Caterham High School

Caterham High School operates under 'The Caterham Way,' a culture that promotes high expectations for learning and behaviour, respect, and tolerance within its multicultural community. The school is committed to discovering and nurturing the unique abilities of every child, fostering a 'can do' culture that encourages students to strive for excellence. It places students at the heart of its mission, aiming to enhance their life chances through an aspirational approach to teaching and pastoral care.

The school provides an expanding curriculum from Year 7 through to Year 13, with a six-form entry structure that allows for personalised support. The academic programme includes a range of subjects across the arts, sciences, humanities, and vocational areas, supported by the 'Curriculum 21' development programme which focuses on subject expertise and the science of learning. The Sixth Form offers both academic A-Level courses and vocational Level 3 qualifications, as well as a one-year Level 2 pathway that includes GCSE resits and vocational options in areas such as ICT and Sport.

The school reports that most students progress into its thriving sixth form, with many subsequently moving on to university. Students are encouraged to achieve the best possible exam results, and the school highlights success rates for GCSE English and Maths resits that are well above the national average. The curriculum is designed to ensure students are well-prepared for the next stage of education, employment, or adult life.

The Access and Inclusion Department provides comprehensive support for students, including those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) and those for whom English is an Additional Language (EAL). The school maintains dedicated provisions such as the Deaf Provision, the ARCH (Autism Provision) unit, and 'The Base,' which serves as an internal alternative provision. Support services also include mental health coordination, ELSA (Emotional Literacy Support Assistant) staff, behaviour mentors, and access to counselling.

Caterham High School is a community school within the London Borough of Redbridge, and as such, its admissions process is managed by the Local Authority. Prospective parents and carers are encouraged to visit the school to experience the learning environment, with open events held for prospective families. Detailed information regarding the admissions policy and application process for Years 7–11 and the Sixth Form is available through the Redbridge Council website.

The school operates a standard academic calendar, with term dates and specific events published on the school website. The calendar includes key dates such as parents' evenings, sporting fixtures, assemblies, and school-wide activities. Notable annual events include a summer concert, activities days, and transition days for incoming Year 7 students.

The campus features a wide range of specialist facilities, including a 3G floodlit astroturf pitch, a heated 20-metre indoor swimming pool, and a fitness suite. Indoor sports facilities include a sports hall marked for netball, basketball, badminton, and cricket, as well as a gymnasium and a dance studio with specialist flooring. The school also provides two large halls, one with a stage, two drama studios, and various classrooms and meeting rooms available for hire.

The school offers a variety of enrichment opportunities, including a range of extra-curricular clubs and activities. Recent examples include a cooking club, drama club, and various lunchtime performances and showcases. The school also celebrates an 'Arts Month,' which features music, art, and drama activities, including visits from guest performers. Additionally, a free breakfast club is available to students every morning.