The Lower School at JCG comprises of Years 7 and 8; it also oversees the transition process from Year 6 to the College and Year 5 Experience Days. Two transition days are held in July when our new students experience the academic and extra-curricular life of the College whilst meeting their Form Tutor and making new friends. A key part of these days, is meeting the senior students who have various roles within the College.

The Form Tutor remains a key contact and link between home and school and usually follows the students throughout their time with us at College, forging strong relationships. The tutor, supported by the Head of School, their assistant and the school counsellors, work collaboratively with the students and their parents to monitor academic progress and look after the well-being of our young people. A regular mentoring programme allows tutors to review their tutees’ academic success, any pastoral issues and their involvement in the wider life of the College. We encourage students to reflect on their progress and seek continuous improvement.

All Lower School students are allocated a Sixth Form “buddy” from their House, with whom they share numerous experiences such as the annual “Buddy Miles” charity walk and “Buddy Baking”. This facilitates an effective vertical integration between students within College and instils a sense of belonging.

Students in Year 7 and Year 8 follow a broad and balanced curriculum covering core academic and creative subjects and physical education. Students have a weekly PSHE lesson throughout their time in Lower School and in Year , some of which are joint with our Victoria College Jersey counterparts. These provide an opportunity to develop their spiritual, cultural and moral education as well as learning about resilience and wellbeing.

Outside the classroom there are numerous opportunities for the students to represent their House and the College. The House system is incredibly strong and provides an opportunity for friendly competition, creative activities, and fundraising challenges. Sporting opportunities exist within the House system and also at College level, where the teams compete both inter-island and against UK touring teams. There are also very Music and Drama clubs within the Lower School and students actively engage in the wider cultural life of the College.