Sponsored: A day in the life at Slough's Grove Academy

Slough, Berkshire

Nestled just a stone’s throw from historic Windsor, Grove Academy stands out as Berkshire’s only all-through school, providing seamless education for students aged 4 to 16. From early years to GCSEs, this state-of-the-art school o­ffers a unique and cohesive learning journey under one roof - and a glimpse into life at Grove reveals a thriving, ambitious, and inclusive community.

Set in a modern building equipped with top-tier facilities, Grove Academy serves a diverse student body. Its mission is clear: to raise educational standards, support student wellbeing, and o­ffer a stable learning environment that evolves with every child.

Testimonials 

“This school has consistently used a child-centred approach," said a parent.

"Both my children passed their GCSEs without external tutoring, thanks to the outstanding teaching and pastoral care.”

“The continuity here provides a sense of safety and familiarity,” said a sta­ff member. “Teachers guide students through each educational milestone, often knowing them since their earliest years.”

The academic year so far

An enriching start to the year this academic year began on a high note with exceptional GCSE results. Since then, Grove has delivered an action-packed calendar of educational trips, immersive projects, and community celebrations.

Students from every year group have taken part in experiences designed to deepen learning, inspire creativity, and build confidence.

Grove Academy’s facilities - from high-tech science labs and dedicated arts spaces to two libraries and full-scale sports grounds - play a central role in shaping these opportunities.

Students engage in after-school clubs, music workshops, drama performances, and creative showcases that help them grow both academically and personally.

The school’s focus on literacy shines during World Book Day, where students and staff­ bring books to life through costumes and readings. This is part of the school enrichment events such as our 'Relentless Readers' strategy and its wider Grove 5 learning principles.

Learning Beyond the Classroom Trips are a cornerstone of Grove’s educational offering. Year 10 students explored data engineering during a visit to Equinix, while Year 11 biology students conducted ecological fieldwork at FSC Amersham. Other students visited the Tate Modern, the British Museum, and the Science Museum to support classroom topics with hands-on learning.

Budding writers found inspiration at Kew Gardens, and younger year groups are buzzing with excitement for upcoming visits to PGL and Legoland. A standout partnership with Eton College has given Grove students the chance to take part in science experiments, creative writing workshops, and even chocolate crafting activities.

“It’s an extraordinary opportunity for our students,” a teacher said.

Community, Creativity, and Culture Grove Academy also plays a leading role in the SEBMAT Trust, hosting collaborative events like this year’s inter-school art project, which brought students together to celebrate the Grove values of being successful, welcome, included.

The school’s vibrant creative arts programme ensures that students’ talents take centre stage. In a recent Music Immersion Day, students learned keyboard, ukulele, jambe drums, and digital music production. Excitement is also building for the next annual Grove’s Got Talent show and the summer art exhibition, which welcomes families and local visitors alike.

Grove’s inclusive ethos is perhaps most evident in its cultural celebrations. Annual Diwali and Ramadan dinners bring families together, while a creative arts and careers day highlight the wider community’s cultural contributions.

Confidence, Character, and Challenge Beyond academics, Grove Academy invests in student confidence and character. Programmes like Commando Joe’s team-building day, mock interviews with professionals, and opportunities for students to become published authors ensure learning is deeply relevant and aspirational.

The school celebrates both individual achievement and teamwork. Grove’s chess club recently triumphed in a friendly match against Slough and Eton School, while sports offerings include girls’ football and guided weight training sessions in a purpose-built fitness studio.

Looking ahead as the school year approaches its finale, students still have much to look forward to. A bake off­ competition, multiple sports days, the summer fayre, and prom are just some of the events that will cap o­ff a year of hard work, creativity, and community spirit.

Grove Academy continues to live up to its ethos— nurturing learners who are successful, welcome, included, and ready for whatever comes next!