St. James’ Catholic High School

1934. A time of change. St James’ Catholic High School opens its doors in Colindale, Barnet. A beacon of education, a haven for 310 students, guided by 10 dedicated teachers. The Dominican Sisters of the Congregation of St. Catherine of Siena, driven by their unwavering commitment to education, established the school. Cardinal Bourne, Archbishop of Westminster, recognized a need. The Watling housing estate, built to improve living conditions for Londoners, lacked Catholic secondary education. St James’ answered that call, becoming the sole mixed, non-selective Catholic school in London at the time. While other Catholic secondary schools catered to single-sex education and often required fees, St James’ welcomed all, regardless of gender or financial background. The school’s history is filled with notable figures. Sister Mary Catherine Walsh, the first headteacher, led St James’ from 1934 to 1969. A rather infamous alumnus, James Francis Hanratty, unfortunately met his end on the gallows for the A6 murder in 1962. Fast forward to 1997, and St James’ consolidated its presence, uniting on a single site in Colindale. In 2004, it further cemented its academic prowess by becoming a specialist Science and Sports College. Mr. Anthony Ellul now leads the school as headteacher, carrying the torch of education and ensuring St James’ Catholic High School continues to thrive. The school currently boasts around 1253 pupils, a testament to its enduring appeal and commitment to quality education.