Our Ethos and Aims
Our ethos
Stonyhurst is a Jesuit, Catholic School with a tradition of excellence that seeks to develop the full human potential of its pupils to live lives of faith and justice as citizens of the world.
Our aims
Stonyhurst is the leading Catholic school in the Jesuit tradition with a restless ambition to inspire our pupils to become young men and women for others, growing in competence, conscience, compassion and commitment, who are drawn to live lives purposefully in the world for the greater glory of God and the Common Good.
Our aim is to form ‘men and women for others’ by living out the virtues in the Jesuit Profile.
Stonyhurst's Strategic Plan
The Four Pillars of a Stonyhurst Education
A Jesuit, Catholic Foundation
Stonyhurst is a Roman Catholic school in the Jesuit tradition, forming young people of character, conscience, and compassion. Faith is lived daily through prayer, reflection, service, and a deep sense of justice. Our global Jesuit partnerships enrich spiritual development and inspire pupils to become men and women for others.
A Global Outlook
We prepare pupils to become global citizens—curious, confident, and committed to the common good. Through international service, cultural exchange, and a global Jesuit network, pupils gain the skills and perspective to thrive in an interconnected world. Expert university guidance and global opportunities support success beyond Stonyhurst.
Academic Excellence
Our pupils are challenged and supported to reach their full academic potential. Rooted in cura personalis—care for the whole person—our curriculum blends academic rigour with innovation. Outstanding teaching, small class sizes, and a wide range of enrichment options lay the foundation for success at top universities worldwide.
A Unique Boarding and Day Community
Stonyhurst offers a vibrant, full boarding experience within a warm, inclusive community. Boarders enjoy a home-from-home environment with exceptional pastoral care, weekend activities, and lifelong friendships. Day pupils are fully integrated, sharing in the same academic, co-curricular, and evening programmes. Whether boarding or day, every pupil is known, supported, and encouraged to flourish.
