Austin Friars, in the heart of Carlisle, continues to be the first choice for parents considering independent day education in Cumbria and South West Scotland.


Established in 1951, it has built a strong reputation for providing high-quality teaching – and continues to upskill its pupils through a well-rounded approach that doesn’t confuse assessment with education.
Pupils are welcomed from the ages of three to 18 (with a seamless transition between pre-school, junior school and senior school), meaning that they learn and grow alongside their classmates – often forming strong friendships for life.
The school’s 26-acre campus features science laboratories, a design and technology workshop, gymnasium, rugby/cricket pitches, music department, Astroturf (for hockey and football), running track and more.

And with the construction of a modern indoor sports facility due to be completed by early 2025, pupils will soon be able to take full advantage of its new 690m² four-court sports hall and modern changing rooms.
Preparations are also in full swing for Chris Hattam, the newly appointed headmaster, to join in September.

He said: “Austin Friars is a school which embraces the community and wants its members to feel valued, and I look forward to keeping that important sense of purpose.”
Austin Friars accepts pupils from all backgrounds – with teaching practices being guided by the traditional Augustinian values of unitas (unity), veritas (truth) and caritas (love/charity).
Children are encouraged to develop their talents with over 40 extra-curricular activities ranging from music clubs (flute ensemble, swing band and more), sporting opportunities (such as running, cricket, rugby, tennis, rounders, football and basketball), gardening, cookery, Lego and chess.
Houses have been an intrinsic part of school life for decades and continue to play an important role in team-building and confidence boosting, with a number of inter-house competitions and tournaments hosted throughout the year – pupils also eat lunch together and socialise in their house’s own refectory.

Rosie Bulman, the school’s dedicated mental health nurse, supports emotional needs and is available for pastoral support and confidential chats.

A quiet health and wellbeing room is also available to use any time during the day.
Private tours of the school are welcomed and allow prospective parents/pupils to ‘get a feel’ for what a regular day looks like. Tours can be booked through the school’s website: www.austinfriars.co.uk