
Mr A Smyth
Since its founding in 1917, Inchmarlo, the Preparatory School of the Royal Belfast Academical Institution, has grown is size and reputation while still retaining a happy, family atmosphere.
Set in six acres of parkland and playing fields, the school is exceptionally well equipped for all aspects of teaching and games with 14 classrooms, library, gymnasium, music room, computer room and resources room.
While modern and imaginative teaching methods are employed, staff maintain traditional standards of attainment and instil sound work habits. Results in the Transfer Procedure tests are excellent, with approximately 95% of boys transferring to the senior school, RBAI, or to an alternative grammar school.
A Pre-Foundation class prepares children for school in a stimulating, friendly environment. Children can be supervised from 8.00am. After School Care is also available (for a small extra fee) until approximately 6pm. Boys are cared for in a relaxed, yet educational environment and participate in such activities as football, drama, computer activities and they do a rough draft of homework.
Parents with children at the neighbouring Victoria College Preparatory Department and Inchmarlo are entitled to a reduction in fees and can enjoy the benefits of similar holiday arrangements.
Inchmarlo prides itself on the width of activities offered. In addition to a full curriculum Inchmarlo provides:
* specialist teaching in music
* coaching in swimming for P3 upwards
* opportunities for Drama in class, in Assembly and in school concerts
* private tuition in speech and drama
* French and Spanish
* visits to exhibitions and places of interest in the school environment
* an 'outdoor activities' week for P6 (eg Co Fermanagh) and a week's educational tour outside the province for boys in P7 (eg Edinburgh) or skiing in Europe.
* an annual Open Day, demonstrating the high standards achieved at all levels in the school
* two written reports per year on each boy's progress and regular meetings with teachers.
All major games are coached while extra curricular activities include chess, cookery, oil painting, computers, judo, public speaking, photography, calligraphy, gardening and art.
The Headmaster, Mr Smyth, is available for interview or telephone calls at any time. He and members of staff welcome the opportunity to meet parents and discuss any matter concerning a boy's welfare or progress.