Cobham Hall

Cobham Hall, located in Gravesend, offers a unique educational experience for girls aged 11 to 18, with a co-educational sixth form introduced in 2022. The school has a rich history, housed in a stunning 16th-century building that has served as a film set for productions like The Crown and Hetty Feather. This historical backdrop adds a unique charm to the school environment, making it a talking point among students and parents alike.

The main entry points for students are years 7, 10, and 12, although there has been a noticeable increase in students joining in years 8 and 9. Mid-year entries are also common, facilitated through a CAT4 test and interview. For students who speak English as an additional language (EAL), an English test and interview with the Head of EAL are required. The school has a diverse intake, with feeder schools including Steephill and Pointers in Blackheath, various south-east London prep schools, and local state primaries.

Cobham Hall has a growing international presence, with around five students annually joining from abroad for a one-year pre-A level course. The sixth form, which now includes boys, assesses candidates through interviews and aptitude tests, rather than specific grade criteria. The school aims to grow by 15 to 20 students per year while maintaining a ‘small school feel.’

The academic results are commendable, with 43% of GCSE grades at 9-7 in 2023 and 24% of A level grades at A*/A. The school offers a broad range of subjects, including Psychology, Chemical Engineering, Modern Foreign Languages, Biochemistry, International Relations, and Maths. Art foundation courses are also popular. The school supports applications to foreign universities and provides assistance with SATs. Career advice is given early, and year 12 students attend a higher education fair and an Oxbridge conference. There is ample support for personal statements and university choices.

The teaching and learning approach at Cobham Hall is innovative, focusing on real-world skills and character development. The new Personal Discovery Framework Lessons incorporate project-based learning, covering activities from Dragons’ Den to journalism and fundraising. The curriculum includes a career element, mainly interview skills practice with alumnae or parents. The school recently introduced the Global Perspectives GCSE, which addresses global issues and student influence on change. Year 12 students participate in the Ivy House leadership course, which includes a two-day Big Business Pitch event.

The school previously offered the International Baccalaureate (IB) but has reverted to A levels, with students typically taking three A levels, although some take two or four, along with an optional Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) and the leadership course. At GCSE, most students take ten subjects, with some taking eight or nine. The school streams students from year 8 based on overall ability and sets them in subjects like Maths, English, and Science. Class sizes are up to 20 in lower years and up to 12 in the sixth form, with flexibility to run classes for just one student if needed.

Parents are generally pleased with the teaching methods, noting significant improvements in their children’s motivation and willingness to ask questions. The school offers a pre-A level course, allowing students to take some GCSEs or improve their English in preparation for the sixth form.

Learning support is robust, with about a fifth of students requiring some form of assistance. The school is CReSTeD registered and focuses on inclusivity, offering in-class support and one-to-one sessions where needed. The school is experienced in dealing with dyslexia, dyscalculia, ADHD, and autism. The EFL programme is tailored for each pupil, with good English proficiency required for those joining in years 10 and 12.

The arts and extra-curricular activities are vibrant, with a dynamic head of music ensuring high participation in co-curricular music lessons. The school boasts a well-equipped music wing, regular concerts, and a popular chamber choir. The drama department is also strong, with updated sound and lighting in the drama studio and regular productions in the magnificent Gilt Hall. Art subjects like Graphic Design, Textiles, Fine Art, and Photography are well-received, with impressive student artwork displayed around the school.

Sport has seen significant improvements, with support for elite young sportspeople and a variety of team sports offered. The school has its own cross-country course and has recently introduced cricket. Sixth form students have four periods of PE a week, with options like trampolining, climbing, and gym.

Boarding is a significant aspect of life at Cobham Hall, with about a quarter of students boarding. The school offers full, weekly, and flexible boarding options, with two main boarding houses for girls and a separate area for sixth form boys. Boarding houses are well-equipped with kitchens and common rooms, and sixth form boarders can cook their own meals.

The school’s ethos is grounded in the Round Square philosophy, promoting autonomy and involvement in school life. Mixed-age tutor groups and a buddy system foster strong friendships across year groups. The school has a strong focus on inclusivity and community service, with various activities and projects encouraging students to give back to the community.

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