St Gerard’s School in Bangor has been named one of the top 10 independent schools in Wales, securing the eighth spot in the prestigious Sunday Times Parent Power Guide.
This recognition comes on the back of a stellar year for the school, which has seen a 16% increase in student enrolment and some of the best A-Level and GCSE results in Wales. Headteacher Campbell Harrison, along with staff and students, celebrated these achievements as they reflect on the challenges and successes of 2023.
“It’s been an unbelievable 12 months, and to end the year ranked among the top 10 independent schools in Wales is the perfect Christmas gift,” said Mr Harrison. “The rise in learner numbers, our amazing exam results, and the major investment we’ve made into the school show how committed we are to our pupils and their families.”
Despite challenges in the private education sector, the school’s community of parents, carers, staff, and pupils has been described as a key factor in its success. Mr Harrison said the unity and dedication of everyone involved at St Gerard’s gives him confidence looking ahead to 2025.
This year, the school has undergone a major redevelopment, including the creation of a new library and a state-of-the-art Sixth Form suite. The new facilities feature modern furniture, a pool table, games machines, plush seating, and even a jukebox, offering a more dynamic and vibrant environment for students.
In a significant milestone, St Gerard’s now has all its primary and secondary pupils on the same campus for the first time in the school’s 110-year history. Additional improvements have been made to the school grounds, including an extension to the car park, new landscaping, better access and signage, a ‘wellness walk,’ and roof repairs. The school also invested £150,000 in a new heating system featuring seven state-of-the-art boilers.
As part of a broader rebranding initiative, the school also unveiled a redesigned website, a refreshed logo, new uniforms, and an interior redesign. Proposals are also in place for future developments, including five-a-side football pitches, a multi-use games area (MUGA), and upgraded sports facilities to further enhance student experience and engagement.
Business Manager Steve Griffiths expressed his pride in the school’s achievements. “We are delighted to have been ranked among the top 10 in Wales. This recognition is well deserved, given the investment and, more importantly, the massive effort from our staff, teachers, and pupils,” said Mr Griffiths.
He also stressed that despite the challenges facing independent schools across the UK, St Gerard’s remains focused on its key priorities and targets. “This is just the beginning. Nothing will deter us from continuing to raise the bar and ensure that we provide the best educational experience for our students.”
Looking ahead, St Gerard’s is committed to further improvements and continues to focus on offering a dynamic, supportive, and modern educational environment for its students.
