The school is smaller than the average-sized comprehensive school. The proportion of students supported at school action is above average, while the proportion who are supported at school action plus or by a statement of special educational needs is below average. The proportion of students who are known to be eligible for the pupil premium is below average. Students from minority ethnic communities form a smaller proportion of the total than that found typically, and the proportion who speak English as an additional language is low. The school meets the current government floor targets, which set the minimum expectations for students’ progress and achievement. Sixth-form education is provided as part of a borough-wide consortium that includes the other high schools and Stafford College. The school is designated as a specialist arts college and has been awarded the Artsmark Gold award three times for ‘outstanding contribution to arts education’ by the Arts Council.