The ethos of the school originates from the religious philosophy of the Christian Brothers - the promotion of personal growth and the pursuit of excellence.

The Headmaster and staff seek to provide a well-ordered and gently disciplined community, offering an education which challenges the mind, body and spirit of each individual student. To this end, St. Anselm's academic courses are guided by Gospel values, an influence which extends well beyond the normal curriculum and inculcates values which highlight respect and empathy for our neighbours both near and far.

"Let us do ever so little for God, we will be sure He will never forget it, nor let it pass unrewarded! How many of our actions are lost for want of applying them to this end. Were we to know the merit of only going from one street to another to serve a neighbour for the love of God, we should prize it more than gold or silver ..... One thing you may be sure of, that whilst you work for God, whether you succeed or not, He will amply reward you!" (Edmund Rice)