Founded in 1612, it lies on the outskirts of the town of Batley in the heart of Yorkshire. Originally a boys' school, it has been co-educational since 1996. The well-appointed buildings are of Yorkshire stone and brick. Recent developments have created modern facilities including a sports hall, ICT rooms, a learning resource centre, a design and technology centre, science laboratories and a new state-of-the-art sixth form centre with video conferencing. There are also extensive grounds and sports fields. The junior school, Priestly House, is on the same site. The school has remained very much in the grammar school tradition and examination results are very good. The school has a strong CCF contingent, choir and band. There are many extra-curricular activities available such as canoeing, the Duke of Edinburgh's Award, climbing, fitness, Interact, photography and textiles. Vigorous local support and commitment to the community.
Pupils: Total age range 3-19, 353 day pupils (205 boys, 148 girls). Senior department 11-19, 243 day pupils (139 boys, 104 girls). Entrance: Own entrance exam used; for sixth form entry at least 5 GCSEs at grade C (grade B in sixth-form subjects). No special skills or religious requirements. 70% of main intakes from state schools; many from own junior school (tel 01924 474980).
Around 10 bursaries pa, mainly at 11. Parents not expected to buy textbooks; lunch is included in the fees. Holiday trips and some educational visits are extra.
Head: Mrs Brigid Tullie. Educated at Presentation Convent High School, Matlock and London University. Teaching staff: 35 full time, 5 part time.
GCSE: 59 pupils in Year 11, 70% gained ast least grade C in 8+ subjects, 20% in 5-7 subjects. A-levels: 29 pupils in upper sixth; 17% passed in 4+ subjects, 69% in 3 (often with additional AS-levels alongside), 14% passed in 2 subjects. Average final point score achieved by upper sixth formers 264.
95% of sixth form leavers go on to a degree course. 25% take courses in science and engineering, 70% in humanities and social sciences. Others typically go on to banking, the armed services, technical apprenticeships.
GCSE, AS and A-levels. 16 AS/A-level subjects (including classical civilisation, sports studies, business studies). Sixth form: Most sixth formers take 4 subjects at AS-level, 3 at A-level; in addition, general studies optional; pre-university enrichment programme for all. 30% take science A-levels; 50% arts/humanities; 20% both. Key skills mostly integrated into A-level courses. Languages: French (from age 11), German (fram age 12) both offered at GCSE and A-level; all take at least one language at GCSE. Regular trips to France and Germany. Trips to Paris (second/third year and sixth form) and German exchange. Satellite TV links. ICT: Taught both as a discrete subject and across the curriculum, eg internet for research. 36 computers for pupil use (7 hours a day), majority networked and with email and internet access. Most pupils take GCSE IT (with business studies).
Music: Many pupils learn a musical instrument; instrumental exams can be taken. Musical groups include choir, brass band, concert band, chamber groups. Drama: Many pupils are involved in school and other productions. Art and design: On average, 15 take GCSE, 6 A-level. Development of own style encouraged; visits to galleries and collectons for inspiration.
Sport: Football, hockey, cross-country, athletics, cricket, netball, rounders, basketball, badminton, table tennis, fitness. Sixth form only: aerobics, squash, water sports such as sailing and canoeing. Recent pupils in U19 and U15 England cricket teams. Activities: Pupils take bronze, silver and gold Duke of Edinburgh's Award. CCF optional from age 14, community service from age 16. Many clubs including chess, debating, textiles, community service, photography, culture vultures, girls football and Young Enterprise.
Uniform: School uniform worn throughout; smart business dress in sixth form. Houses and prefects: Prefects and school officers elected by staff and sixth form. Religion: Morning assembly compulsory unless parents request otherwise. Social: Language trips to France and Germany, organised outward bound trips and ski trips, World Challenge, Namibia expedition. Pupils allowed to bring own car or bike to school with Head's permission. Meals self-service.
A formal positive discipline policy is in operation, where good behaviour and hard work is rewarded. School atmosphere is positive and friendly.
is organised by a voluntary committee, email alumni@batleygrammar.co.uk.
Sir Willie Morris (Ambassador); Professor Norman Franklin (UKAEA); Joseph Priestley (discovered oxygen in 1774); Sir Owen Richardson (Nobel Prize winner).
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