It consists of just under 1500 pupils aged 11–18 (with over 500 students in the Sixth Form)[2] and has specialisms in music, science and languages.

It was built by Charles Morren in 1735 as a Baroque country villa and has been occupied by various wealthy citizens.

[3][4] On 1 October 2011, the school converted to academy status, meaning that it is independent of local authority control, and directly funded by the Dept of Education.

The school is administered by the Twyford Church of England Academies Trust.

[citation needed] Houses are named after famous cathedrals or abbeys in England or Cornwall and each is associated with a colour.