WHICKHAM SCHOOL in Tyne and Wear, Newcastle upon Tyne

Education Centre Information: Whickham School:

Establishment Type:Community School
Phase of Education: Secondary
Status: Closed
Local Authority: Gateshead
Reason Establishment Closed: Academy Converter
Establishment Close Date: 31/08/2011
Boarders: No Boarders
Sixth Form: Has a sixth form
Urban/Rural Description: Urban > 10k - less sparse
Special Classes: No Special Classes
Religious Character: Does not apply
Total Pupils: 1657
Number of boys: 830
Number of girls: 827
Admissions: Comprehensive
Age Range: 11-18
Gender: Mixed
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Background:

The school'started life as a new secondary modern in 1962 and was reorganised as an 11-18 comprehensive in 1970. It occupies a large site on the southwest edge of the Tyneside conurbation and offers extensive playing fields, a sports hall, gymnasium, 10 laboratories, modern resource centre and purpose-built pastoral accommodation. The school is over-subscribed, with an average of 1.2 applications for each place. It has a 'strong sporting tradition' and recent international honours include athletics, cricket (England under-14 captain), and swimming. Music is 'strong' with a large school band performing at a number of concerts and public events, and regular dance and drama productions. Pupils are expected to 'behave with courtesy and consideration towards others' and school rules are 'kept to a minimum, consistent with maintaining an orderly well-disciplined atmosphere'. The working environment should be 'friendly and purposeful' at this school, where 'the development of character and good citizenship is considered to be of great importance'.