Compare International Schools in St Andrews, United Kingdom

Location

St Leonards School is located in St Andrews, Fife, Scotland, KY16 9QJ. The address is St Leonards School, St Andrews, Fife, KY16 9QJ.

Stages

Coeducational; boarding and day; ages 4-18.

Type

Coeducational; boarding and day.

Pupil Nationality Mix

Students are from over 30 different nationalities.

Additional learning support

Our dedicated Support for Learning team caters for pupils with Dyspraxia, ADD/ADHD, Dyscalculia, Dyslexia and ASD. The team works across all four International Baccalaureate programmes and has dedicated Learning Support Hubs in both the Junior and Senior sections, as well as a large Supported Study classroom. Specialist one-to-one lessons are offered, with Support for learning in the Senior Years carrying an additional charge depending on requirements.

School day structure

Wraparound care runs 8:00am-5:10pm to accommodate busy families. Junior School drop-off starts at 8:00am, Kindergarten at 8:20am, and Years 1-6 enter classrooms from 8:35am. After-school activities run 3:50pm-4:50pm, and Leonard Link Club provides care until 6:00pm. In Senior School, the day runs 8:00am-4:50pm, with bus departure at 5:10pm.

Bus service

Wraparound care includes a school bus service; pupils travelling home by school bus are accompanied to the bus by a member of staff, and buses depart school at 5:10pm.

Application fee

- A non‑refundable application fee of GBP 120 is payable when submitting an application.

Tuition fees — Day pupils (2026/27 academic year)

- Kindergarten: GBP 12,240 per year (GBP 4,080 per term).
- Years 1–3: GBP 14,705 per year (GBP 4,901 per term).
- Years 4–6: GBP 18,215 per year (GBP 6,071 per term).
- Years 7–9: GBP 22,400 per year (GBP 7,466 per term).
- Years 10–11: GBP 23,795 per year (GBP 7,931 per term).
- Years 12–13 (Sixth Form/Pre‑University): GBP 23,795 per year (GBP 7,931 per term).

Tuition & boarding fees — Full board (2026/27 academic year)

- Boarding is available from Year 6.
- Years 4–6 (boarding): GBP 36,855 per year (GBP 12,285 per term).
- Years 7–9 (boarding): GBP 44,800 per year (GBP 14,933 per term).
- Years 10–11: GBP 57,415 per year (GBP 19,138 per term).
- Years 12–13 (Sixth Form / Postgraduate): GBP 57,415 per year (GBP 19,138 per term).
- Postgraduate Year: GBP 57,415 per year (GBP 19,138 per term).

Weekly & flexi boarding (2026/27 academic year)

- GCSE / CP / DP (Years 10–13):
- 3 nights: GBP 35,575 per year (GBP 11,858 per term).
- 4 nights: GBP 40,305 per year (GBP 13,435 per term).
- 5 nights: GBP 44,340 per year (GBP 14,780 per term).
- MYP (Years 7–9):
- 3 nights: GBP 30,765 per year (GBP 10,255 per term).
- 4 nights: GBP 33,440 per year (GBP 11,146 per term).
- 5 nights: GBP 36,130 per year (GBP 12,043 per term).
- PYP (Year 6):
- 3 nights: GBP 25,180 per year (GBP 8,393 per term).
- 4 nights: GBP 27,410 per year (GBP 9,136 per term).
- 5 nights: GBP 29,640 per year (GBP 9,880 per term).

What the fees include and VAT

- All education and boarding fees are stated inclusive of 20% VAT. Fees cover curriculum tuition, returnable textbooks, a three‑course lunch, a morning snack and after‑school activities led by St Leonards staff. Learning support is included at no additional cost for pupils in Years 1–6.

Costs not included (additional charges that may apply)

- Non‑returnable or damaged textbooks, insurance, school uniform, trips, examination fees and some external specialist activities.
- Stationery, school bus services, tuition for some additional languages and learning support for Years 7–13 may incur extra charges.
- Charges for immigration/visa services for international applicants are applied where relevant.

Uniform and second‑hand uniform

- Official uniform is supplied through Stevensons; appointments with the supplier are recommended and Stevensons visits the school at set times. A school‑run second‑hand uniform shop is available and operated by volunteers.

Billing schedule and payment terms

- Invoices for school fees are issued each term through the Engage Parent Portal. Families receive login details and invoice instructions when joining. Direct Debit is the preferred method for UK bank accounts; families paying from overseas may pay by bank transfer or cheque. The Finance Team handles fee queries at fees@stleonards‑fife.org.

Fee protection, security and supplementary arrangements

- Fee Protection Insurance for pupil absence and personal effects is available via the School's chosen provider (Marsh). Guidance on safeguarding fee payments and fraud prevention is provided to families.

Bursaries, remissions and scholarships

- Means‑tested bursaries are available for day pupils in Years 7–13; bursaries are awarded for 12 months and reviewed annually. Sibling fee remissions are available in cases with four or more children. A limited number of scholarships are offered at specified entry points; scholarship awards typically cover a percentage of the tuition element only.

Refunds, withdrawals and related terms

- Bursaries may be withdrawn in accordance with the terms on which they were awarded. Refunds, withdrawal of a place or charges applied on termination of attendance are governed by the School's Terms and Conditions and the Admissions Policy; the School's Terms and Conditions are provided to parents as part of the admissions contract.

Practical payment contacts and queries

- Fee queries and payment arrangements are handled by the Finance Team (fees@stleonards‑fife.org). The Director of Finance & Operations is the nominated contact for questions about financial assistance. Invoices, Direct Debit mandate forms and guidance are issued via the Parent Portal and joining documentation.

Boarding Arrangements

Boarding is available with flexi, weekly, and full-time options. A dedicated Boarding Information page and a boarding enquiries email provide details on life as a boarder and travel arrangements. Boarding houses include St Rule (younger pupils, co-ed), Bishopshall (Senior girls) and Ollerenshaw (Senior boys).

Uniform Requirement

School uniform is worn by pupils in Years 1-11. Sixth Form Dress Code applies for Years 12-13. Stevensons is the official uniform supplier and a St Leonards Second Hand Uniform Shop operates on site.

Food Options

Award-winning school meals are provided by Sodexo, with menus that change weekly and dietary requirements catered for. Boarding pupils are served in Restaurant 1877 and day pupils have snacks and lunch; weekend brunch is available in boarding houses.

House System

St Leonards operates a boarding house system with St Rule (younger pupils, co-educational), Bishopshall (Senior girls) and Ollerenshaw (Senior boys), each with its own handbook and house staff.

Governance and Ownership

The school is governed by a Board of Governors that supports senior leadership, shapes strategy and oversees finances. The Board includes a Boarding Governor and a Safeguarding Governor; governance matters can be directed to the company secretary.

Curriculum

St Leonards follows the International Baccalaureate continuum for ages 4–18. The Primary Years Programme is followed from Kindergarten to Year 6. The Middle Years Programme is used for Years 7–9. In Years 10–11, pupils follow a GCSE/IGCSE programme with a clear progression path to the Sixth Form. The Sixth Form offers two IB pathways: the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme and the International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme, complemented by a BTEC in the CRS. A Pre-Sixth Form (Pre-IB) year prepares pupils for Sixth Form, with English as an Additional Language support where required.

Exam Results

The Class of 2026 achieved a school-record average IB Diploma score of 35 out of 45, with 18% scoring 40 points or more and 88% of Higher Level grades at 7–5. Two pupils achieved 44 points. Graduates will continue to leading universities including the London School of Economics, University of St Andrews, University of Edinburgh and University College London, with destinations also in the United States, Canada, the Netherlands and Spain. The Class of 2026 also includes outcomes from the IB Career-related Programme and BTEC qualifications.

Higher Education Progression

The Class of 2026 will continue their education at leading universities including the London School of Economics, University of St Andrews, University of Edinburgh and University College London, with destinations also in the United States, Canada, the Netherlands and Spain. Destinations include institutions such as the University of Minnesota, Jacksonville State University, Webber International University, University of Stirling, Manchester Metropolitan University and Mountview Academy of Dramatic Arts.

Gifted and Talented

Advanced or gifted and talented pupils are identified and placed in class and supported with enrichment activities through the scholars programme.

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

The school places pastoral care, student wellbeing and support for learning at the heart of its work. The Wellbeing Hub is a central, staffed space for listening and support. The Wellbeing Team works across all four International Baccalaureate programmes and maintains dedicated Learning Support Hubs in both the Junior and Senior sections, plus a large Supported Study classroom in the Senior School. The department creates an educationally inclusive environment, recognises and celebrates diversity, and offers individualised support, including specialist one-to-one, paired and small-group sessions, learning skills workshops and exam-period support. Junior Years specialist one-to-one lessons are offered at no additional cost; Senior Years' support carries an additional charge depending on requirements.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)

The Support for Learning team caters for Dyspraxia, ADD/ADHD, Dyscalculia, Dyslexia and ASD. The team works across all four IB programmes and aims to meet the needs of each pupil on an individual basis.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

The language of instruction is English. All pupils are given the opportunity to study at least one language throughout their time at the school; languages taught include French, Latin, Spanish and German. English as an additional language (EAL) support is available where needed, including EAL courses as part of language development and access to language acquisition options.

Mental Wellbeing

The Wellbeing Hub is staffed throughout the week by the Wellbeing Team, offering a listening ear and non-judgmental support. The space provides mindfulness activities and a calm environment, and pupils can access the hub during school hours (Tuesday to Friday). There is always support at St Leonards.

Safeguarding

St Leonards is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Staff and volunteers receive ongoing training; there is a Child Protection Coordinator and Deputy Coordinators; safeguarding follows GIRFEC and related guidance; concerns must be reported to the CPC within 24 hours. Digital safeguarding and online safety are addressed; safer recruitment procedures and safeguarding records are securely managed; policies cover safeguarding across pupil transitions and missing from education procedures.

History

St Leonards has been at the forefront of education in Scotland – and the United Kingdom – since its foundation in 1877. Co-educational since 1999. The School began as St Andrews School for Girls, was renamed St Leonards and moved to its current site in 1883. Key milestones include Shackleton opening the science buildings in 1910, Queen Mary's Library opening in 1927, and WWII years when the school housed Wycombe Abbey pupils (1942-46). IB was introduced in 2006; the school has earned multiple national recognitions, including 2019 Sunday Times Scotland Independent School of the Year and 2024 award for Academic Performance, with 2020 recognition for offering all four IB programmes and 2022-23 awards; the 150th anniversary is planned for 2027.

Community

The school maintains a global alumni network that nurtures lifelong friendships and mentoring opportunities. Holiday Clubs provide an engaging programme during school breaks for pupils and the wider community. The St Leonards Parents Association runs events such as Burns Night Ceilidh, Christmas Fair, and Pumpkin Party, and publishes monthly newsletters; a PA Class Representatives network connects parents. The Second Hand Uniform Shop is run by the St Leonards Parents Association.

Parent Teacher Association (PTA)

The St Leonards Parents Association (PA) brings together our St Leonards community of pupils, parents, and staff. All parents and guardians of St Leonards pupils are automatically members. The PA operates a varied events calendar, including Burns Night Ceilidh, Christmas Fair, and Pumpkin Party. Monthly PA newsletters keep families informed about meetings and events. PA Class Representatives network helps parents stay connected, organise coffee meetups, and engage with school life. The Second Hand Uniform Shop is run by the PA.

Facilities Overview

St Leonards School sits on a historic campus in the heart of St Andrews, Fife. Queen Mary's Library is central to teaching and learning in the Senior School, providing print and digital resources and space for independent and group study with librarian support. St Katharines Hall is the smaller gym hall in the Junior School. Outdoor spaces include a dedicated outdoor classroom with a fire pit and log stools, an outdoor amphitheatre for open-air assemblies, and the St Leonards Croft where pupils grow vegetables and bee-friendly plants. The Yurts provide flexible rehearsal or mindfulness spaces, while on-site boarding comprises three refurbished houses with modern kitchens and dining rooms; Priorsgate Apartments offer additional accommodation. The campus is surrounded by beaches and world-renowned golf courses in St Andrews.

Sports Facilities

St Leonards has grass playing fields, all-weather pitches, squash courts, a 25-metre indoor swimming pool, and a gymnasium. Two floodlit Astroturf all-weather pitches are available for hire and can double as tennis courts in summer. The Golf Academy operates with an eight-tier programme in partnership with St Andrews Links. Squash courts and the indoor gym provide spaces for a wide range of sports and fitness training. The facilities support swimming, hockey, rugby, lacrosse and other team sports.

Academic Facilities

Queen Mary's Library is central to teaching and learning in the Senior School, providing resources to support the curriculum and spaces for independent and group study. It is staffed by a librarian during the school day, with Sixth Form access for prep and a dedicated library website and catalogue. The library houses fiction and non-fiction texts and supports the Extended Essay as part of the IB Diploma Programme. The Science Buildings opened in 1910 and were among the earliest science facilities for girls. The IB curriculum guides Middle Years Programme (Years 7-9) and GCSE/Sixth Form studies, with subjects spanning Biology, Chemistry, Physics, languages such as French, German, Spanish and Latin, and a range of Design subjects.

Extra Curricular Facilities

There are over 50 co-curricular activities on offer throughout the year, with options after school and during lunch or break times. Junior Activities include Art Club, Beach Club, Choir, Construction Club, Drama, Gardening Club, Gymnastics, Judo and more. Senior Activities include Rugby, Flying Club, the Duke of Edinburgh Award, Equestrian, Rifle Shooting, Musical ensembles, Climbing, Hockey, Strength and Conditioning, Swimming and more. The Golf Academy operates in partnership with St Andrews Links, offering an eight-tier programme for pupils of varying ability.

Academic & Intellectual

The school follows the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum, including the Diploma Programme (DP) and Career-Related Programme (CP). The curriculum covers Mathematics; Languages (French, German, Spanish, and Latin); English; and the Sciences, across Years 7–9 as part of the Middle Years Programme. All Year 9 pupils undertake an extended Community Project, bringing together strands from their learning. English as an Additional Language is available for pupils whose first language is not English.

Arts & Creative

The Arts are included in the curriculum, with Visual Arts and Music. Pupils can take individual music lessons with specialist music teachers. The co-curricular programme includes Art Club, Choir, Drama, and Musical ensembles. Senior Activities expand opportunities with musical ensembles and other arts-related offerings.

Cultural & Language

Languages taught include French, German, Spanish, and Latin; English as an Additional Language. French is taught from Year 1 to Year 7; Latin from Year 6 to Year 9. Pupils have the opportunity to participate in the DELF qualifications. Pupils study at least one language throughout their time at the school.

Social & Hobbies

There are over 50 co-curricular activities on offer throughout the year. Senior Activities include Rugby, Hockey, Golf, Equestrian, Rifle Shooting, and Flying Club. A wide range of clubs includes Art Club, Beach Club, Choir, Construction Club, Drama, Gardening Club, Gymnastics, and Judo. Duke of Edinburgh Award is part of the Senior Activities.

Community & Service

The International Baccalaureate emphasises developing civic responsibility and life skills, including project management, teamwork, reflection, caring, open-mindedness, and self-confidence. Year 9 pupils undertake an extended community project that identifies a local, national or international need and proposes action. The school also emphasises community involvement and service as part of its IB personal and academic development.

Leadership & Professional

Model United Nations (MUN) and Debating connect pupils to a global network, fostering leadership and international engagement. Duke of Edinburgh's Award expeditions develop leadership, planning and teamwork. Strategic Development Plan includes Careers, Employability, Leadership and Life Skills modules taught in Years 7–11. The Postgraduate Year combines broad academics with enrichment and life skills, supporting students as they plan next steps.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing

Outdoor Education is central to learning, featuring an outdoor classroom, bushcraft, an outdoor amphitheatre, and the St Leonards Croft. Duke of Edinburgh's Award expeditions support physical and personal development in a coastal setting. There are around 400 day pupils, and boarding is available with options for full, weekly or flexible arrangements. Boarding enquiries are handled by the Admissions team at boarding@stleonards-fife.org.

Language Provision

English is the language of instruction; English as an Additional Language is provided where needed, and mother tongue development is supported with resources in multiple languages. In Years 7-9, languages include French, German, Spanish and Latin, with EAL as a dedicated course. GCSE/DP language options include French, German, Spanish and Latin, with Ab Initio options and other languages offered on demand (including Japanese, Mandarin, Dutch and Russian) and possibly subject to fees. In Sixth Form, Group 1 languages are Chinese, Dutch, Italian, German, French and Russian, while Group 2 languages include English, German, French, Spanish, Latin and Italian; mother tongue resources are provided in libraries for French, German, Russian, Chinese, Spanish and Italian, with related activities through clubs and support services.

Bilingual Teaching

The language of instruction is English for all pupils. English as an Additional Language is provided where needed, and mother tongue development is supported and valued, with resources provided in multiple languages.

Immersion Programs

Four-Week Summer Immersion is a summer programme for Years 7-9 that fully immerses pupils in the IB Middle Years Programme, combines academics with boarding life and activities, and includes four weeks of study, an activities week, and full boarding. It runs in June and offers an IB learning experience within a boarding environment.

Admissions

Step 1 – Visit Us. Arrange a visit to tour the campus; Open Mornings are held in May and October; during Senior School visits there is an informal interview with the Head or Head of Junior School. The Admissions Team is available to assist with arranging a visit. Step 2 – Make Your Application. Complete the online application and pay the £120 application fee; the application reserves a space while the admissions process continues, but does not guarantee a place. Copies of the last two school reports and a short personal statement detailing interests, hobbies and future aspirations are required. There is high demand for spaces and some year groups have waiting lists. International Applicants: The school is an all‑through IB school welcoming students from international destinations, with over 38 nationalities represented; visas with a CAS can be provided to enable a visa application, and English language support is available. Step 3 – Entrance Tests & Taster Days. After submission, a Taster Day is arranged, with overnight tasters available for boarding. For Years 1–3, there is no formal assessment during the visit. For Years 4–6, a Taster and CAT4 are conducted during the visit. For Years 7–13, a CAT4 assessment is required and a Taster day or overnight stay is arranged for boarding; Sixth Form applicants whose English is not their first language should have English at IELTS 5.5–6 or B2 First for Schools, and English Language Support is available. Step 4 – Offers. The School makes an offer of a place via email after the process; the offer includes a deadline to accept or decline, and joining information and induction details are provided after acceptance. For any questions, contact the Admissions team. Step 5 – A Warm Welcome. Once an offer is accepted, new pupils are welcomed on their agreed arrival dates.

Scholarships

Scholarships are awarded to current and new pupils based on achievement, recognizing exceptional talent in academic studies, art, music, drama, sport and golf. A scholarship day is held during the Autumn Term (Sixth Form) and Spring Term (other year groups) for assessment purposes.

Waitlist

There is high demand for spaces and some year groups have waiting lists.