Why St Columba's
Location
St Columba’s School is located in Kilmacolm, a picturesque commuter village situated between Greenock and Paisley. It is a popular residential area offering a welcome change from the bustle of town life and is a short drive from Glasgow, Paisley and Glasgow International Airport.
Atmosphere
The warm and welcoming atmosphere helps pupils to settle in easily. This creates a secure environment in which all pupils develop confidence and are motivated to achieve to the best of their abilities.
Pastoral Care
We place considerable emphasis on the care and wellbeing of all our pupils. The ethos is one which encourages personal development. In this environment each pupil is known and recognised as an individual; their personal qualities are valued and their specific needs are recognised. Our House system fosters security and responsibility, promotes team spirit and creates a friendly competitive environment.
Academic Excellence
A caring and dedicated staff develop the potential of every child through commitment and understanding of individual needs. The School has gained a reputation for academic achievement and consistently reaches the very top bracket of academic attainment in Scotland.
The Sunday Times Top School of the Year 2008
We offer comprehensive university and careers advice to all students including interview techniques for Oxbridge. In most years 97% of our pupils go to university and achieve success in a variety of professional fields.
Beyond the Classroom
A wide range of extra-curricular activities are offered. There are orchestras, choirs, bands, pipe bands and quartets. All the main sports are offered, with hockey, rugby and athletics being particularly strong. The School debates all over the UK, competes in Canada annually and hosts its own invitational tournament. There are opportunities to edit the School Magazine or organise charity events or eco-campaigns. In short, there is something to appeal to every pupil's interests. The School also benefits from an in-house Duke of Edinburgh's Award Unit.
At key points of transition, Transitus, Senior II, Senior IV and Senior VI, year groups go away together for valuable team building sessions, where they learn to work together, make new friendships, rise to new challenges and also acquire crucial skills. Towards the end of the summer term pupils throughout Senior School enjoy Activities Week, which include trips at home or abroad.