Welcome to Lower School

The Lower School is led by Mrs Rosie Harris who oversees the wellbeing, pastoral care, discipline and academic progress of pupils in the First and Second Forms (Years 7 and 8). She works closely with her Deputies, Mr Baker and Mrs Ginsburg, who each take responsibility for one of the two year groups during their time in Lower School. 

The Lower School is a purposeful and supportive environment where pupils experience the very best start to senior school life. In small tutor groups, with dedicated pastoral support and access to expert teaching and first-class facilities, every pupil is known, encouraged and inspired.

When pupils join the First Form, they become part of a tutor group of up to 24 pupils, led by a dedicated Form Tutor who stays with them throughout their two years in the Lower School. These tutors play a vital role in helping pupils settle in, providing guidance and support as they adjust to new routines, friendships, and expectations. Alongside the tutors, the wider Lower School team is always on hand to support pupils with any aspect of their transition.

Pupils meet with their tutors twice a day for registration (except on Fridays when they are at Games). On Tuesdays, Thursdays, and some Wednesdays, they take part in longer tutor periods, which may include PSHEE lessons, form discussions, or assemblies on topics such as kindness, online safety, and digital wellbeing. Tutors also use these sessions to support pupils individually, address concerns, and build a strong sense of community within each form group.

Each tutor group is also supported by a Sixth Form prefect who attends sessions regularly, offering additional mentorship and serving as a friendly role model for younger pupils.

Read more here about our Pastoral Care and Wellbeing Programme at St Albans School

Trips and Activities

The first year concludes with a memorable five-day residential trip to Pen Arthur in Wales - a highlight of the Lower School experience.

In June, all pupils take part in our whole-school Enrichment Week, filled with exciting trips and engaging activities. These opportunities are not only fun but also help pupils build friendships, develop new skills, and grow in confidence and resilience through a wide range of hands-on, challenging experiences.

Read more about life in the Lower School in our latest Lower School newsletter.