Based in Leeds, The Grammar School at Leeds (GSAL) is a prominent independent co-educational institution, boasting a rich history that dates back to 1552. It was formed from the merger of Leeds Grammar School and Leeds Girls’ High School in 2008. Situated within a sprawling 140-acre site on the northern outskirts of the city, the school offers a picturesque and modern learning environment for its students.
GSAL operates a diamond structure, providing fully co-educational teaching for ages 3-11, single-sex teaching for ages 11-16, and a co-educational sixth form. This unique approach allows students to benefit from both mixed and single-gender educational experiences, which many parents believe works well. The school is active in the region of Leeds and is known for its academic excellence, consistently outperforming national averages at both GCSE and A Level.
The school’s academic performance is impressive, with recent results showing 71% of students achieving grades 9-7 at GCSE and 51% securing A*/A grades at A Level. GSAL’s A Level A*/A/B rate stands at an impressive 80.6%, reflecting the school’s commitment to high academic standards. The school ranks highly in national league tables, including Times 2024 Parent Power Rankings, where it holds a commendable position.
GSAL’s leadership is spearheaded by Principal Sue Woodroofe, who has been in charge since 2016. Her tenure has seen significant achievements, including being named North Independent Secondary School of the Year in 2020 by the Sunday Times Parent Power Schools Guide. Mrs Woodroofe’s focus on integrating the school’s rich history with modern educational practices has been well-received by both parents and students.
The school offers an extensive range of subjects, with particular strengths in Maths, Sciences, Economics, Psychology, Geography, Modern Foreign Languages, Latin, and Humanities. Class sizes are kept small to ensure personalised attention, with numbers ranging from 4 to 15 students per class in the sixth form. The Aspire programme provides sixth formers with enrichment opportunities through lectures, sports, voluntary service, and mentoring.
GSAL’s extra-curricular offerings are vast and varied. The school boasts a thriving music department with over 600 lessons per week on various instruments and numerous performance opportunities. Drama and dance are also well-supported, with productions ranging from classics like Oliver! to contemporary pieces such as We Will Rock You. The upcoming performing arts centre promises to further enhance these facilities.
Sport is another area where GSAL excels. The school offers state-of-the-art facilities including a swimming pool, squash courts, and a new sports dome. Students have achieved success in both traditional sports like rugby and hockey as well as non-traditional ones such as badminton and equestrian activities.
Pastoral care at GSAL is robust, with a dedicated team ensuring that students’ wellbeing is prioritised. The school has introduced new student support services that provide spaces for pupils to take time out and talk to someone when needed. Parents appreciate the school’s proactive approach to addressing issues like bullying and mental health.
The Head of Learning Support leads a team that caters to over 300 pupils identified as having special educational needs (SEND), ensuring they receive the necessary support throughout their school journey. This commitment to inclusivity is further reflected in the school’s bursary programme, which allocates over £1.5 million annually for means-tested bursaries and scholarships.
GSAL’s diverse student body includes pupils from over 60 countries, contributing to a rich cultural tapestry within the school community. This diversity is celebrated through various initiatives and partnerships, including a long-standing relationship with schools in Malawi.
The school’s facilities are modern and well-maintained, featuring spacious classrooms, wide corridors for easy circulation, and a vast dining room offering a wide choice of appetising food options. The sixth form centre has been updated to provide ample social space and study areas for older students.
Parents are kept informed through regular communication channels such as online portals, weekly bulletins, termly news updates, and social media platforms. The active parents’ association plays a crucial role in supporting the school community through fundraising efforts.
Overall, GSAL provides an enriching educational experience that balances academic rigour with extensive extra-curricular opportunities. Its commitment to fostering personal development alongside academic achievement makes it one of the UK’s leading independent schools.
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