Blackheath High School, operating in the vicinity of London, is a girls-only day school with a rich history and a modern approach to education. The school, which caters to girls aged three to 18, is associated with the area of Blackheath and offers a nurturing environment that aims to foster confident and responsible young women. With an all-faiths ethos, the school is committed to providing opportunities for every girl to fulfil her potential in an atmosphere of mutual respect.
The school has seen a notable rise in its rankings, moving from 140th in the 2023 Times Parent Power Rankings to 98th in 2024. This improvement reflects the school’s dedication to academic excellence and its ability to adapt and grow. The GCSE results are impressive, with 77% of students achieving grades 9-7, while at A-level, 53% achieved A*/A grades. These results are well above the national average and demonstrate the school’s commitment to high academic standards.
Under the leadership of Natalie Argile since 2022, who has been part of the school since 2015, Blackheath High School has continued to champion girls’ education. Mrs Argile’s background in science and her advocacy for breaking down gender stereotypes have contributed significantly to the school’s progressive ethos. Her leadership has been instrumental in creating opportunities for girls to excel in various fields, particularly in STEM subjects.
The entrance process at Blackheath High School is competitive, with around 190 applications for just 60 places at the 11+ stage. The school conducts entrance exams in Maths, English, and non-verbal reasoning, followed by interviews with senior staff. Scholarships are available for exceptional candidates at both the 11+ and 13+ entry points. The school also offers a range of sixth form scholarships, including those provided by HSBC.
The curriculum at Blackheath High School is diverse and tailored to meet the needs of its students. From Year 7 onwards, pupils can choose from a variety of modern foreign languages, including French, German, Spanish, and Mandarin. Latin is also part of the curriculum from Year 7. The school places a strong emphasis on STEM subjects and encourages students to explore these areas through events like the Look to the Future programme.
Art and design flourish at Blackheath High School, with high-quality work displayed throughout the school. The arts are complemented by a robust extra-curricular programme that includes drama productions at venues like Greenwich Theatre and music lessons that cater to over 200 students weekly. The school’s commitment to fostering creativity is evident in its support for students pursuing interests in music technology, theatre studies, and more.
Sports play an integral role in student life at Blackheath High School. Despite being geographically positioned near Greenwich Park, the school boasts a five-acre sports field with facilities for netball, hockey, athletics, and more. The annual Iron House race challenges students’ stamina and fosters a spirit of healthy competition.
Pastoral care is a priority at Blackheath High School. With separate deputy head roles for academic and pastoral matters, as well as a part-time school counsellor, the school ensures that students receive comprehensive support. Initiatives like peer mentoring programmes further enhance this supportive environment.
The school’s SEN provision is commendable, with initiatives like the pupil passport allowing students to tailor their learning experiences according to their needs. The Head of Learning Support oversees this area, ensuring that students with dyslexia, dyscalculia, dyspraxia, or other learning differences receive appropriate support.
Parents speak highly of Blackheath High School’s warm atmosphere and inclusive environment. They appreciate the school’s efforts to integrate cultural diversity into everyday learning experiences. The active PTA organises events that bring together families from various backgrounds.
In terms of career preparation, Blackheath High School excels by encouraging students from Year 9 onwards to explore their aptitudes and future options. Trips to companies like Microsoft inspire students by offering insights into potential career paths.
Overall, Blackheath High School provides an enriching educational experience that balances academic rigour with personal development. Its commitment to nurturing independent thinkers who are ready for future challenges makes it an excellent choice for parents seeking a supportive yet challenging environment for their daughters.
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