“Enter as boys but we leave as young men.” That is what a student said about St Thomas the Apostle College to Ofsted inspectors. St Thomas the Apostle College stands as a beacon of Catholic education for boys. It offers a co-educational sixth form since 2015.
St Thomas the Apostle College opened its doors in September 1965. It was first known as St. Thomas the Apostle School. The initial students came from English Martyrs and St Francis schools. In September 1967 boys from Archbishop Amigo joined them. Mr W. Uden was the first headmaster. Mr. D. Crawford was his deputy.
In September 1994, the school became grant-maintained. It was then known as St. Thomas The Apostle College. In 1998, it changed back to voluntary aided status.
Look around you. You see the four houses. They are named after English martyrs from the 16th century. These martyrs lived during the reign of Elizabeth I. The houses are Griffith, Gunstone, Saint John Jones and Saint John Rigby. Fun fact: St. John Jones was also known as Griffith during his time.
The school was rebuilt. Archbishop Peter Smith opened the new building in January 2013. The Catholic chapel was kept. It is central to the school’s Catholic life. The chapel is also important for the students’ pastoral care.
St Thomas the Apostle College is a high-achieving school. It ranks among the top schools in the country. This is based on student progress. Ofsted has rated the school as “outstanding” in all areas. The school’s motto is “Achieving Excellence with Care”.
The college insists on high standards. These standards include behavior and uniform. They also include attitude to learning and respect. The school offers a traditional curriculum. It also recognizes individual talents.
Many former pupils have achieved great things. Among them are footballers Ademola Lookman, Nigel Quashie, and others. Roy Kennedy is a politician who also attended St Thomas the Apostle College.
The 6th Form at St Thomas the Apostle College prepares students for higher education. It also prepares them for careers. The college has strong links with top universities. A high number of students go on to Russell Group universities.
Since 1965 St Thomas The Apostle College has served the Peckham community. The school reflects the multi-faith community it is in. People of all faiths are valued equally. This aligns with the school’s Catholic Christian values.
St Thomas the Apostle College aims to provide an outstanding education. It fosters a strong Catholic environment. The college values all members of its community. It encourages them to bear witness to their faith. St Thomas the Apostle College provides a happy and successful learning environment. This helps students realize their potential.