High schools in Leeds, England are a crucial part of the city’s education system. With a population of over 800,000, Leeds is the third-largest city in the United Kingdom, and it has a wide variety of high schools to choose from.
Each high school has its unique strengths and weaknesses, and students and parents must carefully consider their options before making a decision.
One of the most significant factors to consider when choosing a high school in Leeds is academic performance. Many high schools in Leeds have a strong academic reputation, and some have even been recognized as outstanding by Ofsted, the UK’s education regulator.
However, academic performance is not the only factor to consider. High schools in Leeds also offer a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, drama, and more. These activities can help students develop important life skills and interests outside of the classroom.
Overall, high schools in Leeds, England offer a diverse range of educational opportunities for students. By carefully considering factors such as academic performance, extracurricular activities, and location, students and parents can make an informed decision about which high school is the best fit for them.
Here are the top 10 best high schools in Leeds, according to the search results:
- Roundhay School126
- The Morley Academy123
- Allerton High School126
- St. Mary’s Menston Academy1
- Garforth Academy12
- The Ruth Gorse Academy23
- Prince Henry’s Grammar School3
- Horsforth School56
- Corpus Christi Catholic College5
- The Grammar School at Leeds6
It’s worth noting that different sources may have slightly different rankings and criteria for what makes a “best” school. However, these schools consistently appear in the top rankings across multiple sources.
Here is a comprehensive overview of each of the Top Best 10 High Schools in Leeds England, including their features, qualities, and potential, as well as their contact information:
- 1. Roundhay School
- 2. The Morley Academy
- 3. Allerton High School
- 4. St. Mary’s Menston Academy
- 5. Garforth Academy
- 6. The Ruth Gorse Academy
- 7. Prince Henry’s Grammar School
- 8. Horsforth School
- 9. Corpus Christi Catholic College
- 10. The Grammar School at Leeds
- Overview of High Schools in Leeds, England
- Public High Schools in Leeds
- Private High Schools in Leeds
- Specialist High Schools in Leeds
- Admission Process in Leeds High Schools
- Academic Performance of Leeds High Schools
- Extracurricular Activities in Leeds High Schools
- Future Prospects for Students in Leeds High Schools
- Conclusion
1. Roundhay School
- Website: https://www.roundhayschool.org.uk/
- Phone: 0113 393 1200
- Address: Gledhow Lane, Leeds, LS8 1ND
- Features: Roundhay School is a large, mixed comprehensive school with over 2,000 students. The school has a strong focus on character development, instilling confidence and a love of learning, and teaching the importance of kindness, manners, and respect. The school offers a wide range of academic and extracurricular opportunities, including a strong music program, a Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme, and a range of sports teams.
- Qualities: Roundhay School is consistently ranked as one of the top high schools in Leeds and has a strong reputation for academic excellence. The school has a diverse student body and a supportive community of staff and parents.
- Potential: Roundhay School has a strong track record of preparing students for university and future careers. The school has a range of partnerships with local businesses and universities to provide students with real-world experience and opportunities.
2. The Morley Academy
- Website: https://www.morley.leeds.sch.uk/
- Phone: 0113 238 4200
- Address: Fountain Street, Morley, Leeds, LS27 0PD
- Features: The Morley Academy is a large, mixed comprehensive school with over 1,500 students. The school has a strong focus on academic achievement and offers a wide range of subjects and extracurricular activities, including a strong music program, a Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme, and a range of sports teams.
- Qualities: The Morley Academy is consistently ranked as one of the top high schools in Leeds and has a strong reputation for academic excellence. The school has a diverse student body and a supportive community of staff and parents.
- Potential: The Morley Academy has a strong track record of preparing students for university and future careers. The school has a range of partnerships with local businesses and universities to provide students with real-world experience and opportunities.
3. Allerton High School
- Website: https://www.allertonhigh.org.uk/
- Phone: 0113 203 4770
- Address: King Lane, Leeds, LS17 7AG
- Features: Allerton High School is a large, mixed comprehensive school with over 1,500 students. The school has a strong focus on academic achievement and offers a wide range of subjects and extracurricular activities, including a strong music program, a Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme, and a range of sports teams.
- Qualities: Allerton High School is consistently ranked as one of the top high schools in Leeds and has a strong reputation for academic excellence. The school has a diverse student body and a supportive community of staff and parents.
- Potential: Allerton High School has a strong track record of preparing students for university and future careers. The school has a range of partnerships with local businesses and universities to provide students with real-world experience and opportunities.
4. St. Mary’s Menston Academy
- Website: https://www.stmarysmenston.org/
- Phone: 01943 883000
- Address: Bradford Road, Menston, Ilkley, LS29 6AE
- Features: St. Mary’s Menston Academy is a Catholic secondary school with a strong focus on academic achievement and spiritual development. The school offers a wide range of subjects and extracurricular activities, including a strong music program, a Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme, and a range of sports teams.
- Qualities: St. Mary’s Menston Academy is consistently ranked as one of the top Catholic high schools in Leeds and has a strong reputation for academic excellence and spiritual development. The school has a supportive community of staff, parents, and alumni.
- Potential: St. Mary’s Menston Academy has a strong track record of preparing students for university and future careers. The school has a range of partnerships with local businesses and universities to provide students with real-world experience and opportunities.
5. Garforth Academy
- Website: https://www.garforthacademy.org.uk/
- Phone: 0113 212 7141
- Address: Lidgett Lane, Garforth, Leeds, LS25 1LJ
- Features: Garforth Academy is a large, mixed comprehensive school with over 1,500 students. The school has a strong focus on academic achievement and offers a wide range of subjects and extracurricular activities, including a strong music program, a Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme, and a range of sports teams.
- Qualities: Garforth Academy is consistently ranked as one of the top high schools in Leeds and has a strong reputation for academic excellence. The school has a diverse student body and a supportive community of staff and parents.
- Potential: Garforth Academy has a strong track record of preparing students for university and future careers. The school has a range of partnerships with local businesses and universities to provide students with real-world experience and opportunities.
6. The Ruth Gorse Academy
- Website: https://www.ruthgorse.leeds.sch.uk/
- Phone: 0113 468 5100
- Address: Black Bull Street, Leeds, LS10 1HW
- Features: The Ruth Gorse Academy is a large, mixed comprehensive school with over 1,500 students. The school has a strong focus on academic achievement and offers a wide range of subjects and extracurricular activities, including a strong music program, a Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme, and a range of sports teams.
- Qualities: The Ruth Gorse Academy is consistently ranked as one of the top high schools in Leeds and has a strong reputation for academic excellence. The school has a diverse student body and a supportive community of staff and parents.
- Potential: The Ruth Gorse Academy has a strong track record of preparing students for university and future careers. The school has a range of partnerships with local businesses and universities to provide students with real-world experience and opportunities.
7. Prince Henry’s Grammar School
- Address: Farnley Lane, Otley, West Yorkshire, LS21 2BB, England
- Phone: +44 1943 462349
- Website: www.princehenrys.co.uk
- Email: info@princehenrys.co.uk
Prince Henry’s Grammar School is a secondary school and sixth form located in the market town of Otley, West Yorkshire, England. Established in 1607, the school teaches boys and girls between the ages of 11 and 18 and has around 1,400 pupils and 84 teachers.
It is a specialist language college and has a high position within regional league tables. In 2016, Prince Henry’s had the third-highest results for GCSEs in Leeds1. The school offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, drama, and clubs.
The school has a strong focus on languages, with students having the opportunity to learn French, German, Spanish, and Latin.
The school has a modern and well-equipped campus, including a sports hall, a theatre, and a library. In October 2005, Prince Henry’s Grammar School became the first school in the City of Leeds to be presented with the International School Award1.
8. Horsforth School
- Address: Lee Lane East, Horsforth, Leeds, LS18 5RF, England
- Phone: +44 113 226 5454
- Website: www.horsforthschool.org
- Email: info@horsforthschool.org
Horsforth School is a secondary school and sixth form located in Horsforth, Leeds, England. The school has around 2,000 pupils and 200 teachers, making it one of the largest schools in Leeds. The school has a strong academic record and is consistently ranked highly in regional league tables.
It offers a wide range of subjects at GCSE and A-level, including traditional academic subjects, vocational courses, and creative arts. The school has a strong focus on extracurricular activities, including sports, music, drama, and clubs.
The school has a modern and well-equipped campus, including a sports hall, a theatre, and a library. The school has a strong sense of community and encourages students to take an active role in school life56.
9. Corpus Christi Catholic College
- Address: Neville Road, Leeds, LS9 0TT, England
- Phone: +44 113 200 9010
- Website: www.corpusleeds.org
- Email: info@corpusleeds.org
Corpus Christi Catholic College is a Roman Catholic secondary school and sixth form located in Leeds, England. The school has around 1,200 pupils and 100 teachers. It has a strong academic record and is consistently ranked highly in regional league tables.
The school offers a wide range of subjects at GCSE and A-level, including traditional academic subjects, vocational courses, and creative arts. The school has a strong focus on extracurricular activities, including sports, music, drama, and clubs.
The school has a modern and well-equipped campus, including a sports hall, a theatre, and a library. The school has a strong Catholic ethos and encourages students to develop their faith5.
10. The Grammar School at Leeds
- Address: Alwoodley Gates, Harrogate Road, Leeds, LS17 9NA, England
- Phone: +44 113 275 2670
- Website: www.gsal.org.uk
- Email: info@gsal.org.uk
The Grammar School at Leeds is an independent, co-educational school located in Leeds, England. The school has around 2,200 pupils and 300 teachers. It has a strong academic record and is consistently ranked highly in national league tables.
The school offers a wide range of subjects at GCSE and A-level, including traditional academic subjects, vocational courses, and creative arts. The school has a strong focus on extracurricular activities, including sports, music, drama, and clubs.
The school has a modern and well-equipped campus, including a sports hall, a theatre, and a library. The school has a strong sense of community and encourages students to take an active role in school life6.
Overview of High Schools in Leeds, England
Leeds is a city located in the northern part of England and is home to a variety of high schools. These schools offer a range of academic programs and extracurricular activities for students to choose from. Here is an overview of high schools in Leeds:
Types of High Schools
In Leeds, there are three main types of high schools: state-funded schools, academies, and independent schools. State-funded schools are funded by the government and are free for students to attend.
Academies are also state-funded but have more control over their curriculum and policies. Independent schools are not funded by the government and require tuition fees to be paid.
Curriculum
High schools in Leeds follow the National Curriculum, which sets out the subjects and standards that all state-funded schools must teach. However, academies and independent schools have more flexibility in their curriculum and can offer additional subjects or programs.
Exam Results
High schools in Leeds are assessed based on their exam results. The main exams taken by students in high school are GCSEs and A-Levels. GCSEs are taken at the end of Year 11 and A-Levels are taken at the end of Year 13.
The exam results of high schools in Leeds are published annually and can be found on the government’s website.
Extracurricular Activities
High schools in Leeds offer a variety of extracurricular activities for students to participate in. These can include sports teams, music groups, drama clubs, and more. Many high schools also offer opportunities for students to volunteer in the community or participate in work experience programs.
Overall, high schools in Leeds provide a range of academic and extracurricular opportunities for students to explore and develop their skills and interests.
Public High Schools in Leeds
Leeds is home to a variety of high schools, including several public schools that offer a quality education to students. These schools are funded by the government and offer a range of academic and extracurricular programs to students.
Roundhay School
Roundhay School is a well-respected public high school in Leeds that has been educating students for over 100 years.
With a focus on academic excellence, Roundhay offers a range of courses in subjects such as science, math, English, and social studies. The school also has a strong arts program, including drama, music, and visual arts.
Lawnswood School
Lawnswood School is another top-rated public high school in Leeds. The school has a strong academic program, with a focus on preparing students for university and other post-secondary education.
Lawnswood also offers a range of extracurricular activities, including sports teams, music groups, and drama clubs.
Allerton High School
Allerton High School is a diverse public high school that serves students from a variety of backgrounds. The school has a strong academic program, with a focus on preparing students for success in college and beyond.
Allerton also offers a range of extracurricular activities, including sports teams, music groups, and drama clubs.
Overall, Leeds has a number of excellent public high schools that offer a quality education to students. Whether you are looking for a school with a strong academic program, a focus on the arts, or a diverse student body, there is a school in Leeds that will meet your needs.
Private High Schools in Leeds
Leeds is home to several private high schools that offer a range of educational programs. These schools provide a unique learning experience for students who are looking for a more personalized education. Here are some of the top private high schools in Leeds.
Leeds Grammar School
Leeds Grammar School is a prestigious private high school located in the heart of Leeds. The school was founded in 1552 and has a long history of providing outstanding education to its students.
The school offers a wide range of subjects and has an excellent reputation for academic excellence. Students at Leeds Grammar School are encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities such as sports, music, and drama.
The Grammar School at Leeds
The Grammar School at Leeds is another top private high school in the city. The school was formed in 2005 when two of the city’s most prestigious private schools, Leeds Grammar School and Leeds Girls’ High School, merged.
The Grammar School at Leeds offers a broad curriculum that includes traditional academic subjects as well as vocational courses. The school also has an excellent reputation for its music and drama programs.
Woodhouse Grove School
Woodhouse Grove School is a co-educational private high school located in Apperley Bridge, just outside of Leeds. The school offers a range of subjects and has a strong focus on sports and physical education.
The school has excellent facilities for sports such as rugby, cricket, and hockey. Woodhouse Grove School also has a strong music program and encourages students to participate in extracurricular activities.
Overall, Leeds has several excellent private high schools that offer a range of educational programs. These schools provide a unique learning experience for students who are looking for a more personalized education.
Specialist High Schools in Leeds
Leeds is home to several specialist high schools that offer unique educational opportunities to their students. These schools are focused on specific areas of study, such as technology, arts, or sports.
One of the most well-known specialist high schools in Leeds is the Ruth Gorse Academy. This school is dedicated to providing a high-quality education in the fields of computing and technology.
Students at the Ruth Gorse Academy have access to state-of-the-art facilities and equipment, as well as a team of experienced teachers who are passionate about their subjects.
Another specialist high school in Leeds is the Leeds West Academy. This school is focused on the performing arts, and offers students the chance to study music, drama, and dance at an advanced level.
The Leeds West Academy has a strong reputation for producing talented performers, and many of its graduates have gone on to successful careers in the arts.
For students who are interested in sports, the Cockburn School is an excellent choice. This specialist high school has a strong focus on physical education, and offers students the opportunity to participate in a wide range of sports and activities.
The Cockburn School also has a number of partnerships with local sports clubs and organizations, which allows students to gain valuable experience and connections in the sports industry.
Overall, specialist high schools in Leeds offer students a unique and valuable educational experience. Whether they are interested in technology, the arts, or sports, there is a school in Leeds that can help them achieve their goals and reach their full potential.
Admission Process in Leeds High Schools
Leeds high schools follow a standard admission process that is overseen by the Leeds City Council. The process is designed to be fair and transparent, ensuring that all students have an equal opportunity to attend their preferred high school.
Application Process
The application process for high school admission in Leeds begins in September of the year prior to the student’s entry into high school. The application form can be completed online or submitted in paper form to the Leeds City Council.
The application form requires parents/guardians to list their preferred high schools, in order of preference. It is recommended that parents/guardians list at least three high schools, to increase the chances of their child being offered a place at a high school that they are happy with.
Admissions Criteria
Leeds high schools use a range of criteria to determine which students are offered places. These criteria vary depending on the high school, but may include:
- Proximity to the school
- Sibling attendance at the school
- Academic ability
- Special educational needs
- Religious affiliation
Each high school has its own admissions criteria, which are published on the Leeds City Council website.
Offer of a Place
In March of the year of entry, parents/guardians will receive an offer of a place for their child at one of the high schools they listed on their application form.
If their child is not offered a place at their preferred high school, they will be placed on a waiting list and may be offered a place at a later date if one becomes available.
Parents/guardians have the right to appeal if they are not happy with the high school their child has been offered a place at. The appeals process is overseen by an independent panel and is designed to be fair and impartial.
Overall, the admission process for high schools in Leeds is designed to be fair and transparent, ensuring that all students have an equal opportunity to attend their preferred high school.
Academic Performance of Leeds High Schools
Leeds has a number of high schools that offer excellent academic programs. The schools are known for their high-quality education and rigorous curriculum. The academic performance of these schools is measured by a number of factors, including exam results, student progress, and teacher assessments.
According to the latest data from the Department for Education, the average Attainment 8 score for high schools in Leeds was 47.4 in 2022. This is slightly higher than the national average of 46.5. The Attainment 8 score measures the achievement of students across eight subjects, including English, mathematics, and science.
In terms of exam results, the top performing high schools in Leeds include:
- Roundhay School: In 2022, 82% of students achieved a grade 9-4 in English and mathematics.
- Allerton High School: In 2022, 78% of students achieved a grade 9-4 in English and mathematics.
- Lawnswood School: In 2022, 76% of students achieved a grade 9-4 in English and mathematics.
It is important to note that exam results are just one measure of academic performance. Schools also focus on student progress and teacher assessments to ensure that students are making good progress and achieving their potential.
Overall, the high schools in Leeds offer a high-quality education and are committed to ensuring that students achieve their academic goals.
Extracurricular Activities in Leeds High Schools
Leeds high schools offer a wide range of extracurricular activities to their students. These activities are designed to help students explore their interests, develop new skills, and build friendships outside of the classroom.
Some of the most popular extracurricular activities in Leeds high schools include:
- Sports teams: Leeds high schools offer a variety of sports teams, including football, basketball, rugby, and more. These teams compete against other schools in the area, giving students the opportunity to represent their school and develop their athletic abilities.
- Music and drama clubs: Leeds high schools have a strong tradition of music and drama, and many schools offer clubs and groups for students interested in these areas. These clubs provide opportunities for students to perform, learn new skills, and have fun.
- Volunteering and community service: Many Leeds high schools encourage their students to get involved in their local community by volunteering and participating in community service projects. These activities help students develop a sense of empathy and social responsibility, while also building their resumes and college applications.
- Academic clubs: Leeds high schools offer a variety of academic clubs for students interested in subjects such as science, math, and history. These clubs provide opportunities for students to explore their interests in a more in-depth way, while also building their knowledge and skills.
Overall, Leeds high schools offer a diverse range of extracurricular activities that cater to the interests and needs of their students. Whether a student is interested in sports, music, volunteering, or academics, there is something for everyone to get involved in.
Future Prospects for Students in Leeds High Schools
Leeds is a vibrant city in England that offers a range of opportunities for students attending high school. With a variety of industries and businesses, students have a bright future ahead of them.
Further Education
Leeds is home to several universities and colleges, including the University of Leeds, Leeds Beckett University, and Leeds Trinity University. These institutions offer a range of courses and qualifications, providing students with the opportunity to continue their education and pursue their interests.
Employment Opportunities
Leeds has a thriving economy, with a range of industries including finance, healthcare, and technology. This provides students with a range of employment opportunities after they leave high school.
There are also several apprenticeship schemes available, allowing students to gain valuable work experience whilst earning a wage.
Entrepreneurship
Leeds has a growing start-up scene, with several co-working spaces and incubators available for entrepreneurs. This provides students with the opportunity to start their own businesses and pursue their entrepreneurial dreams.
Overall, students attending high school in Leeds have a bright future ahead of them. With a range of further education opportunities, employment prospects, and entrepreneurial opportunities available, students are well placed to succeed in their chosen careers.
Conclusion
Leeds is home to a diverse range of high schools, each with its unique strengths and challenges. From academically-focused institutions to those with a strong emphasis on vocational training, there is a school to suit every student’s needs.
Throughout this article, we have explored the various high schools in Leeds, highlighting their key features and achievements. While some schools may have higher academic results, others may excel in sports or the arts.
It is important to note that these differences do not make one school better than the other, but rather reflect the individual strengths and interests of each institution.
Overall, students in Leeds have access to a high-quality education that prepares them for their future endeavors. With a strong emphasis on academic achievement, as well as opportunities for personal growth and development, high schools in Leeds are well-equipped to help students succeed.