King Edward VI High School for Girls

King Edward VI High School for Girls, located in Birmingham, is an independent single-sex school that caters to female pupils aged 10 to 18. The school operates under the auspices of the Schools of King Edward the Sixth in Birmingham, which is a charitable trust. The current headteacher, Mrs. Kirsty von Malaisé, was appointed in 2020, and the chair of governors, Ms. Lucy Williams, took her position in 2021. The school has a total enrollment of 666 pupils and has identified 61 students with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), while 19 pupils speak English as an additional language.

The school’s mission is to impart the joy of learning and inquiry, fostering intellectual courage, resilience, and adaptability. It aims to develop integrity, resolve, self-knowledge, compassion, and respect for others, while inspiring pupils to make a positive difference in their community and beyond. The school emphasizes a holistic education that combines academic rigor with personal development, ensuring that pupils are well-prepared for their future endeavors.

The recent inspection conducted by the Independent Schools Inspectorate from October 3 to October 5, 2023, highlighted the school’s strengths in various areas. The inspection team, comprising six inspectors, engaged in a comprehensive evaluation that included lesson observations, discussions with governors, school leaders, and pupils, as well as a review of policies and documentation. The findings indicated that the school meets all relevant standards set by the Department for Education.

Leadership and management at King Edward VI High School are characterized by effective governance and a clear vision for the school’s development. The governing body actively supports and monitors the work of school leaders through various committees. They have commissioned external reviews to assess health and safety and safeguarding measures, ensuring that risks to pupils’ wellbeing are identified and mitigated. The school development plan is ambitious, with strategic targets aligned with the school’s aims of fostering joy in learning, character development, and community service.

The quality of education provided is robust, with a curriculum that is both challenging and wide-ranging. Leaders and managers are committed to promoting the wellbeing of pupils, creating an academic culture that values scholarship alongside sensitive pastoral care. The extensive extracurricular program and active house system contribute to a cohesive school community, allowing pupils to explore their talents and interests beyond the classroom.

Teaching at the school is well-planned and tailored to meet the diverse needs of pupils. As a result, students are enthusiastic learners who take pride in their work and achieve results that exceed expectations in public examinations. The school has implemented effective support for pupils with SEND, ensuring they make progress in line with their peers. Leaders are dedicated to fostering a love of learning and encouraging independent thinking among pupils, although the monitoring of teaching and learning could be more consistent across departments.

The personal, social, and health education (PSHE) curriculum is designed to help pupils develop self-awareness and an understanding of the needs of others. The school promotes a culture of respect and tolerance, where pupils from diverse backgrounds interact positively. Instances of serious misbehavior and bullying are rare, and any occurrences are addressed effectively.

Pupils express pride in their school and actively participate in various leadership roles, including running house events and mentoring younger students. They are enthusiastic about serving the local community and supporting charitable initiatives through volunteering and fundraising activities. The school prepares pupils well for the next stages of their lives, providing guidance that instills confidence in their future prospects. Nearly all pupils progress to a wide range of universities, often those with competitive entry requirements.

Safeguarding arrangements at King Edward VI High School are highly effective. Staff are well-trained to recognize and report safeguarding concerns, and they are aware of the contextual risks that pupils may face. The school has a clear safeguarding policy that is accessible to all stakeholders, and leaders ensure that pupils are educated about online safety. The school maintains accurate records of safeguarding concerns and undertakes all necessary checks to ensure the suitability of staff.

The school’s commitment to promoting pupils’ physical and mental health is evident in its extensive PSHE program and varied physical education curriculum. Pupils are encouraged to engage in recreational activities and develop a healthy lifestyle. The school fosters an environment where pupils feel safe and well-supervised, with effective arrangements for first aid and medical support.

In summary, King Edward VI High School for Girls demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a high-quality education that promotes the academic, social, and emotional development of its pupils. The school’s leadership and management are effective, ensuring that all statutory standards are met. The curriculum is well-designed to meet the needs of all pupils, and the extensive extracurricular offerings enhance the overall educational experience. The school fosters a positive and inclusive environment where pupils can thrive, develop their talents, and prepare for their future endeavors. The recent inspection confirms the school’s strengths and highlights areas for continued development, particularly in ensuring consistent monitoring of teaching and learning across departments. Overall, King Edward VI High School for Girls stands out as a nurturing and academically rigorous institution that prepares its pupils for success in their future pursuits.