Welcome and thank you for your interest in Highdown School and Sixth Form Centre.
Highdown School is a very special place. As Acting Headteacher, I am very proud of all we do here and our resolute determination to continue to improve every day. Staff and students aspire to achieve excellence in all we do. Our commitment and resilience is underpinned by core values of Aspiration, Respect and Excellence. We ARE Highdown!
Our philosophy is simple – great teaching supported by committed pastoral care gives great outcomes and life chances for our young people. Our curriculum is broad and balanced and provides a solid platform for life in our Sixth Form. We provide learning opportunities to ensure our students remain stimulated and motivated and develop a lifelong thirst for learning. Highdowners should go from outstanding lesson to outstanding lesson, being challenged and guided to make the most of their Highdown journey for five, or more likely, seven years.
Our extracurricular offer is superb. We take full advantage of our fantastic estate with a full range of sports. All students will find something to enjoy outside the classroom. It might be in the performing arts or in the reptile club.
The Highdown community is tolerant and happy. Our students do not tolerate prejudice or unkindness from one another. Staff and students work together to promote inclusivity on every level. For those needing additional support, our STAR centre provides care and develops life skills. For those who are aspiring to Oxbridge, our bespoke programmes enable aspiration to be successful. Progression to the best universities is the most usual route for our sixth formers and students also gain great high-level apprenticeships and employment.
Our commitment to staff development is second to none. A motivated staff body provides the best education for our children. We have strategic partnerships with other trusts and Higher Education providers to support this. We also support other schools because of our recognised expertise.
Whether a prospective parent, student or colleague, come and visit us at Highdown. Your Highdown experience can then begin. I look forward to meeting you.
Matthew Grantham
Headteacher (Acting)