St Peter’s School in York is a co-educational independent day and boarding school for pupils aged two to eighteen. Situated on extensive grounds along the River Ouse, it is regarded as one of the oldest schools in the world, traditionally dated to its foundation by St Paulinus of York in AD 627. The school has occupied several sites over its long history, originally operating near York Minster before relocating to its current Clifton campus in the nineteenth century. It is a member of the Headmasters’ and Headmistresses’ Conference and maintains a strong academic and extracurricular profile, with particular strengths in rowing, rugby and music.
The school transitioned from a boys’ school to full co-education in 1987 and now operates through three divisions, St Peter’s 2–8, St Peter’s 8–13 and the Senior School. Its facilities include boarding houses for both boys and girls, specialist academic centres, performance spaces, sports complexes and a boathouse. The school preserves a close historical connection with York Minster, reflected in its chapel life, annual services and the presence of the Minster choristers. Alumni, known as Old Peterites, have achieved prominence in public life, including politics, academia, the arts, the church, the military and international sport.