Hele's School

A school where Sir Joshua Reynolds once learned to sketch and where the legacy of Elizabethan philanthropist Elize Hele endures nearly four centuries later. Hele's School in Plympton combines genuine historical pedigree with a modern comprehensive ethos, serving students aged 11 to 18 across Plymouth's eastern suburbs. GCSE results sit comfortably above England averages, placing the school in the solid middle band of secondary schools in England. The sixth form welcomes the majority of its Year 11 cohort alongside external applicants, with courses designed on the assumption that students will progress to university. Part of the Westcountry Schools Trust since 2017, the school maintains its distinctive identity while benefiting from multi-academy collaboration.

The school's tagline, "A great place to learn. A great place to grow," captures an ambition that extends beyond examination certificates. High expectations shape daily life here, with staff and students expected to "work hard both to do things right and to do the right thing, even when no one is looking." This moral framework underpins a culture where academic endeavour and personal development receive equal attention.

Ms Emma Clapham has served as Acting Principal since September 2025, having risen through the ranks as Assistant Principal. She leads a senior team comprising two Deputy Principals, three Assistant Principals, and two Associate Assistant Principals. This layered leadership structure reflects the scale of an operation serving over 1,200 students.

The vertical house system groups students across year groups, creating mentoring relationships between older and younger students. The four houses, Drake, Reynolds, Scott, and Weston, each commemorate figures with local connections. Sir Francis Drake needs no introduction; Sir Joshua Reynolds was born in the schoolmaster's house adjacent to the original grammar school building; Robert Falcon Scott hailed from nearby Milehouse; and Agnes Weston championed sailor welfare throughout the Victorian era. House challenges and competitions foster belonging and healthy rivalry.

The original Plympton Grammar School building, completed in 1671 at a cost of £1,099, still stands in Plympton St Maurice as a Grade II* listed structure. Its Gothic design features a cloister of arches and columns decorated in contrasting bands of limestone and granite. While the school relocated to its current Seymour Road site in 1937, this architectural heritage connects present students to a tradition of learning stretching back to Elize Hele's bequest in 1658.

Hele's School traces its origins to the philanthropy of Elize Hele (1560-1635), a lawyer from Brixton, Devon, who transferred his lands into a trust for "pious uses" in 1632. This earned him the nickname "Pious Uses Hele." In 1658, his trustees established the school in Plympton, with the substantial building completed in 1671 becoming a landmark in Plympton St Maurice.

The original school earned such a reputation for excellence that local gentry sent their sons alongside the charitable scholars. John Parker of Saltram, who would become the first Earl of Morley, walked daily from his family estate. The school produced several notable artists: James Northcote, Benjamin Haydon, and Sir Charles Eastlake all learned their fundamentals here. Most celebrated was Sir Joshua Reynolds, born in the schoolmaster's house next door, who became the leading portrait painter of the 18th century and first President of the Royal Academy.

Financial difficulties forced closure in 1903, but Devon County Council re-established the institution in 1921 as Plympton Grammar School on a co-educational basis. The move to Seymour Road in 1937 provided modern facilities. Following reorganisation in 1983, the school became an 11-18 comprehensive and adopted the Hele's name to honour its founding benefactor. Academy conversion came in April 2011, initially as a standalone trust before joining the Westcountry Schools Trust in September 2017.

GCSE Performance

In 2024, Hele's achieved an Attainment 8 score of 47.3, above the England average of 45.9. 70% of students achieved five or more grades at 9-4 including English and Mathematics, with 76% securing grade 4 or above in both core subjects. These figures reflect consistent, solid performance rather than exceptional outlier results.

The school ranks 1,353rd in England for GCSE outcomes (FindMySchool ranking), placing it within the middle 35% of schools in England (25th to 60th percentile). Locally, Hele's ranks 6th among secondary schools in Plymouth. Progress 8 stands at -0.09, fractionally below the England average of -0.03, indicating students make broadly expected progress from their starting points.

Over half of Key Stage 4 students (53%) entered the English Baccalaureate suite of subjects, with 37% achieving the standard pass and 27% securing the strong pass at grade 5 or above. The EBacc average point score of 4.45 exceeds the England average of 4.08, suggesting those who pursue the academic qualification pathway perform well.

A-Level Performance

Sixth form results present a more mixed picture. In 2024, the average point score was 31.55, equivalent to a Grade C+. Just over 43% of grades reached A*-B, below the England average of 47.2%. The proportion achieving top grades (A*/A) was 12.14%, compared to 23.6% nationally. No grades reached A* in 2024, which placed the school in the lower 40% of sixth forms in England (60th to 100th percentile) at rank 1,773rd.

The A-level value added score of -0.07 indicates broadly average progress, meaning students achieve roughly what prior attainment would predict. However, the school emphasises its top 25% ranking for academic value added, suggesting strong support for particular student profiles.

The curriculum philosophy prioritises building knowledge alongside qualifications. Communication, leadership, and teamwork skills receive explicit attention, with cognitive science principles and cooperative learning structures positioning students as "partners in learning." This approach means lessons involve active participation rather than passive reception.

Key Stage 3 follows a three-year model with 50 one-hour lessons per fortnight across a two-week timetable. Mixed-ability tutor groups apply for most Year 7 subjects, though Mathematics is streamed into three levels based on prior attainment. Students select French, German, or Spanish as their core language upon entry, continuing through to GCSE.

At Key Stage 4, the core curriculum includes English Language and Literature, Mathematics, Combined Science (Trilogy), Religious Studies, PSHE, and Active Leisure. Four option choices allow specialisation from a menu including Art, Business Studies, Computing, Design and Technology, Drama, Geography, History, Latin, Music, PE, and Hospitality. Students requiring additional core subject support receive extra Mathematics and English while accessing three GCSE options.

Sixth form students typically select three A-level subjects, extended to four for the most able. Subjects are divided into five teaching blocks, with one subject chosen from each block. Most courses receive nine hours of direct tuition per fortnight plus independent study expectations. The Extended Project Qualification offers additional challenge, while compulsory English and Mathematics GCSE resit applies for those without grade 4.

Homework expectations scale by key stage. KS3 students complete one hour of Sparx Maths weekly plus regular quizzes and short assignments. KS4 increases to weekly practice and exam preparation. Sixth formers target up to ten hours of independent work per fortnight across their subjects.

The 2023/24 cohort of 90 sixth form leavers pursued diverse pathways. 42% progressed to university, reflecting the school's explicit preparation for higher education. 37% entered employment directly, while 9% secured apprenticeships and 3% continued in further education.

These proportions show a pragmatic balance between academic and vocational routes. The school's careers information, advice, and guidance (CIAG) programme supports students toward whichever pathway suits their aspirations, whether higher education, apprenticeships, or employment. The 98% of GCSE students entering education or employment for at least two terms demonstrates effective transition support at 16. At 18, the progression rate to sustained destinations is 93%.

University destinations are not published in detail on the school website. The absence of specific Russell Group or Oxbridge data prevents precise benchmarking, though no recorded Oxbridge acceptances in the measurement period.

The sixth form welcomes most Year 11 students alongside external applicants from across Plymouth. Courses assume university progression, though vocational pathways receive equal respect. The majority of courses are traditional A-levels, supplemented by A-level equivalent options such as BTEC Applied Science.

Entry requirements and subject-specific grades are detailed in the prospectus. Mr K Stone serves as Director of Post 16, combining his Assistant Principal role with sixth form leadership. UCAS support guides university applicants through the personal statement and reference process.

Beyond academic study, sixth formers access leadership opportunities including prefect roles, peer mentoring, and CCF senior positions. The Extended Project Qualification enables independent research on a topic of personal interest. Bursary support is available for students facing financial barriers, ensuring sixth form participation is accessible regardless of family circumstances.

The Westcountry Schools Trust serves as the admission authority. Applications for Year 7 entry must be submitted through Plymouth City Council's coordinated admissions scheme, not directly to the school. The published admission number is 240 students per year group, creating an eight-form entry structure.

The school is oversubscribed, with 586 applications for 230 places recorded in admissions data, a subscription ratio of 2.55 applications per place. Oversubscription criteria follow the standard hierarchy: looked after children and previously looked after children receive first priority, followed by children who appear to have been in state care outside England. Subsequent criteria apply where remaining places must be allocated.

No formal catchment boundary exists. In the event of oversubscription, distance from the school typically becomes the determining factor after higher priority criteria are exhausted. Parents should contact Plymouth City Council's School Admissions Team for current distance data, as this varies annually based on applicant distribution.

Parents denied a place have the right to appeal to an independent panel. The school warns that offers may be withdrawn if obtained through fraudulent applications, such as providing an incorrect home address.

Sixth form admissions operate separately, with direct applications to the school. Entry requirements vary by course, with the prospectus detailing grade thresholds for each A-level subject.

The house system provides the primary pastoral structure. Each of the four houses has a dedicated House Leader overseeing students across all year groups, creating vertical connections that pair older mentors with younger students. Mr J Carwardine leads Drake, Miss Prifti leads Reynolds, Mrs Crosley leads Scott, and Mr White leads Weston.

Registration periods at the start of each day include guided reading, tutorial, or assembly, building routine and connection before lessons begin. The 30-minute morning session allows tutors to address individual concerns and deliver the PSHE and Personal Development curriculum.

The most recent Ofsted inspection in March 2023 awarded Good across all categories. Inspectors noted that pupils behave well and are "courteous, polite and respectful." Parents appreciate the strong safeguarding culture. Leaders demonstrate a clear vision for high-quality teaching and learning, with strong knowledge of individual student needs.

The Diversity Club provides space for students to explore identity and inclusion. Mindfulness sessions offer mental health support. The Christianity Club enables faith exploration for interested students. This range of provision acknowledges that wellbeing has academic, social, and spiritual dimensions.

The Combined Cadet Force operates Army, Royal Navy, and Royal Air Force sections, making it one of the school's flagship enrichment programmes. Weekly parades during school time are supplemented by weekend training, field days, and annual camps run by the Armed Forces. Cadets develop "self-reliance, resourcefulness, endurance, perseverance and a clear understanding of service to their country and their community." Leadership positions within the CCF provide tangible responsibility for older students.

Duke of Edinburgh Award runs alongside the CCF, with Bronze, Silver, and Gold levels available. CCF training can contribute toward DofE requirements, creating efficient pathways for students pursuing both. The school also participates in Ten Tors, the challenging Dartmoor hiking expedition.

Sport

The PE department comprises six specialist staff who share their passion across a comprehensive programme. The Dome, the largest indoor sports space in Plympton, houses three netball courts, four tennis courts, and a full-size handball court, all floodlit for evening use. Students access a fitness suite as part of their Key Stage 4 programme.

Clubs operate throughout the year in netball, football, rugby, badminton, basketball, rounders, cricket, and tennis. Teams compete in local, county, and national competitions. The fitness club runs Monday to Thursday after school for KS4 students, extending the day for those pursuing sporting development.

Creative Arts

The drama studio features a fixed truss, LED lighting, and state-of-the-art sound equipment. Productions occur annually in collaboration with the music department, mounting full-scale musicals. The "Transition" initiative sees sixth form drama students tour primary schools as a theatre company, leading workshops for over 500 Year 6 students, a remarkable Arts Council-supported outreach programme.

Music facilities include two main rooms with acoustic drum kits, guitars, basses, keyboards, and amplifiers, plus four practice rooms for instrumental tuition and rehearsal. Ensembles include Concert Band, String Group, Choir, Junior Band, Steel Pans, and various woodwind and brass groups. Peripatetic teachers provide instrumental tuition across the department's range of offerings.

Clubs and Enrichment

Additional clubs span Photo and Digital Art, Clay Club, Street Dance, Animal Club, and Learn and Grow sessions running Monday to Thursday. Language Leaders and Literacy Leaders programmes develop student expertise while supporting younger peers. Sports Leaders extends this model into physical activity.

Aspiration Week suspends the normal timetable for Years 7-9, replacing it with enrichment activities including residential experiences, outdoor and adventure activities, sports, and creative arts. Year 10 and Year 12 students undertake work experience with local employers during this period, with a "Preparation for Working Life" alternative for those unable to secure placements.

The school won the IRIS Award for 2025-26 and holds EPAS accreditation, indicating recognition for international and research-focused educational initiatives.

The school day runs from 8:40am to 3:10pm, totalling 32.5 hours weekly across a two-week timetable. Morning registration (8:40-9:10) precedes five one-hour lessons with two breaks: a 30-minute morning break at 11:10 and a 30-minute lunch from 1:40pm.

The Seymour Road site sits in Plympton, easily accessible from Plymouth's eastern suburbs. The school functions as a central venue for community sports, with The Dome available for lettings. Term dates follow the Plymouth City Council pattern, with staff training days occurring throughout the year when the school closes to students.

Oversubscribed entry. With 2.55 applications for every Year 7 place, securing admission requires priority status or sufficient proximity once higher criteria are exhausted. Families outside the immediate Plympton area should research historical distance patterns through Plymouth City Council.

A-level results below England average. While GCSE performance sits above national benchmarks, sixth form outcomes (43.2% grades A*-B against 47.2% England average) suggest the most academically ambitious students may wish to compare with Plymouth's other sixth form options. The school's value-added data indicates students make expected progress, but entry points for competitive university courses may require consideration.

Traditional curriculum emphasis. The focus on knowledge-building and academic subjects suits students who thrive in structured, examination-focused environments. Those seeking extensive vocational provision or alternative qualifications may find the offer narrower than some competitors.

No published university destination data. The absence of specific Russell Group or Oxbridge information on the school website makes it difficult for families to benchmark higher education outcomes. The 42% progression to university suggests a strong but not dominant academic culture.

Hele's School delivers solid GCSE outcomes above England averages within a comprehensive ethos that values both academic achievement and personal development. The historical pedigree, dating back to 1658 and producing notable alumni including Sir Joshua Reynolds, adds distinctive character to a thoroughly modern institution. Sixth form results require careful consideration against alternatives, but the varied enrichment programme, strong CCF contingent, and genuine community atmosphere provide a well-rounded secondary experience. Best suited to families in Plympton and Plymouth's eastern suburbs seeking a Good-rated comprehensive with genuine heritage, effective pastoral structures, and access to a broad curriculum. Securing a place remains the primary challenge.