Spalding High School Review 2026: Outstanding Girls' Grammar

Lampada Vitae Tradimus (Hand on the Lamp of Life), runs the school's motto, and for over a century, Spalding High School has been a beacon of academic ambition in the South Holland fens. Established in 1920, this selective grammar school for girls (with a mixed sixth form) combines a fierce commitment to traditional standards with a modern, outward-looking ethos. The school was rated Outstanding by Ofsted in November 2023, reaffirming a status it has held for over a decade.

The 1950s main building on Stonegate, with its iconic galleon weathervane, houses a community that feels both disciplined and spirited. While the architecture is mid-century, the ethos is timeless. Students describe a "High School feel" distinct from other local schools; a sense of belonging to a serious academic institution where it is cool to be clever.

Leadership is currently in a unique phase. Mrs Michele Anderson, Headmistress since 2013, has recently taken on the role of Executive Headteacher for both Spalding High and the neighbouring Spalding Grammar School (boys). This strategic partnership aims to strengthen both selective schools while preserving their distinct identities.

The House system is central to the school's character. Houses are named after pioneering women: Curie, Johnson (Amy), Nightingale, Pankhurst, and Sharman. House competitions range from the fiercely contested sports day to drama and debating, fostering a vertical community where Year 7s work alongside Sixth Formers.

Academic outcomes are consistently excellent. In 2024, the school ranked 477th in England for GCSE results (FindMySchool ranking) and 1st in Spalding, placing it in the top 11% of schools in England (national strong band). Nearly half of all GCSE grades (46%) were 9-7 (A*-A equivalent), and the Progress 8 score of +0.63 indicates students achieve over half a grade higher per subject than peers with similar starting points.

At A-level, the school ranks 1,041st in England and 2nd in Spalding. Over half of grades (51.8%) were A*-B. While strong, this performance sits in line with the top 40% of schools in England (national typical band), reflecting a broad sixth form intake that welcomes students from non-selective backgrounds.

The curriculum is broad and traditional. Science is taught as separate disciplines (Biology, Chemistry, Physics) from Year 9, delivered by subject specialists in dedicated laboratories. The school emphasises "Personal Learning Skills"—reciprocity, reflectiveness, resilience, and resourcefulness—which are embedded in lessons and reporting.

Teaching moves at the rapid pace expected in a grammar school. Teachers assume a high level of prior knowledge and motivation; students are expected to take ownership of their learning early on. The "High Performance Learning" philosophy underpins the approach, operating on the belief that intelligence is not fixed but can be grown through deliberate practice.

Where Students Go Next

In the 2024 cohort, 57% of leavers progressed to university, with a significant number securing places at Russell Group institutions. One student secured a place at Cambridge.

Notably, the school supports diverse pathways. 7% of leavers secured higher-level apprenticeships, and 21% moved directly into employment, reflecting strong links with local industry and a pragmatic approach to careers that values professional training alongside degree routes.

Entry to Year 7 is via the Lincolnshire 11-plus examination, administered by the Lincolnshire Consortium of Grammar Schools. The school is consistently oversubscribed, with 1.85 applications for every place in 2024.

The tests, consisting of verbal and non-verbal reasoning, are taken in September of Year 6. Registration for the test is separate from the Local Authority school application and typically opens in January of Year 5.

For 2026 entry, families should register for the test by March 2025. Offers are made on National Offer Day in March 2026. Places are allocated based on score and distance. The last distance offered varies annually; proximity provides priority but does not guarantee a place.

Pastoral care is structured around Form Tutors and Heads of Year, but the informal support network is equally strong. "Peer Mentors" in the Sixth Form are trained to support younger students, creating a sisterly atmosphere that softens the transition to secondary school.

Wellbeing is taken seriously, with a dedicated Student Support Coordinator and access to school nursing. The school's values emphasise kindness and courtesy as much as academic success, and behaviour is typically impeccable.

The extracurricular offer is extensive. Music is a major strength, with a Senior Choir, Orchestra, and Wind Band performing regularly at the Spring Concert and community events.

Sport is competitive and inclusive. The school fields strong teams in netball, hockey, gymnastics, and athletics, competing at district and county levels. The fitness suite and sports hall are well-used.

The Duke of Edinburgh Award is a rite of passage for many, with large numbers achieving Bronze, Silver, and Gold awards. Clubs range from the Debating Society to the student-led Eco Group, ensuring that every student can find their niche.

The school day runs from 8:50am to 3:45pm. Located in Spalding town centre, the school is served by an extensive network of buses bringing students from the wider Fenland area. There is no Saturday school.

Fees & Financial Aid

This is a state school with no tuition fees. Parents are expected to provide uniform and sports kit, and voluntary contributions are requested for trips and practical subjects like Food Technology.

Families eligible for Free School Meals (FSM) receive additional support, including a daily meal allowance and assistance with the cost of essential equipment and trips. The school uses Pupil Premium funding to provide academic interventions and pastoral support for eligible students.

Admissions Pressure. With nearly two applicants for every place, the 11-plus is a significant hurdle. Preparation often begins in Year 4 or 5, and the pressure can be intense. Families should consider if their child thrives in a high-stakes testing environment.

Executive Leadership. The current shared leadership arrangement with Spalding Grammar School is a significant change. While it promises strategic benefits, families should monitor how this evolves and ensures both schools retain their unique character.

Rural Travel. The catchment extends deep into the Fens. For students travelling from outlying villages, the school day is long. Reliance on school buses can limit participation in after-school clubs for those without parental transport.

Spalding High School remains the gold standard for girls' education in South Holland. It balances the rigour of a traditional grammar with a genuine warmth and community spirit. Best suited to bright, resilient girls who will thrive in an intellectual environment and are ready to embrace the "High School Spirit." The main challenge is securing a place.