King Edward VI High School for Girls, operating in the vicinity of Birmingham, is a prestigious independent day school for girls aged 11 to 18. With a religious affiliation of all faiths, the school is renowned for its commitment to academic excellence and intellectual ambition. It consistently ranks highly in national league tables, as evidenced by its impressive standings in the Times 2024 Parent Power Rankings and its notable A-level and GCSE results.
The school’s academic performance is exemplary, with an A-level rank of 18 and a GCSE rank of 11. In 2024, the school achieved 95% grades 9-7 at GCSE and 80% A*/A at A-level, showcasing its dedication to fostering high academic standards. These results are a testament to the school’s rigorous curriculum and the dedication of its teaching staff, who are described as the stars of the show by parents and pupils alike.
The leadership of Kirsty von Malaisé, who took over as Chief Master and Principal in September 2020, has been instrumental in driving the school’s progress. Her focus on updating IT infrastructure, enriching the curriculum with courses such as philosophy, politics, and economics, and introducing new subjects like Mandarin and computing has been well-received by both parents and students. Despite some concerns about her visibility around the school, von Malaisé’s efforts to modernise the curriculum have been praised for bringing the school into the 21st century.
Teaching at King Edward VI High School for Girls is characterised by a nurturing approach that encourages intellectual curiosity. The absence of setting or moulding allows students to explore their interests freely. The school’s emphasis on creativity and potential is evident in its entrance exams, which focus on spotting interesting approaches rather than rote learning. This approach is further supported by initiatives like the Athena Programme, which encourages students to explore topics of interest without the pressure of homework.
The school’s commitment to extra-curricular activities is evident in its wide range of clubs and societies. From sports teams to music ensembles and drama productions, students have ample opportunities to pursue their passions outside the classroom. The Ruddock Performing Arts Centre provides a venue for joint performances with King Edward’s School for boys, enhancing the cultural experience for students. The school’s emphasis on participation extends to sports, with over 80% of pupils involved in teams across various disciplines.
Pastoral care at King Edward VI High School for Girls is built on trust and mutual respect between staff and students. The school has bolstered its pastoral team since Covid-19, providing proactive support through visiting speakers and open discussions about mental health issues. The introduction of two part-time counsellors further demonstrates the school’s commitment to student wellbeing.
Inclusivity is a core value at King Edward VI High School for Girls, with a healthy ethnic mix among students and an active LGBTQ+ society. The school addresses important social issues head-on, fostering an environment where students feel listened to and respected.
The school’s heritage dates back to its founding in 1883 as part of the King Edward VI Foundation. Situated within a super campus with red-brick buildings and modern facilities like a performing arts centre and sports centre, it offers a dignified sense of space conducive to learning. The science labs are particularly impressive, equipped with state-of-the-art resources that support hands-on learning experiences.
King Edward VI High School for Girls attracts a diverse parent cohort, including academics from the University of Birmingham and medics. The school’s catchment area extends across Bromsgrove, Wolverhampton, Solihull, Walsall, Sutton Coldfield, and beyond. Despite challenges with drop-off and pick-up logistics due to its central location, parents appreciate the shared school bus system with King Edward’s School for boys.
Financially accessible fees make King Edward VI High School for Girls competitive within the region. Nearly a quarter of students benefit from bursary support provided by the Foundation or alumnae donations. Academic and music scholarships are available on entry, with additional opportunities for sixth-formers in music and sport.
In conclusion, King Edward VI High School for Girls offers an unrivalled education that combines academic rigour with creative enrichment. Its strong sense of community fosters loyalty among pupils who thrive in an environment that values intellectual debate over rote learning. For academically inclined girls seeking a supportive yet challenging educational experience in Birmingham’s heartland—this school feels like home.
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