St Andrew the Apostle School welcomed prospective students and their families for its annual Open Evening, giving visitors the opportunity to experience the school’s distinctive ethos, meet staff and students, and explore its new purpose-built facilities.
The evening provided families with the chance to visit subject areas, speak directly with teachers and students and learn more about the academic, pastoral and extracurricular opportunities available at St Andrew. The school moved into its new building in September 2025, marking an important new chapter in its development. St Andrew the Apostle is the first state-funded Greek Orthodox secondary school in the UK and combines its distinctive Christian character with an inclusive welcome to families from across the local community.
A central part of the evening was the opportunity for visitors to learn more about the school’s Greek Orthodox faith and cultural life. Father Gregory, who supports the school’s developing chaplaincy provision, met families and spoke about the place of faith within the everyday life of St Andrew. His work with the school includes supporting services, collective worship and students’ understanding of the Orthodox tradition.
Families were also able to see the school chapel, which has been deliberately positioned close to the entrance of the new building and provides a visible focal point for the school’s Christian mission. Prayer, collective worship and the school’s six values – Caring, Trustworthiness, Fairness, Respect, Responsibility and Forgiveness – form an important part of school life, alongside a strong commitment to ensuring that students of all faiths and backgrounds feel welcomed and respected.
The evening also highlighted the strength of the wider St Andrew community. Representatives of Friends of St Andrew (FOSA), the school’s parent and friends association, were present to introduce themselves to prospective families and explain how parents can become involved in supporting the school. FOSA helps strengthen links between families and the school, supports fundraising and provides another way for parents to contribute to school life.
Headteacher Chris Martin said: “Open Evening is one of the occasions when you really see what makes St Andrew special. Our new building is fantastic, but a school is ultimately about its people. I was particularly proud of our students, who welcomed families, spoke confidently about their school and demonstrated the kindness and respect we expect every day. We want every child who joins St Andrew to be known, cared for and challenged to achieve their very best.”
The school’s motto, “Ever to Excel,” reflects its ambition that students should continually strive to be the best version of themselves, academically and personally. Its Christian mission places service, character and community alongside academic achievement.
Following Open Evening, St Andrew will continue to welcome prospective families through school tours and other opportunities to experience the school during a normal working day.