About Us

Spotlight on Maiden Erlegh School – A Community of Ambitious Learners

Maiden Erlegh School is a highly successful 11-18 comprehensive school that blends academic excellence with a strong focus on personal development and student well-being.

The school is committed to equipping students with the qualifications, skills, and personal characteristics necessary for success in modern society.

As part of the Maiden Erlegh Trust (MET), Maiden Erlegh School benefits from being part of a network of primary, secondary, specialist, and alternative provision schools, all dedicated to the aiming high, being inclusive and working together.

A School with High Expectations and Strong Values

Students at Maiden Erlegh School are known for their curiosity, respect, and enthusiasm for learning. They embrace challenges, uphold high expectations, and embody the school's core values of integrity, tolerance, aspiration, respect, kindness, and perseverance.

The dedicated MES staff team comprises passionate teachers and diligent support staff who work tirelessly to provide an engaging and supportive learning environment. This collective effort fosters a culture of aspiration where students thrive both academically and personally.

Comprehensive and Enriching Curriculum

Maiden Erlegh School offers a broad and balanced curriculum designed to meet the diverse needs and interests of its students. The curriculum is structured to provide continuity, balance, and breadth, enabling students to specialise in courses that align with their aptitudes and career aspirations.

🌟 In Key Stage 3 (Years 7 and 8)

All students follow a common curriculum that includes English, Mathematics, Science, Modern Foreign Languages (French, German, or Spanish), Humanities (Geography, History, Religion and Philosophy), Art and Design, Computing, Drama, Music, Technology (Design and Food), Physical Education, and Personal Development.

For students who require additional support in literacy and numeracy, the school offers the 'Purple Pathway,' a bespoke programme focusing on these essential skills to ensure accessibility to the mainstream curriculum in later years.

🌟 In Key Stage 4 (Years 9 to 11)

The curriculum is designed to provide continuity, balance, and breadth. All students take a core of compulsory examination subjects, including English Language, English Literature, Mathematics, and Science, alongside Physical Education and Personal Development. They also have the opportunity to choose from a variety of option subjects to tailor their education to their interests and goals.

The school's commitment to Personal, Social, Moral, Spiritual, and Cultural education (PSMSC) ensures that themes such as positive relationships, safety and health, respect, equality, and British values are interwoven throughout the curriculum, preparing students for life beyond the classroom.

🌟 Inclusivity and tailored support

MES is committed to inclusivity and providing tailored support for all students. A key component of this commitment is The Bolt, a specialist unit within the school designed to support neurodivergent students. The Bolt offers a structured and nurturing environment where students receive individualised support from trained staff, enabling them to thrive academically and socially. This provision ensures that all students can fully engage with the school's broad curriculum and participate in the wider school community.

🌟 Sixth Form Excellence

The Sixth Form at Maiden Erlegh School is a vibrant and high-achieving community offering a wide range of A-level and vocational courses. The curriculum is academically rigorous, with students progressing to top universities, apprenticeships, and employment.

Beyond academic success, the Sixth Form experience fosters independence, leadership, and personal growth, with opportunities for mentoring, volunteering, and extracurricular involvement. Students benefit from expert teaching, specialist university and careers guidance, and a supportive environment that prepares them for life beyond school.

🌟 Exceptional Arts and Physical Education Programmes

Maiden Erlegh School takes great pride in its exceptional creative and sporting opportunities.

The school has a longstanding reputation for excellence in drama, music, and visual arts. Students regularly participate in productions, exhibitions, and competitions, showcasing their talents and creativity.

With outstanding PE facilities, the school offers a broad sports programme, encouraging students of all abilities to participate in competitive and recreational sports. Teams regularly excel at local and national levels, and students develop teamwork, resilience, and leadership skills through sport.

🌟 National Recognition – Pupil Choice Award for Happiness

Maiden Erlegh School has just been recognised as one of the top 10 secondary schools nationally in the Pupil Choice Award, presented by Edurio.

This award is based on pupil survey responses to the question: "How happy are you to be studying at this school?" and highlights schools that create an environment where students feel happy, supported, and engaged in their learning.

This recognition is particularly significant given that one in five children and young people in the UK are experiencing mental health challenges (NHS Digital, 2023). It reflects the school's unwavering commitment to student well-being, belonging, and happiness.

Headteacher Steve Jump expressed his appreciation:

"This recognition is a testament to the dedication of our staff and the supportive environment we have built together with our students, families, and Maiden Erlegh Trust. We are delighted that our students feel a strong sense of belonging, well-being, and happiness in their education."

Andy Johnson, Executive Director of Education for MET, added:

"This award highlights the strong culture of well-being and student success at Maiden Erlegh School. It is an important moment, not just for MES but for the entire Maiden Erlegh Trust team."

As part of this recognition, Maiden Erlegh School has been invited to collaborate on Edurio’s upcoming practical guide, 'Supporting Pupil Happiness and Belonging,' to share best practices that help foster student well-being.

Through high expectations, their dedicated team, and commitment to student well-being, Maiden Erlegh School is a place where students thrive, achieve, and build bright futures.

Learn more about Maiden Erlegh School here.