Anthony Gell School: A Comprehensive Guide for Derbyshire Families

Nestled in the historic market town of Wirksworth near Matlock, Anthony Gell School provides a comprehensive secondary education for students aged 11 to 18. As an academy converter within the Embark Multi Academy Trust, the school combines traditional values with the advantages of being part of a collaborative trust. Serving the communities of the scenic Derbyshire Dales, Anthony Gell offers a unique educational experience, balancing academic rigor with the benefits of a countryside setting. With its own sixth form and a roll that closely matches its capacity, it is a central and well-regarded institution in the area.

Academic Philosophy and Strengths

Anthony Gell School's philosophy is centred on providing a broad and balanced education that prepares students for their next steps, whether that is higher education, apprenticeships, or employment. The school benefits from the stability and support of the Embark Multi Academy Trust.

• 11-18 Continuum: A key strength is offering education from Year 7 through to Year 13, allowing for continuity and a smooth transition into the sixth form.
• Broad Curriculum: The school delivers the National Curriculum at Key Stage 3 and 4, followed by a range of A-Level and vocational Level 3 courses in the sixth form.
• Local Context: The curriculum likely incorporates the rich local heritage and natural environment of the Derbyshire Dales.

Campus Life and Community Culture

With a roll of 824 students, the school has a close-knit, community-focused atmosphere. The rural setting provides a calm and focused environment for learning. The school serves the Wirksworth ward and the wider Derbyshire Dales parliamentary constituency, making it a hub for the local community.

The presence of a sixth form adds a maturity to the school culture, with older students acting as role models for younger years. A wide range of extracurricular activities, from sports to drama, is offered to enrich the student experience.

Student Support Systems

Supporting students through their seven-year journey at the school is a priority. The structures in place are designed to guide students from age 11 to 18.

• Pastoral System: A strong tutor and year group system provides consistent pastoral care throughout a student's time at the school.
• Sixth Form Support: Dedicated sixth form tutors and a leadership team provide guidance on A-Level studies, university applications, and career choices.
• SEND Support: The school supports students with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) to ensure an inclusive learning environment for all.

Admissions Process

Admissions for Anthony Gell School are handled through the Derbyshire County Council coordinated admissions scheme for secondary schools.

1. Application: Parents must apply through the Derbyshire County Council website during the national secondary school application window.
2. Allocation Criteria: Places are allocated based on the council's criteria, which typically include catchment area (with priority for the Wirksworth area), sibling links, and distance from the school.
3. Outcome: Offers are made on National Offer Day in March.

Admission to the sixth form is a separate process, with specific entry requirements based on GCSE results. Interested students should contact the school directly for the sixth form prospectus and application details.

Facilities They Provide in Detail

The school operates from a campus designed to support its 11-18 education model. Key features likely include:

• Dedicated Sixth Form Centre: Providing a more independent learning environment for Years 12 and 13.
• Specialist Subject Areas: Science labs, technology workshops, art studios, and performance spaces.
• Sports Facilities: Playing fields and sports halls to accommodate a range of athletic activities.

Their Achievements

Anthony Gell School's achievements are rooted in its long-standing role as a community school and its successful transition to academy status.

• Successful Academy Conversion: The school converted to an academy in 2023, joining the Embark Multi Academy Trust.
• Provision of a Sixth Form: Offering post-16 education is a significant achievement, providing a local option for students to continue their studies.
• Community Hub: The school is a vital institution for the town of Wirksworth and the surrounding rural areas.

A Final Summary of the Overall Experience

Anthony Gell School offers a continuous educational journey from Year 7 to Year 13 within a supportive and picturesque setting. Its size fosters a strong sense of community, and its inclusion of a sixth form provides valuable continuity for students. For families in the Derbyshire Dales seeking a non-selective school with a traditional feel and the added benefit of on-site post-16 education, Anthony Gell School is a compelling and well-established choice.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Does Anthony Gell School have a sixth form?

Yes, a key feature of the school is that it "Has a sixth form," providing education for students in Years 12 and 13.

What age range does the school cover?

The school covers the full secondary age range from 11 to 18 (Year 7 through to Year 13).

What is the school's capacity?

The school has a capacity of 825 students and is currently operating very close to that with a roll of 824.

Who is the Headteacher?

The Headteacher is Mr. Malcolm Kelly.

What academy trust is the school part of?

It is part of the Embark Multi Academy Trust.

How do I apply for a place in Year 7?

Applications for Year 7 are made through Derbyshire County Council. The school's own admissions policy should be consulted for specific catchment details.

How do I apply for the sixth form?

Applications for the sixth form are made directly to the school. There are specific GCSE grade entry requirements for A-Level courses, detailed in the sixth form prospectus.

What is the percentage of pupils eligible for Free School Meals?

The data shows that 22.6% of pupils are eligible for Free School Meals.