Frequently Asked Questions

Q. When was the school founded?

A. It was founded in 1811 in Lewisham for the sons of Congregational Ministers. Originally, there were six pupils. The school relocated to Caterham in 1884.

Q. What does the school motto mean?

A. Truth without fear.

Q. How long has the school been co-educational?

A. In 1981 girls entered the 6th Form and in 1995 it merged with Eothen Girls School.

Q. When is the entrance exam?

A. The entrance exams for pupils aged 11+ and 13+ take place in January. Interviews for 11+ take place in November.

Q. Can you get past papers for the entrance exam?

A. Yes. Maths and English are available but Verbal Reasoning is not.

Q. What bus services are there?

A. There are currently six bus routes plus a free bus from the station every morning. We also run a 6.00 late bus that travels a circuitous route.

Q. Is there any before school/after school supervision?

A. There is no early morning supervision although, as a school with boarding facilities, teachers are on the premises. There is a late class until 5.45.

Q. Is there a Parents’ Association?

A. Yes. It is very active and supportive.

Q. Is there a second hand uniform shop?

A. The Parents' Association operate second hand sales.

Q. Can day pupils board for a few days?

A. Subject to capacity and reasonable advance warning we can offer overnight or weekly boarding.

Q. Do you have assembly every day?

A. Either assembly or Tutor Periods

Q. What about the Christian side of the school?

A. We welcome children from all faiths or none. The school was founded for the children of Congregational Ministers and we still have strong connections to the United Reformed Church so we hold Christian values.

Q. Do have any Muslim students in your school?

A. Yes, we have a number of Muslim students as day students and as members of the boarding community.

Q. Is chapel compulsory for Muslim children?

A. Chapel is compulsory for the entire boarding community and students of all faiths and none attend. The services are of a broadly Christian nature. On occasions they are conducted by the students and reflect other faiths and cultures. In the past when there have been a particularly committed group of Muslim students they have been given permission to have their own organised prayer time during the Chapel service.