- The oversubscribed selective boys’ grammar with a coeducational sixth form, founded in 1901, is proud of its traditions but aware of its responsibility to prepare students for a changing world.
- A sixth form study centre was part of a £4.5 million development opened in 2023 by Alex James, the Blur bassist, a former pupil.
- Music is described as “the fabric” of school society. A recording studio, grand piano, double bass and orchestral percussion are available for pupils who perhaps hope to follow in James’s footsteps.
- Academic standards are high and increasing numbers of students are gaining places at Oxford and Cambridge and Russell Group universities.
- As well as music, sport, the Combined Cadet Force, Scouts — including sea scouts — and the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award scheme are mainstays of the school’s extracurricular provision. Other after-school options include history film club and robotics.
- The comedian Benny Hill and the actor Christian Bale are also former pupils.
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