Ridgewood High School: small school, big heart, infinite ambition
Surrounded by trees and fields on the outskirts of Stourbridge, Ridgewood High School is perfectly situated for a great education. Our small school is powered by a big heart, an ambitious culture and excellent staff and student relationships. Ridgewood is happy, caring and calm; we provide students with a safe, family atmosphere where they are expected to work hard to become the best they can be in all aspects of their life. Our students prosper because we have high expectations of their academic progress as well as their personal development. They grow into confident, articulate young adults who contribute selflessly to their families and their local communities. Our students are learning to be great team-players because this will help them be excellent members of the work force as well as giving them the skills to make significant contributions to their families and communities. It is essential that our students learn how to be honest and good people who are ready to take on the challenges that life will present them, respectful of the people and situations they will encounter and in possession of a detailed knowledge of how to keep themselves safe
We have high expectations of our experienced staff who are well trained and determined to provide high quality education and pastoral care for our students. Many staff are local and are consequently ambitious to see Stourbridge students succeed. They know the difference that a great education can make to the life chances of young people. We are proud to work in Ridgewood; we know we have fantastic students who are frequently praised for their kindness and friendliness when meeting new people. They are polite, helpful and want to do well. We enjoy their company. Because Ridgewood is a great place to work, our staff retention is excellent.
Commitment to creative and academic excellence
We offer a full and rounded curriculum: all students study a rich, academic core as well as a choice of specialised and more creative subjects. Having opportunities to participate in or make something beautiful is integral to our school experience- our students sing, play, make, act, draw and dance, understanding that persistence leads to high standards as well as developing a spirit of adventure. We have purpose-built facilities for Drama, Dance, Music, Art, Food and Design Technology. Our students can take full advantage of a broad range of clubs and activities, making new friends and finding new skills.
Our students flourish
Personal Development and our Behaviour and Attitudes are both graded by Ofsted as ‘Good’. Our staff understand how important it is to develop the whole student. Making mistakes or overcoming obstacles is seen as normal and staff coach students to help them tackle barriers head-on; we build resilience and determination. A skilled pastoral and SEN team provide care, detailed specialist knowledge and encouragement to help students be their best selves.
Extensive sports facilities ensure that students can be healthy in body and mind, experience effective teamwork and fierce competition whether that be in interschool events or representing their Houses. Fostering fun, belonging and impressive student leadership, we expect 100% House participation.
In the very short last year, Ridgewood were highly placed in football, Maths, Food, Science and speaking competitions. Our Duke of Edinburgh provision and Junior Student Leadership Teams ensure that students confidently apply to high quality courses post 16. Trips and visits are integral to our school experience whether they be local such as Worcester Cathedral, further away such as Cambridge University or international such as Berlin, Poland and The Gambia. Ridgewood maintains its longstanding tradition of supporting Gambian communities.
What do our students say?
“Ridgewood is a family where the students are kind, friendly and welcoming and the adults really care. We have excellent relationships with our teachers, they work hard with us and expect us to be the best we can be. There is a great range of opportunities to develop your skills and interests here.”
What do parents say?
“Your provision during lockdown was outstanding. My child started remote learning without any problem at all. The teachers worked hard to ensure she carried on making progress and it was good to hear her laughing during a difficult time.”
“Staff have had high expectations of our son. He has thrived at Ridgewood and made excellent progress with his exam results and as a person.”
Thank you for visiting our website and showing an interest in our school. On this page, I give you a glimpse into life in our school. If you have any questions or if you’d like a visit for a school place for your child, please do get in touch. I know you will have a warm welcome.
Mrs Rae Cope
Mr James Cannon is Acting Headteacher from 17/01/2024 (during Mrs Cope’s absence)