Duke of Gloucester School

Duke of Gloucester School
Name	Duke of Gloucester School
Established	1960
Type	Academy
Head label	Headteacher
Head	Mr. A. J. Hart
Address	Painswick Road, Cheltenham
County	Gloucestershire
Country	England
Postcode	GL51 6NP
Local authority	Gloucestershire County Council
Urn	136666
Gender	Coeducational
Age	11 to 18
Enrolment	~1,200
Website	http://www.dogschool.org

Duke of Gloucester School is a coeducational secondary school and sixth form located in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, England. Founded in the mid-20th century, it operates as an academy under the Department for Education. The school serves students aged 11 to 18 and is known for its comprehensive curriculum and strong community ethos.

History

The school was established in 1960, opening its doors to students in the rapidly expanding suburbs of Cheltenham. It was named in honour of Prince Henry, Duke of Gloucester, the third son of King George V. Initially operating as a secondary modern school, it transitioned to a comprehensive school following the Education Act 1944 and subsequent reforms in Gloucestershire. A significant milestone was achieved in 2011 when it converted to academy status, gaining greater autonomy over its finances and curriculum while remaining part of the local Gloucestershire County Council education framework. The school's development has been closely tied to the growth of areas like Up Hatherley and the presence of major local employers such as GCHQ.

Campus and facilities

The school's main site on Painswick Road features a mix of original 1960s buildings and modern additions. Key facilities include a dedicated sixth form centre, a sports hall, and extensive playing fields used for rugby, cricket, and association football. Recent capital projects have seen the development of specialized suites for STEM subjects, including upgraded science laboratories and information technology classrooms. The campus also houses a performing arts studio, a library resource centre, and facilities for design and technology. Its location provides easy access to local amenities like Pittville Park and the Cheltenham Racecourse.

Academic profile

As a comprehensive academy, the school offers a broad curriculum leading to GCSE and A-Level qualifications. It has a strong record in subjects such as mathematics, the sciences, and modern foreign languages like French and Spanish. The sixth form provides a range of A-Level courses and collaborates with institutions like Gloucestershire College for vocational pathways. Performance is monitored by Ofsted and the school regularly participates in national initiatives such as the Duke of Edinburgh's Award scheme. The academic programme is supported by partnerships with organisations including the Royal Society of Chemistry and the Cheltenham Literature Festival.

Extracurricular activities

A wide array of clubs and societies operates outside the formal timetable. Sporting teams regularly compete in local and county leagues, with particular success in rugby union, netball, and athletics. The school has a notable combined cadet force contingent and active participation in the Duke of Edinburgh's Award. Creative pursuits are fostered through drama productions, musical ensembles, and involvement with the Cheltenham Music Festival. Other activities include debating societies, STEM clubs linked with GCHQ, and community service projects supporting local charities like the Cheltenham Open Door shelter.

Notable alumni

Former students, known as Old Dukies, have achieved distinction in various fields. In public service and politics, alumni include Richard Graham MP. The arts are represented by figures such as television presenter Nikki Medlock and actor Mark Williams. In sports, former pupils include rugby union players like Jake Polledri and cricketer James Bracey. Other notable alumni encompass figures in academia, military service, and business, contributing to institutions from the British Army to BBC Radio.

Governance and administration

The school is governed by a board of trustees and an academy trust, with daily operations led by the headteacher and the senior leadership team. It receives funding directly from the Department for Education and is accountable to the Education and Skills Funding Agency. Local oversight is maintained through links with Gloucestershire County Council and the Cheltenham Borough Council. The school also engages with parent-led groups such as the Friends of Duke of Gloucester School association for community fundraising and events.

Category:Secondary schools in Gloucestershire Category:Academy schools in Gloucestershire Category:Educational institutions established in 1960 Category:Cheltenham