The King's School in Macclesfield

Since 2020, Jason Slack, BSc PGCE. A Yorkshireman with degree in physics from Durham University which was sponsored by an accountancy firm and led him to a first career in accountancy. He then returned to Durham to complete his PGCE. His first

Selective (and increasingly so) at all points of entry. At 11+ all pupils (from both the junior school and externals) sit the school’s own entrance tests in English, maths, verbal and non-verbal reasoning. References from previous schools are taken

Usually around 70 per cent of year 11 move into the sixth form. The majority of those who leave go to college or to a state sixth form, smaller numbers to boarding school or apprenticeship schemes. Nearly all who stay on for the sixth form progress

In 2025, 60 per cent 9-7 at GCSE; 57 per cent A*/A at A level (83 per cent A*-B).

Language teaching builds on the impressive languages curriculum in the junior school. In the first term of year 7 pupils take short courses in French, German and Spanish, choosing two with which to continue through to year 9; after this they must

Most students study three A-levels, although they can choose four. A small range of vocational courses – BTEC and CTEC – also on offer.

We were impressed by the level of SEN provision. The SENCO has a track record of success working across the primary and secondary sectors in state schools and for the LA. She works with an assistant SENCO, who takes the lead in the junior school, and

Three enormous well-lit art rooms with an attached gallery space sit within the vast upper corridor. There is ample space to display pupils’ work so we were disappointed that there wasn’t more to see and that the presentation of work was untidy and

Sport is where King’s really comes alive. The facilities here are very good indeed, all purpose built, brand new and obviously inspirational for those wishing to develop their skills to the highest level. The sports centre is home to a 25m pool where

Pastoral care is based on form tutors and heads of year. There are non-teaching pupil managers which is usually a good sign that a school is serious about pupil well-being and not simply leaving it to hard pressed teaching staff. In addition the

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

Pupils were warm, friendly and communicated well with no signs of arrogance or entitlement. They showed genuine enthusiasm for the school and in particular its tremendous sporting opportunities. Parents are a mixed demographic, some are the wealthy

Means-tested bursaries are available for pupils joining in years 7 and 12. Bursary pupils need to achieve highly in the entrance test or at GCSE. There are also music and academic scholarships available which can sit alongside bursaries.

We were seriously impressed both by the King’s campus and the excellent range of opportunities on offer. Pastoral care and support for SEN sang out too, as did the bright, enthusiastic pupils and very committed staff. With ever improving outcomes and