- Established in 1912, the school opened with 57 pupils and three members of staff. It now educates more than 1,400 pupils aged 11 to 18.
- Because the school is selective, pupils applying for a place in year 7 must sit an entry exam that tests non-verbal reasoning, verbal reasoning and mathematical skills.
- Professor Brian Cox opened its state-of-the-art physics centre in 2013 and the sports facilities underwent a major redevelopment in 2018.
- Music is one of the school’s strengths, offering pre-school, lunchtime and after-school tuition, practice and ensemble playing. Alumni include Ian Brown and John Squire of the indie rock band the Stone Roses.
- The wide offering of extracurricular clubs range from Amnesty International to Warhammer, and include the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award scheme.
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