Gaynes School Review 2026: Solid Progress in a Supportive Community

Situated in the residential heart of Upminster, Gaynes School is a mixed secondary serving approximately 960 students aged 11 to 16. The school has undergone a significant transformation since joining the Loxford Trust in 2018, moving away from a period of instability to establish itself as a reliably Good school. Its 2024 results demonstrate a steady upward trajectory, with academic performance sitting in the middle 35% of schools in England (1325th nationally). As an 11 to 16 provider, the school focuses its energy entirely on the GCSE years, creating a purposeful environment where students prepare for the transition to local sixth form colleges or apprenticeships.

The atmosphere at Gaynes is defined by order and a clear sense of belonging. The school occupies a compact site on Brackendale Gardens, where a mix of original mid-century buildings and modern additions house a community that feels smaller and more personal than many sprawling London secondaries. There is a palpable sense of pride in the school's recent improvement, with students and staff alike bought into a culture of high expectations and mutual respect.

Annabelle Kirkpatrick has led the school as headteacher since September 2019, arriving with extensive experience from other Loxford Trust leadership roles. Under her guidance, the school has refined its vision that no child is left behind. This leadership has been instrumental in establishing a consistent behaviour policy across the hub of schools. Consequently, the corridors are calm during lesson transitions, and classrooms are focused environments. The school's identity is closely tied to its membership in the Loxford Trust, benefiting from shared resources and a curriculum model that emphasizes core subject mastery.

The 2024 GCSE results confirm that Gaynes School is performing at a solid, competitive level. The school achieved an Attainment 8 score of 48.8, which is notably above the local authority average in Havering. More importantly, the Progress 8 score of +0.25 indicates that students make above average progress from their starting points in primary school.

Gaynes ranks 11th among 23 secondary schools in Havering and sits at 1325th in England (FindMySchool ranking). This performance reflects solid achievement, in line with the middle 35% of schools in England (25th to 60th percentile). In the English Baccalaureate (EBacc), 25% of students achieved a grade 5 or above, supported by an EBacc average point score of 4.49, which exceeds the England average of 4.08.

The curriculum is academically focused but allows for breadth in the creative and technical arts. In the lower years, there is a strong emphasis on English and mathematics to ensure students have the literacy and numeracy skills required for the demanding GCSE specifications. Science is a particular area of strength, with well-equipped laboratories supporting both combined and triple science pathways.

Teaching is structured and follows a consistent pedagogical approach across the Loxford Trust schools. Lessons typically involve clear modelling by the teacher, followed by periods of deliberate practice. This methodology has proved particularly effective in supporting students who might have previously struggled with the pace of secondary learning. Modern foreign languages, specifically French and Spanish, are encouraged as part of the EBacc suite, and the humanities departments are popular choices at GCSE.

Extracurricular life at Gaynes is designed to build character and provide students with a break from academic rigour. The PE department is central to this, utilizing the school's sports hall and outdoor courts for a variety of competitive fixtures. Pupils enjoy a range of sports clubs, and the school prides itself on its inclusive nature.

STEM activities are also prominent, often integrated through workshops and vocational events. Career counselling is a significant feature, with the school hosting workshops led by firefighters, lawyers, and Paralympians to inspire diverse career paths. For those interested in the arts, the school holds regular showcases, and prefects act as role models in organizing community events. The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award scheme is an established part of the school's offer, fostering resilience outside the classroom walls.

Pastoral support is organized through a traditional year group system, where each student belongs to a tutor group that meets daily. This ensures every child has a first point of contact who understands their individual circumstances. The school has invested in a dedicated pastoral suite where students can seek support for emotional or social issues during the school day.

Anti-bullying initiatives are proactive, and the latest official assessments confirm that staff deal with any bullying quickly and effectively. Safeguarding is effective, and the school supports mental health and emotional wellbeing through its strong pastoral care system. Pupils feel happy and safe, describing the school as a family environment where teachers care for them.

Gaynes School is a popular choice and is currently oversubscribed. In the last measured admissions cycle, there were 404 applications for 110 places, meaning the school received nearly four applications for every available seat. As a community-facing academy, admissions are coordinated by Havering Local Authority.

The school's subscription proportion of 3.67 highlights the intense competition for entry. Places are allocated according to the standard local authority criteria: children with an EHCP naming the school, followed by looked-after children, siblings, and then those living closest to the school. Parents should use the FindMySchool Map Search to check their precise distance from the school gates compared to historical intake patterns.

Where Students Go Next

As Gaynes does not have its own sixth form, there is a comprehensive transition programme in place for Year 11 students. The school maintains strong links with local post-16 providers, including Havering Sixth Form College and other further education colleges.

Career guidance begins early, with students participating in workshops and mock interviews. This focus on life after Gaynes ensures that a high percentage of students move into sustained education, apprenticeships, or employment. The most recent data indicates that students progress to a wide range of A-level and vocational courses, with many eventually securing places at Russell Group universities after their college years.

Fees & Financial Aid

This is a state school with no tuition fees. It is funded by the Department for Education and managed by the Loxford School Trust. Families are not required to pay for the core curriculum or standard teaching.

While tuition is free, families should budget for associated costs such as the school uniform, educational trips, and optional music lessons. The school offers support for students eligible for Pupil Premium, which can often assist with the cost of uniforms or curriculum enrichment activities.

The school day typically begins at 8:40am and concludes at 3:10pm. The school is well served by public transport, located within walking distance of Upminster Station (C2C and District Line), making it accessible for students living slightly further afield. Parking in the immediate vicinity of Brackendale Gardens is restricted, and the school encourages walking or cycling where possible.

• No on-site Sixth Form: Students must be prepared to move to a new environment at age 16. While this provides a fresh start, it requires a higher level of independence than an all-through 11 to 18 school.
• Intense Competition for Entry: With nearly four applications for every place, securing a spot for Year 7 is statistically challenging for those without a sibling already at the school or who live outside the immediate Upminster area.
• Compact Site: The school site is smaller than some of its neighbours. While this creates a close-knit feel, it means outdoor space is utilized efficiently and can feel busy during break times.

Gaynes School is a success story of the academy trust model, providing a stable, high-achieving, and orderly environment for the young people of Upminster. Its combination of above average progress and a strong pastoral heart makes it an excellent choice for parents who value a structured and supportive atmosphere. Best suited to local families who want a school with a clear academic focus and a family feel where every student is known. The main challenge remains the high level of oversubscription, which necessitates living within very close proximity to the gates.