Best Schools in Plymouth

All Saints Church of England Academy, located in Plymouth, Devon, is a secondary academy that opened in September 2010. Situated on Honicknowle Lane, it is part of the Ted Wragg Multi Academy Trust. The school serves approximately 600 students, primarily from the local communities of Honicknowle and Ham, and is committed to delivering excellent academic and professional outcomes. It is the only Church of England secondary academy in Plymouth, welcoming students of all faiths. The academy operates with a dedicated staff, fostering core values of love, legacy, and bravery. It boasts new purpose-built facilities, which enhance the educational experience for its students. The school has a capacity of 1150 students and caters to an age range of 11 to 16. Approximately 49% of its students are eligible for free school meals, reflecting the school's commitment to inclusivity. In recent inspections, the school was rated as "Good" across all areas, including quality of education, behavior, personal development, and leadership. This assessment highlights the school's strengths in providing a supportive learning environment and effective leadership. As part of the Ted Wragg Multi Academy Trust, the school benefits from collaborative partnerships with other educational institutions in Devon, enhancing opportunities for its students.

Brook Green Centre for Learning, located in Plymouth (PL5 4DZ), is a specialist community school dedicated to educating students aged 11 to 16 who have cognition and learning difficulties as well as social, emotional, and mental health (SEMH) needs. The school serves a diverse student body of approximately 100 pupils, all of whom have Education, Health, and Care (EHC) plans reflecting their specific needs. With a capacity of 98, the school maintains a supportive and nurturing environment where every student is valued and respected for their individuality. The school's facilities are purpose-built to enhance learning and create an inclusive atmosphere that fosters personal growth and confidence. Brook Green offers an innovative curriculum that includes vocational learning and a strong emphasis on personal and social development. It has received an Outstanding rating from Ofsted, reflecting the high quality of education and care provided. Notably, the school is working towards becoming a Centre of Excellence in financial education through a partnership with Young Enterprise and Santander, which highlights their commitment to preparing students for independent adult life. Pastoral care is a core strength at Brook Green, where staff develop exceptional relationships with pupils, supporting well-being and helping reduce anxiety. Behaviour is generally very positive, and the school's ethos emphasizes high expectations and respect. The rich curriculum engages students in literacy, drama, and character-building activities such as the Duke of Edinburgh Awards, aiming to equip learners with both academic and essential life skills. This holistic approach has a lasting impact on students, enabling many to progress successfully to further education, apprenticeships, and employment.

Cann Bridge School, located in Estover, Plymouth (PL6 8EE), is a well-established special school dedicated to supporting children and young people aged 3 to 19 with complex learning difficulties and special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). Originally opened in 1963 as the Downham Training Centre and later Downham School in Plymstock, it has a longstanding history of over 60 years in providing tailored education for learners with severe learning difficulties (SLD) and profound and multiple learning difficulties (PMLD). In 2012, the school moved to a purpose-built facility on the Tor Bridge Partnership site, sharing the campus with other educational institutions and expanding its modern learning environment. In early 2024, Cann Bridge increased its capacity from 92 to 108 learners through the addition of new classrooms equipped with the latest technology, enhancing the high-quality learning experience. Cann Bridge School embraces a nurturing and aspirational ethos, summed up in its mantra "We Cann," focusing on learners' abilities and fostering independence through a specialized curriculum called Pathways to Independence. The school caters to a diverse group of students, many with complex communication needs including Down's Syndrome and Autism Spectrum Condition, all supported by an Education, Health and Care Plan. The staff's commitment to preparing students for positive futures has led to remarkable achievements, such as national success in enterprise competitions, demonstrating the school's strength in cultivating skills beyond academics. Nearly half of the pupils are eligible for free school meals, reflecting a community-oriented approach. Under the leadership of Headteacher Shane Baker since 2023, Cann Bridge continues to build on its rich heritage of providing outstanding special education and supportive community engagement.

City College Plymouth is a leading institution in the South West, renowned for its significant contributions to the regional economy and social life. Established in 1887, it has a rich history of providing vocational, professional, and higher education to students. The college is situated on Kings Road in Plymouth, Devon, and has evolved over the years to become one of the top educational providers in the region. Today, City College Plymouth serves a diverse student population, including approximately 8,448 students, with a mix of 16-to-18-year-old students, apprentices, higher education students, and adult learners. The college has achieved an overall student achievement rate of 83.8% in recent years, highlighting its commitment to academic excellence. The college's financial health is robust, with a strong current ratio and manageable borrowing levels. The college plays a crucial role in collaborating with local organizations, such as University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust, enhancing its connection to the community. Its strong foundation in vocational and professional education makes it an ideal choice for those seeking skills and qualifications tailored to modern industry needs. With a legacy spanning over 130 years, City College Plymouth continues to be a preferred learning destination for students across the South West.

College Road Primary School, located in Keyham, Plymouth, is a foundation school that offers a comprehensive education to children aged five to eleven. The school emphasizes building a strong connection between the local community and its rich history, encouraging pupils to explore and appreciate Plymouth's naval and exploratory traditions. The curriculum is designed to foster curiosity and critical thinking, with a focus on equality and diversity, which is particularly important in a predominantly white community. The school recently underwent significant developments, including the addition of new facilities such as an assembly/sports hall and a commercial kitchen, enhancing the learning environment for its students. While standards in literacy and numeracy are below average, the school excels in physical education, where standards are above average. The school's music, art, and design standards are average, indicating areas for improvement. College Road Primary School is committed to providing engaging experiences, including trips and in-school activities, to deepen pupils' understanding of history and their place in the wider world. The school's approach is collaborative, ensuring that staff are invested in the curriculum and its progression.

Compton CofE Primary School, located in Plymouth at PL3 5JB, is a voluntary controlled school that provides a comprehensive primary education to children aged 4 to 11. The school is deeply rooted in Christian values, emphasizing a vision of "living life in all its fullness," as inspired by John 10:10. This ethos is reflected in its commitment to high-quality teaching and learning, ensuring that all children have the opportunity to flourish both academically and personally. The school has a strong staff team, led by Headteacher Mr. Mark Oakshott, who pride themselves on delivering high standards of achievement. With a student body of 431 pupils, the school maintains a student-teacher ratio of approximately 22:1, facilitating personalized attention and support for each child. The school's curriculum is designed to inspire a love of learning, with subjects like history being taught in a rich and varied manner. Compton CofE Primary School has received a Good rating from Ofsted in recent inspections, highlighting its effectiveness in leadership and teaching. Notably, the school's personal development, behavior, and welfare have been rated as Outstanding, reflecting its dedication to the holistic development of its students. In addition, a significant proportion of pupils achieve higher standards in reading, writing, and mathematics at Key Stage 2, demonstrating the school's academic strengths.

Fletewood School at Derry Villas in Plymouth, established in 1919, is an independent Christian school serving boys and girls aged three to eleven. Rooted in the Seventh-day Adventist tradition, it emphasizes a holistic education that nurtures not only academic excellence but also character development and lifelong learning. The school is committed to discovering and fostering the unique potential in each child, providing a supportive and inclusive environment with small class sizes that enable personalized attention and tailored educational experiences. Throughout its over a century-long history, Fletewood School has maintained strong ties to its community and church, having persisted through challenges such as the wartime blitz that forced temporary closure. Today, it enjoys a reputation for high standards in both academic and personal development. The school prepares students effectively for the 11+ examinations and is praised for its Christian ethos and strong pastoral care. Its curriculum is highly individualized, offering a range of enrichment opportunities in sports, music, arts, and leadership, which contributes to the well-rounded growth of its pupils. The school's commitment to community involvement is evident in its fundraising efforts, such as raising over £1,375 for Guide Dogs, illustrating a culture of empathy and social responsibility. With approximately 49 pupils, Fletewood School maintains a family-like atmosphere that encourages confidence and curiosity, equipping children to achieve their ambitions in a nurturing setting. It offers wrap-around care and government-funded nursery provisions, supporting families comprehensively. Overall, Fletewood School combines a rich heritage with contemporary educational excellence, making it a respected institution in Plymouth’s educational landscape.

King’s School, located in Plymouth at PL3 5LW, is a well-established independent day school catering to children aged 1 to 11 years, including a nursery, with a strong Christian ethos focused on nurturing academic, aesthetic, and spiritual development. It serves around 150 pupils plus approximately 70 in its nursery, providing a caring and inclusive environment where individual learning needs are met through a passionate and innovative teaching approach following the English National Curriculum. The school emphasizes academic excellence alongside character development, fostering core values such as integrity, respect, and compassion while encouraging children to become responsible and independent learners. Academically, King’s School boasts impressive outcomes, with 69% of pupils meeting or exceeding expected standards in reading, writing, and mathematics, outperforming both national and local averages. The school’s commitment to personalized education enables students to thrive and develop a lifelong love of learning. The March 2024 independent inspection rated the nursery as Outstanding in all areas, reflecting the school's high-quality education and care. Beyond academics, King’s School encourages a vibrant co-curricular life, supporting pupils’ involvement in sports, music, drama, and community service projects that enrich their experience and personal growth. This balanced approach prepares students effectively for their next stages of education, developing confident, well-rounded individuals ready for future challenges.

Laira Green Primary School is located at Bramley Road, Laira, Plymouth, PL3 6BP. It is a community school catering to students aged 2 to 11, with a mixed gender intake. The school is led by Headteacher Mrs. Claire Jones. With a current enrollment of around 230 pupils, Laira Green has a dedicated staff committed to providing high-quality teaching and learning. The school emphasizes core values of being kind, determined, and proud, which underpin its curriculum and extracurricular activities. Laira Green is recognized for its inclusive ethos, welcoming families and working closely with parents and other professionals to ensure students receive the best care and support. The school is particularly noted for its trauma and mental health informed approach, supporting children with challenges that might affect their learning. Approximately 49.1% of the students are eligible for free school meals, highlighting the school's commitment to supporting diverse needs. Despite its small size, Laira Green offers a broad and balanced curriculum along with extensive extracurricular clubs, aiming to equip pupils with the skills and values necessary for future success.

Lipson Vale Primary School, located in Plymouth at Bernice Terrace, PL4 7HW, is a community primary school that caters to children aged 5 to 11. The school has a diverse student body and currently has 405 pupils. Under the leadership of Headteacher Mr. Peter Lewis-Cole, Lipson Vale strives to provide a research-informed curriculum that is rooted in the local community. The school aims to empower pupils to reach their full potential by fostering a positive, caring, and respectful environment. The curriculum is designed to break down barriers and ensure that all pupils have an equal opportunity to succeed. The school places a strong emphasis on core values such as communication, responsibility, bravery, self-belief, resilience, and collaboration. These values are integral to the school's approach to both academic and personal development, ensuring that pupils develop not only academically but also socially and emotionally. Lipson Vale Primary School has a focus on creating a safe and supportive learning environment, where pupils can thrive emotionally and academically. The school has a notable percentage of pupils eligible for free school meals, standing at 27.9%, which highlights the school's commitment to inclusivity and support for all pupils. Overall, Lipson Vale Primary School is dedicated to providing a comprehensive education that prepares students for future success.

Longcause Community Special School is located in Plymouth, Devon, and caters to children aged 4 to 16 with learning difficulties. The school specializes in supporting pupils with cognitive, learning, communication, and interaction difficulties, including those with Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Moderate Learning Difficulty (MLD). It is recognized for its Autism-friendly environment, where pupils, staff, and families work collaboratively to achieve the best outcomes for the children. The school's approach emphasizes a supportive and structured learning environment, with class sizes typically ranging from 8 to 14 students, ensuring a high staffing ratio to meet individual needs effectively. Longcause Community Special School has a strong focus on communication and interaction skills, with a high level of visual content in teaching and structured routines to support pupils. The school's curriculum is tailored to meet different pupil needs, and it provides a tidy and clutter-free environment with chill-out spaces for relaxation. The school has around 110 pupils, with approximately 50% eligible for free school meals. Longcause is praised for its effective leadership and management, which provide an excellent learning environment that enables pupils and staff to perform at their best. This approach has led to the school being recognized as a very effective institution, with pupils making good progress from their low starting points due to consistently good teaching.

Mary Dean's CofE Primary School, located in Tamerton Foliot, Plymouth, is a Church of England school that offers education from nursery to Year 6, catering to children aged 3 to 11. The school is part of the First Federation Trust, a multi-academy trust with 29 schools across Devon and Dorset. It is known for its nurturing environment, where pupils are encouraged to be kind, polite, and motivated learners. Mary Dean's has been recognized for its strengths in personal development, behavior, and attitudes, as well as its early years provision. The school provides a broad range of experiences and activities that help pupils develop confidence and character. It is ambitious for all pupils, including those who are disadvantaged and have special educational needs, ensuring that they learn alongside one another effectively. The curriculum in the early years is of high quality, and the school excels in teaching phonics, supporting pupils with special needs to read fluently. The school is committed to offering a well-rounded education that prepares children for life beyond academics. It maintains strong community ties, with connections to St. Mary's Church and local clubs, fostering a sense of belonging among pupils and their families. The school's recent Ofsted report highlights its inclusive environment and effective support for pupils with special needs, reinforcing its reputation as a supportive and ambitious educational setting.

Mill Ford School, located in Plymouth, UK, with the address PL5 2PY, is a specialized educational institution catering to children and young adults aged 3-19 with complex needs. The school was initially set up in a two-story terraced house in 1982, focusing on providing a supportive environment for its students. Over time, the school has evolved to accommodate its growing needs, although it faced challenges in the past, such as overcrowding and limited facilities. The school's strength lies in its dedication to meeting the diverse needs of its students. By providing a tailored educational experience, Mill Ford aims to foster growth and development among its pupils. While specific figures on student achievements are not readily available, the school's commitment to individualized learning is crucial in addressing the unique requirements of its students. The school's ethos emphasizes inclusivity and personalized support, which are essential in helping students with complex needs thrive. Despite historical challenges, Mill Ford School has progressed significantly since its inception, now serving as a vital educational resource in Plymouth. Its weekly newsletter, "The Friday Flyer," provides updates on events and activities, reflecting the school's engagement with its community.

OneSchool Global UK Plymouth Campus is part of the OneSchool Global network, a progressive educational organization with schools in eighteen countries. Located at Foulston Avenue, Plymouth, Devon, PL5 1HL, this independent school serves primarily the Plymouth Brethren Christian community. It offers a unique educational environment that emphasizes self-directed learning, allowing students to explore and evaluate information in their own style. The school caters to students aged 7 to 18, with a small but personalized approach, currently supporting around 75 to 87 students. The school's ethos is rooted in Christian values, focusing on integrity, purity, and godliness, while promoting strong family values. OneSchool Global UK Plymouth Campus is known for its caring environment, where high expectations are set for students to become successful self-directed learners. The curriculum is designed to help students realize their full potential, with a personalized and challenging approach that includes a range of academic and vocational subjects. While the school has a smaller student body, it benefits from global collaboration and resources, providing a rich learning experience. Despite its small size, the school offers a variety of extracurricular activities and access to unique programs such as Autodesk Fusion 360 and the Careers Advantage Programme.

Pennycross Primary School, located in Plymouth, Devon (PL2 3RL), is a co-educational school serving approximately 400 pupils aged 4 to 11 years. The school is recognized for maintaining a good standard of education, as confirmed by recent Ofsted inspections that rated it "Good" across key areas such as leadership, teaching quality, pupil outcomes, and personal development. With a student-teacher ratio around 21:1, Pennycross effectively supports its pupils' learning needs, demonstrated by 55% of its students achieving higher standards in reading, writing, and maths at Key Stage 2. The school has a strong history of embracing innovative initiatives, having been one of the first primary schools in the country to teach foreign languages as early as the 1960s. A distinctive strength of Pennycross lies in its commitment to promoting active travel and healthy lifestyles. The school has implemented successful programs like the "Penny Bike" loan scheme and an active walking bus initiative that benefits over 50 pupils, encouraging walking and cycling to school while fostering community engagement. These efforts have earned the school local recognition and nominations for sustainable travel awards, reflecting its dedication to improving road safety, air quality, and pupil well-being. Additionally, Pennycross continues to focus on closing historical learning gaps, ensuring sustained progress and a supportive environment for all pupils. This blend of strong academic performance and emphasis on holistic development highlights Pennycross Primary School as a valued educational institution in Plymouth.

Plymouth College, located in Plymouth, Devon, is a co-educational private school that has been providing excellent education since its establishment in 1877. The school offers a comprehensive curriculum with almost 20 A-Level subjects and GCSE core courses, ensuring students receive a well-rounded education. Approximately 90% of students achieve A*-C grades in their GCSEs, reflecting the school's strong academic performance. With a favorable pupil-to-staff ratio, students benefit from small class sizes and personalized attention, allowing them to reach their full potential. The school's curriculum is designed to encourage independence, tenacity, and creativity, both in and out of the classroom. Beyond academics, Plymouth College offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, arts, music, and drama, ensuring students can find success and enjoyment in various fields. The school's history is rich, having absorbed St Dunstan's Abbey School in 2004 and previously incorporating Mannamead School in 1896. Today, Plymouth College is known for its supportive environment and its ability to prepare students for future challenges. With around 500 pupils, the school maintains a close-knit community that fosters a strong sense of belonging among its students.

Riverside Community Primary School, located at 210 Poole Park Road, St Budeaux, Plymouth, Devon, PL5 1DD, is a foundation school serving the local community as a three-form entry maintained primary school within the city. The school is proud of its broad and engaging curriculum, which aims to provide excellent teaching from the very first day a child joins the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS). Riverside’s vision is rooted in supporting every child’s learning and well-being, championed by a dedicated leadership team that fosters a nurturing and inclusive environment for all pupils. The school benefits from substantial facilities, including 15 classrooms, a nursery unit, a drama studio, and an ICT/library suite, alongside a large multi-use hall and extensive outdoor play areas. These resources support a diverse range of learning experiences and extracurricular activities. Riverside is recognized for its strong focus on pupils’ learning and well-being, where the committed staff ensure a high-quality education tailored to individual needs. The school’s holistic approach is evident in its emphasis on mindfulness and community engagement, as seen in initiatives such as litter-picking activities and collaborative performances with local organizations like Unique Voice at Plymouth’s Theatre Royal. Riverside Community Primary School stands out among primary schools in Plymouth for its ongoing commitment to academic achievement, personal development, and building positive relationships within and beyond the school environment[3][5][6].

Sir John Hunt Community Sports College is a mixed secondary school and sixth form located in the Whitleigh area of Plymouth, Devon. The school was originally known as Whitleigh Secondary Modern School and later merged with Southway Community College. It achieved Sports College status and fully consolidated on the Whitleigh site by 2005, opening its sixth form in 2010. The school is part of the Wood View Learning Community and is recognized for its strong focus on health and sports, having received the Youth Sport Trust Gold and Platinum awards. The school has been rated as "Good" by Ofsted in its 2022 inspection, with strengths in quality of education, behavior, personal development, leadership, and sixth-form provision. It offers a supportive environment where students feel safe and secure, with a strong emphasis on character development and respectful relationships between staff and pupils. The school has a capacity of 890 students and currently has 761 pupils, with a significant number eligible for free school meals. Notably, the school has a low permanent exclusion rate and is proud of its achievements in keeping students engaged in education and employment. It is set to close in April 2025 as part of a broader educational restructuring in Plymouth.

St Andrew's Church of England Voluntary Aided Primary School, located in Plymouth (PL1 3AY), is a warm and inclusive faith-based school with a rich local heritage. The school prides itself on delivering a curriculum that is deeply connected to the local area and its history, incorporating topics such as the Plymouth Blitz, local explorers like Captain Scott and Sir Francis Drake, and broader themes like Black and British history. This approach helps pupils develop a strong chronological understanding and a meaningful connection to their community. Led by Headteacher Miss Carys Lewis, St Andrew's serves primary-aged children, offering a nurturing environment where all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), receive tailored support and high-quality teaching. The school adopts a graduated SEND approach involving close collaboration with children, parents, and specialists, including a weekly speech and language therapist funded by the school. This reflects the school's commitment to inclusive education and ensuring every child has the opportunity to thrive. The school's ethos is grounded in the Christian vision from John 10:10, aiming for children to "have life and have it to the full," which is reflected in its vibrant school life and academic programs. Ofsted has rated the school as "Good," underscoring its effective teaching and supportive community environment. St Andrew's close links with St Andrew's Minster further enrich its Church of England character and community engagement, making it a valued institution in Plymouth.

Whitleigh Community Primary School, located in Lancaster Gardens, Whitleigh, Plymouth, serves children aged 2 to 11 years in a mixed-gender setting. As a foundation school, it is deeply embedded in its local community, with a dedicated staff team led by Headteacher Mark Dyson, who emphasize care and support for all pupils. The school’s ethos centers on three key values: Respect, Resilience, and Responsibility, which are actively encouraged in students to nurture well-rounded individuals both inside and beyond the classroom. The school has a capacity of 420 students, currently educating around 365 pupils, nearly half of whom (48.6%) are eligible for free school meals, reflecting its commitment to inclusivity and support for diverse backgrounds. Whitleigh offers nursery provisions as part of its early years foundation stage and strives to develop communication, language, and literacy skills from nursery through to year 6. Its curriculum aims to promote physical, mental, spiritual, cultural, and intellectual well-being, equipping pupils for the complexities of modern society through innovative and creative teaching approaches. Academically, the school reported a Good Level of Development at 59% in 2019, slightly below the Plymouth average (68%) and national average (72%), but maintains a strong focus on continuous improvement. At Key Stage 2, 46% of pupils reached higher standards in reading, writing, and mathematics. The school also benefits from shared facilities with a nearby secondary school, enhancing learning opportunities. With a 19:1 student-teacher ratio and a recent Ofsted rating of Good, Whitleigh Community Primary balances academic progress with personal growth, making it a welcoming environment for families in Plymouth.

Woodlands School, located in Plymouth, is a foundation special school catering to children with complex physical and sensory difficulties, offering education from age 2 to 19. The school is recognized for its warm and welcoming environment, where pupils thrive. It holds a "Good" rating from Ofsted, reflecting its effectiveness in supporting students. Woodlands School provides dynamic teaching provisions, with individualized learning programs based on students' Education, Health, and Care Plans. The school emphasizes high expectations for every child, focusing on an enabling curriculum and promoting independence and self-actualization. This approach ensures that pupils leave equipped not only with qualifications but also with life skills. Woodlands has a strong commitment to staff development through responsive training programs, enhancing the overall educational experience. The school boasts a fully accessible building with specialized facilities such as a hydrotherapy pool, sensory rooms, and outreach services. Despite challenges, the school supports its students well, with a total of 85 pupils and 31% eligible for free school meals. Woodlands maintains close links with local schools to facilitate inclusion opportunities, reflecting its commitment to integrating students with mainstream peers.

Yealmpstone Farm Primary School, located in Plympton, Plymouth (PL7 1XQ), is a mixed community school serving children aged 4 to 11. Under the leadership of Headteacher Mrs. Heidi Price, the school fosters an inclusive and engaging learning environment for its current enrollment of 216 pupils, just below its capacity of 240. The school emphasizes a holistic education approach, prioritizing not only academic achievement but also physical education, wellbeing, and community involvement. Academically, Yealmpstone Farm Primary has demonstrated strong performance with 60% of pupils achieving higher standards in reading, writing, and mathematics at Key Stage 2. Writing and mathematics progress scores are notably above average, highlighting effective teaching and learning strategies. The student-teacher ratio stands at approximately 20:1, enabling supportive classroom interactions. The school is committed to promoting physical health and mental wellbeing, providing at least two hours of quality physical education weekly. It actively encourages a healthy lifestyle through various activities and workshops, including sessions with Olympic athletes, which inspire pupils and foster life skills such as teamwork and resilience. Additionally, Yealmpstone offers a rich curriculum in subjects like history, designed to develop critical thinking and a broad understanding of cultural and historical contexts. With a free school meals eligibility rate of around 16%, Yealmpstone Farm Primary demonstrates a strong community focus and a dedication to nurturing every child's potential within a supportive and dynamic learning atmosphere. Its recent Ofsted rating is Good, reflecting consistent quality in education and care.