St Bonaventure’s R C Secondary School

At the forefront of learning for almost 120 years, St Bonaventure’s provides comprehensive education for boys aged 11 to 18. Originally a grammar school founded by the Franciscans, it was the first voluntary aided comprehensive school to be awarded technology college status in East London.
This was my secondary school. I had a great time here. As a Technology College, St Bonaventure’s endeavours to promote an educational climate which is scientific, technological and vocational. Almost half the timetable is taken up with the teaching of Technology, Information Technology, Mathematics and Science.
Located in Forest Gate, it has great access by both the district line (Get off at Upton park and then a 10min walk), and by plenty of buses so access is not a problem.
In terms of uniform, years 7 – 9 wear a brown blazer with gold trim, gold and black stripped tie, black trousers and black shoes. year 10 – 11 students wear a black blazer with gold trim, yellow and black stripped tie, black trousers and black shoes. the P. E Kit was the same for both. It was white shorts, Blue jersey with a white horizontal stripe, and trainers.
During my time, years 7 – 9 were not allowed outside of school for lunch. years 10 – 11 were allowed. School dinners were nothing special although the doughnuts were great. Outside of school, there are plenty of chicken shops and newsagents about 2 minutes walkfrom the school.
This is a great school with a natural progression into the sixth form centre which has a high level of oxbridge applicants and admissions. One of the best (If not the best) consistantly for the last 15 years in grades. Highly recommended.