Queen Elizabeth High School, Hexham Review 2026: Four Centuries of Learning at the Gates of Hadrian's Wall

GCSE Performance

In the 2024 GCSE cycle, the school achieved an Attainment 8 score of 54.3, placing students' overall achievement above where typical secondary schools land. An Attainment 8 score measures achievement across the pupil's best eight qualifications, weighted by importance; 54.3 sits modestly above the England average of 45.9, indicating solid all-round outcomes rather than elite attainment.

The school ranks 939th in England for GCSE results (FindMySchool ranking), positioning it in the top 20% of schools nationally — a result consistent with previous years. Locally, it is ranked first among Northumberland secondaries for GCSE outcomes, a position that reflects both the school's strength and the competitive landscape of the county.

Breaking down the grades: 18% of all GCSE entries achieved grades 9 or 8; a further 14% secured grade 7. Combined, 33% of entries reached the top three grades. At the opposite end, 17% of pupils achieved grades 5 or above in the English Baccalaureate (EBacc) suite, a measure of breadth that indicates some pupils do not pursue the traditional humanities-sciences combination.

Progress 8, which measures pupil progress from Key Stage 2 to GCSE compared to peers nationally, came in at +0.27. A Progress 8 score of zero means a pupil has made expected progress; positive scores indicate above-average progress. At +0.27, the school's pupils have made modestly above-average gains relative to their starting points. This is respectable evidence that the school adds value, though it does not suggest exceptional acceleration.

A-Level Performance

The sixth form, which opened to external students in recent years, educates approximately 300 students across two cohorts. In the most recent A-level cycle, the school achieved an A*-A percentage of 35% (combining A* at 13% and A at 22%), with a further 25% earning B grades. This means 60% of all A-level entries achieved grades A*-B, a threshold that signals competitive university entry potential.

The school ranks 578th in England for A-level outcomes (FindMySchool ranking), placing it in the top 22% of schools in England. Locally, it ranks first among Northumberland sixth forms. Against the England average of 24% A*-A, the school's combined rate of 35% sits well above the national benchmark, suggesting stronger academic outcomes than the typical English sixth form.

For context, students at QEHS enter the sixth form from a diverse base; not all are high-attaining GCSE pupils. That the school manages to deliver A*-B in 60% of entries across this mixed cohort reflects both effective teaching and genuine accessibility. The school offers over 20 A-level subjects, including traditional academic options (Latin, Classical Greek, Further Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology) alongside Applied options and vocational routes for those seeking alternative qualifications.

Teaching follows the national curriculum framework enhanced with specialist input where available. At key stage 3, pupils in Years 9-11 study English, Mathematics, Science (separate sciences from Year 9), Modern Languages, Humanities, Technology, and PE, alongside optional enrichment. The school has introduced a structured reading programme to boost literacy across the curriculum, a priority identified during Ofsted's recent visit.

Ofsted observed that teachers in Physical Education and Design Technology adapt their instruction particularly effectively based on constant checks of pupil understanding. This responsive teaching is a strength to be extended. The school remains committed to embedding these practices universally, recognising that consistent formative assessment — the art of checking whether pupils understand a concept before moving on — distinguishes good teaching from merely competent teaching.

In the sixth form, the academic programme is delivered by subject specialists, with class sizes typically 15-25 depending on uptake. Students benefit from extended independent study time and access to university-style seminars in core subjects. The school has invested in improving careers education, moving beyond the traditional university-focused narrative to include apprenticeships, sponsored degrees, and direct employment pathways.

After GCSE

Approximately 40% of pupils leave after GCSE to pursue further education, apprenticeships, or employment. Those continuing are typically a mix of those heading to the sixth form at QEHS and a small number accessing sixth form provision at partner schools or colleges elsewhere in Northumberland. The three-tier education system in Northumberland means pupils often experience a transition at Year 9 from middle school; the sixth form transition from Year 11 represents a final choice point.

After A-Level

The Sixth Form Leavers Destination data from the 2023-24 cohort shows that 42% progressed to university, 7% to further education, 7% to apprenticeships, and 30% to employment. These percentages do not sum to 100%; the remainder pursued other routes or remained in education at alternative providers.

The most significant university destinations include Newcastle, Durham, Edinburgh, and UCL, reflecting both proximity and the academic profile of northern universities. The school reports that students regularly secure places at Russell Group universities, and in recent years, a small number have gained places at Oxbridge. Three students gained places at Cambridge University in 2024. This track record, whilst small in absolute numbers, signals that the school's curriculum and teaching can open doors to highly selective institutions.

The rowing club deserves mention as a distinctive pathway. Queen Elizabeth High School Rowing Club operates from premises on the Tyne and competes at national level. Rowers here have gone on to higher competitive rowing and university rowing programmes, earning QEHS a reputation as one of the strongest rowing schools in the state sector. Matthew Wells, an Olympic-standard British rower, is an alumnus.

The extracurricular landscape at QEHS is deliberately broad, designed to engage every learner whatever their strength. The school operates a rich menu of societies, clubs, and performance opportunities.

Music & Performing Arts

Music is central. The school choir performs at a serious level, preparing complex repertoire. The school orchestra welcomes all standards, from first-time players in Year 9 to accomplished sixth-formers. A dedicated rock band workshop supports electric musicians. The Brazilian Drumming Group offers an exotic percussion experience, introducing West African rhythms alongside Brazilian patterns. An annual school musical production involves significant cast, orchestra, and technical crew; recent productions have included West Side Story, demonstrating professional-scale ambition. The Young Writers' Club captures those drawn to words; dramatics are housed across three performance spaces within The Hydro.

STEM & Technology

The Meccatronics Club combines robotics, engineering, and programming for pupils fascinated by how things work. Coding Club develops computational thinking for beginners and advanced programmers alike. Biology enthusiasts join the Dissection Society, deepening practical understanding of animal and plant anatomy. The school's recent £36 million refurbishment has equipped laboratories with modern apparatus, enabling pupils to move beyond textbook biology into genuine investigation.

Sport & Athletics

The school fields competitive teams in netball, football, rugby, hockey, cricket, badminton, basketball, and tennis. Fixtures are strong; rugby teams play regularly against neighbouring independent schools, creating a healthy competitive culture. Rugby and netball are particularly well-developed pathways. The school's sports infrastructure is solid: two sports halls (one containing cardiovascular and weights equipment), playing fields, an all-weather Astroturf pitch for hockey and football, cricket nets, and multiple tennis courts are available for both fixtures and training.

Rowing

The Queen Elizabeth High School Rowing Club operates a fleet of boats and uses the nearby River Tyne for daily training. Students compete in local and national regattas, with some achieving elite performance. This is one of the distinguishing features of QEHS; not many state schools can claim Olympic-level rowing pedigree. The club welcomes novice rowers and develops them through structured progression.

Community & Enrichment

The Fair Trade Club promotes global awareness and fair commerce. The school organises ski trips (notably active in January), theatre visits, and overseas learning trips. Duke of Edinburgh's Award is available at Bronze, Silver, and Gold levels, with substantial participation. The Sixth Form political debates society allows older students to lead discussion on current affairs. The Wider Opportunities programme builds cultural capital by exposing all pupils to art galleries, museums, and live performance.

The school's value framework — Respect, Engage, Aspire — is enacted through these programmes. Sixth formers are explicitly encouraged to lead and organise, whether by chairing the debating society or mentoring younger pupils.

Entry to Year 9 is via Northumberland's coordinated admissions system. The school operates within standard local authority catchment criteria, though the three-tier system means most pupils arrive from the associated Hexham Middle School. The main feeder is Hexham Middle School itself; St Joseph's Middle School and Corbridge Middle School also send cohorts. The school has carried out extensive transition work to ensure pupils leaving Year 8 feel confident and oriented. Late arrivals from other areas are accommodated where places remain.

Entry to the sixth form is open to both internal and external students. Standard entry requirements include GCSE grades 5-6 (equivalent to strong Pass-Merit) in subjects chosen, though precise thresholds vary by subject. A small number of pupils who do not meet these criteria are admitted via an alternative pathway, demonstrating the school's inclusive philosophy.

The school is part of a federation with Hexham Middle School within Hadrian Learning Trust, which aims to provide consistency of values and high expectations across the 11-18 journey. This federation structure has been in place since 2016 when the school converted to academy status.

The school takes wellbeing seriously, with a dedicated pastoral infrastructure. Form tutors provide daily check-ins and continuity of care. A student wellbeing team includes school-employed staff, youth workers based within the school, and learning mentors positioned in each year group. For pupils requiring additional emotional support, a weekly counselling service is available.

The behaviour support unit operates as an in-house provision for students experiencing difficulty with mainstream lessons. Rather than exclusion, the school offers targeted support and reintegration. Special Educational Needs and Disabilities provision is overseen by a dedicated SENCO and supporting team. The school identifies and reviews pupils regularly, offering groups such as the XL Club (supporting students with specific needs) and a garden-based group for nature connection and horticulture.

ASDAN awards and qualifications in literacy and numeracy are available for those pursuing alternative curricula. Sixth formers benefit from pastoral oversight specifically designed for their age; the sixth form code of conduct reflects their greater autonomy whilst maintaining clear expectations.

The school day runs from 8:50am to 3:20pm for main school pupils. The sixth form operates a slightly modified timetable with periods of independent study. Lunches are served in a catering hall; the school offers both hot meals and lighter options, with vegetarian and dietary accommodations available. School meals can be pre-paid or paid daily. A school uniform is required for main school (blazer, tie, trousers or skirt, and black shoes); the sixth form operates a formal dress code reflecting their progression toward independence.

Transport is available from many parts of Northumberland via local bus services and school coaches. The school is located at the western edge of Hexham, approximately 30 miles east of Newcastle-upon-Tyne. Parking is available on site for staff and some visiting parents, though capacity is limited.

Post-16 transition: Whilst the sixth form is popular and high-quality, around 40% of pupils leave after GCSE. This is normal in areas with diverse post-16 provision. The school's careers advice is improving but remains an area for refinement; students seeking intensive guidance toward specific careers should engage proactively and seek external support where needed.

Catchment area: The school serves a wide geographic area as part of Northumberland's three-tier system. Journey times for some pupils can exceed 30 minutes each way, particularly in winter. Parents should verify transport arrangements and home-to-school times before applying.

Specialist strengths are not universal: Whilst rowing is outstanding and performing arts are strong, the school is a comprehensive mainstream provider. Pupils not drawn to these areas will find a solid but not exceptional offering; there is no assumption that every child will be a musician or athlete.

Continued improvement in teaching quality: Ofsted's May 2024 report identified scope to embed consistent teaching strategies across all subjects. The good news is that the school is committed to this development. Parents should expect gradual refinement rather than immediate transformation.

Queen Elizabeth High School is a solid, inclusive state secondary school with a long history and modern aspirations. The Ofsted judgement of 'Good' across all areas reflects an honest assessment: strong in pastoral care and personal development, effective in delivering the curriculum, and managed competently. Results sit above England averages, and the school successfully prepares students for university, apprenticeships, and employment. The rowing club and arts programmes offer genuine distinction.

This school suits families seeking a comprehensive education within a stable, values-driven community. It is best suited to students from the local catchment area, particularly those transitioning from Hexham Middle School, where the federation ensures continuity of ethos and expectations. It is also an increasingly attractive choice for external sixth form entry, especially for those seeking A-level breadth in a friendly, supportive environment. The main challenge is the 40% of pupils who leave after GCSE, a reflection of diverse post-16 options in the county; sixth form numbers, however, have grown and stabilised, suggesting the school is establishing itself as a genuine destination for pre-university study.

For families seeking a no-frills, academically serious education embedded in a caring community, QEHS delivers.