Parents Celebrate Outstanding Achievement at Heathfield Community College

Parents celebrate outstanding achievement at Heathfield Community College

Parents and carers across our community have every reason to feel proud this week, as Heathfield Community College has been recognised as one of the top-performing schools in the country for disadvantaged pupils.

The achievement was formally acknowledged in a letter from the Secretary of State for Education, Bridget Phillipson, congratulating the school’s staff and pupils on their exceptional 2024/25 results. For families with children at the school, this recognition confirms what many already see every day: a school that genuinely delivers on inclusion, ambition and care.

Many parents know these results didn’t happen by chance. They reflect the dedication of teachers and support staff, the commitment of families at home, and—most importantly—the determination of the students themselves. Disadvantaged pupils at Heathfield have not only matched but exceeded national outcomes for similar students for the past three years, performing at least as well as pupils overall. Strong outcomes for SEND students, minimal gaps between boys and girls, and continued success for high-attaining students paint a picture of a school where every child matters.

Letter from Headteacher, Caroline Barlow

In a letter shared with families, the Headteacher Caroline Barlow, summed up the spirit behind the success, writing that “this success is not because of one person or one team. It comes from everyone working together: students, school staff and families at home.” That message will resonate deeply with parents who see firsthand how closely the school works with families to support learning and wellbeing.

The school’s inclusive ethos has also been recognised by Ofsted, which described its work on inclusion as exceptional—something parents value enormously in today’s education landscape. Many students go on to the school’s Sixth Form and progress to top universities or apprenticeships, reinforcing confidence that children are being well prepared for life beyond school.

Looking ahead, families are encouraged by the school’s confidence that results in 2026 will be just as strong, with current Year 10 and 11 pupils already working hard and receiving the support and challenge they need.

“For parents and carers, this recognition is a shared achievement. It reflects a partnership between home and school that helps young people attend well, work hard and feel supported to aim high. As a community, we can all take pride in what Heathfield Community College continues to achieve—for every child.” Caroline Barlow, Headteacher.