ARDEN SCHOOL in West Midlands, Solihull

Education Centre Information: Arden School:

Establishment Type:Community School
Phase of Education: Secondary
Status: Closed
Local Authority: Solihull
Reason Establishment Closed: Academy Converter
Establishment Close Date: 30/09/2010
Boarders: No Boarders
Sixth Form: Has a sixth form
Urban/Rural Description: Urban > 10k - less sparse
Special Classes: No Special Classes
Religious Character: Does not apply
Total Pupils: 1465
Number of boys: 743
Number of girls: 722
Admissions: Comprehensive
Age Range: 11-18
Gender: Mixed
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Background:

Accepted first pupils in 1959; set on green site near centre of Knowle village; orginal buildings complemented by new classrooms, science block, new gymn, all-weather pitch, and purpose-built music/drama block (2000). The school has its own on-site playing fields, with an artificial cricket wicket, an all-weather pitch and tennis/netball courts. It is proud of its musical history and the comprehensive activity includes school choirs, wind bands, orchestras, and a jazz band. Specialist language college status from 1996; pupils have chance to study two languages at Key Stage 3, and three at Key Stage 4, including Mandarin Chinese. Library lessons, in additional to national curriculum; educational visits relating to curriculum area; discrete lessons in ICT, with all pupils sitting national qualification in Year 11; school-wide ICT network. Wide variety of sports; traditional sports supplemented by aerobics, golf, bowling and climbing. National recognition in debating. Extensive community links. Artsmark Gold (2005); Sportsmark; Sportsmark Gold; Investor in People status; Investor in People status. Ethos: 'Arden is at the heart of the community that it serves, with pupils, parents and local people united in their commitment to foster a relationship that secures a successful future for all'.