Choosing the right school is a big decision, and sometimes the best way to find out if somewhere feels right is simply to come along and have a chat.

Austin Friars is inviting families to join us for Friars After Hours, a series of relaxed, informal evenings taking place in Dumfries, Penrith and Carlisle this November and December.

Whether you've been considering Austin Friars for some time or are just discovering us, these evenings are an opportunity to meet our friendly staff and current parents, ask questions and find out more about what life at Austin Friars has to offer.

Enjoy a complimentary drink on us while chatting with members of our school community and discovering what makes Austin Friars special. There's no formal presentation or pressure, just a chance to get to know us, hear about the experiences of our families and explore whether Austin Friars could be the right fit for your child.

With pupils aged 3 to 18, we offer a well-rounded education built around individual support, a wealth of opportunities and a community where every child is known and encouraged to fulfil their potential.

Join us at one of our upcoming evenings:

Dumfries
Wednesday 18 November | 6.30pm–8.30pm
Hetland Hall Hotel, DG1 4JX

Penrith
Wednesday 25 November | 6.30pm–8.30pm
Fell Bar, CA11 7AY

Carlisle
Wednesday 2 December | 6.30pm–8.30pm
Bartons Yard, CA1 1DN

Everyone is welcome, whether you're an existing Austin Friars family, have considered the school previously or are simply curious to find out more.

We'd love to meet you!

Register your interest here: Friars After Hours RSVP

Please complete our short booking form to let us know which evening you'd like to attend.

For any questions or further information, contact Kasey Norman at kaseynorman@austinfriars.co.uk.

Come and discover what Early Years at Austin Friars has to offer at our Open Evening on Tuesday 17 November, from 5pm to 7pm.

A welcoming start

Our Pre-School and Kindergarten provide a nurturing environment where children are encouraged to explore, develop confidence and discover a love of learning.

With small class sizes and a focus on individual attention, every child is known, valued and supported to fulfil their potential.

Learning beyond the classroom

From specialist teaching in languages, music and sport to outdoor adventures through Forest School, exciting trips and a wide range of activities, there's plenty for little learners to discover.

Children also benefit from being part of a wider school community, with Austin Friars educating pupils from three to 18. This offers the opportunity to build lasting friendships and enjoy a well-rounded education, with new experiences and opportunities at every stage.

Come and see for yourself

Whether you're looking for a place for your child to start soon, planning ahead for when they turn three, or simply curious to see what's on offer, all families are welcome. Join us to explore the classrooms, meet our friendly team and ask any questions. There's no pressure to make a decision, just an opportunity to get to know us!

Early Years Open Evening

Tuesday 17 November 2026
5pm–7pm
Austin Friars, Etterby Scaur, Carlisle

Book your visit: www.austinfriars.co.uk/early-years-open-evening

For questions, contact Kasey Norman at kaseynorman@austinfriars.co.uk.

The children performed a selection of harvest songs, old and new, in a variety of styles, showcasing their enthusiasm and musical talents. As Mrs Bedford, our Head of Junior School Music, shared, one of the highlights is always hearing all the children singing together at the end of the service, particularly one of her favourites, Harvest Samba.

A huge thank you to our parents for their generous food donations, which have been passed on to the local food bank to support those in need. We would also like to thank Rev Ian for speaking at the service and helping make the occasion so special.

It was a lovely celebration of music, community and the importance of giving back.

The day began with a warm welcome singing in Chapel before grandparents joined their grandchildren in the classroom to share in their learning.

There was plenty more to enjoy, with activities including trying out our new padel courts, science, music and drama, giving grandparents a chance to experience a little of school life alongside their grandchildren.

Austin Friars is a school built on community, and it was lovely to see so many families come together and make such special memories.

A huge thank you to all the grandparents and family members who joined us, and to our fantastic staff for organising such a memorable day.

🎥 Take a look at our video and image gallery for a few highlights from the day. Hopefully, it gives you a few giggles along the way!

This year’s Summer Fete was extra special as we continue to celebrate 75 years of Austin Friars. From the tombola, hook a duck, cakes and treats to the candy floss and popcorn machines, food vans and so much more, there was plenty to enjoy!

Everything was organised by our wonderful PTA, helping to create a fun afternoon for our community while also raising money for the school. We’d also like to say a huge thank you to everyone who came along and supported the event.

Want to keep up with everything happening at Austin Friars? Follow us on social media for more updates as we continue our 75th anniversary celebrations!