Hillview School for Girls

About Hillview School for Girls

We are a creative, inclusive school where all students flourish and make exceptional progress. Our dynamic Performing and Visual Arts specialisms have a profound impact upon learning and contribute to the purposeful, friendly and stimulating atmosphere that permeates the school. We foster self-belief and high aspirations.

With a proven track record of excellent results, we are one of the highest performing non-selective state schools in Kent. We commit to enabling every child to experience a flexible study programme that is right for them and will support them in reaching their life goals and overcoming any hurdles that stand in their way.

We value achievements of every kind – academic and non-academic – and we believe that everyone should have the opportunity to discover their talents. We also believe that young people respond well to high expectations. In our school we expect everyone to work hard and give their best. 

History

Although the school has been on the Hectorage Road/Brionne Gardens site since 1936 its history goes back to 1854. We have the log books maintained by previous headteachers, the oldest dating back to 1863.

In 1854 a school was built in Waterloo Road, Tonbridge (behind St. Stephen’s Church). It was built in response to the rapidly growing population of poor cottage dwellers in the Parish. There were separate rooms for boys and girls. The school role was fifty girls but rose to 122 girls in 1868. Maggie Ann Cairney has kindly updated us about how the school was renamed:

“Hello, my name is Margaret Cairney nee Vinten. I attended Hillview School from 1966-1970. I have been reading about the history of the school and noticed that the reason for the name of Hillview is unknown. Well I can tell you, during our time there, it was decided to give the school a proper name. We had several choices of ideas for names on the blackboard. Through a voting system Hillview came out top, so from then on it had its new name of Hillview. I thought it would be nice to let you know.”

Ethos

Hillview School for Girls believes in the pure potential of every child within the school to develop, mature and thrive and leave the school fully ready for the world of employment. We place a high emphasis on education beyond grades, actively exploring a wide range of opportunities to develop the awareness and engagement of our students in the world around them.

Vision

Students unlock their pure potential to drive their future and thrive in society.

Mission Statement

To deliver a high quality, inspirational educational experience within a broad, personalised curriculum, where the performing arts values are inherent across the school. Students access a breadth of developmental opportunities within an inclusive safe and supportive environment, fully preparing them for a challenging and ever-changing world. 

Our Core Values

· Inspiration 

· Innovation

· Independence

· Inclusivity 

What We Do Best

· High attaining non-selective

· Quality educational provision

· Inclusive, safe and supportive community

· Excellence in the Arts

· Strong pastoral support, encouraging the students’ enjoyment of learning

· A breadth of opportunities supports the development of the individual 

Location

Hillview School for Girls is located in Tonbridge, with easy access to major road and rail links and we are conveniently located an easy 12 minute walk from Tonbridge Railway Station. There is ample car parking on site but surrounding roads also provide additional parking opportunities.

Facilities

The school has excellent facilities including a dance studio, drama studio, space for meetings, on-site gym, on-site nursery for children of KCC-employed staff, sports hall and outdoor spaces.

CPD

Weekly CPD Sessions after school for ITT, NQT, Aspiring and current ML. An active T & L group meet regularly to discuss current research and trial new strategies.

Benefits

Ample parking

On-site gym

On-site nursery 

Modern well-maintained buildings