First year reflections

How did you first hear about St Andrew’s Cathedral School and what motivated you to enrol your daughter? 

Our daughter attended Claremont College which we loved and friends had told us that the culture at St Andrew’s Cathderal School was very similar, so that is how we first became interested. We wanted coeducation and the opportunity to study the International Baccalaureate (IB). We were also really impressed by Dr McGonigle.

What were your first impressions of the School? 

It was a friendly place and we thought the facilities were great when we went on the tour. Everything was really well-organised and there was lots of communication. There seemed to be an understanding of parents’ perspectives.

What challenges did you face as newcomers to the School? Who helped you overcome them?

The biggest challenge for us was not knowing people. The WhatsApp group for the year group organised by the Association of Parents and Friends (P&F) has been really useful, with parents jumping in and helping you learn what is happening. We went to the picnic for students and parents before the year started, and that was a good chance to meet people, as is the sidelines of winter sport. We’ve been to a few events such as the Showcase and the Year 7 parent social evenings. The other parents have been very friendly.

Has your daughter settled in – and has she made friends?

Yes, she has settled in really well to Year 7. The Tutor Group is organised with some students from our local area and she has made lots of friends. She’s doing well with her schoolwork and the Middle Years Programme (MYP). It’s been a very smooth transition to St Andrew’s Cathedral School which we are delighted about.

What has been the highlight for you for the year? 

The highlight has been the smooth transition. We really found that fantastic. In terms of events, we really enjoyed Showcase. The standard of music from all of the students was incredible. It really was a professional performance.

“The highlight has been the smooth transition. We really found that fantastic.”

What else have you enjoyed or has been helpful? 

The information session on study techniques was interesting. It’s fantastic that they are doing this in Year 7, understanding how to learn. By the time students get to Year 12, they will be experts. We never had that when we were at school and so we wasted time doing all the wrong sort of study. The Friday weekly digest is very helpful and informative and gives you a weekly progress report so you can discuss how school is going with your child.

Do you think the vertical design of our high-rise campus in the city has influenced your daughter’s experience?

She has become so much more independent this year and we think that’s from being in the city. She organises herself to meet up with friends and the transport to and from. She loves the rooftop and spends most of her free time there with her friends. That’s where she hangs out.

“She has become so much more independent this year and we think that’s from being in the city. She organises herself to meet up with friends and the transport to and from. She loves the rooftop and spends most of her free time there with her friends.”

Betty and Anthony Preshaw – Year 7 Parents

Betty, what was important to you about volunteering at Grandparents’ Day?

I thought it was a good opportunity to meet other parents and be part of the community. It was also a good chance to take some photos of Simona with her grandparents. It was busy but I enjoyed it. It was so well organized.

What advice would you give to a new family starting at St Andrew’s Cathedral School? 

Get involved so you can meet people. Get onto the WhatsApp group as soon as possible and go to as many events as you can. Welcome in the Square on the first day is good as was the welcome night where we could meet teachers and other parents.