Frequently Asked Questions
Find out more about life at Stafford Grammar School as a pupil with some of our frequently asked questions.
What type of school is Stafford Grammar School?
SGS is an award winning independent co-educational day school catering for children from age 3 to 19, encompassing a Prep School, Senior School and Sixth Form. The school is set in Burton Manor, a Victorian manor house on the outskirts of Stafford, originally designed by the renowned architect Augustus Pugin. The school is most well known for its music and performing arts with arguably the strongest programme in the Midlands. The school has also had significant regional and national success in sport, ranging from the traditional sports of rugby, football, hockey, netball, cricket and rounders to those you may not anticipate – skiing, pistol shooting, horse riding. Alongside all of this is the academic success that places the school amongst the top schools in the Midlands every year. It is truly a school where there is something for everyone and at the heart of everything we do is the belief that happy children succeed, and our strong pastoral care ensures every pupil is known, valued and supported to fulfil their potential.
What makes the school different?
Our size is our strength. We combine the facilities, opportunities and ambition of a larger school with the warmth and personal attention of a close-knit community. Widely recognised for excellence in music and drama, alongside strong academic performance, outstanding pastoral care and small class sizes, Stafford Grammar School offers an environment where every child is known, supported and encouraged to flourish.
What are the school’s core values?
Our ethos is guided by the motto ‘Quod Tibi Hoc Alteri’ – treat others as you would wish to be treated yourself. We value kindness, respect, integrity and ambition, and believe that happy, confident pupils are best placed to achieve their full potential.
What are the school’s latest results?
Stafford Grammar School consistently achieves excellent GCSE and A Level results, placing it among the highest-performing schools in Staffordshire. Our strong academic outcomes are supported by small class sizes, specialist teaching and individual attention. The latest examination results and performance data can be found on our website.
Do you offer open days or school tours?
Yes. We host regular Open Mornings throughout the year, giving families the opportunity to explore the School, meet staff and speak with current pupils. Personal tours can also be arranged during term time with the Headmaster, the Head of Prep, other senior leaders and pupil ambassadors, allowing families to experience the School at a time that suits them. Please contact our Admissions Team to arrange a tour of the school.
Does the School offer bursaries and scholarships?
Yes. We offer a range of scholarships recognising excellence in areas such as academics, music, drama and sport, alongside means-tested bursaries for families who require financial assistance. Scholarships and bursaries are available at key entry points, and sibling discounts may also be available. Please contact our Admissions Team for full details.
What subjects and qualifications do you offer?
We offer a broad and balanced curriculum including a wide range of GCSE and A Level subjects. In addition, pupils can access opportunities such as the EPQ, Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, LAMDA qualifications, music examinations through Trinity and ABRSM, online work-experience programmes and a variety of enrichment activities.
Do you have a Sixth Form?
Yes. Our high-performing Sixth Form offers small class sizes, expert subject teaching and outstanding individual support. Students benefit from a broad range of A Level courses, extensive enrichment opportunities and personalised university and careers guidance. The vast majority of students secure places at their preferred universities, while achieving excellent academic outcomes. Prospective students can attend our Sixth Form Information Evening, Experience Day and individual taster days to discover what makes Sixth Form life at SGS distinctive.
How do I apply for a place at the school? What is the admissions process?
Applications can be made through the School website or by contacting our Admissions Team. Families are usually invited to visit the School, meet staff and experience the community through a personal tour and, where appropriate, a taster day. Admission decisions are based on a combination of school reports, assessments and discussions with the Headmaster to ensure that each pupil will thrive at Stafford Grammar School. Our Admissions Team can provide tailored guidance for entry into the Prep School, Senior School or Sixth Form.
Is there a registration fee?
A registration fee may apply as part of the admissions process, and a deposit is required to secure an accepted place. As admissions arrangements can vary depending on the age and entry point of the pupil, families are encouraged to contact our Admissions Team for the most up-to-date information.
Is there a waiting list?
Yes. When a year group reaches capacity, we maintain a waiting list. Places are offered as they become available, with consideration given to factors such as academic suitability, sibling applications and individual circumstances.
Support for gifted/struggling pupils?
We recognise that every child learns differently. Our teachers provide both challenge and support, ensuring that able pupils are stretched while those requiring additional help receive targeted guidance. Through personalised teaching, enrichment opportunities and pastoral support, we help every pupil achieve their full potential.
How do you support children with SEND/EAL?
Our Learning Support Department provides tailored support for pupils with SEND and those for whom English is an additional language. This may include one-to-one or small-group interventions, specialist resources and assistive technologies. Combined with our strong pastoral care and Wellbeing Centre, this ensures pupils receive the support they need to thrive.
What mental health and wellbeing support is available?
We have a dedicated wellbeing centre where children can receive extra support in a calm, safe environment. This space helps children manage emotions, build confidence, and feel ready to learn.
We are proud of our calm, respectful and purposeful atmosphere. Pupils are encouraged to uphold our values, take responsibility for their actions and contribute positively to the School community. Strong relationships between pupils and staff create an environment where mutual respect, kindness and high standards of behaviour are the norm.
Is the school fully accessible for pupils with physical disabilities?
Many areas of the School are accessible to pupils with physical disabilities, and newer buildings include lift access. However, some parts of our historic campus and certain specialist facilities have limitations. We work closely with families to make reasonable adjustments wherever possible and to maximise access to learning opportunities.
What is the school’s approach to behaviour and discipline?
We are proud of our calm, respectful and purposeful atmosphere. Pupils are encouraged to uphold our values, take responsibility for their actions and contribute positively to the School community. Strong relationships between pupils and staff create an environment where mutual respect, kindness and high standards of behaviour are the norm.
How does the school handle bullying?
We operate a zero-tolerance approach to bullying. Because ours is a close-knit community where staff know pupils well, concerns are often identified and addressed at an early stage. Any incidents are investigated promptly and managed sensitively, ensuring pupils feel safe, supported and respected.
How do you communicate with parents?
Communication with parents is a key part of school life. We provide regular updates through our Parent Portal, reports, parents’ evenings and weekly newsletters. In addition, we operate an open-door approach, and parents are welcome to contact form tutors, subject teachers and senior staff whenever they need advice or support.
What extra-curricular activities and clubs are available?
Our extensive co-curricular programme includes music ensembles, drama productions, sports clubs, debating, chess, creative writing, STEM activities, subject clinics and much more. There is something for every interest, helping pupils develop confidence, friendships and new skills beyond the classroom.
Do you offer trips, sports, arts or leadership programmes?
We offer a rich programme of educational visits, cultural experiences and leadership opportunities. These include overseas trips, sports tours, music tours, ski trips and Sixth Form international visits, alongside Outdoor Education experiences for Prep pupils. Opportunities vary from year to year, ensuring pupils can enjoy a wide range of memorable experiences.
What are the school hours?
The School day begins with registration at 8.45am, although pupils may arrive from 8.00am. Lessons finish at approximately 3.40pm in the Prep School and 3.50pm in the Senior School. A wide range of clubs, supervised study and wrap-around care is available until 6.00pm.
Is there before and after school care?
Yes. We provide free wrap-around care from 8.00am until 6.00pm, helping to support busy families. Pupils can take part in supervised activities, homework sessions and after-school clubs within this provision.
What is the uniform policy?
School uniform can be purchased through Crested Schoolwear in Stafford, and full uniform information is available on our website. Staff are always happy to help families with any questions regarding uniform requirements.
How are parents involved in school life?
Parents play an important role in our School community. They are warmly welcomed to concerts, productions, sporting fixtures and community events throughout the year. Our active Parents’ Association organises social events and supports School initiatives, while the biennial Summer Ball is a highlight of the calendar.
How do pupils get to School?
Pupils travel to School in a variety of ways, including walking, cycling, public transport and parental drop-off. We also operate an extensive minibus network serving Stafford and the surrounding areas, making the School accessible to families across the region.
How do I contact my child's teachers
Parents can contact teachers and tutors by email or through the School office. Form tutors, subject teachers and pastoral staff are always happy to discuss a pupil’s progress, wellbeing or any questions parents may have. We aim to respond promptly and maintain strong partnerships with families.
Pre-School - Fees & Funding. What are the fees and what do they include? Do you accept government-funded hours (e.g., 15 or 30 hours in the UK)? Are there extra costs (meals, trips, late pickup fees)?
Our fees are designed to provide excellent value and include wrap-around care from 8.00am to 6.00pm, lunch for children staying all day and access to specialist teaching in areas such as PE, Games, Music and Forest School. We accept both 15-hour and 30-hour government-funded childcare entitlements for eligible families. Additional costs are limited and may include optional trips or activities, which are always communicated in advance.
What does a typical pre-school day look like?
A typical preschool day combines learning, play and care in a nurturing environment. Children enjoy free play, group activities, stories, creative projects, outdoor learning, meals and quiet time. Through carefully planned routines, they develop confidence, independence, social skills and the foundations for future learning.
How can I help my child adjust to pre-school?
You can help your child settle into preschool by establishing positive routines before they start. Talking about preschool, reading books about starting school and visiting the setting beforehand can all build confidence. Consistent drop-off and collection arrangements, encouraging independence in small daily tasks and offering reassurance during the first few weeks can make the transition smoother and more enjoyable.
Term dates
Our current term dates can be found on the School website, where they are updated regularly and include key dates for the academic year.
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