George Abbot School is a coeducational secondary school and sixth form with academy status in Burpham, north-east of the town centre of Guildford providing a comprehensive education, for around 2,000 young people, aged 11–18.
History The school is named after the Guildford-native 17th-century Archbishop of Canterbury George Abbot. The two main buildings are Elmslie and Raynham, named after the two headteachers when the buildings were separate schools, Miss Elmslie for girls, and Mr Raynham for boys.
Curriculum All students must take four GCSE subjects. In Years 7 to 9, students will participate in eight creative/expressive subjects: dance, drama, music, design and technology, photography textiles, graphics and art. During Year 7 students are taught one language of either French, German, or Spanish. Some carry on these languages for GCSE. Other subjects include History, Geography, Sociology and Physical Education.
Students take separate or combined science GCSEs (all involve Chemistry, Physics and Biology). Religious education is taken at Y10. An option exists of taking fast track foreign languages (a year early) so pupils are able to learn another language (Spanish, German, or French) to take two language GCSEs. This option is usually for native speakers.
Sixth Form George Abbot has a Sixth Form with nearly 500 students. It offers a choice of over 40 subjects at A level and BTEC, GCSE re-take options and enrichment courses. Facilities include a Sixth Form Centre, artificial pitch and sports fields, a Fitness Suite and a common room.
Notable former pupils
Sport Alex McCarthy, Premier League goalkeeper Ashley Giles MBE, cricketer Georgina Hermitage, paralympic sprinter Liam Heath, canoeist and Olympic gold medallist Matt Jarvis, professional footballer Rachel Cawthorn, Olympic canoeist
Music
John Renbourn, folk guitarist and former member of Pentangle
Film/TV
Ellie Wallwork, actress
References
External links Official website