Dear Parents and Guardians,

Speaking as a parent and a headteacher I know that you will want the best secondary education for your son or daughter. There are a variety of factors that you need to consider in choosing the school that is right for you and your family. In opting to send your child to the North Halifax Grammar School (NHGS) you are selecting a school in which:

• each student is valued as an individual
• traditional standards of discipline and appearance are upheld
• the environment is safe, secure, supportive and challenging
• teaching and learning is stimulating, active and effective
• particular intellectual, creative, scientific, artistic, musical and physical talents are encouraged to flourish
• all students can achieve excellent examination results
• students can develop personally, socially, culturally, ethically, morally and spiritually
• students are equipped to become responsible and active citizens

NHGS was established on its present site in 1985. It became a Foundation School in 1999. Since its formation it has developed a well deserved reputation and in January 2006 it was recognised by OFSTED as being a particularly successful school. This is the third time that the school has been recognised following outstanding inspections in 1995, 1999 and 2005. NHGS is the only school in Calderdale to have been recognised three times; one of only two secondary schools in Yorkshire and Humberside and 42 out of over 3,200 secondary schools, nationally. The school continues to try to improve and in 2006 achieved its best ever points score for students at GCSE and A level.

The school became a Specialist Science College in 2004. The designation is enabling NHGS to become a leading centre of excellence for Science and Mathematical education making a major contribution to the local, regional and national economy. We continue to offer all the National Curriculum subjects with an expanding range of options in the 14-19 phase that reflects the school’s specialist ethos and its commitment to the arts. The school was again awarded the Artsmark in 2006 in recognition of the opportunities for art, dance, drama and music in the school.

The school’s success is attributable to a very hard working staff (the school has maintained Investors in People accreditation for over 10 years), a committed governing body, positive students and supportive parents. Located in the north of Halifax, it is served by nine yellow buses which provide safe, convenient and reliable transport from many areas in Calderdale directly to the school.

I hope this prospectus is helpful in making your choice of secondary school. We have included comments made by current parents, in our most recent survey, carried out in 2007. Come to the school and see for yourself.

Yours sincerely

Graham Maslen

Headteacher