COLCHESTER COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL FOR GIRLS in Essex, Colchester

Education Centre Information: Colchester County High School for Girls:

Establishment Type:Foundation School
Phase of Education: Secondary
Status: Closed
Local Authority: Essex
Reason Establishment Closed: Academy Converter
Establishment Close Date: 30/09/2011
Boarders: No Boarders
Sixth Form: Has a sixth form
Urban/Rural Description: Urban > 10k - less sparse
Special Classes: No Special Classes
Religious Character: None
Total Pupils: 783
Number of girls: 783
Admissions: Selective
Age Range: 11-18
Gender: Girls
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Background:

From origins in early 1900s, became girls' grammar in about 1944; moved to current site, on outskirts of Colchester, in 1958. Well-maintained building boasts 'much glass but little architectural merit'; set in extensive grounds with fine old trees, netball and tennis courts, athletics track and outdoor swimming pool. Newly-furnished sixth-form bistro area and picnic tables dotted throughout grounds combine to create a 'uniquely relaxed yet adult atmosphere during breaktimes'. New technology block and ICT suite, with latest hardware and software, which 'equips students fully for our technological age'; new science and sixth-form centre, result of fundraising appeal, opened in September 2002. Has county-wide reputation for drama, sport and music, with two orchestras, many choirs and instrumental groups; new music school in September 2006; new classrooms and 'i-laboratory' in 2007. Strong careers guidance; high proportion of students go on to higher education to become scientists, engineers, medical students and veterinary surgeons. School-leavers have recently won examination board prizes for top papers in biology, history, chemistry, classical civilisation, geography, economics and Spanish. Strong language and orchestral exchange links with partner school in Germany. 'For the years a student is with us, she can feel part of a close-knit, caring community within which she can participate to the fullest extent while retaining her individuality and personal dignity.' Before-school care, from 8am; after-school care, until 5pm. Over-subscribed, with more than four applications per place. Specialist science college status from September 2002; also specialist language college status from September 2006. Schools Curriculum Award (2004); DfES achievement award (2002). Ethos: 'The school aims to enable students to learn in an orderly, disciplined and caring atmosphere, with equality of opportunity, in order to achieve excellence'.