King Edward VI Handsworth Wood Girls’ Academy

King Edward VI Handsworth Wood Girls' Academy (HWGA) is a thriving, non-selective comprehensive school in Handsworth, Birmingham, educating girls aged 11 to 18. As part of the King Edward VI Academy Trust Birmingham since 2018, we collaborate closely with other schools within our trust to enhance opportunities for both staff and students.

Reflecting the rich diversity of our local community, we are committed to fostering an environment of high achievement and mutual respect. Our ethos encourages students to respect themselves, others, and their educational pursuits. Our motto, "Aspiring for Excellence," embodies our belief that every student can succeed. We strive to ensure each student attains commendable grades in relevant qualifications, a testament to the quality education we provide.

High Performance Learning (HPL) & Pastoral Care

At HWGA, we are proud to embed the High Performance Learning (HPL) philosophy across our curriculum, fostering a growth mindset and equipping students with the skills and attributes needed to succeed in an ever-changing world. Through HPL, we cultivate resilience, independence, and a love for learning, ensuring that all students, regardless of their background, can excel.

Alongside academic success, we place a huge emphasis on pastoral care and the embedding of strong values. We nurture students holistically, promoting well-being, inclusivity, and a deep sense of belonging. Our dedicated pastoral team provides exceptional support, ensuring that every student feels safe, valued, and empowered to achieve their full potential.

Recent Exam Successes

Our students continue to achieve strong results:

• Year 13 (2024): 96% overall pass rate, with the majority securing university places, apprenticeships, or employment.

• Year 11 (2024): Strong GCSE outcomes, with 69% achieving a grade 4+ in English and Maths, and an Attainment 8 score of 49.9.

In Years 7 to 11, we maintain a Planned Admission Number (PAN) of 175 students per year, aligning with Birmingham City Council's non-selective admissions policy. Our Sixth Form offers a range of academic and vocational courses for girls aged 16 to 18, attracting both internal students and external candidates from across Birmingham and the Black Country. Our curriculum is broad and continually enhanced through collaborations with other King Edward VI Academy Trust Birmingham schools.

We believe in holistic learning as the key to a fulfilling life. We encourage every girl to achieve her potential as a well-rounded individual, providing the care and support needed to do so. Our students actively contribute to school life, seizing opportunities to discover and develop new talents. Our unwavering aim is to "Aspire for Excellence," ensuring every student succeeds academically and is well-prepared for a fulfilling adult life with ample future opportunities.