Who we are

At City of London School, we understand that for pupils to thrive they must be happy. It is why we cherish individuality, shun stereotypes, and encourage every pupil to be the very best version of themselves. With a vibrant, multicultural city on our doorstep, we draw strength from difference, recognising that diverse perspectives can help answer big questions.

As a result, every member of our community is keenly aware of their responsibility and capacity to make a difference, right now. Through it all, we ensure our pupils are ready for the rapidly changing demands of the coming decades. This shows in our commitment to academic excellence, but also in our restless curiosity and desire to improve in everything we do. It means our pupils are equipped to provide the kind, inquisitive and respectful leadership that our society will so urgently require in the decades ahead.

Our Vision

We aspire to be a school that fully prepares respectful, optimistic and inquisitive pupils for the rapidly changing demands of the twenty-first century. We aim always to provide an education in the broadest sense, combining academic excellence with exceptional pastoral care, framed by an outward-looking and forward-thinking approach. We also strive to make that education available to as many talented pupils as possible.

We intend to be: 

• Kind

A considerate community of people who care for others as much as themselves.

We understand how excellent pastoral care underpins every achievement. We support and help to develop our pupils’ health, happiness and well-being so that they can succeed at school and beyond.

We nurture self-development and self-awareness so that every member of our community can become the best version of themselves.

Every person has equal value, and we treat others as they would like to be treated. 

We have empathy for others – at school, in our community and in wider society. Our relationships are warm, honest and supportive.

• Aware

A diverse community that understands our world.

There is strength in difference. Reflecting the multicultural city on our doorstep, our pupils and staff embrace and celebrate diverse voices, recognising that they improve their understanding of the world.

We nurture a deep-seated sense of social responsibility. Our pupils know that there are others less fortunate than they are and strive to make a positive difference at school and beyond.

We are active partners. We have a strong relationship with the City of London Corporation and the other City Schools, including the City of London School for Girls.

Our wider community makes us powerful. We are enriched both by an extensive programme of transformative bursaries and by our collaborations with schools, businesses, arts organisations, and many other partners across London.

• Ready

A forward-looking community prepared for the 21st century.

We are unashamedly academic. Our teaching is rigorous and exceptional, and our teachers challenge pupils appropriately and sensitively, so that they can thrive in university, work and life.

We stimulate curious minds. Our pupils have a restless inquisitiveness and lifelong joy of learning which equips them for a fast-changing world. Our staff strive constantly to adapt and develop their practice.

We explore our passions and encourage our pupils to discover what excites and inspires them. It helps them become rounded people, well placed to forge their own path through life.

We shape the future. Our pupils combine kindness, respect and curiosity to become the leaders of tomorrow, creating positive change in our society.