Frequently Asked Questions
Is St. Martin's Ampleforth exclusively for Catholics?
A majority of the boys and girls who come to St. Martin's Ampleforth are baptised Catholics, but we accept into the school students from other Churches and traditions. Most of these - but not all - are Anglican. Their parents have had particular reason to seek education for their children here, and we are happy to support such families. Of course, Ampleforth welcomes parents who are not themselves in full communion with the Catholic Church.
Can students stay at the school before they join?
We always encourage prospective students to come for a taster day and/or night at the school to get some idea of what it is like.
Can we meet any parents who currently have children in the school?
Yes. Ampleforth has a network of parents' representatives around the country. They will be happy to answer any questions and to address any concerns you may have. For example, you may wish to ask about practicalities such as travel arrangements and clothing, or you may want to know more about academic or religious aspects of the School; this may be your first experience of a monastic school and you may want to get a parent's perspective. In any event please do not hesitate to contact them. Wherever you live it should be possible to put you in touch with someone who has a child in the school who lives in your region. Please let us know and we will do our best to make an introduction.
How often can we see our boarding son or daughter during term time?
With the exception of one weekend in September, St. Martin's Ampleforth does not have exeats. There are half-terms (eleven days in October, nine days in February and eight days in May). We are a full boarding school and exeat weekends are impractical for many who live so far away from the school itself. However, boarding parents are welcome to visit as often as they choose, and even take their child out for an overnight stay. It is quite usual, for example, for parents to come up for a weekend, take their son or daughter out after commitments on a Saturday, join us for Mass on Sunday morning and then return their child to the school during the afternoon.
Requests for absence for special family occasions and other special events are always considered sympathetically.
Do we have to travel to St. Martin's Ampleforth at the beginning and end of each term?
Transport to and from York station to connect with trains to and from King's Cross is arranged by the school for the beginning and end of each term and half-term. Members of staff accompany these trains. Transport to and from some other destinations is also arranged.
What help is given to those with learning difficulties?
The School has worked successfully with dyslexic students for years. They are given specialist teaching and have dedicated facilities, including appropriate computer support. Our aim is to give dyslexic students support within the curriculum. They may receive individual tuition in specific problem areas. Professional assessments are regularly carried out, and extra time is given for public examinations.
How many monks are there in the Community?
Ampleforth is the largest monastic community n the country with about one hundred members. About a fifth of these are in training, with a growing number of young novices from a variety of backgrounds.
How many monks are involved in the school?
Currently two monks teach at St. Martin's Ampleforth fullt-time.