Our Values
Our values are the cornerstones of life at Laswap.
Excellence
Excellence at LaSWAP is characterised by high expectations and superb standards of performance. We foster a climate of transparency and reflection where individuals are encouraged to take ownership of their learning. Through disciplined yet flexible approaches, we ensure that both students and staff feel trusted to achieve their best while maintaining a culture of openness and mutual respect.
Louise has been at La Sainte Union since Year 7 and is currently studying A Level English literature, computer science and mathematics at La Sainte Union Sixth Form. She has also embarked on the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) where she is delving deeper into her passion for computer science, researching the ethical implications of AI development. Fascinated by the rapid advancements of AI and its profound impact on modern society, Louise aspires to become a software engineer. Her dream course is computer science and philosophy at Oxford University as it encompasses all her interests.
Louise commends La Sainte Union for continuously promoting co-curricular and extra-curricular opportunities to support with building key skills and enhancing her CV. A talented public speaker, Louise has collected multiple accolades as a member of the Debate Team, including a memorable experience at the London Regionals of the Ethics Cup. Here, her team explored philosophical topics such as AI in education and fast fashion, impressing judges and audiences alike with their insightful arguments. So much so that they beat Eton and got through to the semi-finals. Louise also participates in Mock Trial club, providing her with an insight into law, and regularly leads clubs for lower school students, sharing her passion for learning and debate.
Louise also appreciates the school and sixth form's dedication to preparing students for the future, with the careers department regularly encouraging students to sign up to work experience, workshops and talks, such as the fortnightly Future Leaders sessions where students gain an understanding from external speakers about various career pathways.
In Louise, La Sainte Union has discovered an innovator and change-maker who truly embodies the sixth form’s value of excellence. She will without a doubt play a central role in shaping the future and championing women in STEM.
Community
Community is at the heart of LaSWAP, where inclusion and respect are fundamental. We cultivate a sense of belonging, ensuring that every member feels welcomed and valued. By nurturing kindness, trust and mutual accountability, we build strong relationships within the LaSWAP family, creating a supportive environment where everyone can thrive.
Former Christ the King RC Primary School (Islington) pupil, Brianna, joined La Sainte Union in Year 7 and has embraced every opportunity with passion and commitment since. Now studying A Levels in Psychology, Biology and Music Technology, she has her sights set on university and a potential career in Psychology. Inspired by her fascination with the human mind, Brianna is particularly drawn to the complexities of mental health disorders and the theories behind them. “The reason I do well in Psychology is because I find it so interesting” she says, noting that the sixth form’s engaging curriculum has only deepened her curiosity.
The Sixth Form offers a wealth of support, including work experience placements, one-to-one careers guidance and a dedicated careers team - renowned as the best within LaSWAP! These resources, she believes, will be instrumental in helping her achieve her university and career ambitions.
Outside the classroom, Brianna has made her mark as Captain of the LaSWAP basketball team, where she led the initiative to organise an unforgettable trip to Belgium. Reflecting the sixth form’s values of equity and community, she worked to make the trip accessible for everyone, redirecting funds that were once allocated to a coach to an initiative to support her teammates who needed financial assistance. Inspired by the impact of this initiative, Brianna is now exploring how to extend this model of support to other clubs across the school.
Brianna’s enthusiasm extends to the arts as well. Participating in the school’s production of Chicago has been a highlight, bringing her closer to her peers and reinforcing the vibrant community spirit at La Sainte Union. “That’s what’s great about this school - it really brings everyone together!” she says.
In Brianna, La Sainte Union has nurtured a dedicated and compassionate leader who embodies the school's mission to foster well-rounded, socially conscious individuals prepared to make a difference in the world.
Creativity
Creativity at LaSWAP is not just about artistic expression but also about applying imaginative thinking to all areas of study and life. We think inventively to solve problems, ask questions and explore new solutions, working collaboratively while also valuing individual expression. We are pragmatic but also flexible, taking risks whilst in a supportive and compassionate environment.
From her early years in Year 7 to her current studies in the Sixth Form, Feyi has been an integral part of the school's vibrant community. What she treasures most about her time at La Sainte Union is the strong sense of community and togetherness that permeates across all year groups. Now at the Sixth Form, she is enjoying the sense of freedom and responsibility as well as being treated as a young adult, encouraging her to take charge of her own learning and make meaningful decisions about the future.
A shining star in the realm of drama and music, Feyi attributes much of her passion to her dedicated teachers who have nurtured her talents and inspired her to pursue her dreams of performing on stage or on screen. She is striving to secure a place at a prestigious drama school, especially after being awarded a scholarship for the Royal Academy of Music's Outreach Programme. Here she hopes to improve her skills and broaden her horizons.
Feyi is also a natural leader, regularly running drama clubs for Year 7 and 8 students at the lower school and supporting the school's productions, which she considers to be the highlight of her year.
In Feyi, La Sainte Union has discovered not only a talented performer but also a leader and mentor who will no doubt leave a lasting impact on her school community.
Equity
Equity is central to LaSWAP's mission where we celebrate our diverse community and are committed to meeting the needs of all students. By offering a comprehensive and flexible post-16 learning environment, we ensure that everyone has the opportunity to succeed, regardless of their background or individual challenges. We focus on fairness, compassion and adaptability, making sure that every student has access to the resources and support they need to achieve their goals.
Thanks to the flexibility of our teachers and courses here at La Sainte Union, Casey has been able to balance her BTEC Health and Social Care studies and Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) with other sixth form pressures such as work experience and university open days.
Beyond her studies, Casey is actively engaged in the sixth form’s enrichment programme, including Philosophy Club and a reading mentorship programme for primary school pupils. Philosophy Club has sharpened her critical thinking and debate skills, while reading with young children has honed her empathy, patience and leadership abilities. She finds it rewarding to witness the children’s growing passion and confidence for reading. Additionally, she plans to tutor neurodivergent students in her school, offering both academic and social support to help them navigate the classroom environment.
A passionate advocate for inclusivity, Casey was involved in founding the Edaphobic Club in the lower school. Together with her peers, she organised assemblies and PSHE lessons, bake sales and treasure hunt activities, raising over £150 for charities like Mermaids and Mosaic. This initiative won them an LGBTQ+ Alliance in Schools award, underscoring her commitment to building a more inclusive school environment.
Casey’s ambitions are clear. She aims to study Psychology with Counselling at the University of Surrey, drawn by its top-ranked department, research opportunities and work experience placements. With aspirations of earning a master’s degree in psychology, she envisions a future as a clinical psychologist or psychotherapist. Long-term, she hopes to become a mature student and gain a PhD, focusing on research and clinical work to make a lasting difference in mental health care.
La Sainte Union’s careers department has been instrumental in helping her plan for this competitive field. With the guidance of an exceptional careers advisor, she has gained valuable experiences through a UCL life sciences course and a taster day at the Tavistock and Portman Clinic, both of which will help her stand out in her university applications.
In Casey, La Sainte Union has fostered a compassionate and ambitious young woman who truly embodies the sixth form’s values of equity and community. She is well-prepared to impact the field of psychology and champion change wherever she goes.
