Envision a school with a relentless focus on health. This is Coombe Wood School. It’s not just any school. Coombe Wood School is a comprehensive, mixed secondary school. It welcomes students aged 11 to 18. The school boasts a sport, performing, and creative arts specialism.
Coombe Wood School opened in a temporary building in September 2018. It is located on the Coombe Road Playing Fields. It is opposite Lloyd Park. The Folio Education Trust runs the academy. Park Hill Junior School, St Peter’s Primary School, and Wallington County Grammar School are also part of the trust.
In its first year, 180 year 7 students joined Coombe Wood School. Each year, 180 more pupils joined. This continued until it reached its full capacity. The main building was completed in time for September 2019. The sixth form opened in September 2020.
Barry Laker was the first Headteacher of Coombe Wood School. He developed the school’s curriculum and policies. He appointed staff and built networks with parents and pupils.
The school received over 500 applications for 180 student places. It also received 130 applications for 12 teaching roles. While most students come from the local area, 10 percent of places are reserved. These are for students who show a sporting aptitude.
Coombe Wood School emphasizes health-related fitness. It tracks each pupil’s fitness levels. It provides regular feedback and advice to parents. Instead of traditional PE lessons, the school offers health-related fitness sessions. Students work towards personal targets set by teachers. Professional sports coaches teach specific sports. These include football, gymnastics, and netball.
The school’s facilities are impressive. They include a competition-standard sports hall. There is a full-size 3G artificial floodlit surface. A specialist performing arts area also exists. Dance studios, a gymnastics area, and a fitness suite round out the amenities.
Coombe Wood School aims to prove a theory. Fit and healthy students gain confidence and energy. This sharpness positively affects their classroom performance.
In January 2023, Ofsted rated Coombe Wood School as ‘Good’. Strengths include disadvantaged pupils, progress, finances, and attendance. Relative weaknesses include the sixth form and admissions. Progress up to age 16 is excellent. Pupil absence rates are quite low. The school budget has been in surplus. Attainment is above average up to age 16.
Coombe Wood School joined the Greenshaw Learning Trust on 1 July 2024. Ms N Williams is the current Headteacher. You can find Coombe Wood School at 30 Melville Avenue, South Croydon. The postcode is CR2 7HY.
Stevensons is the school uniform provider. They have a shop in Croydon. You can also buy uniforms online.
Coombe Wood School creates well-rounded students. It focuses on fitness, academics and the arts. It prepares students for success in all areas of life.