About Didsbury High School
Didsbury High School is an 11-18 secondary school serving the South Manchester community and part of the Laurus Trust family.
Since opening in 2019, we have established a reputation for high standards, academic excellence and a culture where students are encouraged to aim high. This was recognised in 2023 when Ofsted judged us Outstanding in all areas during our first inspection.
We are proud to be Unashamedly Academic and Unapologetically Aspirational. We believe every young person should be challenged to achieve their very best, supported to develop a deep understanding of the subjects they study and encouraged to embrace every opportunity available to them.
Our broad and ambitious curriculum is designed to develop knowledge, confidence and intellectual curiosity. Alongside academic achievement, students are encouraged to discover new interests, contribute to school life and develop the skills that will support their future success.
Many students choose to continue their journey at Didsbury Sixth Form, where they are supported to pursue ambitious goals and prepare for the next stage of their education.
Based in a modern building with state-of-the-art facilities, Didsbury High School provides an environment where students can thrive both inside and beyond the classroom. Our aim is for every young person to leave us with a lifelong love of learning, the confidence to embrace new challenges and the ambition to pursue the future of their choice.
Katie Houghton
Head of School
Since the very moment Didsbury High School opened its doors to students, Katie has been part of the school’s leadership team, striving for brilliant outcomes for the students. She has been the school’s Deputy Head over the last couple of years and feels extremely privileged to have become the school’s second Head.
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Initially a History teacher and Head of House at Cheadle Hulme High School, Katie gained the post of Assistant Head of School for Didsbury High School (DHS) the year before it opened.
She has been part of the team that saw Didsbury High School through from conception to reality. Throughout her years at DHS, Katie’s energy has been placed in ensuring the students become successful, happy and healthy individuals – a mission she continues to strive for as Head of School.
Katie has lived in Manchester since she went to the University of Manchester to read History in 2008. Katie also gained a PGCE, then later a Masters in Education, from Manchester Metropolitan University. She now lives in Didsbury with her young family. Katie is also a keen athlete, and has played semi-professional rugby for Sale Sharks. So, although not a born or bred Mancunian, Manchester holds a very special place in her heart!
Katie is absolutely committed to making Didsbury High School a true community school; a school the staff, students and local residents are extremely proud of.