Heathside School is a larger than average-sized 11–18 mixed comprehensive school. The school has specialisms in technology and languages. The proportion of students eligible for the pupil premium, which provides additional funding for specific groups including looked after children, students known to be eligible for free school meals and children of service families is lower than average. The proportion of disabled students and those with special educational needs supported through school action is also below the national average, as is the proportion of students supported at school action plus or with a statement of special educational needs. There are 24 students eligible for Year 7 catch-up funding, which is for students who did not achieve the expected Level 4 in reading or mathematics at the end of Key Stage 2. The number of students who join or leave the school part way through their education is lower than the national average. Most students are of White British heritage. The proportion of students from minority ethnic groups is in line with national averages, however the number of students who speak English as an additional language is low. A small number of Key Stage 4 students receive part of their education off-site at MIT Skills in West Byfleet. The school exceeds the government’s current floor standards, which set the minimum expectations for students’ attainment and progress.