Pre-University Postgraduate (PG) Year
Introduction to our Postgraduate Programme
The St Leonards Postgraduate (PG) Year is a bespoke academic programme designed to support students in the transition between high school and university. Particularly suited for US students, or those applying to US colleges, the PG year offers an extra year of academic focus, personal development, and college preparation in a world-renowned school environment.
Whether students are looking to improve their academic profile, pursue a sports scholarship (with a focus on golf), or simply need more time before entering college life, our PG year provides the ideal setting.
Meet our Postgraduate Programme Lead
Will Gaisford
Deputy Head (Academic)
Will is a graduate of the University of Oxford and leads the academic programme at St Leonards. He holds a Master’s in Educational Leadership and Management and, prior to arriving in Scotland, he gained extensive experience at high-performing boarding schools across England.
Driven by a passion for postgraduate education, Will works closely with students to help them to follow their passions, achieve outstanding results, and leave St Leonards confident, capable, and ready to make a meaningful impact on the world.
Tailored Academic Programme
We have a long-standing reputation for academic excellence and holistic development. We champion the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum, offering a world-class, comprehensive education. Globally recognised and extremely well-respected by universities, the IB is a broad and well-rounded programme that combines academic rigour with personal growth. The PG year aligns with this ethos by offering students a chance to:
-
Enhance college applications with further academic study
-
Develop independence and confidence in a safe, supportive, and structured boarding environment
-
Focus on personal goals – whether academic, athletic, or social
One of the key strengths of the PG year is its flexibility. Students are able to choose courses tailored to their interests and future plans, while also participating in the rich co-curricular and community life at St Leonards.
Academic Structure
Students will complete a full academic year at St Leonards, selecting courses from a range of subjects, which may include:
-
English
-
Mathematics
-
Social Sciences
-
Science
-
Philosophy
The final course selection will be determined with the student’s goals in mind, ensuring a personalised and purposeful academic pathway.
All PG students will also be fully integrated into the boarding life and wider school community, contributing to and benefiting from the holistic St Leonards experience.
Admissions Information
This programme is tailored for pupils aged 18-19 who have recently graduated from high school. Pupils applying to this programme should have a High School Diploma or an equivalent qualification.
Applications open: October 2025
Interview and Selection: January 2026
Programme Start: August 2026
Limited places are available. We encourage early applications where possible.
Golf Academy
St Leonards offers one of the UK’s leading school golf academies, catering from all abilities, from beginners to elite golfers. Delivered in partnership with the St Andrews Links Golf Academy, St Leonards’ golfers have access to state-of-the-art training facilities, top-of-the-range golfing technology, and seven Links courses, including the Old Course.
Discover the St Leonards Advantage
Located in the heart of St Andrews, and with a strong record of academic success, St Leonards offers a nurturing, internationally-minded environment in which to take this important next step. Our PG year is designed to empower students to take ownership of their future, whether through academics, athletics, or personal growth.
For more information about the St Leonards PG Year, please contact our Admissions Team.
Be ready for what comes next – take your next step with confidence at St Leonards.
