The ‘Magis’ programme at St. John’s was inspired by the Jesuits’ use of the word as both a beacon and a challenge: What more can I do for God? What more can I do for others? Under this heading, alongside specially arranged trips and presentations to boys of all ages, each week boys in the upper school receive a presentation, the theme of which either corresponds to learning more about the world around us, or about people working for others.

The presentations are delivered by visiting speakers, members of our own staff, parents and even the boys themselves. Talks have included; Rapid Aid response to natural disasters, Space exploration (NASA astronaut) Jesuit Missions; CAFOD; the Queen’s private chaplain, Battersea Dogs’ Home, a French Drama Company, the Fire Brigade, Member of Parliament, British Army and weaponry, Deafness and language acquisition, a rocket workshops and many more besides….

The boys’ contributions have so far focussed on Sharks, Spain, Mexico, Hong Kong and Christmases around the world.  

The successes of the programme so far include the fact that each Wednesday, the boys as a large group look forward to sharing an experience that is both enjoyable and often important – and one that is not provided directly by the curriculum. The questions from the boys elicited by the talks are noticeably appreciative

The ‘Magis’ programme has become a vehicle for championing some of the most important aspects of our being a Jesuit school: a community interested in sharing and learning, and committed to putting those lessons to good use.