‘We must not stop moving forward’

Headmaster Mr Daniel Berry explains what makes Kirkham Grammar School so unique.

Located in Lancashire in the heart of the North-West, Kirkham Grammar School continues to remain an extremely popular choice for large numbers of families. We are within easy access of Manchester, the Lake District and the seaside resorts of the Fylde coast.

The longer you spend at Kirkham Grammar School, the more you begin to understand what clearly makes it such a unique school. We are about so much more and continue to thrive in a challenging market. The life of a school is a busy one. As Headmaster of Kirkham Grammar School, this experience continues to be filled with wonderful opportunities. So, when choosing a school for a child, it is so important to understand what makes it so unique and ultimately a perfect environment for your child to excel in.

We are convinced that in an environment that currently has a high reputation, we must not stop moving forward. When one stands still, one is in effect, going backwards. KGS is a remarkable school within the North-West educational landscape. In nurturing well-qualified, compassionate, self-assured members of the community, our vision sets out the opportunity to look forward and plan without losing sight of what has come before. Every child comes through the school only once and deserves the best.

Our seven-year vision for the school will see improved and additional teaching, boarding and pastoral facilities. This will be known as ‘Project 480’ and coincides with the foundation date of the school in 1549. The school has a particular niche within the marketplace and we are extremely proud of our global reputation for sport, alongside a strong measure of normality and humility. The expectation for any potential family joining KGS is to join us as early as possible due to increased demands for places. The journey begins from 3 – 18 years. Therefore, all the facilities we provide and develop are of equal importance. The family ethos of the school is fundamental and is a key factor in driving our future plans for growth and expansion.

So what is it that makes such a school so special and unique? The range of opportunities given to our pupils is the main reason for such an envious reputation. The school has three values which uphold all we strive to achieve. These are a strong family ethos, inspirational teaching and for each child to fulfil their potential. Our aim is just as simple: to provide an excellent education that continues to develop the whole child.

As I have firmly believed in my years as a Headmaster, it is the breadth and balance of the provision that helps pupils become the best they can possibly be. That must incorporate both the aspiration to succeed to the very highest levels, but also an opportunity to find an activity within the school which gives all pupils the chance to shine. I have been overwhelmed at how much co-curricular provision goes on in the school; the diversity and range of clubs or societies that take place weekly is outstanding and a true testament to our staff and pupils.

The virtue of a school does not depend entirely on its classrooms; the equipment in its laboratories; the number of its pupils; nor even the success of its exam results. There is an unseen influence that is exerted by buildings and surroundings that are beautiful and dignified, and in keeping with fine honourable traditions and high ideals embedded at Kirkham Grammar School. We are proud of our school. There is something at Kirkham Grammar that is intangible but very real; the atmosphere in which we dwell, that pervasive spirit which surrounds us and influences all of which we strive to achieve. It is a great heritage at Kirkham Grammar and one which will stay with you for life.

The recent inspection has confirmed what we all knew about Kirkham Grammar School: it is the best kept educational secret in Lancashire. However, it is extremely pleasing that it has been officially acknowledged against national criteria that we are working hard to ensure our pupils get the finest education. The inspection found that the quality of the pupils’ academic and other achievements is excellent and the quality of the pupils’ personal development is excellent. Pupils reflect the strong family ethos of the school and demonstrate excellent collaboration in and out of lessons. Pupils develop excellent levels of confidence at all ages, supported by the strong personal, social, health and educational (PSHE) and enrichment programmes. Pupils show a clear respect for different faiths and diversity, demonstrating excellent levels of empathy and tolerance towards others. Pupils make informed choices, empowered and supported by their teachers.

As the school motto clearly states, ‘Ingredere Ut Proficias’.

This article first appeared in the 2023 edition of Which School? You can view the digital version of the guidebook here: