Holy Trinity CofE Secondary School, Crawley: A Pioneering Church of England Comprehensive

When Queen Elizabeth II arrived in Crawley on 17 December 1969, she came to open what is believed to be the first purpose-built Church of England comprehensive school in the country. More than half a century later, Holy Trinity remains one of only two co-educational voluntary aided Church of England secondary schools in West Sussex, a distinction that shapes both its character and its admissions process. The school serves approximately 1,359 students aged 11 to 18 from the Gossops Green area of Crawley and surrounding communities, offering a distinctive blend of academic education, nationally recognised sports academies, and genuine Christian community rooted in Anglican tradition. With 537 applications for 238 places at Year 7 entry, competition for places reflects a school that parents actively seek out for its particular combination of faith, sport, and performing arts excellence.

The school's stated vision captures the dual identity at work here: faith in the future combined with education for tomorrow's generation. This is a place where chapel services and collective worship sit comfortably alongside elite basketball coaching and BTEC vocational qualifications. The tension between these elements feels productive rather than contradictory.

Rev Chrissie Millwood serves as Executive Head Teacher, bringing both ordained ministry and educational leadership together in a combination that reflects the school's voluntary aided status. Her qualifications include an MA and the National Professional Qualification for Headship. The school chaplain, Mr Deysel, has worked at Holy Trinity for over 19 years in various roles before taking on this position. His presence in assemblies, tutor times, and the Christian Union demonstrates the school's commitment to being, as the institution describes itself, deeply Christian while remaining open to all. The chapel functions as a genuine sanctuary for contemplation, where students and staff can pause for quiet reflection away from the bustle of corridors between lessons.

The original 1960s buildings have been extended thoughtfully over the decades, creating a campus that blends period architecture with modern facilities. The Smyth Centre houses a four-court sports hall measuring 34 metres by 18 metres, marked for basketball, netball, and badminton, with the capacity to be divided into two separate areas for different activities. A new building development is currently undergoing planning permission, suggesting continued investment in the physical estate. Existing facilities include the Chichester Refectory for dining, dedicated dance and drama studios, a gymnasium separate from the main sports hall, the library, and the Monnington Media Centre for digital learning. Every student receives an iPad and Microsoft 365 access, integrating technology throughout the curriculum.

The atmosphere reflects a community school with genuine religious character. Morning worship takes place in the chapel, which provides a focal point for the school's Christian identity. Holy communion and dedicated services mark the liturgical calendar. Yet the school explicitly welcomes students of all faiths and none, with the chaplain emphasising that discussion and pastoral support are available regardless of religious background or personal belief.

GCSE Performance

At GCSE, the school's Attainment 8 score of 42.9 sits below the England average of 45.9. This metric measures average achievement across eight subjects, weighted to reflect the English Baccalaureate. The Progress 8 score of -0.31 indicates students make slightly below average progress from their starting points; a score of zero would represent average progress, while negative scores suggest students progress less than comparable pupils elsewhere. The school ranks 2891st in England for GCSE outcomes (FindMySchool ranking), placing it in the bottom 40% of schools in England. Locally, Holy Trinity ranks 5th among secondary schools in Crawley, suggesting it sits in the middle of the local competitive field.

The EBacc average point score of 3.56 compares to the England average of 4.08, with 4.3% of pupils achieving grades 5 or above across all English Baccalaureate subjects. The EBacc measures performance across English, mathematics, science, a language, and either history or geography. The relatively low EBacc entry and achievement rates reflect the school's emphasis on vocational pathways and specialist academies alongside traditional academic routes.

A-Level Performance

At A-level, 5.9% of grades achieved A*, 12.4% achieved A, giving a combined A*-A rate of 18.3% compared to the England average of 23.6%. At the broader A*-B level, 38.6% of grades reached this threshold, compared to the England average of 47.2%. This places the sixth form at rank 1622 in England (FindMySchool ranking), sitting in the bottom 40% of schools with A-level provision. Within Crawley, the school ranks 4th for A-level outcomes among institutions offering post-16 education.

When GCSE and A-level performance are combined into a composite measure, Holy Trinity achieves a combined rank of 1546 in England. This aggregate position reflects consistent performance across both examination stages rather than strength at one compensating for weakness at the other.

These statistics tell only part of the story. The school's specialist academies in basketball, football, and performing arts provide pathways to success that traditional exam league tables do not capture. Students pursuing sports scholarships, professional academy trials, or drama school auditions follow trajectories where A-level grades matter less than demonstrated talent and experience.

The curriculum follows a Christian-centred approach, emphasising that every child possesses individual gifts and talents worthy of development. At Key Stage 3, students study a broad and balanced curriculum across 14 subjects including English, mathematics, science, religious and philosophical education, humanities, languages, and creative subjects. Classes are primarily mixed-ability, reflecting the comprehensive intake, though mathematics students are set after initial assessments to allow appropriate pace and challenge.

Key Stage 4 requires all students to take core subjects of English, mathematics, science, and religious and philosophical education, plus three elective options. One choice must come from a constrained list of French, geography, history, or computer science, ensuring breadth in either humanities or languages. Remaining free choices span academic GCSEs including art, drama, music, psychology, business studies, design technology, and food preparation. Vocational options cover BTECs in enterprise, travel and tourism, and work skills, alongside OCR Nationals in child development, music technology, and ICT. This range accommodates different learning styles and career aspirations.

Four dedicated Cultural Capital days each year provide enrichment through trips, workshops, and special activities that extend learning beyond the classroom walls. The curriculum builds around conceptual frameworks that develop sequentially within subjects, connecting new learning to prior understanding. Literacy and numeracy support reaches students who need additional development through programmes including Century digital learning and the Accelerated Reader scheme for developing reading fluency and comprehension.

Technology integration is substantial. The provision of iPads to all students enables digital resources, assessment, and collaboration throughout the school day. Microsoft 365 access provides tools for document creation, communication, and cloud storage that prepare students for modern working environments.

The sixth form offers multiple pathways reflecting the diverse needs and aspirations of its students. Level 3 provision includes A-levels and vocational qualifications where students typically study three subjects from more than 30 options. Mr K Berry leads Key Stage 5 as Assistant Headteacher, emphasising that the sixth form experience extends beyond qualifications alone. The range includes traditional academic subjects alongside the specialist academy programmes in basketball, football, and performing arts that distinguish Holy Trinity from other local options.

A Level 2 Stepping Stone pathway exists for students approaching but not yet meeting Level 3 requirements. This one-year programme combines GCSEs and BTECs, providing a structured route for students who need additional preparation before tackling A-level study. Rather than closing doors, this pathway keeps options open for students who develop at different rates.

The Basketball Academy operates across two levels: the Lower School Programme for Years 7 to 11, and the Sixth Form Academy for students aiming to advance their basketball careers alongside academic qualifications. These students access full Level 2 and Level 3 academic provisions while receiving intensive coaching from qualified professionals. The Football Academy partnership with Crawley Town Community Foundation places 40 students in Sport BTEC study combined with intensive football coaching at the club's facilities. The Performing Arts Academy offers post-16 courses in acting, dance, music, and musical theatre, enabling students to specialise while studying a common core unit.

The 16-19 Bursary Fund provides financial support for eligible sixth form students facing economic barriers to continued education. Applications for September 2026 entry are open to both continuing Holy Trinity students and external applicants from other schools, creating an entry point for students seeking the specific programmes available here.

In 2024, 37% of the 122 sixth form leavers progressed to university. One student secured a place at Cambridge, demonstrating that the highest academic destinations remain accessible from this school despite the overall results profile. 36% entered employment directly, a significant proportion that reflects both the vocational pathways available and the school's position serving a local community where immediate employment carries genuine appeal. 2% began apprenticeships combining work with continued learning, while 1% continued into further education for additional qualifications.

The specialist academies create distinctive pathways that extend beyond these statistics. Basketball Academy graduates may pursue sports scholarships at American universities, trials with professional academy programmes, or coaching qualifications that turn passion into career. HTS Storm, the academy's competitive identity, has produced players who progress through the basketball pathway system. Football Academy students working with Crawley Town Community Foundation gain exposure to professional club environments, with potential routes into the football industry through playing, coaching, analysis, or sports management.

Performing Arts Academy graduates pursue further training at drama schools, dance conservatoires, or music colleges where audition success matters more than A-level grades. The academy's combination of acting, dance, music, and musical theatre prepares students for competitive entry to performance programmes nationwide.

For students following traditional academic routes, university destinations include institutions across the sector. The single Cambridge acceptance demonstrates that Oxbridge remains achievable for exceptional candidates. However, the overall profile suggests students should have realistic expectations; the 37% university progression rate falls below sixth forms with stronger academic focus.

Year 7 Entry

Year 7 entry requires two separate applications, a complexity that families must manage carefully. Parents must complete the West Sussex County Council online application, listing up to three schools in preference order. The deadline falls on 31 October each year. This application goes to the local authority, which coordinates offers across all maintained schools.

If Holy Trinity is named as a preference, families must also submit the school's Supplementary Information Form directly to Holy Trinity. Additionally, one reference form must be completed demonstrating either Christian commitment through church involvement, other religious commitment, or basketball aptitude for students seeking the sports academy pathway. These supplementary forms do not replace the council application; both are required.

The school does not operate a traditional catchment area based on distance. Instead, oversubscription criteria rank applicants based on faith commitment and other factors defined in the admissions policy. Children with Education, Health and Care Plans naming the school receive priority. Looked-after children and previously looked-after children follow. Subsequent categories prioritise different levels of religious commitment, creating a system where church attendance and involvement influence admission chances significantly.

With 537 applications for 238 places in 2024, Holy Trinity was oversubscribed by a ratio of 2.26 to 1. This competition means families cannot assume a place will be available; careful completion of all required forms is essential.

The Open Evening takes place on 24 September 2025 for families considering applications for September 2026 entry. Applications must be submitted by 31 October, with offers released on 1 March. Appeals against non-admission must be lodged by 31 March; hearings take place in June, managed by West Sussex County Council rather than the school directly. A virtual tour is available on the school website for families unable to attend the Open Evening in person.

Sixth Form Entry

Sixth form entry follows a separate process with different criteria. Applications are submitted through the online portal rather than through the local authority. Details and specific entry criteria for 2026 are published on the school website, including grade requirements for different courses and pathways. Applications are welcome from both continuing Holy Trinity students and external applicants from other schools, with the same entry criteria applying regardless of prior school.

In-Year Admissions

Families moving to the area or seeking to transfer from another school during the academic year apply through West Sussex County Council's in-year admissions process. If places are available and Holy Trinity is the preference, the school's Supplementary Information Form should also be completed.

The school's approach to pastoral care is grounded explicitly in Christian values, with the understanding that every person holds worth as a child of God. This theological foundation translates into practical support structures that serve students regardless of their own faith position.

The chaplaincy welcomes students across all backgrounds, religions, and cultures for mentoring and support. Mr Deysel addresses both life challenges and celebrations with students, offering perspectives that extend beyond immediate academic concerns. The chaplain's nearly two decades of experience at the school provides continuity and deep institutional knowledge that benefits pastoral relationships.

The chapel provides more than a venue for collective worship. It functions as a quiet space for reflection when students need respite from social pressures or academic demands. This physical sanctuary embodies the school's commitment to spiritual and emotional wellbeing alongside academic development.

Mental health and wellbeing resources are available, with the school recognising the increasing importance of psychological support for adolescents. Safeguarding structures meet statutory requirements, with designated staff holding responsibility for child protection. SEND support serves students with identified special educational needs or disabilities, though detailed information about specific provisions is not published on the main website. EAL provision supports students for whom English is an additional language, while programmes for high achievers ensure appropriate challenge for the most able students.

The house system and tutor groups provide the primary pastoral structure. Each student belongs to a tutor group meeting regularly with a designated staff member who monitors academic progress, attendance, and general wellbeing. Students can seek help from pastoral or tutor staff members as their first point of contact for concerns, with clear escalation routes for more serious issues.

Sport

Holy Trinity's basketball programme holds genuine national significance, distinguishing the school from other local comprehensives. The Basketball Academy, operating under the HTS Storm identity, has achieved remarkable competitive success. The school has won the nationwide U15 National Schools Conference and became national champions in both U19 and U15 categories in 2015. These are not minor trophies; national championship titles place Holy Trinity among the elite basketball schools in England.

Perhaps most remarkably, in 2007 Holy Trinity entered the Guinness Book of Records by completing the longest continuous basketball rally. Students surpassed the previous record of 60 hours and 3 seconds, set by a Japanese team, reaching just over 72 hours of continuous play. This achievement combined athletic endurance with community spirit, requiring substantial organisation and participant commitment over three full days.

HTS Storm operates across two tiers within the school. The Lower School Programme serves students in Years 7 to 11 who show basketball aptitude and commitment, providing development coaching alongside regular curriculum study. The Sixth Form Academy offers more intensive provision for students aiming to advance their basketball careers, potentially toward university scholarships, professional academy pathways, or coaching qualifications. The Storm Basketball Foundation uses the school's facilities for community coaching programmes, extending the basketball culture beyond enrolled students.

The Football Academy partnership with Crawley Town Community Foundation provides 40 students with a combined programme of Sport BTEC study and intensive football coaching. Training takes place at the professional club's facilities rather than on the school site, giving students exposure to elite football environments. This partnership connects students to potential pathways within the football industry beyond playing careers.

The Smyth Centre's four-court sports hall accommodates multiple sports, with markings for netball and badminton alongside the basketball provision. The facility can be divided into two separate spaces, allowing simultaneous activities. A separate gymnasium supports fitness training and smaller group activities.

Performing Arts

Drama and music departments collaborate on productions every November, alternating between musicals and straight plays to provide varied performance experience across different years. This annual production cycle gives students regular opportunities to develop stagecraft, whether in performance, technical, or production roles.

The Performing Arts Academy enables post-16 students to specialise in dance, drama, music, or musical theatre while studying a common core unit that provides foundational skills across disciplines. This vocational pathway prepares students for competitive entry to further training at drama schools, dance conservatoires, or music colleges where practical ability and experience matter more than traditional academic grades.

Drama studios and music rooms support both curriculum study and extra-curricular rehearsals, providing spaces for the intensive preparation that performing arts require. The school's commitment to this area reflects recognition that creative and performing talents deserve development pathways as rigorous as academic subjects.

Academic Enrichment

The Debating Society meets weekly to discuss issues concerning the school and wider world, developing skills in argument construction, public speaking, and critical thinking. The society participates in the National MACE Speaking competition run by the English-Speaking Union, providing external competitive experience.

Until 2011, Holy Trinity hosted its own annual Model United Nations Conference around the beginning of July, bringing together students from schools across the area to debate and resolve simulated international problems. While the school no longer hosts this event, participation in Model UN at other schools continues, exposing students to international affairs, diplomacy simulation, and formal debate procedures.

The Christian Union provides a faith-based community for students wishing to explore their beliefs alongside like-minded peers. Meeting regularly, this group offers space for discussion and spiritual development beyond the collective worship that involves all students.

The school day follows standard secondary hours common across West Sussex. Specific start and finish times should be confirmed with the school directly. Information about breakfast club, after-school club, or other wraparound care provision is not published on the main school website; families requiring such arrangements should contact the school for current availability.

The school is located on Buckswood Drive in the Gossops Green area of Crawley, with postcode RH11 8JE. Local bus routes serve the Crawley area, providing public transport access for students travelling from across the town and surrounding villages. Parking availability for visitors should be confirmed when arranging school visits.

Academic outcomes sit below average. GCSE and A-level results place the school in the bottom 40% in England. The Attainment 8 score of 42.9 falls below the England average of 45.9, while the Progress 8 score of -0.31 suggests students make slightly less progress than expected from their starting points. Families prioritising strong league table position should weigh this carefully against the school's other distinctive strengths. The results reflect a comprehensive intake combined with significant investment in vocational and specialist pathways that traditional metrics undervalue.

Faith commitment influences admissions significantly. The supplementary application requires evidence of Christian or other religious commitment, and the oversubscription criteria prioritise applicants based on faith involvement. Families without church connections may find themselves lower in the ranking. Those uncomfortable with regular collective worship and explicit Christian teaching integrated throughout school life should consider whether this environment genuinely suits their child and their family values.

Specialist pathways suit specific interests. The Basketball, Football, and Performing Arts Academies provide exceptional opportunities for students with particular talents and genuine commitment. These pathways have produced national champions and opened professional development routes. However, these intensive programmes demand substantial commitment alongside academic study. Students without authentic interest in these areas will not benefit from these provisions and should not select Holy Trinity primarily for these features.

Building development is underway. A new building is currently seeking planning permission. When construction proceeds, there may be temporary disruption to the site, though this should ultimately improve facilities and capacity. Families joining during the construction period should anticipate some practical inconvenience.

Holy Trinity offers something genuinely distinctive in the West Sussex secondary landscape: a Church of England comprehensive with national-level sports academies and a half-century heritage as a pioneering faith school. The Christian ethos permeates daily life through chapel services, collective worship, and chaplaincy support, yet the school explicitly welcomes those of other faiths or none. This balance reflects the voluntary aided status that gives the Church of England genuine involvement while maintaining the comprehensive, non-selective intake.

Academic results sit below average, and families prioritising league table position will find stronger options elsewhere. However, the specialist academies in basketball, football, and performing arts provide routes to success that examination statistics cannot capture. A student pursuing a basketball scholarship to an American university, a football pathway through a professional club academy, or a drama school audition needs demonstrated talent and experience more than A*-A grades.

Best suited to families who value Christian education and community, particularly those with children showing aptitude and genuine commitment to basketball, football, or performing arts. The faith-based admissions criteria mean church involvement strengthens applications significantly. Students seeking strong A-level outcomes for competitive university courses may wish to explore alternatives with different academic profiles. For families within reach who want faith-based education with genuine character, specialist sporting and creative opportunities, and a school that has served its community for over fifty years, Holy Trinity delivers an experience that league table positions alone cannot measure.