FAQ
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At what age do you take children into the nursery?
We accept boys and girls aged between 3 and 5 years old.
How many boys attend the nursery?
This varies each session but there is generally a healthy mix of both boys and girls.
Are Pre-school children in Craigholme Nursery automatically accepted into Junior 1?
The majority of pupils move into Junior 1. Pre-school girls are assessed in January/February. This means that there is, in most cases, ample time to address any difficulties.
Is it possible to use the nursery for two to three days only?
We offer a flexible service tailored to the needs of parents, although we advise that children attend a minimum of five mornings a week to ensure that they experience the majority of the curriculum.
HALF DAY 08:30-12:30
FULL DAY 08:30-15:00
EXTENDED CARE 08:00-08:30 / 15:00-17:45
Children can attend a half day or a full day as well as an extended care service outwith standard hours.
Is it possible to visit the school prior to submitting an application?
Yes. We encourage you and your daughter to come and see Craigholme in action. As well as our annual open events in early November, parents can organise an independent visit through the school's Admissions Secretary, Shirley Reid (telephone 0141 427 0375).
What is the average class size?
At both junior and senior levels, class sizes average 15. Commitment to small class sizes is a key ingredient to our pupils' successes, both academically and socially.
What is the admissions procedure for Craigholme?
Our prospectus pack, which contains an application form, can be requested online within the Admissions section of our website. Alternatively, parents can request a pack by calling 0141 427 0375.
Upon receipt of your application form, our Admissions Secretary will organise your daughter's assessment. Assessment tests traditionally take place at the end of January, although we are happy to make alternative arrangements for applications received later in the session.
The school does not supply past assessment papers. Our entrance assessment has been designed to recognise individual pupils' potential; it is not simply an academic test. Where appropriate, assessment results are taken into consideration alongside a report from your daughter's previous school.
Are Junior 1 and Senior 1 the only entry points?
No. Applications are invited at every stage of the curriculum.
When are the open events?
Our open events take place in early November; please check our website calendar for confirmation of this year's dates. Our Nursery and Lower Junior School (Junior 1-3) hold open mornings. This provides prospective parents with the opportunity to come along and see our pupils in action.
The Upper Junior School (Junior 4-7) and Senior School host a combined open evening for both prospective and existing parents. Tours are conducted by pupils, and staff are on hand to answer any questions you may have.
Parents are also welcome to organise an independent visit through the school's Admissions Secretary, Shirley Reid (telephone 0141 427 0375).
What is the school roll?
We are a medium-sized school with 490 pupils. This enables us to retain small class sizes, averaging 15 pupils.
Is the girls only environment too protective?
No, an all girl school is not a soft option. Our ethos, which is supported by research and academic results, is based on the belief that the single-sex setting creates a most effective and complete learning environment, offering girls every opportunity to fulfil their personal and career ambitions.
Boys and girls mature at different rates and a single-sex setting allows girls to relax and learn alongside their true peer group without any distractions.
We focus on developing self-confident individuals who are motivated to achieve their full academic and personal potential.
Girls' schools build confidence, assertiveness and the ability to shape and voice girls' own opinions. No subjects or positions are barred. There are positive role models, with many women leaders.
The all girl environment means that our educational approach can be specifically tailored to the meet the needs of female pupils. For girls, the emotional atmosphere in the classroom must be right to ensure good progress. Our teachers can focus on this.
How do girls cope when they have to mix with boys?
Absolutely fine. Our pupils regularly mix with boys at social events, such as school discos and dances and other inter-school activities. Pupils also come into contact with male staff.
Of course, we accept that the real world is all about co-existence and it is perfectly possible to achieve this having enjoyed all the benefits of a single-sex education.
What do entrance tests involve?
Our assessments vary depending on the stage of entry applied for. At Nursery and Junior 1 level, our staff evaluate social skills.
Children develop at different rates; consequently, we take the whole person into consideration. The assessment, which is considered in tandem with a reference from your child's previous school, measures literacy and numeracy skills.
Are there opportunities for parents to be involved in school life?
Yes. The school has an active parents' association (CSPA) which welcomes committee members and adhoc volunteers for internal events. There is also the opportunity to attend school trips as a volunteer. In addition, other committees related to the Board exist which are partly populated by parents.
Why should I choose an independent education for my daughter?
A number of unrivalled additional opportunities are available in the independent sector. With an average class size of 15, our teachers can ensure that all pupils have the opportunity to contribute in classroom discussions and activities.
Music, French and Physical Education are a key part of our curriculum from nursery level upwards.
Our pupils have a wide variety of extra-curricular activities to choose from, to enhance their physical, artistic and academic performance.
A further advantage of the independent sector is that our offering is not restricted by a Local Education Authority.
How accountable are independent schools?
All independent schools have to register with the Scottish Executive Education Department and are subject to the same style of inspections by the HM Inspectorate of Education as local authority schools. The Scottish Care Commission monitors and regulates care provision for pre-school pupils.
At Craigholme, we also have our own quality assurance systems and receive advice from the Scottish Council of Independent Schools (SCIS) and the professional organisations to which our Principal, Business Manager and Directors belong.
How can I afford an independent education?
Parents who have made an application and are concerned about meeting fee payments are advised to approach the school's Business Manager, Linda Trolan, for advice on planning ahead and payment options.
A limited number of means-tested bursaries is available to girls seeking entry at Secondary 1, although applications for other secondary stages may be considered. The children of parents applying for a means-tested bursary are expected to: demonstrate ability and potential in English and Mathematics tests; have an excellent all-round report from their previous school; and show commitment to the ethos of Craigholme.
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