There is a wonderful energy in the air as the autumn term begins at St Andrew’s College Cambridge. Boarding houses are buzzing, classrooms are ready, and students old and new have arrived from Cambridge and from all over the world to begin a fresh academic year. To everyone joining or returning, a very warm welcome back.
Welcoming students from around the world
Few things capture the spirit of St Andrew’s quite like the start of term. Over the arrival weekend, our boarding houses filled with familiar faces and new ones, as students travelled in from across the globe. That international mix is what makes our college so special, and it is never more visible than in these first exciting days.
For our new students, this is the beginning of a real adventure: studying in one of the world’s great university cities, making friends from every corner of the world, and taking a decisive step towards their university ambitions. For our returning students, it is a chance to build on all they have already achieved.
Settling into college and boarding life
The first weeks of term are all about settling in. New students are getting to know the college, their teachers and their fellow boarders, while our experienced house staff make sure everyone feels safe, supported and at home. Boarding life is a huge part of the St Andrew’s experience, offering a close-knit, friendly community where students look out for one another.
If you are new and still finding your feet, please be reassured that this is completely normal, and that support is always close at hand. You can keep track of the year ahead on our term dates page, and our team is here to help every student settle happily into life in Cambridge.
A year of ambition ahead
This is a year full of promise. Whether students are beginning GCSEs, working towards their A-Levels, following our University Foundation programme or preparing for the most competitive university applications, the autumn term is where it all begins.
Our expert teachers, small classes and personal approach mean every student receives the guidance they need to aim high and achieve their best. From day one, our university preparation team is working alongside students to keep their goals firmly in sight, because everything we do is geared towards helping them reach the very best universities.
More than the classroom
A new year also brings a full and exciting programme beyond lessons. Our enrichment and social programme restarts this month, with clubs, societies, sport, trips and cultural events that help students grow in confidence, discover new interests and make the most of life in Cambridge. There really is something for everyone, and trying something new is one of the quickest ways for students to settle in and feel at home. These experiences are an important part of a rounded education, and of a happy year.
Here is to the year ahead
The start of a new academic year is a time of fresh starts, new goals and real possibility. We feel privileged that students and families from around the world choose to begin, or continue, their journey with us, and we are committed to making this a year of curiosity, resilience and achievement.
To all our students, welcome to the new academic year. Let us make it a brilliant one. If you are considering joining St Andrew’s, the beginning of the year is a wonderful time to picture yourself here. Explore our academic programmes and get in touch to arrange a visit or conversation.