Stretford High School

Did the walls of Stretford High School always echo with the shouts of teenagers? Not quite. Stretford High School, as we know it, was established in 1990. But this very ground holds a richer history. Before the current building graced Great Stone Road, this site housed the Stretford Grammar School for Boys. In 1986, it merged with its female counterpart, the Stretford Grammar School for Girls. The newly unified Stretford Grammar School then relocated, leaving this site open for a new chapter. That chapter began with the founding of Stretford High School. Today, Stretford High School thrives with a diverse student body of around 755 pupils, reflecting the multicultural tapestry of North Trafford. They are sorted into houses named after prominent figures: Royce, Pankhurst, Turing, and Bronte. The school enjoys partnerships with both Manchester City and Lancashire County Cricket Club, offering students unique opportunities beyond the classroom. A poignant moment in the school’s history occurred on July 8, 2011. Students, alongside Sir Bobby Charlton and Dickie Bird MBE, unveiled blue plaques commemorating two Busby Babes, Tommy Taylor and Duncan Edwards. These young footballers, who tragically died in the Munich air disaster, had lived locally, adding a layer of local history to Stretford High School’s story. Stretford High School has seen a succession of headteachers guiding its journey. From Derek Davies (2005-2009) and Eddie Malone (2009-2010) to James Haseldine (2011-2015), Lindsay Brindley (2015), and currently Nicola Doward, each leader has contributed to the school’s ongoing evolution. While striving for academic excellence, with past achievements including a 100% pass rate for level 2 qualifications and 80% achieving five or more A*-C grades, Stretford High School also focuses on creating a welcoming environment. It’s a place where pupils feel they belong and where diversity is celebrated, fostering a sense of community that resonates within these walls.