Leicester Grammar School Trust, operating in the vicinity of Leicester, has established itself as a prominent co-educational independent school. Founded in 1981, it initially began alongside the cathedral and has since expanded to a spacious rural campus shared with its Junior School. The school offers an all-round education for students aged three to 18, with a Christian religious affiliation.
The school’s ethos is a blend of traditional values and academic excellence, coupled with a forward-looking approach that prepares students for success in a rapidly changing world. High expectations are matched by a diverse range of co-curricular opportunities, fostering a supportive community. This environment enables students to leave as confident young adults ready to make significant societal contributions.
Academically, Leicester Grammar School Trust is impressive. According to the Times 2024 Parent Power Rankings, it holds the 90th position, having been ranked 68th in 2023. Its A-level results are commendable, with 24.8% achieving A* grades and 55.5% obtaining A*/A grades. At GCSE level, 63.6% of students achieved A*/9/8 grades, while 80.6% secured A*/A/9/8/7 grades. These results underscore the school’s commitment to academic excellence.
John Watson, who has been Head since April 2019, has brought significant changes to the school’s culture. His leadership focuses on wellbeing and empathy alongside academic achievement, ensuring students are not only successful but also empathetic and self-aware individuals. Watson’s strategic role extends across the Trust’s three schools: Leicester Grammar School, Leicester Grammar Junior School, and LGS Stoneygate.
The entrance process is selective, with entry at Year 7 based on exams in Maths, English, and reasoning. Almost half of the entrants come from the Junior School on the same site. The sixth form sees about 20 new joiners each year from state comprehensives within the city. Academic support is robust, with SEND status for 118 children and tailored assistance where needed.
Leicester Grammar School Trust places great emphasis on teaching and learning. Students typically take ten or more GCSEs, with compulsory subjects including at least two sciences and one language from options like French, German, Spanish, Italian, Latin or Greek. The sixth form offers 26 subjects, primarily traditional and academic, although Business and Psychology have been introduced to broaden options.
The arts are well-supported at Leicester Grammar School Trust. Music is particularly strong in the lower years, with compulsory participation in bands or groups for those who play instruments. The school boasts 28 bands, orchestras, choirs, and groups that rehearse weekly. Drama productions are also a highlight, with performances involving the whole school.
Sport is gaining momentum at Leicester Grammar School Trust with excellent facilities including rugby pitches, Astro turfs, netball hoops, a swimming pool, gymnasium and dance studio. The appointment of a new director of sport has further enhanced the focus on sports activities.
Pastoral care is a priority at Leicester Grammar School Trust. Inclusivity is high on the agenda with initiatives like counselling courses for sixth formers who mentor younger students. An anonymous portal allows pupils to seek help discreetly.
The student body reflects the demographic diversity of Leicestershire with over 40% from Asian backgrounds and a gender split of 56:44 boys to girls. Parents are typically forward-thinking professionals connected to local hospitals and universities.
Financially, discounts are available for families with multiple children attending the school along with means-tested bursaries and scholarships in academics, sports, music and art.
Leicester Grammar School Trust has carved out its niche as an independent school that feels more like a state city grammar due to its focus on modern education over tradition or status.
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