About Us
About Us
Astor School was established in 1948, since when it has grown considerably, not merely in size, but also in public esteem. In 2002 it was designated a specialist school and became Astor College for the Arts. It is widely recognised in the area as a college which maintains the highest standards in work, behaviour and personal appearance.
Parents know that much is expected of their daughters and sons and the highest goals are set, always within a context of care for the students and concern for what is appropriate for the individual. The family is at the heart of Astor's ethos and philosophy.
A combination of traditional achievements and modern educational innovation produces those qualities of stability and imagination which go towards making today’s school uniquely popular. A happy and caring atmosphere is sought after by staff and students alike. The staff are extremely committed to providing richness of experience through a wide variety of extra curricular activities out of school hours, including weekends and holidays.
The visual arts are treasured at Astor. This work extends throughout the school environment, the local community and internationally.
Astor school is proud of its examination record. Our results are excellent by any standard. Many students of Astor school go on to Universities, Colleges of Art and Architecture, Agricultural Colleges and Colleges of Higher Education. Ex-students from all kinds of training and walks of life often return to maintain contact.
Courtesy and concern for others underpin life at Astor. Students are expected to respond to this and follow the codes of behaviour necessary to maintain it. Discipline is firm but fair, enabling all to share in the security of a well-ordered college community.
Welcome from the Headteacher
Dear Students, Parents, and Guardians,
I am delighted to extend a warm welcome to you to Astor Secondary School. At Astor, we believe wholeheartedly in the power of education to transform lives and in our shared responsibility to ensure that “Achievement for All” is not simply a motto, but a daily reality lived by every member of our community.
Our school is a place where aspirations are nurtured, diversity is embraced, and individuality is celebrated. We are proud to foster a culture of inclusivity and tolerance, recognising that every student has their own strengths, challenges, and dreams. Our commitment is to provide an environment that is both nurturing and ambitious, where every learner is encouraged to aim high and to develop the resilience needed to succeed in a changing world.
We understand that moving from primary to secondary school can be an anxious time for both students and their families. To support this important stage, we have developed our Mini School, designed to provide a smaller, more supportive environment that eases transition and builds confidence. This ensures that students quickly feel settled, parents feel reassured, and every child has the best possible start to their Astor journey.
The heart of our vision lies in both pastoral and academic achievement. We aspire to empower every student to reach their highest potential and to acquire the knowledge, skills, and confidence they need for life beyond school. Our dedicated team of teachers and staff work tirelessly to ensure that no student is left behind, guiding them to seize opportunities and overcome challenges with determination and courage.
Beyond academic success, we focus on developing the whole child. Our curriculum promotes critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving, while also instilling essential life skills such as resilience, empathy, and teamwork. Alongside our lessons, we offer a wide range of clubs, activities, and enrichment opportunities, encouraging students to explore their interests, discover new talents, and grow into well-rounded individuals.
At Astor, respect, equality, and kindness are at the heart of everything we do. Our school is a safe and supportive community where students not only learn from books, but also from one another—building friendships, showing tolerance, and developing an understanding of the world that will last a lifetime.
As you look through our prospectus, you will see the many ways we bring “Achievement for All” to life. We invite you to stay connected with us through our website and communication platforms, where you can follow the progress, opportunities, and successes that shape our vibrant school community.
I am excited about the journey ahead and confident that, together, we can ensure every child at Astor Secondary School aspires, develops essential skills, embraces tolerance, seizes opportunities, and grows in resilience. Thank you for entrusting us with your child’s education.
Warm regards,
Mr Lee Kane
Headteacher
Vision, Ethos & Values
Achievement for all
Vision
Well-being and Support:
Prioritising the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of students, providing comprehensive support services, and creating a safe and nurturing environment where students can thrive.
Equality and Inclusion:
Promoting equality of opportunity, celebrating diversity, and fostering an inclusive environment where every student feels valued and supported.
Ambition and Aspiration:
Building a culture ambition, inspiring students to set high goals for themselves, celebrating reading and encouraging wider cultural experiences.
Ethos
Building Resilience:
This emphasises the school's commitment to developing resilience in students, recognising the challenges they may face in a deprived area. The school aims to equip students with the skills, mindset, and support necessary to overcome obstacles, bounce back from setbacks, and persevere in the face of adversity.
Inclusive:
In a deprived area, it is crucial for the school to foster an inclusive ethos that celebrates diversity and respects the backgrounds, cultures, and experiences of all students. The school strives to create a welcoming and supportive environment where every student feels valued, included, and safe.
Aspirational Communities:
This highlights the school's goal to create a sense of community among students, staff, and families. It recognises that aspirations and opportunities may vary within a deprived area but emphasises the school's determination to inspire and support ambitious goals for both individuals and the wider community. It promotes a sense of collective responsibility and mutual support.
Values
Aspiring, Skills, Tolerance, Opportunity and Resilience
