pupils through targeted interventions and enrichment opportunities to help them achieve their full potential.
We place a strong emphasis on exam preparation, with regular assessments and mock examinations designed to build confidence and refine exam techniques. Our academic support programme ensures that pupils receive personalised guidance and feedback, helping them to stay on track and excel.
In addition to academic excellence, we continue to focus on holistic development, encouraging participation in co-curricular activities that enhance skills, build character, and prepare pupils for the transition to post-16 education.
“I have always felt really supported and comfortable in this school and it’s always been like a second home and I wake up looking forward to go to school every morning.”
- Sixth Form Student
• Most students take three A Levels and also choose to pursue an extra qualification such as the Extended Project Qualification
• The Sixth Form experience is enriched by a range of leadership and enrichment opportunities
• Dedicated careers guidance and university counselling are integral parts of the Sixth Form experience
Our Sixth Form provision in Years 12 and 13 at Amherst School is designed to offer students a seamless transition from GCSEs to A Levels and beyond. This stage is pivotal in shaping students’ future pathways, whether they are aiming for university, vocational training, or entering the workforce.
Students in the Sixth Form benefit from a wide range of A Level subjects and vocational courses, providing the flexibility to tailor their education to their individual strengths and career aspirations. Most students take three A Levels and also choose to pursue an extra qualification such as the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ). Our expert staff offer advanced instruction and personalised support, ensuring that students are well-prepared for higher education and professional environments.
The Sixth Form experience at Amherst School is complemented by a range of leadership and enrichment opportunities. Students are encouraged to take on roles such as Prefects, engage in community service, and participate in co-curricular activities that develop key skills and personal attributes.
Dedicated careers guidance and university counselling are integral parts of the Sixth Form experience, helping students to make informed decisions about their future. Our aim is to equip students with the academic knowledge, practical skills, and confidence needed to succeed in their chosen paths and contribute meaningfully to society.
• Taking part in co-curricular activities is encouraged from the earliest School years through to Sixth Form
• Including sports, music, arts and drama, we have an extensive range of opportunities available
• Our co-curricular programme aims to develop qualities of leadership, creativity, community and teamwork
At Amherst School, our commitment to holistic education extends beyond the confines of the classroom through a robust co-curricular programme. We believe that co-curricular activities are integral to developing well-rounded individuals, fostering skills that complement and enhance academic learning.
Our diverse range of co-curricular offerings is designed to cater to the varied interests and talents of our pupils. From the earliest years through to Sixth Form, pupils have the opportunity to engage in a multitude of activities that promote personal growth, creativity, and teamwork. These include sports, music, drama, arts, and various clubs that encourage intellectual curiosity and social responsibility. In the realm of sports, we offer numerous options, from team sports such as football, rugby, and netball to individual pursuits like swimming and athletics. Our emphasis on sportsmanship and physical fitness helps pupils develop resilience, discipline, and a sense of camaraderie.
For those with a passion for the arts, we provide a range of activities including choir, orchestra, drama productions, and visual arts clubs. These programmes allow pupils to express themselves creatively and gain confidence in their artistic abilities.
Additionally, our co-curricular programme includes leadership and service opportunities, such as pupil councils and community service projects, which are designed to cultivate leadership skills and a sense of social responsibility.
Overall, our co-curricular activities are crafted to complement academic studies, ensuring that every pupil can explore their interests, develop new skills, and contribute to the vibrant school community.
“Pupils enjoy high levels of success and develop their own interests and talents in extracurricular and out of class activities. They take full advantage of opportunities for music, individual and team sports, journalism, cookery and many creative subjects.”
- ISI Inspection Report 2021
“Sporting ability at a high level is evident as the pupils move up the school, resulting in a good range of success in local, regional and national competitions.”
- ISI Inspection Report 2021
• Core sports include football, rugby, netball, hockey, and cricket, each with specialist coaching staff
• Facilities include AstroTurf pitches, a modern sports hall, and an indoor swimming pool
• Home to the National Tennis Academy in partnership with Loughborough University and the Lawn Tennis Association
At Amherst, we are committed to fostering a dynamic and inclusive sporting environment that supports both competitive and recreational pursuits. Our extensive sports programme is designed to cater to a wide range of interests and abilities, promoting physical fitness, teamwork, and personal development.
We offer a comprehensive array of sports, ensuring that every pupil has the opportunity to discover and excel in their chosen discipline. Our core sports include football, rugby, netball, hockey, and cricket, each of which is supported by dedicated coaching and competitive fixtures. In addition to these, we provide opportunities for pupils to engage in swimming, athletics, and tennis, with specialist training and competition available for those who wish to pursue these sports at a higher level.
Our facilities are second to none, designed to support and enhance the sporting experience for all our pupils. The school boasts state-of-the-art sports halls, well-maintained playing fields, and an indoor swimming pool, all of which are utilised to deliver a comprehensive physical education curriculum. Furthermore, our affiliation with the National Tennis Academy allows us to offer exceptional training and development for aspiring tennis players, supported by expert coaches and top-class facilities.
Participation in sports at Amherst is encouraged from an early age, with structured programmes available for pupils across all year groups. Our emphasis on inclusivity ensures that pupils of all skill levels can participate and benefit from the physical, social, and psychological advantages of sports.
Through our commitment to sport, Amherst aims to cultivate a lifelong appreciation for physical activity, enhance personal resilience, and foster a strong sense of community and sportsmanship.
Boasting the best facilities in the region, the Foundation’s Music School is the perfect base for musicians to hone and develop their creative talents.
Our curriculum covers listening, composing, and performing, with all pupils receiving a basic introduction to piano and music technology. GCSE pupils delve into a broad range of musical styles, from Beethoven to Beyonce, culminating in a portfolio of original compositions and performances. At A Level, students can choose between Music and Music Technology, both of which offer diverse and practical approaches to music education.
Through the year, over 100 annual performance opportunities take place, with more than 50 ensembles and choirs running on a regular basis. Major events include faculty concerts and the Spring Concert at De Montfort Hall, showcasing our senior ensembles. The year culminates in the festival-style ‘Al Fresco’ event, featuring performances from pupils of all ages. Our pupils also actively participate in community events and charity initiatives, such as town festivals and monthly concerts at Loughborough Parish Church.
Each year, our pupils achieve exceptional grades at both GCSE and A Level, with many continuing their studies at renowned institutions. Our enhanced music programme, including the Alexander Technique and additional performance opportunities, ensures our most ambitious students receive unparalleled support and mentorship.
• Partnership with the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire provides outstanding opportunities for our Music Scholars and A Level musicians
• Over 100 concerts and performances take place annually, including a Spring Concert at De Montfort Hall, Leicester
• Pupils benefit from more than 50 ensembles and choirs
“Loughborough Schools Music is a place where all pupils in the Foundation can be inspired and achieve of their very best.”
- Nicky Bouckley, Director of Music
The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE) at Amherst offers pupils a prestigious opportunity to develop essential life skills, build resilience, and enhance their personal growth. This globally recognised programme is designed to challenge young people to push their boundaries and achieve their full potential through a structured framework of activities.
The DofE Award comprises three levels: Bronze, Silver, and Gold, each requiring pupils to engage in a range of activities across four key sections: Volunteering, Physical, Skills, and an Expedition.
• Volunteering: Pupils commit to a period of service to help others in their community or beyond. This section encourages pupils to contribute positively, develop empathy, and acquire valuable experience.
• Physical: Participants engage in physical activities that promote fitness and personal wellbeing. This can include sports, fitness regimes, or any other physical challenge that helps improve health and stamina.
• Skills: This section focuses on developing practical and creative skills. Pupils can choose to pursue interests or learn new skills that contribute to their personal and intellectual growth.
• Expedition: The expedition element involves planning and undertaking a challenging outdoor adventure, which fosters teamwork, navigation, and problem-solving skills. It culminates in a journey that tests endurance and resilience.
• All pupils from Year 10 onwards are offered the opportunity to participate
• Dedicated staff guide pupils through each stage of the award
Amherst provides extensive support throughout the DofE journey, with dedicated staff guiding pupils through each stage of the award. Training sessions, preparatory workshops, and regular mentoring ensure that pupils are well-prepared for their activities and expeditions.
Participating in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award programme not only enhances pupils’ academic profiles but also equips them with essential life skills, confidence, and a sense of achievement that will benefit them throughout their lives.
• Pupils can join one of four Sections: Royal Navy, Army, RAF and Corps of Drums
• Training programme includes drill, first aid, and survival skills, alongside adventurous activities such as field exercises and camps
• Training emphasises experiential learning, supporting personal growth and leadership abilities
The Combined Cadet Force (CCF) at Amherst is dedicated to fostering leadership, discipline, and a sense of responsibility among our pupils. Emphasising personal development and teamwork, our CCF programme is designed to instil core values that will benefit pupils both during their time at school and throughout their future endeavours. We aim to create an environment where cadets are encouraged to take initiative, demonstrate commitment, and work collaboratively, reflecting our ethos of integrity, respect, and service.
The CCF at Amherst School comprises four distinct sections: the Royal Navy, the Army, the Royal Air Force and the Corps of Drums. Each section provides a unique set of experiences and training opportunities tailored to its specific focus, allowing cadets to explore different aspects of military life and discover their interests. The Royal Navy section offers maritime training, including seamanship and navigation skills. The Army section focuses on military tactics, leadership, and fieldcraft, while the Royal Air Force section delves into aviation and aerospace skills.
Training within the CCF is both comprehensive and diverse, designed to equip cadets with practical skills and theoretical knowledge. Our training programme includes drill, first aid, and survival skills, alongside adventurous activities such as field exercises and camps. Cadets have the opportunity to participate in regular training sessions, which are complemented by external events and competitions, providing a platform to apply their skills in real-world scenarios.
Our training approach emphasises experiential learning, enabling cadets to gain hands-on experience and develop a range of competencies that enhance their personal growth and leadership abilities. Through their involvement in the CCF, pupils not only acquire valuable skills but also develop a strong sense of camaraderie and a commitment to excellence.
Overall, the Combined Cadet Force at Amherst School provides a structured and supportive framework for pupils to explore their potential, build confidence, and contribute positively to the school and wider community.
“Cadets are remarkable young people who are a true credit to the Foundation and a shining example of what is possible when young people work together.”
- Loughborough Schools Foundation Contingent Commander, Major Ben Ward
Registrar, Hannah Wyatt, amherst.admissions@lsf.org
Telephone: 01509 638280
Admission to Loughborough Amherst School is designed to minimise stress for your child as they integrate into our family.
Whilst entrance assessments are held in January, we also operate a rolling admissions programme meaning regular assessment mornings occur throughout the year, including holidays. Parents can contact the Registrar to discuss the next available assessment date, and more information can be found on our website.
The Registration Form can also be found on our website: www.lsf.org/amherst/admissions/apply It should be completed in full and submitted online. After receipt of the Registration Form, we will request a reference from the pupil’s current school and invite them in for a taster day or entrance assessment. For entry to Years 7 to 10 in September 2025, entrance assessments will take place on Saturday, January 11, 2025.
• Entrance assessments are held in January but our rolling admissions programme means regular assessment mornings do occur throughout the year
• Parents and their children are always welcome to arrange a tour of the School or an indivdualised taster day
• Entrance assessments allow us to offer your child a suitably challenging learning environment
• For more information: www.lsf.org/ amherst/admissions-overview
For anyone considering joining us we recommend that you come for a visit. Once you have experienced the warm welcome of a full school tour or Open Morning, your child may attend a Taster Day. This is an important element in the decision-making process and during the day, your child will be introduced to their year group. Proven to be a highly successful experience, pupils will have the opportunity to make friends, attend lessons in the subjects they enjoy, and feel at home before starting school.
The purpose of the assessment is for us to understand your child’s skills and strengths prior to them joining the School. To enable us to quickly identify how best to offer a stimulating and suitably challenging education for your child, we need to establish the levels that they currently achieve in work and behaviour.
In Reception Class, assessment is based on Teacher observations of different situations in the classroom over the course of the session.
For pupils in Year 1 through to Year 11, assessment is based on computer adaptive tests which cover topics included within the National Curriculum.
Sixth Form:
Sixth Form admission is dependent upon ability and attitude together with a minimum of five GCSE passes at grade 5 or higher including Maths and English, a Headteacher’s report, and a personal interview.
Those wishing to study Mathematics, Sciences, or Languages at A Level will require a grade 7 or higher at GCSE in the relevant subjects. Please note that other subjects may have different entry requirements. For more information, please contact our Head of Sixth Form.
As a through-school, pupils who are on roll in Year 6 by 1 September are guaranteed a place in Year 7 at Amherst. Current Year 5 parents are informed as to which school they have guaranteed places for based on our internal tracking data. Having received this information, parents select which School they wish their child to join following the Year 5 Taster Days at Loughborough Grammar School, Loughborough High School, and Loughborough Amherst School in the second half of the Summer term.
“It has the best of both worlds - it’s small enough to care for each child as an individual while offering the facilities and resources of the much larger foundation.” - Parent
Fees are reviewed annually for the following year and can be found on our website: www.lsf.org/amherst/ admissions-overview/
The non-refundable registration fee of £50 per child (Reception to Year 6) or £100 per child (Year 7 and above) should be sent with the Registration Form. Please make payments via bank transfer, please refer to the Registration Form for the bank transfer details. Payments may also be made by credit or debit card or via cheques payable to ‘Loughborough Schools Foundation.’
Please note that Registration Fee for overseas pupils is £130.
An acceptance deposit of £400 is payable on acceptance of a place and is returned when pupils leave in accordance with the Foundation’s Terms and Conditions.
Please note that the acceptance deposit for overseas pupils is £1,000.
Free Early Years Entitlement may be used from the term after a child’s third birthday, up to and including the term of their fifth birthday. This is subject to the current guidelines set out by the Local Authority. Tax Free Childcare and Childcare Vouchers are also accepted to pay for fees until your child is 5 years old.
Fees are due on the first day of each term. Payment may be made by bank transfer, direct debit, debit card, or credit card. We also operate a monthly payment plan for the option to split the cost.
For overseas pupils, payment may be made by bank transfer or by credit card. For credit card payments, standard charges will apply.
The Foundation offers several honorary awards, Music Scholarships and School Assisted Places (SAP). More information about all of these can be found on the website: www.lsf.org/amherst/admissionsoverview/
Key policies are available for review on the School website, www.lsf.org/amherst/about-us/policies
A full list of all Loughborough Schools Foundation and Loughborough Amherst School policies is available on request and the text of all policies, including those which are not published on the website, may be requested. Please refer to the website for the most recent information regarding:
• Destinations of Leavers
• Governing Body and Staff
• ISI Inspection Report
• School’s Academic Performance
• School Bus Routes
• Please direct any admissions enquiries to the Registrar, amherst.admissions@lsf.org
• For fees queries and payment options, contact the Finance Office at the Bursary, bursary.fees@lsf.org
• To discover our transport system in more detail, visit www. passengertravelsolutions.co.uk/loughborough-schools-foundation
Contact details for the Chair of the Governors, Mr Roger Harrison, can be found below;
secretary.board@lsf.org Telephone: 01509 283701
3 Burton Walks Loughborough LE11 2DU
School Transport
We are keen to help as wide a circle of children as possible enjoy a Loughborough Schools Foundation education and our extensive bus services are key to that.
Our independent network of buses, managed by Passenger Travel Solutions (PTS) serves a wide range of routes extending across Leicestershire, South Nottinghamshire and South East Derbyshire.
The PTS team will be happy to help with any enquiries. Information about fares, school bus passes and the latest timetables can be found online.
The prospectus describes the broad principles on which the School is presently run. Although believed to be correct at the time of printing, the prospectus is not part of any agreement between parents and Loughborough Schools Foundation. Parents wishing to place specific reliance on matters given in the prospectus should seek written confirmation of that statement before accepting the offer of a place.
August 2024