Welcome to Sir Jim’s

Sir James Smith’s School in North Cornwall was the first purpose-built comprehensive school in Cornwall. Sir Jim’s (as it has affectionately been known) is unique in its identity as a small school set in the coastal community of Camelford and beyond, between the moors and the ocean. The school’s sense of place and identity is drawn from the incredible geography that surrounds it, and this influences the purpose and perspective of the school and its place within the local communities.

The school nurtures a personalised education, where every child is known and valued, with a learning foundation that encourages students to reach for horizons both local and further afield; truly embodying its identity as a small school with a global perspective. Sir Jim’s strength in its size and the community within and around the school it is a part of. It encourages connection, creativity, and commitment; giving its students a personalised education and toolkit so that they may reach for the sky.

What makes SJS different?

Sir James Smith’s School is uniquely placed in the coastal community between the moors and the sea. The school has a distinct identity heavily influenced by the incredible landscape it is a part of, and therefore an emphasis on the values of sustainability and outdoors education.

The school is also a uniquely small and personalised school (in comparison to most secondary schools), where every child is known and valued. Sir James Smith’s is the small school with a global perspective.

It takes pride in its rural coastal context and personalised school experience, encouraging students to be proud of where they are and the opportunities and lifestyles possible, but also motivated and inspired to think bravely and boldly about their further horizons...

The Vision: The small school with a global perspective…

Every young person experiences a personalised education, where they will see beyond their own horizons and learn more than they thought possible.

The Mission: Enabling young people to be the best version of themselves…

At SJS we enable young people to develop agency, to think and reflect, to act responsibly, and be global citizens. We ensure their learning is deep and relevant, broad and balanced, and human-centred. Giving them opportunities to experience and engage with different cultures, around the world.

At SJS our young people invest in their futures, enabling them to be the best version of themselves.

Values: