Applying for a secondary school place in Plymouth

At the beginning of autumn term, Year 6 pupils and their parents will be looking ahead to the next step up towards secondary school. Although catchment rules apply to many schools in the county, there are different options open to each child.

 

Applying to secondary schools in Plymouth

When you fill in the application form you’ll be asked to list the schools you’re applying for in order of preference. You must apply for at least 3 schools. This is when you will be able to prioritise your child’s preferred school. Whether a place is offered will depend on the school’s admission process and if places are available. If the school is over-subscribed, the applications are ranked in distance order and priority will be given to those who live in close proximity to the school.

If you have any questions contact the school directly or your local council. Similarly, if you are considering applying to a local independent school, it will have its own separate admissions procedure.

 

Applying to schools outside Plymouth

If you live in Plymouth and want to apply to a school outside the boundaries of Plymouth City Council, in parts of Devon or Cornwall for example, you will need to make an application via the school admissions team at Plymouth City Council. Simply specify your school of preference on your application form. The deadline date for application submissions of 31 October is the same in each unitary authority.

 

Getting ready for Secondary School

Many primary schools are increasingly mindful about the transitional phase to high school, with teachers taking time to ensure that children know what to expect and are well-prepared for the move, with school visits, meet the teacher sessions and ‘step up’ days. You can also help in several ways:

Keep a note of all the dates for induction events and encourage your child to attend as many of these as possible.

Read the school’s most recent Ofsted reports - www.ofsted.gov.uk

Check the school league tables at www.compare-school-performance.service.gov.uk

Talk to other parents about what they think of the school.

Increase your child’s independence - you might trust them with solo trips to the letter box, or allow them to collect the take-away food from a local restaurant and show that you have confidence in them.

Stay positive about the school. Children need to be encouraged and know they have your support.

 

On this page you will find a guide to many of the schools across the county. Scroll down to read a general overview of each school and find out when the Open Days will be taking place.

 

The Application Process

Submit your application for a primary or secondary school place online. Once the online form has been submitted, an email receipt will confirm that the application has been received. Online applications can be changed right up to midnight on the closing date.

 

Plymouth City Council Applications:

There are 17 secondary schools in Plymouth: 14 non-selective and 3 grammar schools.

Primary, Infant and Junior School applications in Plymouth:

The application system will be available from 5 September 2017 to 15 January 2018.

Secondary School applications in Plymouth:

The application system will be available from 5 September 2017 to 31 October 2017.

Plymouth contacts:

School Admissions: Primary admissions: 01752 307166; Secondary admissions 01752 307469

Email: schooladmissions@plymouth.gov.uk

Online applications: www.plymouth.gov.uk/schooladmissions

 

Students living outside of Plymouth

Students living outside Plymouth City Council’s boundaries will need to apply via Devon County Council’s school admissions team. Catchment areas apply. To find the designated school in the Devon and Torbay area, visit http://map.devon.gov.uk/dccviewer/schoolareaplusone/

 

Devon County Council Applications:

Primary School Applications:

The online system will be available from November 2017 until midnight on 15 January 2018.

Secondary School Applications:

The online system will be available from September 2017 until 31 October 2017.

Devon Contacts:

Education helpline: 0345 155 1019

Online applications: www.new.devon.gov.uk – Education and Families

Email: primaryschooladmissions@devon.gov.uk or secondaryschooladmissions@devon.gov.uk

 

When can I expect a decision?

There are now set dates when school places are officially confirmed. These are:

1 March 2018 – Secondary Schools

18 April 2018 – Primary Schools

The results will be available for you to see online.

 

All Saints Academy, Plymouth

Academy Ambassador Olivia Fitzpatrick, sixth form leaver 2017, who joined All Saints in Year 7 from Shakespeare Primary School and is planning to study Biology at University. This is what she had to say about All Saints Academy:

“All Saints will be a big place compared to your primary school and you might get lost but there will always be older students to help you find your way. Your first few weeks will fly by and before you know it, you’ll wonder what you ever found frightening in the first place.

Leaving primary school is a big step. If you’re anything like me, you’ll be worried that you might not fit in. I promise you that you will find your place here. It’s very friendly. You’ll make lots of new friends and learn new, exciting things.

There is something for everyone, no matter what you’re interested in. There are lots of opportunities to develop outside the classroom, and someone is always on hand to go to for help and support.

I truly believe that teachers here go above and beyond to help you succeed. However, as everything in life, those who go the extra mile for themselves end up succeeding most! Try hard and All Saints will definitely try hard for you!”

Visit www.asap.org.uk or call 01752 705131

 

Coombe Dean School

At Coombe Dean School, they believe that “Success is built around positive relationships,” which means that staff go the extra mile to provide a stimulating place to learn. It means every one of its students is encouraged to grow into a confident, curious learner.

In an internet-dominated world of rapid change and increasing automation, students need more than excellent academic qualifications: they need great interpersonal skills and self-awareness; they need to be highly motivated and to be resilient. At Coombe Dean, they help students achieve this. Its teachers are role-models in learning and are skilled in equipping young people to take the lead in their own development.

Teachers in every subject look beyond the obvious skills and knowledge needed to be successful in exams. They provide additional activities that help students to practise the life skills that will make them successful - independently and in teams. These skills are reinforced by a wide range of experiences outside of the classroom, which are tailored to those all-important hopes and dreams. Every day at Coombe Dean is an opportunity to learn – no matter who you are, what you are doing or how you are feeling!

If this picture of a vibrant, child-centred school sounds like the right kind of school for your child, do go and see Coombe Dean for yourself.

Coombe Dean’s Open Evening is on Thursday 14 September 2017 at 7pm

Visit www.coombedean.co.uk or call 01752 406961

 

Eggbuckland Community College Academy Trust

“This is a good school.” Ofsted 2016

Set in a stunning, 44-acre site, students at Eggbuckland Community College Academy Trust experience the perfect learning environment as a result of high quality teaching and excellent pastoral care. Visitors frequently comment on the welcoming, calm and purposeful atmosphere. In 2016, Ofsted described students as “immaculate, engaged, positive, enthusiastic and respectful”. ‘Learning Caring Achieving’ is very much at the heart of its ethos.

“The school promotes strongly held values which are reflected in the very positive relationships between pupils and staff.” Ofsted 2016

Eggbuckland provides choice and inspiration for students of all abilities. Ofsted identified time in lessons as a real strength and commented on the good challenge and pace. Each year a very high proportion of students gain places at the universities of their choice or secure employment and apprenticeships with top employers.

“Pupils make good progress.” Ofsted 2016

Eggbuckland Community College offer a huge variety of extra-curricular opportunities, from productions in Drama and Music to College teams in twelve different sports.

Nothing replaces a visit, so do go along to the open evening, one of the open mornings, or book a tour if you would like to see the college in action.

Visit www.eggbuckland.org.uk or call 01752 779061

 

 

Hele’s School

Hele's School is a school that students and staff are proud to attend. Known for its academic excellence, high aspirations and big heart, its mission is to support and challenge each individual, adult or child, to be the best they can be. Expectations for staff and students are high, but very simple; work hard to do things right, and to do the right thing…even when no one is looking!

Hele’s School aims to provide an inclusive, calm, and purposeful learning environment, and ensure all students have opportunities to enrich their learning: to discover new skills and interests, and to master others through providing a breadth of curricular and extra-curricular opportunities to excite and engage young people, wherever their interests or aspirations may lie.

Everything the school does is shaped by its determination to ensure that each and every child has a positive and memorable experience of school; that they thrive, flourish and, crucially, are happy. Indeed, the friendly, rich and nurturing environment is often the aspect that people say is its greatest strength.

Applications are welcomed from students of all abilities. The school looks forward to welcoming you to the Hele’s family.

A great place to learn. A great place to grow. Visit www.heles.plymouth.sch.uk or call 01752 337193

 

Lipson Co-operative Academy

Lipson is a school that buzzes with excitement, energy and aspirations. Principal, Lynda Budd says that, “We want our students to be confident and able to take full advantage of all of the opportunities in front of them and in their future”.

At Lipson, you become part of a family, not just a school, where everyone is happy, valued and known as an individual. At its heart, co-operation is about working together and this creates the conditions where everyone can grow and thrive.

Lipson is truly a school where all students are encouraged to achieve their very best, both academically and within all elements of their school life. It is important that your child’s education reflects their needs; challenging them to be the very best. This is at the heart of Lipson and is what drives every teacher and member of staff to ensure that your child’s experiences are positive and challenging.

Go and experience for yourself Lipson Co-operative Academy’s unique atmosphere and the outstanding opportunities they offer to their students. Visitors to the school always comment on the caring, energetic and happy atmosphere.

Tours of the school will take place each Monday between 11 September and 18 October at 9.15 am.

The Open Evening is on Monday 11 September between 6 - 8.30pm with Principal talks at 6.30pm and 7.30pm. The Open Afternoon is on Thursday 21 September between 4 - 7pm.

Visit www.lipsonco-operativeacademy.coop or call 01752 671318

 

Marine Academy Plymouth

Marine Academy Plymouth will be opening its doors to potential students at its next open days on Thursday 7 September at 5:30pm and Friday 8 September at 9am.

For students, currently in Year 5 or 6 and transferring into Year 7 in September 2018 or September 2019, the open days offer the opportunity to tour the campus, meet with students and teachers, learn more about what studying at Marine Academy Plymouth entails and discover the opportunities on offer for students.

As an all-through campus for students aged 0 – 19, Marine Academy Plymouth prides itself on the ability to nurture and encourage students to be innovative, creative, spirited, curious and pioneering to help them discover their talents and transform their future.

Whilst specialising in marine studies, which embrace science, maths, technology and the environment, Marine Academy Plymouth also places an important emphasis on the core subjects of English and maths.

The academy also offers access to opportunities for education outside of the classroom, including additional courses and activities before and after school, at the weekend and in the holidays. Focusing on the individual student’s needs, Marine Academy Plymouth helps each one of their students to realise their ambitions.

To find out more, join Marine Academy Plymouth at their September open days on Thursday 7 September at 5:30pm and Friday 8 September at 9am for the Principal’s welcome, followed by the tour. For more information, visit www.marineacademy.org.uk or call 01752 213939.

 

Notre Dame, Plymouth

Notre Dame is Plymouth’s only comprehensive school for girls. Part of a worldwide network of schools founded by the Sisters of Notre Dame, this is a Catholic school that welcomes all those who want to learn in a supportive, caring and aspirational environment.

Notre Dame is a school that lives its mission statement:

• an optimistic school promoting Christian attitudes
• a school where every person belongs
• a school which values learning
• a school which rises to challenges and celebrates achievement

Notre Dame offers a broad and balanced curriculum as well as a wide range of extra-curricular activities and a whole range of trips and visits. The school also provides a strong faith life. Retreats, reflections, liturgies and Mass are all part of the pattern of the school year.

All girls leave Notre Dame ready to embrace their chosen future. In the past year, the school has seen students leave to take up a whole host of opportunities, including university, beginning work or starting apprenticeships.

Whatever their plans, Notre Dame girls are prepared because of the school’s focus on education of the whole child: ‘head, heart and hands’.

The Open Evening will take place on Wednesday 20 September from 4pm to 7pm

For further information, call 01752 775101 or visit www.ndonline.org

 

Plymouth College Preparatory School

Do subject specialist teachers make a difference in Primary School Education? Chris Gatherer, Headmaster of Plymouth College Preparatory School, certainly thinks so.

The school has subject specialist teachers in Science, Modern Foreign Languages, Maths, English, Geography, History, Art, Cookery, Sport, Music and Drama. Even the Pre-School, which accepts children from two, is led by qualified teachers ensuring little minds get the best possible start. Kay Wills Head of Early Years says: “We have noticed the children coming from the Plymouth College Pre-School are significantly in front of the national average. Demonstrating the difference that real teaching in Pre-School makes”.

The school combines a healthy balance of high-quality academic study and a broad range of sporting and artistic activities. It also understands the demands of modern life on families with wrap-around care from 8am – 6pm included. The school accepts nursery vouchers for three and four-year olds.

The Millfields-based school boasts specialist facilities for science, ICT, Art, Music and Design Technology. It has spacious classrooms, a theatre, purpose-built sports hall and a chapel. The latest addition to facilities is a state-of-the-art Food Technology Centre, designed in collaboration with the Tanner brothers. Headmaster, Chris Gatherer, said: “Our aim is to provide a safe and happy environment in which our pupils can grow in confidence and reach their full potential whatever their strengths. This is crucial in helping them to prepare for the next steps of their education and their adult lives”.

Visit www.plymouthcollege.com or call 01752 201352

 

Plympton Academy

Plympton Academy believes in inspiring a culture of success. Its ethos centres around developing a love of learning and a resilience and determination to tackle all the challenges that students meet during their time at the Academy. Students are supported to become successful and fulfilled life-long learners.

The Academy prioritises the professional development of its teachers so that their knowledge is current, their skills honed, refreshed and invigorated. They want their teachers to enthuse and inspire students; to explore new ideas and opportunities for, and with, your children.

“Teaching is good overall, and is characterised by effective planning, high levels of challenge and useful feedback to pupils” OFSTED January 2016

Students are involved in every aspect of the Academy life beyond the classroom; extra-curricular clubs and trips are always available but students also take an active role in shaping the future of the Academy through a wide range of student leadership activities.

Students leave the Academy as rounded, confident, independent young adults, equipped to pursue their dreams.

With the development of a new 3G pitch reaching its final stages, a brand new, £2 million state of the art Performing Arts facility completed and in use from September 2017, and with major funding allocated for the next phase of the national Priority Schools programme (which will see a brand new three-storey building on site) modern, multifunctional learning spaces are being provided at the Academy which compliment first class teaching to enhance the learning experience.

Visit www.plympton.academy or call 01752 338373

 

Plymstock School

Robert Diment, Headteacher at Plymstock School writes:

“Plymstock School is a unique community that believes in and actively promotes the traditional values of courtesy, respect and compassion. We have a dedicated, enthusiastic and inspiring team of well qualified and highly skilled staff who provide excellent teaching and support. This enables students to become creative and independent thinkers and develop a genuine love of learning, which brings them great success.

The progress made by our students at GCSE Level in the summer examinations of 2016 puts us in the top 17% of all schools nationally. We take great pride that over many years every single student who completes their education at Plymstock School has successfully continued into education, employment or training, appropriate to their needs and aspirations. This is also true at the highest academic level and we are delighted to have students gain places at both Oxford and Cambridge University over the last three years consistently.

Our pastoral care is exceptionally strong and we provide a safe learning environment in which students can thrive. Each child is enabled to develop the skills and knowledge required to be a responsible and well-rounded individual that is fully prepared for the demands of our everchanging multicultural society and is well equipped for life in modern Britain. We strongly encourage you to visit us during the working day, so you can see for yourself why Plymstock School is a special place to learn.”

Call 01752 402679 or visit www.plymstockschool.org.uk

 

Saltash.net Community School

Saltash.net is proud to be a member of the recently expanded South East Cornwall Multi Academy Regional Trust (SMART), alongside two other local secondary schools and three primaries. Membership of SMART re-affirms Saltash.net’s commitment to innovative and exciting forms of learning, creating SMART learners, leaders and communities.

With new Headteacher Ms Kate Littledyke at the helm, the school is looking to continue to improve the wellbeing and education of all its students and help to develop all at Saltash.net.

The school’s motto of ‘Believe and Achieve’ is put into action through everything the school does. Indeed, students from Saltash.net have achieved so much over the past 12 months: whether it be Year 7 students presenting to a high-profile audience at the annual BETT (British Educational Training and Technology) Conference in London; the fantastic whole school performances of Billy Elliot, or the impressive list of sporting successes the school has enjoyed this year.

Saltash.net works closely with its local partner primary schools, regularly inviting Year 5 and 6 students to visit, so that the transition between primary and secondary is as smooth as possible, with students already comfortable in preparation for the fresh and exciting challenges that await them.

Visit www.saltash.net or call 01752 843715

 

Sir John Hunt Community Sports College

Making the right choice of secondary school is one of the most important decisions a family will take. Sir John Hunt Community Sports College is a smaller school where all the students are known as individuals; it is caring, supportive and aspiring. In joining Sir John Hunt students will be joining a family, where each young person will be challenged to excel “To Greater Heights”.

The College and community are proud of its academic success, incredible facilities, outstanding care and guidance and the range of inspirational activities on offer both within and outside of the College.

For those families that are unable to attend the open events then feel free to contact the school on 01752 201020 or email newintake@sirjohnhunt.plymouth.sch.uk to make an alternative arrangement.

 

Stoke Damerel Community College

Stoke Damerel Community College is a vibrant and forward-thinking community of teachers and learners. The College appreciates the individuality and unique strengths and talents of each student and encourages everyone to invest in their education. Stoke Damerel takes great pride in the fact that more and more of its students enjoy success in every possible way and at every level.

Academically, this is demonstrated in its exam results. In its most recent report, Ofsted said: “The ethos of the school is very positive.
“There is a strong sense of collaboration and students and staff are united in their desire to learn and improve.

“Students are justifiably very proud of their school and their achievements.”

Stoke Damerel seeks to provide the very best educational experience so every student can reach their full potential as they become responsible and proactive members of their community.

The College also offers School Direct - a way of training to be a teacher and get paid at the same time.

The Open Evening will take place on Wednesday 13 September enabling parents and their children to find out what it is like to become a student at Stoke Damerel and get a taste of just some of the amazing opportunities on offer at the College.

Doors open at 6pm for 6.30pm start.

“I have learned so much here already – there are so many opportunities and everyone makes you feel welcome” Toby - Class of 2021

For further details visit www.sdcc.net

 

Tor Bridge High

Tor Bridge High is part of the Tor Bridge partnership encompassing Tor Bridge Primary, Plymbridge Nursery and Cann Bridge School. Tor Bridge High’s proximity to its partner schools ensures seamless transition from one Key Stage to another.

Facts about Tor Bridge High:

• Judged as a “Good School” Ofsted 2015
• Oversubscribed in Year 7 for the last five years
• Highly personalised and challenging curriculum
• Extended curriculum activities in sport, music, the arts plus access to whole school themes of Enterprise, Internationalism and Outdoor Challenge
• Outstanding and truly supportive team of staff
• Strong working partnerships between students, teachers and their families.
• ‘Small Schools’ system ensuring close monitoring of students’ academic progress and pastoral care

The Open Evening will take place on Thursday 21 September at 5pm

The Open Morning will take place on Friday 22 September at 9am

Find Tor Bridge High at Miller Way, Plymouth PL6 8UN

For further details visit www.torbridge.net or call 01752 207907 or email: receptionhigh@torbridge.net