Four out of the top 10 state secondary schools in the North West are in Altrincham, according to a prestigious new league table.
The Sunday Times’ Parent Power guide uses data from the latest exam results to help draw together its rankings, and Altrincham’s leading schools once again dominate.
Altrincham Grammar School for Girls has again been named The Sunday Times Northwest Secondary School of the Year, and moves up to fifth place nationally..
Also performing exceptionally well are Altrincham Grammar School for Boys, in second place, Loreto Grammar School at fifth and St Ambrose College in sixth.
There are good showings too for Sale Grammar, at fourth, and Stretford Grammar at ninth.
Bowdon Church School, meanwhile, was ranked fifth in the top state primary schools in the North West.
Stephanie Gill, head teacher at Altrincham Grammar School for Girls, said: “The school’s academic success is due to the hard work and expertise of the teachers, alongside the support of staff for our student’s welfare and wellbeing and the resilience, determination and commitment of our students.
“There are dozens of clubs and extra-curricular activities at this single-sex grammar — ranging from computing to hip-hop, Latin, psychology and chess. We believe in the NHS’s five ways to wellbeing: connecting with others, being physically active, learning new skills, giving to others and paying attention to the moment.”
The rankings in the secondary school league tables are determined by the percentage of examination entries gaining A-B at A-level (which is given double weighting) and the percentage of entries returning A and A grades, and those graded 9, 8 and 7, at GCSE and iGCSE.
Helen Davies, editor of The Sunday Times Parent Power guide, says: “These have been a challenging few years for teachers, pupils and their parents, and the success of many in our league table is testament to the stamina and support shown by all concerned.
“It is also clear that more attention is being placed on wellbeing and mental health – from meditation rooms to counselling support, even therapy dogs – and schools are being proactive to bring about positive changes.”
