City of London Academy Highbury Grove

Opened in December 2017, the City of London Academy Highbury Grove stands as a testament to transformation. Originally, this site housed Highbury Grove School. It opened in 1967 under the leadership of Dr. Rhodes Boyson. The school became known for its strict discipline and impressive academic achievements. City of London Academy Highbury Grove also carries a legacy. The original school, Highbury Grove, started as an all-boys comprehensive school, merging Highbury Grammar School, Barnsbury Boys’ School, and Laycock School. Dr. Boyson, the first headmaster, instilled a culture of discipline and academic excellence, making it a popular choice for families. He later transitioned into politics, becoming a Member of Parliament and an education minister under Margaret Thatcher. The current City of London Academy Highbury Grove serves students aged 11 to 18, providing a mixed-gender learning environment. It’s part of the City of London Academies Trust. As of February 2025, the school had 1,107 students enrolled, with a capacity of 1,200. Interestingly, about half of the students at City of London Academy Highbury Grove are eligible for free school meals. This reveals the school’s commitment to providing education to students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds. The school moved into a new building on the same site in December 2009, marking a new chapter in its history. In 2017, the school faced challenges, including an Ofsted rating of “inadequate” and the departure of its head teacher. However, under the City of London Academy Trust’s leadership, improvements were made, particularly in student behavior. Today, City of London Academy Highbury Grove continues its mission to provide a quality education. It builds on the traditions of the past while embracing the opportunities of the future.