Starting secondary school is one of the biggest milestones in a child’s education. For many young people, it’s an exciting next step. For others, it can feel like a daunting leap into the unknown.

At The Marches School, we’ve taken a different approach.

Recognising that a positive start lays the foundations for future success, we’ve created The Shore – a dedicated Year 7 transition environment designed to help students settle into secondary school with confidence. Rather than expecting pupils to adapt overnight, The Shore provides a structured, supportive introduction where students can build friendships, establish routines and feel part of the school community from day one.

That sense of belonging continues throughout every student’s journey.

Through our unique Crew system, every child is part of a small group where they are genuinely known as an individual. Crew provides consistent guidance, encouragement and pastoral support, ensuring every student has trusted adults who celebrate their successes, help them overcome challenges and inspire them to achieve their potential.

Education at The Marches extends far beyond the classroom. Whether students are passionate about sport, performing arts, STEM, outdoor learning or leadership, there are countless opportunities to discover new interests and develop lifelong skills. Combined with specialist facilities that enhance both academic and personal development, students are encouraged to grow in confidence as well as achievement.

Looking to the future, students also benefit from a clear progression into Sixth Form through Open6. Offering greater subject choice and flexibility, Open6 allows young people to continue their education at The Marches, while accessing opportunities and key life skills that prepare them for university, apprenticeships and employment.

While The Marches proudly serves the Oswestry community, we also know that families from surrounding areas may worry about travelling to school. That’s why school transport and minibus options are available for many families, helping ensure that where you live doesn’t limit where your child can thrive. If you have any questions or would like to find out more about the routes available, just give us a call.

The best way to discover what makes The Marches different is to experience it for yourself. Join us at our Secondary & Sixth Form Open Evening on Thursday 17th September, from 4.30pm to 7.30pm. Meet our staff and students, explore our facilities, find out more about The Shore, Crew and Open6, and see first-hand how we’re giving young people a different start to secondary school.

We look forward to welcoming you.