THE TIFFIN GIRLS' SCHOOL in Kingston upon Thames, Kingston upon Thames

Education Centre Information: The Tiffin Girls' School:

Establishment Type:Foundation School
Phase of Education: Secondary
Status: Closed
Local Authority: Kingston upon Thames
Reason Establishment Closed: Academy Converter
Establishment Close Date: 31/03/2011
Boarders: No Boarders
Sixth Form: Has a sixth form
Urban/Rural Description: Urban > 10k - less sparse
Special Classes: No Special Classes
Religious Character: None
Total Pupils: 895
Number of girls: 895
Admissions: Selective
Age Range: 11-18
Gender: Girls
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Background:

Developed in 1880 from school founded in 1634 by Tiffin brothers; moved to current site in 1987 after 50 years in previous building; housed in 'functional rather than impressive' accommodation to east of Richmond Road towards northern edge of Kingston-upon-Thames; fire in December 2003 damaged main teaching wing; plans for new £4 million teaching block. Facilities include nine laboratories, three workshops for technology, seven computer rooms, drama studio, music suite, ceramics room, library connected to an expanding resources centre with audio-visual equipment and computers, and two large gymnasia. Sixth form based in separate building with own common room, computer room and study area. More than nine acres of playing fields on site; Sport England grant has made possible a floodlit astroturf pitch and seven netball courts. Sporting strengths include hockey and netball, with teams often reaching national finals. Traditional occasions are prizegiving, junior presentation of awards, carol service and school birthday. Musical concerts held every term; two orchestras, baroque ensemble, jazz group and numerous choirs. Also drama productions and 'impressive' charity fundraising. School council, which controls a proportion of school funds; school officers appointed after application and interview. Fundraising by parents has enabled school to invest £100,000 in computer facilities. Takes top 10 per cent of ability range. Specialist mathematics and computing college status from September 2002; aslo specialist language college status. Over-subscribed, with more than eight applications per place. Fair Trade School (2006). International Schools Award (2003). Artsmark Gold (2003, 2006); Sportsmark Gold (2004). Ethos: 'It is our intention that girls achieve the greatest possible academic success, while acquiring the skills, adaptability and maturity which will help to prepare them for their future careers and for life in the 21st century'.