FAQ's

We understand that you may have questions about the kind of educational experience you will have at a high-quality, all-girls’ school like Chilton Saint James School.

The following Frequently Asked Questions have been compiled by asking current students, teachers and parents what information they thought would help those looking into an education at Chilton. 

Read on to learn about the enormous value that our approach to teaching has on all the stages of your school life.

Q. Why is a girls' school a good option for me?

A. Because everything that you do and want is taken seriously. 

Girls take centre stage at Chilton – doing, achieving, leading.

As a girls' school we set high standards for our students while recognising that each girl will excel at her own pace and in her own way. 

At a girls’ school there is a freedom to express yourself and to speak out, be heard, and engage in demanding discussions without worrying about what the boys might think of you.

You will be encouraged and challenged to explore a subject, expand upon a theory, test out a new idea.  Girls offer opinions, ask questions, debate issues and defend points of view.  You will know it's OK to take intellectual risks because the classroom is an arena for co-operative discovery.  It's also where you'll discuss critical questions about moral and ethical values.

Self-confidence and self-esteem come from experiencing success; being successful is what going to a girls' school like Chilton is all about.

Q. Do I have to be some sort of superstar to attend Chilton?

A. No, but you're likely to become one!  In fact, that is our aim. 

Achievement comes as much from having the right attitude and equal access as it does from having the “right stuff.” 

As Chilton’s Principal, Dr de Araugo says; “...girls thrive in girls' schools.  Not just the brains and the beauties and the sports stars, but every girl.  Quiet girls answer questions, slower learners are encouraged, girls of all shapes and sizes swim and run and perform, leadership is fostered.  Each voice is heard.”

There is great diversity among the young women who attend Chilton. There are few stereotypes.

Q. What are the teachers like?

A. Outstanding in many special ways.  After all, they have extensive experience teaching girls.  They understand the ways you will learn best and set high expectations for you.  They know what it will take for you to succeed, both now and in later life.

Chilton’s teachers are dedicated, supportive and deeply interested in their subject matter and their students.  You'll find them easy to talk with and easy to find when you have a question or an issue you want to explore.  They are the ones you will turn to again and again for inspiration, encouragement and understanding.  They will come to know you well and will support whatever it is you most want to do and become. 

Because your classes are small, you will receive the kind of attention and excellent instruction you need to help you achieve your very best.

Q. What do I do when I'm not in class?

A. Anything and everything.

Sports, music, drama, debating, community service, student publications, student leadership,  and countless other activities are as much a part of your education as the academic side.  The choices are many; opportunities abound.  You will both choose and be guided to a wide array of interesting projects, teams, committees, and productions.

Q. What about friends?

A. They will be easy to come by.  Friends and lifelong friendships are one of the hallmarks of Chilton Saint James School.

Chilton is home to students from dozens of different countries and cultures.  For many, it is the defining memory of their girls' school experience.  In a close-knit, safe community, with small classes and myriad co-curricular activities, friendships evolve naturally.

Saying goodbye to acquaintances from an old school can be hard, but one thing is certain - your list of friends will be enhanced, not diminished, and your circle of connections will span not only this country but around the globe.

Q. Without boys, how can a girls' school prepare me for the real world?

A. By helping you take charge of your own world first.  Finding your place among others, discovering your true self, is made easier when there are only girls. 

Have you ever gone to a girls' camp or been in a girls’ sports team or in a girls-only dance-troupe?  Add the challenge and excitement of learning and you'll have some sense of what it will be like.

Recent research has revealed that the way girls learn, the way they act and interact, is different from boys - not better or worse - just different.  Girls' schools offer girls the opportunity to learn their way, with courses and teaching strategies specifically designed for how girls learn best. 

The real world needs people who are competent, confident, caring, skilled, articulate, and prepared to meet the challenges of today.  A girls' only education at Chilton will give you a head start in all these areas.  The real world also needs more young women interested in and knowledgeable about technology, financial literacy, science, and mathematics.  At Chilton, you will succeed in these areas like never before.

Q. Will I have activities that involve boys?

A. Of course!  Chilton welcomes boys into selected academic, artistic, co-curricular and social events.  Dances, debates, plays, music groups, academic forums, sporting events and community service projects are just a few examples of the kinds of activities that often bring boys and girls together.  The good news is that there is time to be on your own and time to interact – the best of both worlds.

Q. Will I be as prepared for University as girls who go to co-ed schools?

A. In most cases even better!

A recent survey of graduates of girls' schools showed that they are more motivated and accomplished and have higher aspirations than their peers at co-educationl schools.

In a single-sex setting, girls focus on the subjects and options that are most important for them without the distraction of boys.

At Chilton you will be exposed to a wider range of opportunities and female role models, have your expectations heightened in a “can-do” environment, and be valued for who you are.  In essence, Chilton will give you freedom to learn.

What next?

If you would like to learn more about Chilton, why not attend one of our School in Action days. 

You can also read more about our admissions process or contact our Registrar, Miss Leigh Whitelaw, to find out more.