Bootham School

The Quaker ethos permeates every aspect of the school - in particular the way in which pupils and teachers relate to one another. This lends a sense of calm and a quiet pace to the working of the school that enable individuals to flourish, confident that they are valued and respected as people. Pupils have a range of opportunities, both within the curriculum and in activities, to provide them with knowledge and insight into values and beliefs important for their own development and for understanding the opinions and beliefs of other people. High quality music, art and craft abound and contribute to the personal, social and cultural development of the pupils.

A journalist from The Guardian newspaper spent the day with us investigating life at a Quaker school. To see the full published report click hereThe quality most remarked on by visitors, new pupils and staff is the friendliness within the school, the importance and respect accorded to the individual, the tolerance of differences and people's openness, courtesy and honesty. The Quaker ideal of seeking out and addressing 'that of God in each person' is a difficult one at times, but continues to underpin people's progress towards unselfish responsibility. Today most staff and pupils are not Quakers themselves but it is the belief in these principles which guides and informs the working of the school.