The sixth-form opening on Russell Road in 1921 opened simply as Shepperton Grammar School, housed in a single building on Laleham Road before moving to its current riverside location. Now, over a century later, Halliford stands as a selective day school of around 450 boys (with girls welcomed from age 16) that has earned recognition not for grand scale but for something closer to family. The ISI inspection in December 2022 awarded the school "Excellent in all areas," praising both academic achievement and personal development. A-level results place the school solidly within the national mainstream (56th percentile in England on FindMySchool rankings), with 55% achieving A*-B grades. The defining strength isn't headline-grabbing rankings but rather how the school has built a tight-knit community where staff genuinely know each student beyond their exam results.
Beyond the gates, the first thing that strikes you is scale. At under 500 students, this is small enough that teachers greet boys by name, staff remember who played well at rugby on Saturday, and leavers often return as teachers themselves. The oldest building sits on a Georgian mansion beside the Thames, once home to Emma Hamilton, Lord Nelson's companion. The broader campus has expanded thoughtfully since 2000 with the addition of the John Crook Theatre, the purpose-built Colin Squire Music Studios, and the Wendy Simmons Sports Hall, yet the school retains something unhurried about it.
Mr James Davies has been headmaster since 2017. In his public statements, he emphasises that Halliford is "a school for interesting people", a phrase repeated genuinely throughout the student voice on the website and in the ISI report. There is no particular "type" here. The motto reflects the school's character: "Come as you are. Go as also all you can be." This isn't empty branding; it appears embedded in how staff and older students describe their experience of the place. The inspection noted that inspectors found students "known by the staff who all provide major support outside of the school timetable," and this holds up under scrutiny.
The pastoral structure revolves around house systems and tutors. Each tutor group stays together throughout Year 7-11, creating continuity. The school holds twice-weekly assemblies and a communal start to each day, described by staff as "intrinsic to what we offer." Break-time and lunchtime clubs mean few students are left without activity or community. Boys wear uniform through Year 11; sixth form students follow staff dress code. The underlying discipline is consistent but not harsh.
Here, Halliford sits below the typical profile for independent schools. Attainment 8 averaged 38.7 in the measurement period, below the England average of 46.0. The school ranks 3,219th in England (FindMySchool ranking) and second locally in Shepperton, but the lower 40% of schools in England indicates results place it in the lower 40% of England schools. This is not a school choosing to publish headline GCSE grades, which tells you something about institutional honesty. The official position, confirmed with ISI inspectors, is that GCSE is treated as important but not definitive of student worth. The school emphasises progress made from entry through Year 11, and the school's own communication focuses heavily on where pupils go next rather than the raw examination scores.
What matters here is trajectory. The school accepts boys from a broad intake (not selective at entry), with many arriving at age 11 from primary schools of varying quality. The teaching is described by the inspection as "rigorous," with "expert subject knowledge" evident. Progress 8 data is not published, but the ISI judgement suggests value-added is solid despite the raw grades.
Here the picture improves markedly. At A-level, 55% of grades achieved A*-B, compared to the England average of 47%. In practical terms, this means the sixth form cohort performs above the national baseline. The school ranks 890th in England (FindMySchool ranking), placing it in the middle 35% of schools in England (33rd percentile), solidly middle-of-the-road for sixth forms. It is not elite, but it is consistently above average, and notably improved from the GCSE cohort's entry point.
Twenty-six A-level subjects are offered, from languages (French, German, Spanish, Latin, Classical Greek) through sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Physics, separately taught), to specialist subjects like Psychology, Classical Civilisation, and Design & Technology. The school's own communications emphasise breadth over extreme specialisation. Sixth formers typically study three or four A-levels alongside enrichment.
England ranks and key metrics (where available)
A-Level A*-B
54.72%
% of students achieving grades A*-B
GCSE 9–7
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% of students achieving grades 9-7
The curriculum is described consistently across sources as "broad and varied." In the lower school (Years 7-9), all students study English, Mathematics, two languages (French plus German or Spanish), separate sciences, History, Geography, Latin or Classical Civilisation, Art, Drama, Music, Design & Technology, Computing, Religious Studies, and PE. Setting in Mathematics begins in Year 4-equivalent progression. Setting in modern languages follows ability lines. The school's philosophy, articulated by senior staff, is "academically ambitious but academically sensitive", a phrase that appears deliberately chosen to signal rigour without pressure-cooker culture.
Class sizes matter in a school of this size. Maximum class size is stated as 12 in music, with typical classes in the 15-20 range for core subjects. A-level sets often run smaller, with specialist subjects (e.g., Classical Greek) potentially single-digit groups. Teaching staff include several who have returned as alumni, suggesting institutional knowledge is preserved.
The ISI inspection confirmed that teaching quality is strong, with particular mention of staff going "beyond the classroom" to support student learning. The Learning Resource Centre stays open until 5pm for supervised study. Sixth formers have access to careers guidance and university preparation embedded throughout the two-year programme.
In 2024, 71% of sixth form leavers progressed to university, with 17% entering employment and 5% apprenticeships. This is a solid, typical distribution for selective independent schools. The school does not publish Russell Group breakdowns or detailed university destinations on its public website, though the ISI report notes leavers go on to universities including "traditional universities and specialist colleges." Recent sixth form student testimonials mention securing places at Cambridge and Oxford, and confirms one Cambridge acceptance in the measurement period (from two applications), which suggests modest Oxbridge engagement rather than a heavy pipeline.
The lack of trumpeted university destination data is telling. Halliford's communications emphasise preparation for "life" and "meaningful work" rather than university prestige. A student quote on the website mentions securing a place at "St Peter's, Oxford" after A-level, but this is presented as a personal achievement rather than institutional boasting. The school values student voice more than destination statistics.
Total Offers
1
Offer Success Rate: 50%
Cambridge
1
Offers
Oxford
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Offers
The Colin Squire Music Studios represent a significant investment. The facility houses a state-of-the-art iMac recording and composition studio, a suite of practice rooms, a music technology studio, and the Colin Squire Recital Hall (50 seats plus balcony) with a Kawai Grand Piano. Beyond facilities, the departmental approach is notably inclusive. Every student is encouraged to learn an instrument, regardless of prior experience. Ensembles include a full orchestra, traditional choirs, jazz bands, rock bands, and smaller specialist groups. Recent overseas tours have taken musicians to Paris, New York, and the Rhineland.
Co-curricular music runs throughout the year. Lunchtime and after-school rehearsals populate the timetable. The annual Winter Concert draws families and staff together. Performance exams (ABRSM, Trinity, Rock School) are offered, but participation is optional, the culture emphasises enjoyment and skill development over grade-chasing. A-level Music Technology is available, and the school advertises a Sixth Form STEM scholarship that includes music technology pathways, signalling respect for technology-driven creativity.
The John Crook Theatre, opened in 2001 and named after a former headmaster, seats 267 and features latest-generation sound and lighting technology. It is genuine. The Theatre Technician role is full-time, not shared. The Drama Department, run by Mr Roberto Bruno (Head), Mr Andy Carroll, and Mr Conor Fleming (technician), delivers a packed calendar. Major annual productions in recent years have included Les Misérables, Spamalot, The Great Gatsby, Little Shop of Horrors, Blood Brothers, and School of Rock. These are not small affairs; they involve orchestration, large casts, and weeks of rehearsal. A Year 8 classic production sits alongside the major show. LAMDA examinations (Speech and Drama) are offered with verified qualifications carrying UCAS points at higher levels.
What distinguishes Halliford's drama is the democratisation of participation. Students can act, but they can also work as lighting technicians, sound operators, set designers, stage managers, and costume crew. The inspection reported that backstage opportunities are genuinely pursued by many students. Trips to West End theatres happen regularly. The drama community is explicitly described as a space where "everyone gets involved, and everyone is equal."
Sport is culturally central. Rugby dominates, described as "especially strong", but Football, Cricket, and Athletics are pursued with "equal enthusiasm." The broader offering includes Golf, Badminton, Basketball, Cross Country Running, Table Tennis, Handball, and Volleyball. For a school of 450, this breadth is notable.
The Wendy Simmons Sports Hall houses an indoor cricket facility with nets and bowling machine. Playing fields are on-site; Church Road playing fields (five minutes' walk away) provide additional space. The inspection praised the school's focus on participation across A and B teams at every age group, with C and D teams where numbers permit. In recent years, Hallifordians have achieved county and national representative honours. Overseas tours happen regularly: senior rugby tours to South Africa, Canada, and New Zealand; year-group football tours to Europe; golf tours; and the annual ski trip (Easter holidays, over 100 participants). The school was shortlisted in the Independent Schools of the Year Awards 2022 for Sporting Achievement.
Art benefits from two spacious studios and specialist ceramics facilities. Three-dimensional work (ceramics) is flagged as a particular strength, with innovative work featured in professional journals and London exhibitions. The annual Art Exhibition displays GCSE and A-level work for the community.
Science benefits from separate Biology, Chemistry, and Physics teaching throughout. A-level Psychology is available. The school advertises a Sixth Form STEM Scholarship alongside Music and Design & Technology scholarships, broadening pathways for ambitious learners.
The school runs approximately 20-30 clubs across the academic year. Named examples include:
Student voice is particularly important: when boys or girls propose a club (the website mentions a Year 7 Beyblade Club started by two students in autumn 2024), staff make it happen. This signals a culture of empowerment.
Activities Week at the end of summer term provides immersive opportunities in various disciplines. The school's policy is that every student should engage in at least two co-curricular or sporting activities weekly; in practice, most participate in many more.
As an independent school, Halliford charges tuition. The specific 2025-26 fees per term were not published in the PDF searched, but third-party sources indicate annual fees in the region of £24,000-25,500 for day pupils. The school's fees page states that "fees cover the normal curriculum together with most books and stationery," with examination costs invoiced separately. There is a 50% sibling discount for the eldest of three or more children enrolled concurrently.
Bursaries are available on a means-tested basis. The school states it "welcomes applications from students whose parents cannot afford the fees, either in full or in part." Scholarships up to 10% of annual fees are awarded at Year 7, Year 9, and sixth form entry for academic, artistic, dramatic, musical, plus sporting excellence. The sixth form STEM scholarship is an additional pathway. The school's charitable status and public pronouncements signal genuine commitment to access beyond wealth, though specific bursary percentages are not published online.
For families with multiple children, monthly payment plans are available through School Fee Plan (small administration fee applies). The school also offers optional pupil insurance schemes (absence insurance and AXA PPP healthcare).
*Bursaries may be available for eligible families.
Basis: annual
The school is selective at 11+ entry (Year 7). The entrance examination format has been redesigned in recent years to reduce tutoring advantage, though the school does not offer intensive preparation. Approximately 2,200 candidates apply for 150-160 places annually (roughly 15:1 ratio), making entry competitive. The admissions timeline typically follows: registration through the school website, entrance exam in January, results and interviews in February-March, offers in March.
For sixth form entry (age 16), students must achieve a minimum standard in GCSE (typically grade 5+) in subjects they wish to continue. The co-educational sixth form is well-established (since 2007 following a consortium with St David's School for Girls) and welcomes girls in roughly equal numbers to boys. Entry requirements for sixth form are published; the school conducts interviews with the headmaster or deputy head.
The school is not within a formal catchment area; it is a day school drawing from across Surrey and outer London. Some pupils use school bus services (partnership with Vectare); public transport is viable from Shepperton railway station. The location beside the Thames, near Spelthorne, provides access to London, major airports, and motorways (M3, M4).
The inspection described pastoral care as "outstanding." The school's structure revolves around house systems (named after local figures and school history) and tutor groups of 6-8 pupils. Tutors remain consistent through a student's first five years, creating stability. Houses have distinct characters but contain the full year-group range; the house system fosters vertical mentoring and community.
A school counsellor visits weekly. The Matron provides daily health and welfare support. Recent infrastructure investment includes a dedicated wellbeing suite (used by counsellor, ELSA practitioner, and Director of Student Welfare). The school has a Chaplain (Rector of Shepperton parish) who delivers assemblies and offers pastoral support.
Behaviour is described by inspectors and parents as calm and respectful. The discipline policy is clear and fairly applied. Students speak of feeling known and cared for as individuals. Sixth form students report feeling treated as young adults, with greater freedom balanced by increased responsibility.
The school's PSHE (Personal, Social, Health, Economic) curriculum covers mental health, relationships, careers guidance, and healthy choices. The environment is described as inclusive and accepting of diversity, with active LGBTQ+ representation and support.
School Hours: The school day starts at 8:50am (students greeted at the gate by senior management). Lessons are 40 minutes. Three lessons run before mid-morning break, two before lunch (one-hour duration), and three after lunch, totaling eight per day. One afternoon per week is dedicated to Games (PE). Most students finish by 3:20pm, though supervised prep in the Learning Resource Centre runs until 5:00pm. After-school clubs and sports training extend into early evening.
Uniform: Years 7-11 wear uniform (blazer, tie, formal dress code). Sixth form students observe the same dress code as teaching staff (smart casual, no jeans). Hair and jewellery regulations are enforced (conventional length, natural colour, no earrings or studs). Uniform and sports kit are available from AlleyCatz School and Sportswear in Hersham.
Transport: The school partners with Vectare for bus routes; parents book online. Shepperton railway station (Southwestern Railway) is approximately 15 minutes' walk or short bus ride. Limited on-site parking is available for drop-off/collection.
Catering: Food is provided daily. Student reviews consistently praise the quality ("the food is AMAZING"). Hot and cold snacks are available from the tuck shop at break.
GCSE Results Below Independent School Averages: Halliford's GCSE performance (Attainment 8 of 38.7) sits below both the England average and typical independent school performance. For families prioritising strong GCSE grades, this school is most suited to pupils entering from broadly mixed primary schools rather than those already at the very top of their cohorts. The A-level results (55% A*-B) suggest the school adds value between GCSE and sixth form.
Small School, Limited Breadth in Some Areas: With ~450 pupils, the school cannot offer the same range of specialist provision or facilities as larger independent schools. The sixth form co-education is relatively new (since 2007) and the sixth form is smaller than some competitors, which may limit subject combinations and peer group in sixth form.
No Nursery or Primary Provision: Entry is at age 11 (Year 7). Families seeking continuity from nursery or primary school would need to look elsewhere. Early years education is not offered on-site.
Competitive Admissions at 11+: Entry is selective; approximately 2,200 candidates compete for 160 places. While the school has redesigned the entrance exam to reduce tutoring advantage, preparation is still common practice among applicants.
Halliford is a school that knows its identity and lives it consistently. It is not elite academically (A-level results sit slightly above England average, GCSE results below), nor does it claim to be. Instead, it offers something less fashionable but arguably more durable: genuine community, small-scale familiarity, and a culture where individual character is celebrated over conformity. The ISI inspection's "Excellent in all areas" reflects real substance, rigorous teaching, outstanding pastoral care, and facilities that punch above the school's size.
Best suited to families seeking a day school where their son or daughter will be genuinely known, where breadth of experience matters alongside examination results, and where "interesting people" are the norm rather than the exception. Parents should enter with realistic expectations about GCSE performance relative to independent school peers, but can trust that the sixth form experience and university preparation are solid and well-supported. If your family values human warmth and genuine inclusion alongside academic rigour, Halliford merits serious consideration.
Yes. The Independent Schools Inspectorate awarded Halliford "Excellent in all areas" in December 2022. A-level results are strong (55% achieving A*-B, above the England average of 47%). The school ranks 890th in England for A-level (FindMySchool ranking), placing it in the solid mainstream. The inspection specifically praised academic achievement, personal development, pastoral care, and the quality of relationships between staff and students. The school is small enough that each student is known by name; large enough to offer genuine breadth.
Annual day fees for 2025-26 are approximately £24,000-25,500 per year (exact figures are available on the school's fees page). Fees cover the curriculum, most books, and stationery. Examination costs are invoiced separately. Scholarships of up to 10% of annual fees are available at Year 7, Year 9 and sixth-form entry, awarded for excellence in academics, sport, music, drama and the arts. A separate Sixth Form STEM scholarship is also available. Means-tested bursaries are available for families unable to afford fees in full or in part. A 50% sibling discount applies to the eldest of three or more children enrolled concurrently. Monthly payment plans are available through School Fee Plan (small fee applies).
Entry is moderately selective. Approximately 2,200 candidates compete for 150-160 places annually (roughly 15:1 ratio). The school administers an entrance examination (recently redesigned to reduce tutoring advantage, though preparation remains common). Tutoring is not officially recommended, but families typically prepare. Interview and school report also contribute to decision-making. The school is not within a formal catchment; it draws pupils from across Surrey and outer London. The admissions process typically runs January-March (exam in January, interviews and offers in February-March).
The co-educational sixth form admits girls alongside boys (policy since 2007). Approximately 150 sixth formers study across three or four A-levels (26 subjects offered). Entry requires typically grade 5+ GCSE in subjects to be continued. The sixth form is housed partly on the main campus and partly in dedicated sixth form facilities including the Sixth Form Café (recently refurbished). Sixth formers follow staff dress code (smart casual, no uniform). The culture emphasises independence within support; careers guidance and university preparation are embedded. Over half achieve A*-B grades at A-level.
The school runs 20-30 clubs across the academic year, covering music (Jazz Band, Rock Band, Orchestra, Choir), drama (student-led tech crew, stage management), sport (rugby, football, cricket, badminton, etc.), and interest-based groups (Chess, Photography, Podcast, Young Enterprise, Duke of Edinburgh, Eco Club, LGBTQ+ group, Debating, and many more). Every student is expected to participate in at least two co-curricular or sporting activities weekly; in practice, most do more. The school's philosophy is that when students propose a new club, staff facilitate it, examples include a Year 7 Beyblade Club launched in 2024. Activities Week at the end of summer term provides immersive opportunities.
Named facilities include the John Crook Theatre (267 seats, purpose-built with advanced sound and lighting), the Colin Squire Music Studios (recording studio, practice rooms, technology lab, 50-seat recital hall with Kawai Grand Piano), the Wendy Simmons Sports Hall (with indoor cricket nets and bowling machine), the Learning Resource Centre (open until 5pm for supervised study), the Forum (large multipurpose hall, recently upgraded with Lord Robert Winston's official opening), Art Studios (two large spaces plus specialist ceramics), and Design & Technology workshops. Playing fields are on-site; Church Road fields are a five-minute walk away. The campus sits in 6 acres beside the Thames.
Yes. GCSE Attainment 8 averaged 38.7 in the measurement period (below England average). A-level results are stronger: 55% achieved A*-B (above the England average of 47%), and the school ranks 890th in England (FindMySchool ranking). This suggests the school adds value between age 16 and 18. The school's own communications emphasise progress and university preparation over raw GCSE grades, reflecting a philosophy that GCSE is a milestone rather than a final judgment. Families should expect strong lower-school teaching and solid A-level outcomes, but not standout GCSE performance relative to leading independent schools.
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