Archway School Review 2026: The Inclusive Heart of Stroud

Standing on the historic Farm Hill Park estate, Archway School offers a distinct alternative to Stroud’s selective education system. While the town is famous for its grammar schools, Archway serves as a thriving inclusive counterweight. It takes its name from the memorial arch built on the grounds in 1834 by Henry Wyatt to commemorate the abolition of slavery, a heritage that seems to seep into the school’s modern ethos of acceptance and community.

Mr James Woollin took over as Headteacher in September 2025, bringing fresh leadership to this well-established community school. He leads a mixed comprehensive for students aged 11 to 18 that prides itself on being a "school for everyone" in a landscape often defined by selection.

The campus is a mixture of mid-century functionalism and modern purpose-built blocks, set against the dramatic backdrop of the Stroud Valleys. It feels grounded and busy. Unlike the hushed quadrangles of some independent rivals, Archway hums with the energy of a true community hub. The on-site sports centre is a dual-use facility shared with the public, meaning the school is physically and socially integrated into the daily life of Paganhill.

The atmosphere is noticeably relaxed but purposeful. Students here do not wear the uniform of a selective elite; instead, there is a diversity that reflects Stroud’s own eclectic character. The school champions an "inclusive attitude" that inspectors have praised, noting that pupils feel safe and valued regardless of their background or ability. The "Green" credentials of the school are also prominent, with active eco-groups reflecting the environmental focus of the wider town.

In a town where grammar schools skim the top percentage of academic intake, Archway’s results must be viewed through the lens of a truly comprehensive cohort.

In 2024, the school achieved an Attainment 8 score of 40.7. While this places it in the 'national lower' band (Ranked 2,971st in England) for raw attainment, this figure includes students of all starting points, including those with complex needs who might not secure places elsewhere. The Progress 8 score of -0.36 indicates that students, on average, achieve slightly below government estimates based on their primary data.

However, the Sixth Form tells a strong story of value-added success. Ranked 2,162nd in England for A-level outcomes, the school helps students secure solid destinations. In 2024, nearly 28% of A-level grades were A*-B. The school is particularly adept at supporting students through vocational pathways, with BTECs and applied diplomas offered alongside traditional A-levels.

The curriculum is broad and resists the trend of narrowing options too early. Key Stage 3 includes distinct provision for Drama, Music, and Design Technology, subjects that are often squeezed elsewhere. In Year 7 and 8, most subjects are taught in tutor groups, fostering a stable start, while Maths and Science are set by ability to ensure appropriate challenge.

Teaching is rated Good by Ofsted (March 2022). Inspectors noted that teachers have strong subject knowledge and plan learning that builds effectively over time. The Learning Support department is a vital engine of the school, supporting a higher-than-average number of students with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs).

Archway acts as a launchpad for diverse futures. In 2024, the destination data was notably practical: 46% of leavers moved directly into employment and 13% started apprenticeships. This combined figure of 59% for work-based progression is exceptional and reflects the school's strong links with local industry and engineering firms.

University remains a key pathway for Sixth Formers, with 27% progressing to higher education. While Oxbridge numbers are modest compared to the selective sector, students regularly secure places at solid Russell Group institutions and specialist arts colleges.

Archway is a Community school with admissions coordinated by Gloucestershire County Council. It is a popular choice; in the last cycle, the school was oversubscribed with 371 applications for just 207 Year 7 places.

The deadline for Year 7 applications is 31 October for entry the following September. When oversubscribed, priority is given to:

1. Looked-after children.
2. Siblings of current students.
3. Children living closest to the school.

The last distance offered is not published as a fixed figure, but families in Paganhill, Whiteshill, and Randwick are typically well-placed. Distances vary annually based on applicant distribution; proximity provides priority but does not guarantee a place. Parents should use the FindMySchoolMap Search to check their precise distance.

The school operates a Year System, where a Head of Year stays with the cohort as they progress from Year 7 to Year 11. This continuity allows staff to build genuine relationships with families.

Pastoral support is robust. The "Hub" offers a sanctuary for students who find the main school environment overwhelming, providing a space for quiet regulation. The school’s anti-bullying work is student-led, with older students acting as "Peer Mentors" to help Year 7s settle in.

Extracurricular life is a major strength, bolstered by facilities that many state schools would envy. The school has its own swimming pool, a rarity in the state sector, alongside a dance studio and extensive playing fields.

Sport

The PE department is active and inclusive. Rugby and football are played on the sloping pitches that offer a distinct home advantage. The swimming pool allows for a curriculum that ensures water safety and competitive swimming are accessible to all.

The Arts

Creativity is central to the school’s identity. The annual school production is a highlight of the calendar, involving dozens of students in cast, crew, and band roles. The Art department is particularly strong, often sending students to prestigious foundation courses.

Clubs

From the Eco Club to the Duke of Edinburgh Award (Bronze to Gold), there is plenty to do. The Sixth Form committee leads on charity events, fostering a sense of responsibility and leadership.

The school day runs from 8:40 am to 3:10 pm. A breakfast club is available for students arriving early. The school is well-served by buses from the surrounding Stroud Valleys.

Selective Area Context: Archway operates in a fully selective county. The raw exam results will always look different to the local grammar schools because the intake is different. Parents should look at the "value added" and the supportive culture rather than just the raw grades.

Mixed Ability Classes: Much of the lower school curriculum is taught in mixed-ability groups. While this supports social cohesion, some parents of high-ability children may worry about stretch and challenge in the early years.

Large, Hilly Site: The campus is spread out across a hillside. Navigating between blocks requires physical energy, which can be a consideration for students with mobility needs, though lifts and ramps are installed.

Archway School is the inclusive heart of Stroud. It offers a grounded, supportive, and diverse education that reflects the real world far better than its selective neighbours. With a new Headteacher in place and a history of pastoral strength, it is a school where children can be themselves. Best suited to families who value community, social mix, and a broad curriculum over the pressure cooker of the grammar system. The main challenge is securing a place in this increasingly popular community hub.