King Henry VIII is a school of the highest academic standing, but sound and balanced education cannot be judged on scholarship alone. The development of character and personality is of equal importance to us. The school provides a friendly, well-disciplined environment. Each pupil can develop his or her talents to the full, not only in the academic sense, but also through the wide range of opportunities offered in the cultural, sporting and creative aspects of school life.
The curriculum is broad and balanced, integrating the principles and practices of the National Curriculum where appropriate. Religious education is offered to all on a non-denominational basis. In addition to their normal A levels most students take, and succeed in, the General Studies examination at A level.
GCSE examination results are outstandingly good, with an A*ABC pass-rate that averages over 96%. Over half of all the passes are at grade A* or A. The school has a large Sixth Form and prepares candidates for A-level and for Oxbridge entry. The A-level pass-rate over the past three years averages 98%, with 65% of passes at grades A or B.
The school is well-equipped materially, including a recently commissioned suite of science laboratories which are amongst the best in the country. The school has recently completed a major building programme, which includes a new dining hall and an outstanding Sixth Form Centre as well as suites for English and Modern Languages. All Year 8 pupils visit the school's house in France. This year has seen the completion of the second phase of a three year IT development programme. Over 90 networked PCs have been installed for student use and more will follow. The school's greatest asset is its team of well-qualified, committed and caring teachers. Staff turnover is low, ensuring continuity and stability. Extra-curricular activities are numerous, with music, drama, sport, European exchanges and the Duke of Edinburgh's Award being particularly strong. The school has its own bus services to surrounding districts and is very close to Coventry railway station.
Alumni - Professor Colin Blakemore, Physiologist, Oxford University; David Duckham, England Rugby Player; Philip Larkin, Poet; Laurence Lee, Television Newsreader; Eric Malpass, Novelist; Professor Siegbert Prawer, Professor of German, Oxford University; Sir Basil Spence, Architect of Coventry Cathedral; R E S Wyatt, Cricketer.
