March 03, 2026 - 230 views
One of the country’s leading independent schools is throwing open its doors to prospective families this Spring, as it looks to build on growth across its Junior School and Sixth Form despite national challenges facing the sector.
St Gerard’s School in Bangor will host an Open Day on Saturday March 21 from 9am to 1pm, inviting families to explore its thriving community, extensive facilities and pupil-first ethos.
The Open Day comes at the end of a period of development for the school, which has continued to grow and evolve while remaining firmly focused on academic excellence, wellbeing and community.
Over the past two years, St Gerard’s has improved its seven-acre site, strengthening its sporting, outdoor and wellness provision and modernising learning spaces to meet the needs of today’s pupils.
The cherished institution also continues to be recognised among the Top 10 schools in Wales in the Sunday Times Parent Power Guide.
Headteacher Campbell Harrison said the Open Day was an opportunity for families to see first-hand what sets the school apart.
“At a time when many independent schools, including ourselves, are navigating real challenges, St Gerard’s has chosen to invest in its future,” he said.
“Our focus is, and always will be, on the individual pupil - academically, socially and emotionally. Families are increasingly looking for smaller class sizes, a personal touch, and a genuine sense of community, and that is exactly what we offer.”
The Junior School, catering for children aged four to 11, has seen an increase in pupil numbers despite a national decline in primary-age enrolment, while Sixth Form numbers also remain strong.
The school recently held a whole-school Taster Day for Reception through to Year 12, which received an overwhelmingly positive response from parents keen to experience the warm, inclusive atmosphere and to challenge misconceptions about independent education.
Recent developments include the completion of a new multi-use sports pitch, a cross-country running track, a new toilet block and expanded outdoor facilities.
Health and wellbeing have been further enhanced through the introduction of a Duke of Edinburgh’s Award programme, a climbing club and an expanded co-curricular offer. A new radio studio is now fully operational, allowing pupils to produce their own podcasts in partnership with Bayside Radio, while a new bus service from Anglesey to Bangor has improved accessibility for families across the region.
Visitors to the Open Day will be welcomed by staff, current pupils of all ages and members of the finance team, who will be available to answer questions, give tours and offer guidance.
The event will be supported by local businesses, with Cuffed-In Coffee and Bishopsgate House Hotel providing refreshments and catering, and Anglesey Bouncy Castle Hire delivering games and activities for children.
Business Manager Steve Griffiths added: “Every improvement we’ve made over the last two years has been about enhancing the pupil experience. From sports and creative facilities to transport and wellbeing, this is about ensuring St Gerard’s continues to serve its families and wider community.”
The Open Day also follows a significant milestone for the school, marking the period after Mr Harrison’s 25th anniversary as Headteacher.
For more news and information from St Gerard's School, visit the website www.st-gerards.org and follow them on social media.
Alternatively, email sgadmin@st-gerards.org or call 01248 351656.
