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Reviewed

Haberdashers’ Adams

State school · Newport, TF10 7BD
  • Secondary
  • Co-ed
  • Ages 11-18
  • From £15,282 pa
  • 1,090 pupils
  • Boarding
Academically selective state school
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A wonderful state grammar with stellar academic standards and a multitude of enrichment activities on offer to create real depth of character. Boarding is incredible for the price.

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Overview & data

Pupil numbers
1,090 ·
Sixth form numbers
362 ·
Offers boarding
Yes ·
Religion
None
Fees
Day free; Boarding: £15,282 - £16,752 pa
Local authority
Telford and Wrekin Council

Headteacher

Headteacher

Daniel Biggins

Since September 2025, Daniel Biggins, previously deputy head, pupil welfare. Mr Biggins has spent nearly 20 years at the school, firstly as a teacher of business studies and economics before heading up the department and becoming deputy head in 2016.

Entrance

School has been accepting girls into year 7 from 2024. Priority is given to children on pupil premium. The ‘attendance area’ (catchment) was extended in the last few years to include large parts of Telford and Wrekin; children who pass the entrance

Admissions policy
Academically selective state school
Open days
Open events take place annually in January with all dates communicated via School website.

Entry and exit data - year 7 entry (average 2020-2022)

Other 71 %
Where the number of students is less than 10, we cannot say where they've come from or where they are going to due to data protection rules.
Unknown 13 %
Where the school a student attended before or after this school is not known. These might be students who have come from or going to home schooling, independent schools, moving abroad etc.
Uplands Junior School 5 %
Moorfield Primary School 5 %
Newport Church of England Voluntary Controlled Junior School 4 %
Tibberton Church of England Primary School 3 %
Data highlight

Exit

Around a quarter leave after GCSEs. In 2025, three to Oxbridge and 19 medics post A levels, plus three degree apprenticeships. Leavers go to universities all over the UK: Liverpool, Lancaster, Loughborough, Birmingham, Manchester, Warwick, Exeter and

% students progressing to higher education or training (2021 leavers)

School
85%
LA avg.
64%
Eng. avg.
66%
Data highlight

What is this?

The proportion of 16-18 students that progressed to degrees, higher apprenticeships or other study at level 4 or above for at least 6 consecutive months in the 2 years after taking advanced level qualifications (level 3) at this school or college.

Latest results

In 2025, 59 per cent 9-7 at GCSE; 47 per cent A*/A at A level (74 per cent A*-B).

GCSE - % of pupils achieving grade 5 or above (A* to C) in English and maths GCSE (2024)

School
95.1%
LA avg.
38.8%
Eng. avg.
45.9%
Data highlight

What is this?

This tells you the percentage of pupils who achieved grade 5 or above in English and maths GCSEs.

A level - Average points score (2024)

School
40.74
LA avg.
35.55
Eng. avg.
34.45
Data highlight

What is this?

These figures tell you the average grade and average points that pupils achieved in their academic qualifications. A maximum of 60 points are available for a grade A* at A level.

Teaching & learning

The school believes in breadth of curriculum; an overview of the results, however, suggests that while results in GCSE English language/ literature and modern languages are strong, the school still really excels in maths and the three sciences, with

Qualifications taken in 2024
  • A level
  • EPQ
  • GCSE
59
Number of teachers
18:1
Pupil to teacher ratio

Learning support & SEN

Growing emphasis on helping pupils with barriers to learning. One-to-one is available and there is every effort to identify issues at an early stage. The school uses information from previous schools, listens to the concerns of pupils and parents,

0.4 %
Students with a SEN EHCP
7.3 %
Students with SEN support

Arts & extracurricular

Every school says they are about the well-rounded child but here this is no empty cliché. Yes, the school excels at science and maths but parents say the drive is about cross-fertilising interests, getting students to find other passions. Alongside

Sport

Sport figures highly – playing fields are down the road. Sports on offer: rugby, hockey, football, cricket, athletics, cross-country, badminton, basketball, netball, rounders and dance. A swimming pool (now with roof) is an added bonus.

Boarders

The school is one of seven state boarding grammars in the country. There are around 100 boarders, of whom 15 per cent are international students. Boarders can go home at weekends but many choose not to, to take advantage of trips to Alton Towers,

100
Total boarders
100
Full time boarders

Ethos & heritage

The school was founded in 1656 by Alderman William Adams. Within, it has a traditional vibe, corridor displays were varied, some departments opting for huge glossy photos, others for more modest subject-related poster displays. It is a mishmash of

Pastoral care, inclusivity & discipline

Pastoral care is centred round the house system – five houses in total. Parents said this fostered a great sense of belonging and was a buffer zone between the leadership team and the pupils. The pupil showing us round was a tad more low key about

Mobile phone policy

A clear mobile phone policy is a really important part of modern schooling. This school has provided us with their policy.

Mobile phone policy

Provided by the school and not part of our review

Mobile phones, tablets, laptops, etc should not be used on site unless with the express permission of a teacher in a lesson. Other exceptions are their use in the library for work purposes and in the sixth form centre as a privilege. Pupils do not formally require any of the items listed, and game consoles are not permitted in any circumstances.

Updated Sep 2025

Pupils & parents

Social mix is broadening and 60 per cent of pupils, the school estimates, have two working parents. It will take a little while for parents to feel there is a true cross-section of society but it is getting there. All parents enthused about how much

1,090
Number of pupils

Money matters

Boarding is a fraction of the cost of the independent sector and the accommodation great.

Fee information
Day free; Boarding: £15,282 - £16,752 pa

The last word

A wonderful state grammar with stellar academic standards and a multitude of enrichment activities on offer to create real depth of character. Boarding is incredible for the price.

Inspection reports

Ofsted reports

From September 2024, Ofsted no longer makes an overall effectiveness judgement in inspections of state-funded schools.

Full inspection: Good

You can read full reports on the Ofsted website

Personal development Good
Quality of education Good
Behaviour and attitudes Outstanding
Leadership and management Good
Sixth form provision Good

Full inspection: Outstanding

Leadership and management Outstanding
Haberdashers’ Adams school badge

What the school says

Haberdashers’ Adams has been a free grammar school since it was founded over 365 years ago and offers an exceptional education for boys and girls aged 11-18, with a passion for helping pupils to develop as confident, articulate young men and women who are interesting, balanced and who care for each other.

Haberdashers’ Adams is one of just a few state grammar schools in the UK to have a boarding facility. Around 100 pupils are boarders (boys only) and boarding contributes much to the ethos of the school. State boarding at Adams looks and feels a lot like independent boarding and offers an excellent affordable alternative.

Pupils achieve consistently high GCSE and A level results and continue their studies at leading universities, including Oxford and Cambridge, or take up prestigious degree apprenticeships. Pupils also benefit from an active Old Novaportan alumni association and from being part of the Haberdashers’ family with access to advice and support from members of one of the City of London’s oldest livery companies.

Haberdashers’ Adams is selective but one which is inclusive within its remit. The school ensures that all pupils with SEN are identified and appropriately supported to ensure both academic and personal development.

A reputation for high academic results is equalled by a strong house system and a huge variety of enrichment activities. There is a real focus on providing pupils with as many opportunities as possible to try new things. The Key Stage 3 instrumental programme allows every student to experience learning a musical instrument. There over 50 extracurricular activities including a thriving Combined Cadet Force (CCF) and an active Duke of Edinburgh award scheme, alongside clubs covering art, astronomy, coding, debating and drama, to name just a few. There really is something for everyone; life is exciting, busy and fast-paced at Haberdashers’ Adams.

The school has some fantastic facilities including a dedicated sixth form centre; a modern music and performing arts centre; a brand-new teaching block for art and maths; and some superb sports facilities including a swimming pool and over 100 acres of playing fields.

Junior boarders (years 7-10) start their boarding life at Longford Hall, a beautiful Grade II listed Georgian mansion, set in 100 acres of grounds, with magnificent views of the surrounding countryside. They are cared for by a boarding housemaster and his team of matrons and tutors who all work together to create a welcoming and homely environment.

Senior boarders (years 11-13) continue their boarding life in Beaumaris Hall, a purpose-built home metres from the entrance to the main school. Senior boarding aims to help pupils gain additional independence and is an ideal stepping stone between home life and university. Across the two facilities, we offer the best of town and country living.

The only fees payable at Haberdashers’ Adams are those associated with boarding which means we are able to offer a full boarding school education for considerably less than any independent school.

Last updated 06 February 2025

Key links to information you need

Contact

Admissions

Prospectus

Website

News

Events

Contact the school

Address

High Street
Newport
Shropshire
TF10 7BD
Get directions

Telephone: 01952 953810

Email: reception@adamsgs.uk

Website: https://www.adamsgs.uk

Local authority: Telford and Wrekin Council

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School data & information Haberdashers’ Adams High Street, Newport, Shropshire, TF10 7BD
1,090 Pupil numbers
990/100 Pupil numbers boy/girls split
362 Sixth form numbers
100 Total boarders
100 Full time boarders
3.4 % % of pupils eligible for free school meals
12 % Pupils whose first language is not English
18:1 Pupil to teacher ratio
59 Number of teachers
6 Number of teaching assistants

Mobile phone policy

Provided by the school and not part of our review

Mobile phones, tablets, laptops, etc should not be used on site unless with the express permission of a teacher in a lesson. Other exceptions are their use in the library for work purposes and in the sixth form centre as a privilege. Pupils do not formally require any of the items listed, and game consoles are not permitted in any circumstances.

Updated Sep 2025
Our review contains additional results data reported to us by Haberdashers’ Adams and is updated annually. See the review

% achieving grade 5 or above (A* to C) in English and maths GCSE (2024)

School
95.1%
LA avg.
38.8%
Eng. avg.
45.9%

What is this?

This tells you the percentage of pupils who achieved grade 5 or above in English and maths GCSEs.

Average overall GCSE score (attainment 8) (2024)

School
71.20
LA avg.
43.30
Eng. avg.
45.90

What is this?

Schools get a score based on how well pupils have performed in up to 8 qualifications, which include English, maths, 3 English Baccalaureate qualifications including sciences, computer science, history, geography and languages, and 3 other additional approved qualifications.

Improvement rates in core subjects (progress 8) (2024)

0.46 Score Above average
≈ 16% of schools in England

What is a progress score?

This score shows how much progress pupils at this school made between the end of key stage 2 and the end of key stage 4, compared to pupils across England who got similar results at the end of key stage 2. This is based on results in up to 8 qualifications, which include English, maths, 3 English Baccalaureate qualifications including sciences, computer science, history, geography and languages, and 3 other additional approved qualifications.

Subjects entered at GCSE level (2024)

Pupils attending this school entered exams in these subjects. The list only includes qualifications approved for inclusion in the performance measures. The subjects and qualifications on offer at this school may change year on year. For a full list of subjects and qualifications on offer at this school, visit the school or college website or contact the school directly. Find out more

Subject Qualification Entries Avg. grade
Religious Studies GCSE (9-1) Full Course 46 8
Physics GCSE (9-1) Full Course 132 8
Physical Education/Sports Studies GCSE (9-1) Full Course 55 6
Music GCSE (9-1) Full Course 44 8
Mathematics GCSE (9-1) Full Course 143 8
History GCSE (9-1) Full Course 59 8
German GCSE (9-1) Full Course 61 7
Geography GCSE (9-1) Full Course 49 7
French GCSE (9-1) Full Course 51 7
English Literature GCSE (9-1) Full Course 142 7
English Language GCSE (9-1) Full Course 143 7
Drama & Theatre Studies GCSE (9-1) Full Course 22 5
Design & Technology GCSE (9-1) Full Course 42 7
Computer Studies/Computing GCSE (9-1) Full Course 41 7
Chemistry GCSE (9-1) Full Course 132 8
Business Studies:Single GCSE (9-1) Full Course 54 7
Biology GCSE (9-1) Full Course 132 8
Astronomy GCSE (9-1) Full Course 9 8
Art & Design GCSE (9-1) Full Course 16 6

% of pupils achieving AAB or higher, including at least 2 facilitating subjects (2024)

School
41.1%
LA avg.
26%
Eng. avg.
17.1%

What is this?

Facilitating A levels are ones that are commonly needed for entry to leading universities. They are: biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, further mathematics, geography, history, English literature and classical or modern languages. The % of pupils achieving AAB or higher may therefore decrease if many pupils have opted not to take two or more of the facilitating subjects mentioned.

Average points score (2024)

School
40.74
LA avg.
35.55
Eng. avg.
34.45

What is this?

These figures tell you the average grade and average points that pupils achieved in their academic qualifications. A maximum of 60 points are available for a grade A* at A level.

Subjects entered at 16 to 18 (2024)

Pupils attending this school entered exams in these subjects. The list only includes qualifications approved for inclusion in the performance measures. The subjects and qualifications on offer at this school may change year on year. For a full list of subjects and qualifications on offer at this school, visit the school or college website or contact the school directly. Find out more

Subject Qualification Entries Avg. grade
Religious Studies GCE A level 12 A
Psychology GCE A level 15 A
Physics GCE A level 59 B
Mathematics (Further) GCE A level 15 A*
Mathematics GCE A level 117 A
History GCE A level 22 A
Government and Politics GCE A level 11 A
Geography GCE A level 15 A
English Literature GCE A level 9 A
Economics GCE A level 47 A
Design and Technology (Product Design) GCE A level 11 B
Computer Studies / Computing GCE A level 17 A
Chemistry GCE A level 69 A
Business Studies:Single GCE A level 16 A
Biology GCE A level 65 A
Sociology GCE AS level 24 A
Physical Education / Sports Studies GCE AS level 21 B
Music GCE AS level 8 B
Mathematics (Further) GCE AS level 48 B
Mathematics GCE AS level 16 B
Drama and Theatre Studies GCE AS level 13 B
Classical Civilisation GCE AS level 10 B
Art and Design GCE AS level 12 B

Entry and exit data

Here we report figures on pupils moving between schools at the usual entry and exit points, as well as student destinations into higher education. We publish publically available data for state schools. For independent schools, The Good Schools Guide collects data from its prep schools as to where their pupils go on to. Find out more

Our review contains additional entry and exit data reported to us and is updated annually. See the review

Year 7 entry (average 2020-2022)

Year 12 entry (average 2020-2022)

Year 11 exit (average 2020-2022)

Year 13 exit

SEN overview

Haberdashers’ Adams is a mainstream school. The school may provide support for students with special educational needs as detailed below. If you require more information on conditions the school can support, we encourage you to contact the school directly.

SEN statement

Provided by the school and not part of our review

Haberdashers’ Adams is a selective school but one which is inclusive within its remit. The school ensures that all pupils with SEN are identified and appropriately supported to ensure both academic and personal development. Haberdashers' Adams takes seriously the needs of pupils and recognises its duty to provide a suitable education for every pupil; we always seek to work closely with parents and others to that end. There is a vast amount of expertise amongst the staff which is used to good effect. In the event of the school needing further help, this is provided by any one of a number of qualified individuals brought in by school. A well-established tracking system aids the process of support and the special educational needs coordinator (SENCO) and the head of learning support meet regularly with parents and pupils.

Updated Sep 2025
0.4 %
Students with a SEN EHCP UK mainstream school avg. 2.7%
7.3 %
Students with SEN support UK mainstream school avg. 12.9%

SEN conditons supported

Schools report the conditions they might be able to support. Please note, this may not be a complete list. Find out more.

Conditions (Might cover/be referred to as) Provision
ASD - Autistic Spectrum Disorder Aspergers, Autism, High functioning autism, Neurodivergent, Neurodiversity, Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA), Social skills Yes
HI - Hearing Impairment Yes
MLD - Moderate Learning Difficulty Learning needs Yes
MSI - Multi-Sensory Impairment Sensory processing
OTH - Other Difficulty/Disability Downs Syndrome, Epilepsy, Genetic, Tics, Tourettes Yes
PD - Physical Disability
PMLD - Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulty Complex needs, Global delay, Global developmental delay
SEMH - Social, Emotional and Mental Health Anxiety, Complex needs, Emotionally based school avoidance (EBSA), Mental Health Yes
SLCN - Speech, Language and Communication Selective mutism
SLD - Severe Learning Difficulty Complex needs
SpLD - Specific Learning Difficulty Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Auditory processing, Developmental Co-ordination Difficulties (DCD), Dyscalculia, Dysgraphia, Dyslexia, Dyspraxia, Handwriting Yes
VI - Visual Impairment Special facilities for Visually Impaired

Ofsted reports

From September 2024, Ofsted no longer makes an overall effectiveness judgement in inspections of state-funded schools.

Full inspection: Good

You can read full reports on the Ofsted website

Personal development Good
Quality of education Good
Behaviour and attitudes Outstanding
Leadership and management Good
Sixth form provision Good

Full inspection: Outstanding

Leadership and management Outstanding
Our data explained
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