KING EDWARD VI HANDSWORTH SCHOOL in West Midlands, Birmingham

Education Centre Information: King Edward VI Handsworth School:

Establishment Type:Voluntary Aided School
Phase of Education: Secondary
Status: Closed
Local Authority: Birmingham
Reason Establishment Closed: Academy Converter
Establishment Close Date: 31/07/2011
Boarders: No Boarders
Sixth Form: Has a sixth form
Urban/Rural Description: Urban > 10k - less sparse
Special Classes: No Special Classes
Religious Character: Christian
Total Pupils: 912
Number of girls: 912
Admissions: Selective
Age Range: 11-18
Gender: Girls
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Background:

Founded in 1883; moved to current site in 1911; well-maintained grounds surrounding campus with special buildings for science, games and sixth form; substantial renovation of older buildings. Two new laboratories opened in 1992 and sixth-form centre completed in 1997; sports hall with state-of-the-art dance studio and sports ICT facility in 2004; neighbouring church being developed as music centre. Girls may take separate sciences at GCSE; science and mathematics strong at A-level. More than half pupils receive instrumental lessons; school offers orchestra, choirs, flute choir and wind band; senior string quartet reached finals of National Chamber Music competition in 1996 and 1997. Drama productions. Has won NatWest quiz for Birmingham, won National Fire Prevention Quiz in 1995; best Young Enterprise company in Birmingham for five consecutive years, one company visiting a trade fair in Russia; Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme; rock-climibing club Proud of sporting achievement, with emphasis on participation and not just winning. Staff run many extra-curricular activities; school visits in UK and abroad, including United States and Russia in 2004/2005; expeditions to Namibia and Honduras (2004), and Thailand (2006); raises more than £10,000 a year for charities. School's intake reflects ethnic mix of city; prides itself on 'relaxed, friendly and well-disciplined atmosphere'. Specialist performing arts college status from September 2003. Over-subscribed, with nine applications per place. Artsmark Gold (2005); Sportsmark. Ethos: 'An emphasis on high achievement within a friendly atmosphere and an emphasis on service'.