Bootham is a friendly boarding and day school whose roots in the Quaker tradition enable it to respond to each pupil's individual qualities and ambitions. A good academic tradition sees over 95% of the Sixth Form proceeding to universities each year, while an energetic programme of cultural, sporting and leisure activities ensures that boys and girls are educated socially and spiritually as well as intellectually.
The school's nine acre estate in the heart of the beautiful city of York lies only 350 metres from the Minster and provides a quiet enclave in which young people may grow in confidence, ability and experience. There are a further 20 acres of playing fields just 10 minutes walk from the school. Pupils make good use of the riches of the city - its history, museums, art galleries, theatres and concert halls. The Yorkshire Moors and Dales are within easy reach and there are expeditions on several weekends each term.
Friendly relationships between pupils of all ages and a well-qualified and stable staff mean that the challenges of growing up can be tackled in a positive and trusting way. Bootham, in the Quaker phrase, seeks 'that of God' in every pupil, encouraging boys and girls to develop in self-discipline and self-motivation, confidence and responsibility. A firm structure provides both encouragement and guidance for pupils on their way through the school. A strong careers department gives advice on all the choices which young people are called upon to make as they prepare themselves for higher education and the world of work.
Alumni - Jon Folds (Chairman - Halifax Plc); Lord Rix (Mencap); Victor Watson (Chairman - Waddingtons Plc); Jamie McKendrick (Forward Poetry Prize Winner 1997); John Calvert (Tyne Tees TV).
These old scholars illustrate the range of achievements reached, in fields stretching across business, the arts and voluntary sectors. Other old scholars of Bootham include a Nobel Peace Prize winner, Olympic athlete, parliamentarians and many more besides who have made valuable and worthwhile contributions to society. The Bootham Old Scholars Association holds a reunion every year at the school during the second weekend in May. There are regional reunions throughout the UK and Ireland.
