ST ANNE’S CATHOLIC SCHOOL & SIXTH FORM COLLEGE
WELCOME
St Anne’s is an outstanding state comprehensive school with a strong moral purpose – to be at the heart of our rapidly changing world, revealing God’s love.
When your child arrives with us, she is 11 years old with an enthusiasm for learning and a palpable willingness to achieve her best. We strive at St Anne’s to capture this purpose and nurture, support and challenge your daughter to achieve even more than she thought possible, whether that is in the classroom, out of it, in the skills she learns or in the person she becomes.
First and foremost, we are a Catholic school with a strong inclusive ethos.
This means we put relationships at the heart of all we do, we nurture spiritual growth as much as personal development and we teach all to value faith, community and humanity. The Sisters who founded our school and are still involved in it are the LSU Sisters – La Sainte Union. Their schools were built to serve the communities where they are located and Southampton is a vibrant, multifaith, multi-cultural city, meaning we need to be a truly unique, inclusive and richly diverse community where we are united by our shared values and not divided by our differences.
We work with local parishes and partner Catholic primary schools but we also have a special relationship with other Christian communities and parishes. Our Christian ethos underpins everything we do and our Vision Statement tries to capture who we are and aspire to be – global stewards of an interconnected universe that strive to develop daily the virtues of simplicity, hospitality, openness and warm relationships.
Our ethos, our girls’ school status at Key Stage 3 and 4 and our mixed Sixth Form College make us hard to beat as the best place to educate the region’s girls from 11 – 18.
The achievements of our girls are outstanding and we are convinced that if you decide this is the right place for your daughter, she will blossom and enjoy both the challenges and the security that this environment will give her.
In September 2022, Ofsted Inspectors recognised the integrity of our school to our founders’ intentions, they talked of satisfied staff, captured the praise of parents and underlined the exceptional experience of our young people in rating us Outstanding for the second inspection in a row. In May 2024, the Catholic School Inspectorate praised the warmth between students, our commitment to social justice, the centrality of prayer and the sense of community, grading us Outstanding in the majority of judgement areas.
Many visitors remark on the positive, happy atmosphere and the warmth of the welcome at St Anne’s. When you visit us, we hope you will see why pupils and staff look forward to coming to school every day.
This prospectus, together with our website and recent inspection reports, will give you a glimpse of the distinctive experience St Anne’s offers. If you would like to know more, please arrange to visit us to see us in action: you will be most welcome.
Mr Julian Waterfield Acting Headteacher
“Non-Catholic students said they valued the school prayer as something that unified them all.” Catholic School Inspection Report 2024
OUR SCHOOL VISION STATEMENT
As schools founded by the Sisters of La Sainte Union (Holy Union), challenged by the needs of our time, we aspire to provide an education for our young people which reflects the vision of Fr Debrabant and the call of La Sainte Union to be at the heart of our rapidly changing world, revealing God’s love.
We are committed to live the special gift of Union passed on to us by the sisters and the wider LSU community so that we may with joy:
Grow each day in holiness and prayer, witnessing to the life-giving presence and compassion of God, reverencing the dignity, diversity and vulnerability of all.
Be a family community in living the gospel, committed to reconciliation, integrity and justice.
Empower each other to live life to the full, embodying God’s love in the world.
Embrace all that God has entrusted to us by caring for the planet, our common home, and recognising the inter-connectedness of all life.
Be true to our LSU identity characterised by simplicity, hospitality, openness and warm relationships throughout our lives.
OUR HISTORY
St Anne’s Catholic School was founded in 1904 by the Sisters of La Sainte Union des Sacres Coeurs for the education of young women. Its stated aim: ‘The education it provides is firmly Christian. Its aim is to communicate Christ to its pupils and to form them as mature persons who will value their Christian responsibilities in life’.
Father Jean Baptiste Debrabant (1801-1880) founded a congregation of religious sisters in northern France to address the needs arising from the French revolution. He named this congregation “La Sainte Union de Sacres Coeurs”. The work of the sisters of La Sainte Union (or LSU) spread rapidly in France and Belgium. Through their association with the Benedictine monks in Douai, the sisters came to England where they opened their first school in Bath in 1858.
There are currently four LSU schools in the United Kingdom, of which St Anne’s is one. They are all girls schools. The others are La Sainte Union Catholic School, Grays Convent High School and St Catherine’s Catholic School for Girls. As an LSU school we are part of an even bigger family of Catholic schools around the world.
Arrival in Southampton
The LSU sisters arrived in Southampton in 1881, setting up a small school for young ladies, just off what is now the Avenue. In 1900 they set up The Convent School which catered for both boys and girls aged 5-9 before St Anne’s Secondary Day School (for girls) and the LSU Teacher Training College were opened on the corner of Rockstone Place and Carlton Crescent in 1904. The school had 100 pupils who were taught by four sisters. Students studied English Language and Literature, History, Geography, French, Mathematics, Science, Art, Domestic Economy, Music and Physical Exercises. Sister Joseph Mary was the school’s first Headmistress.
ST ANNIANS ACROSS THE CENTURIES
The school in 1905. The buildings in the background were burnt down in the Second World War due to bombing.
College growth
Further growth
As the LSU college grew, the need for a chapel was felt more keenly, and in 1924 a college chapel was completed in memory of Mother Antonia (pictured). After a period of time under different stewardship, this very chapel was rebought by the LSU sisters and reopen in 2013 as our Performing Arts Centre (PAC).
The school continued to expand beyond the 1920’s, with additional buildings, Central (pictured), South and North blocks, added in 1938, 1961 and 1971 respectively. These were followed by Oliver block in 1993, the LSU Science block in 1999, the PACL in 2013 and our recently extensively refurbished Sixth form centre in 2019.
Celebrating our Centenary
In 2004, the school celebrated its centenary. During the school’s history, many things have changed, such as the buildings and the uniform. However, some things including our strong Catholic ethos, founded on the gospel values, remain unchanged. This is signified by the fact our students proudly wear an almost identical badge to those first St Annians decades ago, below is an example from 1938 alongside our present-day school badges.
St Anne’s is proud to have been world-class, Catholic secondary education for girls for over 100 years and we are excited for you and your daughter to join the St Anne’s family and help to write the next chapter of our story.
St Edith
HOUSE SAINTS & VALUES
Feast Day: 28 July Feast Day: 16 April
Feast Day: 29 April
ST CATHERINE
St Ber nadette St Catherine
St Alphonsa
Day:
House Colour:
1347-1380, a philosopher and theologian, Catherine of Siena’s legacy makes her one of the few female ‘Doctors of the Church’. She had a vision as a child of Jesus and promised to become a nun. She founded a monastery and led a life of fasting and prayer. A mystical writer, she is an example of true union with God.
St Ber nadette St Catherine
Feast Day: 28 July Feast Day: 16 April Feast Day: 29 April
ST ALPHONSA
House Value: Friendship House Value: Inspiration
St Hildegard St Edith
ST EDITH
Feast Day: 9 August
Josephine Feast Day: 17 September
ST BERNADETTE
1910-1946, First Indian saint. Became a nun but had to go through lots of physical illness in her short life. Was friends with a priest who later became Bishop of Kerala who focused on poor people from all religious backgrounds. Constantly endured her sufferings with trust in God.
Orange
House Colour: Yellow
1891-1942, ethnically Jewish, but converted to Catholicism, Edith Stein taught in a Catholic school for some time until the Nazi government’s requirements for the race of teachers meant she had to stop teaching. She then became a nun, was sent to the Netherlands for her safety and was arrested and then killed in the gas chambers at Auschwitz. She was made a saint not just for being a martyr, but also for the life she led while facing terrible conditions.
ST HILDEGARD
1844-1879, Daughter of a miller in Lourdes, France, Bernadette had a series of 18 visions of Mary, who showed her where to find a spring of water which is now the famous place of pilgrimage at Lourdes. Also a wonderful embroiderer and a nurse, she was known for her humility and spirit of sacrifice
Purple
1098-1179, Hildegard of Bingen was an abbess, writer, composer, philosopher and mystic. We still have 69 of her musical compositions and her writings ranged from religious to scientific and medical. She spoke up for women in a time when women did not have much of a voice in the Church.
Alphonsa
Hildegard Edith
lphonsa nadet
Alphonsa Bernadette
Hildegard ildega d Edith
Hildegard
Hildegard St Josephine St Thérèse
17 September Feast Day: 8 February Feast Day: 1 October
alue: Determination House Value: Equality House Value: Respect
ST JOSEPHINE
Josephine St Thérèse
1869-1947, born in the Sudan and sold as a slave Josephine Bakhita was eventually bought by an Italian who treated her well and eventually went with him and his family to Italy where she became a Christian and then a nun. Through her life she showed that despite suffering it is possible to grow as a person and be an example to others.
Day: 8 February Feast Day: 1 October
Value: Equality House Value: Respect
ST THÉRÈSE
Feast Day: 1 October
House Value: Respect
House Colour: Green
1873-1897, French nun, also known as ‘The Little Flower’ known for her life of simplicity, humility and childlike trust in God. Thérèse of Lisieux promoted what is known as her ‘Little Way’ – a way of being simple in faith, but her writings as a whole mean that she is one of the ‘Doctors of the Church’. Anyone can achieve holiness by doing even the smallest thins well for God.
Students gain a sense of belonging, as well as community, and have a number of chances to contribute house points to the annual house cup competition throughout the school year.
BEING AN LSU SCHOOL
The
LSU schools
were founded to serve the local community and to prepare young women to be part of a world that is always changing.
This means that the St Anne’s community is made up of people from many backgrounds and from many faiths and none. We are united by our shared values, not divided by our differences. We come together and want to empower each other to live life to the full.
LSU Partnership
Our partnership with our sister LSU Catholic schools in England and Ireland is an important part of our identities. We value the opportunity to meet regularly to spend time reflecting on our distinctive LSU charism and shared vision and mission. We enjoy sharing information, discussing key issues and formulating shared plans. We hold collaborative events throughout the year involving interactions with Sisters, staff and students. These give us a rich understanding of our foundation and of our membership of a wider LSU family. Maintaining these traditions and rituals is important to us as they make us who we are and keep our charism at the heart of our school communities. Shared events include Debrabant Day in October, the Feast of the Immaculate Conception in December, marking the Death of Fr Debrabant in February, and the Feast of the Annunciation in March.
Our sister LSU schools
LSU Highgate, London, UK
Grays Convent High School, Essex, UK
Holy Cross Primary School, Essex, UK
St Catherine’s Catholic School, Bexleyheath, UK
Our Lady’s Bower, Athlone, Ireland
PASTORAL CARE
At St Anne’s we believe in caring for and developing the whole child; spiritually, academically, socially and emotionally. The wellbeing of all within the St Anne’s family is our top priority. As such we have a strong pastoral system in place to ensure all pupils are cared for and nurtured to enable them to reach their potential.
Tutors
All students joining St Anne’s are assigned a tutor group in which they usually remain until the end of Year 11 or beyond. The tutor plays a vital role in any student’s school life and is the member of staff who will see the student most regularly throughout the school week. Tutor times are a valued part of the timetable, providing much more than a place for registers to be taken and notices to be handed out. The school day begins with morning prayers, prepared and delivered by pupils, which provides both staff and students with a calm, peaceful start to the day. In addition, pupils attend year group and house assemblies with their tutor group, explore PSHE topics and take part in charity events. Tutors will monitor attendance, conduct and progress of their tutees regularly and are also aware of individual circumstances and needs, making them a valuable home-school link and suitable adult for both pupils and their parents to give feedback to and seek help from in the first instance. Students have the opportunity to take on a student leadership role within their tutor group, which enables them to support their tutor and peers whilst developing valuable life skills. Our student leadership structure allows girls to meet students in other year groups and to interact with our wonderful Sixth Form leaders.
Heads of Year and Pastoral Hub
At St Anne’s we have one central Pastoral Hub in which each year group has their own dedicated Head of Year, with additional support available from our pastoral support workers and Hub receptionist. This gives students one clear place from which to seek support and allows our pastoral support team to work closely together for the benefit of our students. We understand the importance of the transition from primary school and have a dedicated Head of Year 7 who is also part of our transition team to give continuity to students’ transition and ensure pupils have a friendly face to greet them when they start in September.
Student mental health and wellbeing is of the utmost importance in our school. We all remember how difficult the teenage years can be! As a result, we are proud to provide access to the confidential services of specially trained school counsellors and own mental health nurse for our pupils. In addition, our pastoral team are trained in mental health support and we work with a variety of charitable organisations who provide help and support for young people who may need it. We have inclusion provision shared with the Learning Support team. Pupils are able to seek help or advice by talking to their tutor or Head of Year who will be able to direct them to the most suitable support.
Welfare team and school nurse
Our school welfare team are responsible for first aid and general medical assistance for pupils and are available throughout the school day. The school nurse visits about once a week and referrals can be made via the Head of Year or the school first aiders.
PSHE
The personal, social and health education of our students is very important in preparing them for life beyond school, but also in helping them to understand and interact successfully with the world around them. Our PSHE curriculum is delivered by a specialist team of teachers within our RE department alongside form tutors and Heads of Year. This enables us to provide a high quality curriculum with access to the breadth and depth of staff expertise.
SEND department
St Anne’s is committed to provide high quality inclusive teaching for all in addition to specialised support for students with special educational needs. Our experienced SENDCO leads a team of teaching assistants to provide inclass support, 1:1 keyworker check-ins, ELSA and a range of individual and group interventions to cater for the needs of our SEND pupils.
Other support
Students at St Anne’s also benefit from the work of our chaplaincy team who work tirelessly to provide additional
spiritual nourishment for all students through the support of extra-curricular activities and charity events.
In addition our literacy, numeracy and EAL intervention teams, and team of academic mentors, provide programmes of specialist individual and group support for students who may need a little extra help.
We recognise that sometimes families need a bit extra support for so many different reasons, not just to do with the children. We have really good relationships with organisations around the city and can refer families to them for matters to do with children’s behaviour, family finance, housing, health and so on. We try to post useful links on our website, too.
St Anne’s PFA
The Parents and Friends Association are a group of volunteers, who organise fundraising activities to help provide additional resources and opportunities for students, including in recent years, coaches for extracurricular trips, additional funding for costume and props for productions and shows and new music equipment. There are lots of opportunities to get involved via the PFA and they are always keen to welcome new members, be it to the committee or just to the list of volunteers, so it is a great way to retain the connection to your child’s school that parents often miss when their child transitions from primary to secondary school.
If you are interested, contact PFA@st-annes.uk.com.
THE CURRICULUM
At St Anne’s students study a broad and balanced curriculum. Pupils will study a varied suite of subjects during Years 7-9, before making their GCSE option choices during Year 9 in preparation for study in Years 10 and 11. Students continuing on to our outstanding Sixth Form then further narrow their subject choices by selecting three or four to study to Level 3, along with continuing to participate in Applied RE classes.
Key Stage 3 (Years 7, 8 and 9)
• English
• Maths
• Science*
• RE
• Music
• History
• PE**
• Geography
• French
• Spanish
• Drama
• Computer Science
• Art and Technology***
Key Stage 4 (Years 10 and 11)
All students will study for GCSEs in English, Maths, Science and RE. During Year 9, students make their GCSE option choices from the selection of subjects below:
• Art
• Business Studies
• Computing
• Dance
• Design Technology
• Drama
• Food Preparation and Nutrition
• French
• Geography
• Health and Social Care
• History
• ICT
• Media
• Music
• Spanish
• Study support
• Textiles
• Tourism
*Taught as Science in Year 7&8 and then in separate Biology, Chemistry and Physics classes for all students in Year 9 as students begin studying GCSE content. **Year 7 and 8 pupils have swimming lessons as part of their PE curriculum. *** Art, Textiles, Resistant materials and Food technology.
For students remaining at St Anne’s to complete their Sixth Form studies we currently offer the following range of subject choices at A Level:
• Applied Science (BTEC L3)
• Art and Design
• Biology
• Business
• Chemistry
• Computer Science
• Criminology (L3 diploma)
• D&T: Product Design
• Drama and Theatre Studies
• Economics
• English Language
• English Literature
• Environmental Science
• French
• Geography
• Health and Social Care
• History
• ICT (BTEC L3)
• Maths
• Further Maths
• Media Studies
• Music
• Photography
• Physics
• Psychology
• Religious Studies
• Sociology
• Spanish
• Textiles Design
• Tourism
ST ANNE’S
ST ANNE’S INTERCONNECTED LEARNING (SAIL)
SAIL provides a framework which supports the personal development of all our students.
The values of a Christian School are those that are role modelled by Jesus and revealed to us in the Gospels.
The Values of an LSU community are those found in the Vision Statement and we focus in particular at developing the LSU Virtues of simplicity, hospitality, openness and warm relationships.
SAIL provides opportunities for our students to develop these values and virtues through learning and practice.
Our aim is to ensure that all students in the school are given the opportunity to participate regardless of background and that they are offered experiences they
would not otherwise get. We are a school that focuses on formation, education and enrichment of the whole person.
These opportunities help our young people to explore and express their character, build the skills they need for resilience, empathy and employability and discover their vocation in life.
SAIL is made up of six areas.
Students are encouraged to take part in a variety of activities and experiences within these areas and keep a brief record of their activities in their logbook.
1. Chaplaincy
Our chaplaincy work underpins all we do at St Anne’s. Chaplaincy is a service to all as we believe all people are made in God’s image and have their own unique spirituality to discover.
Each year the school supports a range of charities. House charity events this year have included a treasure hunt and escape room, bake sales, cupcake decorating and a raffle. Students have raised over £3500 in 2023-24!
Internationally, we support the Catholic Agency for Overseas Development (CAFOD) at their Harvest Fast Day and through tutor group Lent projects. We also have a team of Sixth Formers following CAFOD’s Young Leaders’ Programme.
2. Common Home
We care for the planet, our common home, and recognise the inter-connectedness of all life.
We encourage all members of the St Anne’s community to embrace all that God has entrusted to us, to ensure wise stewardship of resources and to consider how our actions are affecting the Earth.
Examples of activities are joining Eco Club, litter picking, recycling and taking part in initiatives such as the Big Walk and Wheel.
3. Careers
Our careers programme prepares our students to be at the heart of our rapidly changing world. We hope to equip all our young people with the skills and knowledge necessary to embark on a fulfilling journey and by nurturing their talents, we aim to encourage them to embrace the search for a career as more than just ‘looking for a job’ but ‘exploring vocation’.
All our students have access to excellent careers provision. Careers talks and trips occur throughout the year covering a range of pathways that inspire and motivate students. These are offered to all students in the school and cover higher level apprenticeships. All students in Year 10 participate in two weeks of work experience, as well as a Sixth Form or Further Education taster day.
We also have a popular careers and university section in the library and a dedicated careers channel on Teams, as well as the careers platform Unifrog. All students
participate in several Curriculum Enrichment Days (CEDs) each year which feature a range of Careers Education, Information, Advice and Guidance (CEIAG) activities. Our tutor time Friday Fixtures include half-termly Friday Futures sessions where alumni talk to all students about their education and career paths.
4. Co-Curricular
Alongside our ethos and taught curriculum there is strong provision for co-curricular activities.
St Anne’s has a wide range of activities, clubs and trips that students can get involved in outside of lesson time. Whether they’re musical, sporty, creative or simply need a bit of support with homework, there’s something for everyone.
5. Community
Students can gain recognition for their service and the contribution they make outside of the school within their local, national and international communities.
We aim to provide opportunities for all our students to interact and build positive relations with those from different backgrounds, within and beyond educational settings and local communities.
This is to equip them with the skills and knowledge to become active citizens in wider society. Being a positive influence in our communities supports the common good of all.
Examples of activities include any volunteering, acting as a tour guide for future St Anne’s students and their families at school open events and helping out at the Pensioners’ Party in school.
6. Captainship
Our students are given every opportunity to learn to lead. We recognise that this process will be full of opportunities to reflect as well as opportunities to celebrate.
We believe that everyone can be a leader. We have a formal Student Leadership structure at St Anne’s. There are also informal opportunities including leading activities in and out of lessons, representing their House in sports and helping organise school events.
Reflection and recognition
Each term students log the activities they have taken part in and if they complete all six areas, they receive a certificate and are recognised in celebration assemblies. At the end of each term we also ask students to reflect on the areas of SAIL they can develop further.
STUDENT LEADERSHIP AT ST ANNE’S
There are a wide range of opportunities to take on a leadership role for students across all year groups. Our student executive committee consists of our Head Girls, Student Head of Sixth Form, House Captains and Year 11 Senior Prefects and this group meets regularly with a member of SLT to discuss school issues and give feedback. In addition, each tutor group has their own student leaders fulfilling a range of duties to support the tutor and the smooth operation of the school.
We believe that everyone can be a leader. Students have both formal and informal leadership opportunities. The information below outlines the formal Student Leadership structure at St Anne’s.
Head Girls
Our Head Girls are the faces of St Anne’s, promoting all that is good about the school to our own girls, Sixth Form, and staff as well as to parents, governors, and members of the public. They are also leaders of other aspects of school life, most notably in their management of the School Executive Team (seven House Captains and seven Senior Prefects).
Student Head of Sixth Form
The purpose of this role is to be the public face of St Anne’s Sixth Form. The Student Head of Sixth Form not only represents the Sixth Form student body to SLT, but they represent all Sixth Form students to parents, governors and members of the public.
House Captains
The House Captain leads a number of lower school leaders. They have responsibility for big events such as house assemblies and house charity events but they also make sure they know about what is going on in other areas of school life: student voice, chaplaincy and sports being the most important. House Captains represent the school at public events and are required to set positive examples in all that they do.
“As the Student Head of Sixth Form, I strive to enhance the overall sixth form experience for everyone. I work to create a supportive and inclusive environment where every student feels valued and heard. Here at St. Anne’s we have an amazing community that empowers students to reach their full potential.”
Theo, Student Head of Sixth Form
Head Girls
Student Head of Sixth Form
“Being Head Girl is nothing short of a challenging and fulfilling role, where I find myself constantly growing as an individual. From leading assemblies to assisting younger students, I help to build an encouraging environment where everyone in our school feels valued.” Christine, Head Girl
“As
Head Girl, I have experienced first-hand the incredible support and opportunities at St Anne’s. Student leadership is encouraged, making it a vibrant place to learn and grow whilst also creating a place where we feel connected and empowered.” Anjali, Head Girl
PREFECTS
House Prefects
Senior Prefects - Provide example and leadership to the student body. They are responsible for leading their house team of prefects and overseeing the academic prefects. They participate fully in school events, charity events, optional events and act as a beacon to other students.
Student Voice Prefects - Liaise with other prefects, House Captains and Head Girls to discuss and share information and opinions to help support our school community.
Chaplaincy Prefects – Support their house with events and collective worship as well as assisting the Chaplaincy team. They model excellent collective worship and support younger Chaplaincy Reps with their role.
Sports Prefects – As well as supporting the work of the PE department they help to co-ordinate sports captains from lower year groups and support them in motivating their tutor group to take part in a wide range of sporting events.
Academic prefects
Assist department staff in the smooth running of the department, for example at clubs or special events. Prefects often get involved with displays and mentoring younger students, too. They do lunch duties and help in bigger school events.
Tutor Group Representatives
• Form Captains
• Form Vice-Captains
• Student Voice Captains
• Chaplaincy Reps
• Sports Captains
• Eco Reps
CO-CURRICULAR PROVISION
St Anne’s has a wide range of activities that our students can get involved in outside of lesson time. Whether you’re musical, sporty, artistic, or simply need a bit of support with your homework, there’s something for everyone.
“The diversity in our school is amazing. You can always rely on any adult to talk to and you can always have your say. There are a lot of co-curricular clubs to participate in.” Year 7 student
“When accessing the Library, our amazing librarian Miss Vlismas helps me find books that can be benefit me in class. She also helps me when it comes to creative writing and exploring different genres in English. I like borrowing books from the Library because I like physically holding books and it keeps me away from screens!” Year 8 student
WHY GET INVOLVED?
To have fun doing something you enjoy.
Gain knowledge beyond the classroom.
Build your self confidence.
Develop life skills such as responsibility, leadership and communication; all important skills when applying to the next stage of education or employment.
Meet new people with similar interests.
We expect all students to get involved with at least one co-curricular activity a week. Our offer of clubs and activities varies slightly year on year but here is a summary of the wide range of activities we have been able to offer students in recent years. A large proportion of these opportunities are available to students across all year groups, either together or with separate key stage appropriate sessions depending on the activity.
Chaplaincy
• Creative Craft club
• Shine club
• Interfaith club
• St Vincent De Paul club
• Meditation club
• Weekly Mass
Sports
• Athletics
• Badminton
• Basketball
• Cross-country
• Dance
• Fitness
• Football
• Gymnastics
• Netball
• Rounders
• Table-tennis
• Tennis
• Trampolining
Curriculum Support
• Art Catch Up
• DT Catch-up Club
• Eureka KS3 STEM Club
• KS3 Maths workshop
• Homework Club (daily)
Music and Performing Arts
• A Cappella Choir
• Brass Ensemble
• Cantabile
• Clarinet Ensemble
• Concert Band
• Drama Club
• Flute Choir
• Grade 5 Theory Club
“Sports at St Anne’s has enabled me to forget about any stresses related to my academic studies, by relaxing and having fun participating. I love how I can get involved in PE at both recreational and competitive levels, such as being part of the school netball and rounders teams, and competing in city athletics and rock challenge. Moreover, physical education at St Anne’s allows people to come together to enjoy the excitement and elation that sports can bring.”
Year 10 student
• Guitar Club
• Guitar Ensemble
• String Ensemble
• Voicepops Choir
Other
• Board Games Club
• Chess and Cards Club
• Creative Writing Club
• Film making in Foreign Languages
• Gardening Club
• German Club
• Italian Club
• Japanese / Korean Animé Club
• Knit and Natter
• Magazine Club
• Reading Club
• STEMettes
• Textiles Club
• Young Entrepreneurs Club
• Youth Speaks debate club
Co-curricular activities for older students
• Christian Union
• GCSE Further Maths Club
• GCSE History
• French Grammar Club
• Spanish Grammar Club
• Cyber Discovery
• Duke of Edinburgh
• Film Club
• Senior Singers
• Senior String Ensemble
“I love that we have a lot of options for co-curricular clubs and we work on teamwork . We also have a lot of support from teachers and peers.”
Year 9 student
“I love that we have supportive teachers, have a variety of different clubs and we get to learn new things.” Year 8 student
CAREERS EDUCATION AT ST ANNE’S
We passionately believe that the education of a young person is about much more than just exams and qualifications and thanks to our ethos, this belief is embedded in everything we do. We seek to develop our young people’s ability to identify their skills, qualities, and attributes, make well-informed and supported decisions about their next steps at all stages of their time with us and to be aspirational and enthusiastic about their future plans.
Therefore, we take great pride in providing access to excellent careers information, education and guidance from Years 7 to 13 delivered via tutors, Heads of Year and careers specialists. We have strong links with local universities, colleges and CEIAG providers and are continually improving our Alumni network and links with local business and enterprise.
In addition to this the Careers department also delivers personalised, age and stage related CEIAG support and intervention at key points in our young people’s journeys; covering everything from the range of jobs available, to work experience, and college, university, and apprenticeship applications.
The combination of all of this support and input, enables our students to become confident young people, able to use careers, education and local labour market information, to make informed choices about the subjects they choose to study, the qualification and educational pathways they follow and the career paths they explore, and more importantly moulds them into mature, knowledgeable citizens ready to take up their place in the working world and make positive contributions to their community and society as a whole.
During their time at St Anne’s students have access to a careers advisor on request, along with scheduled appointments at key transition times to assist them with making the right choices about their future education and employment.
TRANSITION
At St Anne’s we understand the importance of a careful and considered transition to secondary school. We know this is both an exciting and nerve-racking time for pupils and their families.
Our dedicated and passionate Head of Year 7 works tirelessly, alongside her team of Year 7 pupil ambassadors, to ensure all pupils and families have the information, support, and reassurance they need to make this change with confidence.
Our team ensures that every future St Annian, and their family, is provided with opportunities to hear about their new school prior to Year 6 transition day via a combination of face-to-face and virtual meetings with staff and, more importantly, pupil ambassadors.
In addition, we gather information from primary schools to ensure a smooth transition. Pupils also get the opportunity to nominate two friends to share a tutor group with (from any school) and we work very hard to accommodate these choices as much as we can.
Families also receive a special information pack containing a welcome letter from the Head of Year 7, a ‘Moving to St Anne’s’ booklet containing lots of information and top tips, and postcards to remind new pupils of the planned visit(s) to St Anne’s, what to bring on their first day and each day. There is lots of practical advice and information, an ‘All about me’ sheet to enable students to share information about themselves with their new form tutor, and Head of Year, and feel part of the St Anne’s community before they have even arrived on their first day!
EHCP pupils
We offer extra transition provision for EHCP pupils, as required, to ensure they, and their families, feel safe and secure about making the transition and these are designed on a bespoke basis to ensure they best suit the individual
pupil, and may include attendance at a ‘singlies’ event and/or TA or SENDCO visits to their primary school to liaise with staff.
Singlies
Each year there are a number of students, we call our ‘Singlies’, who join the St Anne’s family as the only pupil arriving from their primary school, so rest assured we ensure our singlies take part in at least one special transition event day (either online or in person) where they get the chance to get to know one another. These students are then placed in tutor groups in small groups to ensure there are some friendly face on their first day and every morning from then onwards!
Transition Day
On secondary transition day in July, Year 6 pupils from around the city visit their new secondary school. At St Anne’s they spend the day getting to know their tutor group and tutor, as well as other staff, participating in sample lessons and taking part in fun games and activities to build relationships and confidence. It is a wonderful day that all of the staff and pupils involved really enjoy and the buzz of excitement can be felt all round the school.
In the evening, there is a special transition event for parents which gives parents the opportunity to meet key staff, find out more about the school and have any questions answered.
YOUR TRANSITION STEP BY STEP
1 Welcome email from the Head
2 Enrolment information emailed to parents followed by a link to Year 7 Enrolment pack for parents to fill out being sent from web platform Applicaa
3 Admissions packs sent out
4 All primary schools contacted to gather transition information including Special Educational Needs, English as an Additional Language and Social, Emotional and Mental Health Needs
5 School visits set up - school staff offer to visit primary schools to meet pupils
6 Extra transition event (for pupils coming from schools with low numbers transitioning to St Anne’s, children with EHCP’s, and those with SEND and/or SEMH needs)
7 Transition Day - all new Year 7 pupils visit the school for a welcome day
8 Transition Evening – an opportunity for new Year 7 parents to come into school, hear from senior staff and meet the Head of Year 7 and Year 7 tutors
9 Q&A - parents submit questions to admissions@st-annes.uk.com and we respond via email
10 Secondary ready! The first day of the school term in September is a Year 7 only day to allow pupils the time and space to get to grips with their new environment
11 Year 7 Welcome Party run by Sixth Form student leaders – a chance for new Year 7 pupils to have fun playing team games and doing activities with their friends, meet their Sixth form Head girls, Student Head of Sixth Form and House Captain, and get in to the St Anne’s community spirit
12 Year 7 Pastoral Evening – an opportunity for Year 7 parents to come into school to meet their daughter’s tutor and discuss how they have settled in
“Helping students and families’ transition from their primary school to St Anne’s is the part of my job I am most passionate about. I love seeing the Year 6 students’ faces when they meet other St Anne’s students for the first time, reassuring them that like all new students before them, they will call someone the wrong name and get lost but that they too will live to tell the tale! Growing positive relationships with anxious parents and excited children is truly magical. Our transition activities ensure that all students meet a friendly face prior to transition day and have at least one opportunity to ask questions and feel confident about starting their new adventure with us! Head of Year 7
APPLYING FOR A PLACE HERE
ADMISSIONS PROCESS FOR YEAR 7
3 pieces of advice for main round on time applications for entry to Year 7:
• Apply on time. The deadline is the end of October.
• Use all your choices, even if you only want your daughter to go to St Anne’s.
• Supply all the information required.
We encourage all parents to ensure that they make an online application via their Local Authority and put their preferred school as first choice.
You are also requested to complete the Supplementary Information Form (SIF) if you wish to apply under category 1, 2, 5, 8, 9 or 11. The Supplementary Information Form should be returned to the Admissions Officer (admissions@st-annes.uk.com) electronically, or in person to the school by the deadline we set; failure to do so will mean that your child may not be placed in the correct category and this is likely to affect your child’s chance of being offered a place.
Please do read the SIF carefully and only supply the information requested. The SIF can be found at the end of the admissions policy as well as in a separate Word document on the policies section of our website.
We have pupils who come from a wide range of primary schools and from different areas of the city and beyond. For pupils who are unsuccessful in obtaining a place, we hold a waiting list and this is regularly reviewed and places are offered as places become available; typically due to pupils moving overseas or out of the area.
Information about how places have been allocated in previous years can be found on our website.
Admissions policies
Scan the QR code for up to date admissions policies and information.
ADMISSIONS PROCESS FOR YEARS 8-11
In Year Applications
If you need to apply for a place outside the normal entry to year 7, you can do this through your own local authority. You need to read our policy and complete a SIF (Supplementary Information Form) if required (see below). SIFs are then returned directly to the Admissions Officer at St Anne’s Catholic School, via reception or by email (admissions@stannes.uk.com).
Please do not apply for a school place if you are not yet living in the UK. If you do live in the UK, you will need to be able to show your move is confirmed and upcoming.
To apply for the start of the next academic year, please apply after the middle of July, when all waiting lists are reset.
Waiting list
As an oversubscribed school, St Anne’s operates a waiting list system. The full details are in the admissions policy on our website. When you apply, you are placed in the correct place on the waiting list, depending on the evidence we have at the time of application. You can always update this information if you move house or return your SIF. When you reach the top of the waiting list, you will be given the next available place if one becomes available.
The waiting list is cleared on 31st July and you would need to reapply for the following year at this point.
You will be advised of the outcome of your application in writing as soon as possible. Applicants must be informed of the outcome of their application within 15 school days of receipt of the application by the school, but the aim is to notify applicants of the outcome of their application within 10 school days of receipt.
You have the right to appeal to an independent appeal panel if your application is unsuccessful.
If you have any questions in relation to in-year admissions please contact admissions@st-annes.uk.com. You may also wish to discuss in-year applications with your local authority.
To view our admissions policies and for details of how to make for an in year application please visit our website.
DOES YOUR DAUGHTER HAVE AN APTITUDE FOR MUSIC?
Applicants to St Anne’s can apply to take our musical aptitude test and the highest scoring 20 pupils who achieve above the agreed pass mark will then be able to apply under category 4. Scan the QR code opposite to find out more.
To register contact the Admissions team by email (admissions@st-annes.uk.com) or phone 023 8032 8200 to register by the end of September the previous year to entry.
UNIFORM
YEARS 7-11 UNIFORM
Compulsory
From Skoolkit or Kool Skools:
• Dark navy blue V-Neck monogrammed regulation school pullover (cardigans not allowed) OR Regulation dark navy blazer with school badge (students can have both if they wish but this is not compulsory).
• Dark navy-blue skirt – regulation style only, length; knee level to mid-calf only OR tailored navy-blue regulation trousers; these must not be tight fitting (students can have both if they wish but this is not compulsory).
• Regulation light blue revered collar short sleeved blouse or regulation light blue revered collar long sleeved blouse
• Black low-heeled polishable shoes (examples of footwear which are not permitted include but are not limited to; sandals, canvas shoes, sling-back shoes, ballet shoes, fabric and/or multicoloured trainers and boots)
• Plain navy blue or black knee-length or ankle socks or plain navy blue or black opaque tights.
Please note:
Leggings must not be worn.
Coats must be removed inside school buildings.
Head Coverings
For those pupils who, for religious reasons, wish to cover their heads in school, the head covering should be plain navy blue and worn without any decoration. The navy blue should match the school uniform’s navy blue.
Further information
P.E. KIT
Compulsory
From Skoolkit or Kool Skools:
• Polo shirt with logo
• PE shorts OR PE trackpants (students can have both if they wish but this is not compulsory, leggings are not allowed.
You can purchase online or in store. Skoolkit have a branch in Totton (SO40 3BX) and a branch in Eastleigh (SO50 9FF).
From any supplier:
• White socks
• Trainers - no canvas plimsolls
• One-piece swimming costume, swimming hat and towel
• Large drawstring bag to contain kit
• Blue, black or natural colour hair bands (long hair should be tied back)
Optional additional PE kit items
From Skoolkit or Kool Skools:
• St Anne’s ¼ zip sweatshirt
• St Anne’s PE skort
• St Anne’s long sleeve round neck polo shirt
From any supplier:
• Goggles for swimming lessons
Scan the QR code for the most up to date information about uniform including rules relating to jewellery and hair.
SUPPORT FOR FAMILIES
At St Anne’s we consider all of our families to be part of our school community, and recognise the importance of working in partnership with families. We pride ourselves on living out our LSU virtues of simplicity, hospitality, openness and warm relationships.
Pre-loved uniform and clothing
We are lucky to receive lots of donations of pre-loved uniform. If your family is struggling to afford uniform items you daughter can always speak to her Head of Year or a pastoral support worker in the hub. Donations of pre-loved uniform items are always welcome and can be donated at reception.
Free school meals
We want to make sure that we are providing your child with the best education and support we can. Healthy school food has obvious health benefits and can help pupils establish healthy habits for life. Healthy school food can also help to improve pupils’ readiness to learn. Families who receive certain benefits may be eligible for free school meals. Pupils eligible for free school meals receive credit on their account each day to allow them to buy a hot or cold meal and a drink from the canteen. Please visit our website (QR code below) for details of the eligibility criteria for free school meals. If you think your child is eligible, please contact us at school so we can provide you with a link for the online application form. Pupils who are eligible for free school meals may also be eligible for other support.
Other helpful information
Scan the code to access more information about support for families.
Frequently asked questions
Scan the code to visit our useful frequently asked questions page for pupils and parents.
WHAT MAKES STUDENTS PROUD OF OUR SCHOOL?
“How diverse we are and that we treat every culture and people from different ethnic backgrounds with respect.”
”Teachers encourage you to be the best person you can be and help you daily.”
“The amount of support and help we get.”
“The inviting and warm atmosphere in the school.”
“St Anne’s always tries to support those in need.”
“Everyone is welcomed in our community and the teachers are really thoughtful and supportive.”
“We’re all open to learning about other people’s cultures.”
“The community and quality of teaching, as well as opportunities to take on roles within the school with more responsibility.”
“The teachers are wonderful and work really hard and support students! “
“That I am part of the St Anne’s family.”
“Eco Club and Arms Around The Ocean Club is something that I’m proud of when people mention St Anne’s, because looking after the Earth is looking after everyone.”
“Students, parents and staff are proud of their school.”
Catholic School Inspection Report 2024
“I feel that there is a strong sense of community compared to other schools.”
“My role as student voice representative.”
“You have given me an opportunity to explore my passions and help shape my pathway with so many more opportunities.”
“Being able to represent the school at external events.”
TRAVELLING TO ST ANNE’S
At St Anne’s School we encourage students, parents and staff to travel to school actively by cycling, scooting and walking wherever possible.
Many of our pupils walk, cycle or scoot to school and we have two sets of bike racks to store bikes and scooters (not e-scooters). We are also well placed for walking routes from the city centre. For students unable to travel to school actively, we encourage the use of public transport or car-share. A number of bus stops and Southampton Central Station are a short walk away, making the school easily accessible via public transport.
For those pupils wishing to travel by public bus, you may wish to purchase a ticket directly from the bus companies in order to achieve the best possible saving.
For those pupils wishing to travel by train, St Anne’s is a 10-15 minute walk from Southampton Central railway station. There are regular morning and afternoon services to Swanwick, Fareham, Bursledon, Eastleigh, Hedge End, Totton and other local destinations.
Further information about local cycle routes to school, walking maps and links to public transport timetables can all be accessed from Southampton’s ‘My Journey’ website. A useful journey planner is also available there to support you in making the most practical decisions about travelling to St Anne’s.
St Anne’s Catholic School, Carlton Road Southampton, SO15 2WZ 023 8032 8200
info@st-annes.uk.com
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