Handsworth Grammar School secures top 100 spot
King Edward VI Handsworth Grammar School for Boys has been recognised as one of the top 100 secondary schools in England, according to a new league table compiled by The Telegraph. The ranking evaluated thousands of secondaries across the country using factors such as GCSE performance, attendance rates, and class sizes.
The Handsworth school was one of only four institutions in the West Midlands to make the prestigious list. The others were King Edward VI Camp Hill School for Boys (27th), King Edward VI Camp Hill School for Girls (45th), and Queen Mary's High School in Walsall (48th). Unsurprisingly, many of the top spots were occupied by private and grammar schools, including some of the country's most prestigious and expensive institutions.
Ofsted praises 'caring and supportive' environment
King Edward VI Handsworth Grammar School for Boys received an outstanding rating in two areas – quality of education and personal development – and a good rating in three others during its most recent Ofsted inspection in April 2024. Inspectors noted that “caring and supportive relationships are at the heart” of the school, adding that “pupils are happy in school.”
All pupils who spoke to inspectors understood the school’s CARES values, which include aspiration, respect, and endeavour. The report highlighted that “pupils are safe, and they say that poor behaviour is rare.” A typical parent comment quoted in the inspection was: “Brilliant school. Great nurturing environment.”
Ambitious curriculum for all pupils
Ofsted further noted: “The school has designed a highly ambitious curriculum for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), and students in the sixth form.” The report added that “the school has set very high expectations for pupils’ future academic achievements,” and that “staff relentlessly focus on helping pupils to meet these high standards.”
The school, which attracts some of the brightest students in the region, has long been respected for its academic excellence. This latest recognition adds to its impressive track record and solidifies its position among England’s leading secondary schools.
