How do you decide which schools are best?

We combine official data sources and our methodology to highlight consistent performance. Use filters to personalise results based on what matters to your family.

Are all Barnstaple neighbourhoods included?

Yes. We group schools by their locality field so you can quickly scan areas and their nearby schools. All sections are expanded by default on this page.

Why do results differ from Ofsted-only lists?

We consider a broader set of indicators and present more flexible filtering, including faith options, mixed/grammar status, and age ranges.

2026 Best Secondary Schools in Barnstaple Area

Barnstaple secondary schools serve North Devon's main town, with 3 schools providing options for families across Pilton, Newport, and Roundswell. West Buckland School, Pilton Community College, and The Park Community School are the area's main options, offering a mix of independent and state comprehensive education. While secondary schools have an average FMS Inspection Score of 7.2/10, Good band, compared with England's 7.4/10 (Good). Families in Whiddon Valley and Westacott also have access to these schools, with the town serving as the educational hub for the wider North Devon region. Use the search filters to compare schools by Attainment 8 or FMS Inspection Score.

All schools in Barnstaple

Key Performance Metrics for Barnstaple

% students achieving grades 9-7 (A*-A equivalent)

Barnstaple44%

England56%

Average Attainment 8 score (out of 90)

Barnstaple49.0

England39.1

% pupils entering EBacc subjects

Barnstaple35%

England41%

Average EBacc APS score (out of 10)

Barnstaple4.0

England4.1

Average FMS Inspection Score (out of 10)

Barnstaple7.2/10

England7.4/10

% students achieving grades 9-7 (A*-A equivalent)

Barnstaple

44%vsEngland

56%

Average Attainment 8 score (out of 90)

Barnstaple

49.0vsEngland

39.1

% pupils entering EBacc subjects

Barnstaple

35%vsEngland

41%

Average EBacc APS score (out of 10)

Barnstaple

4.0vsEngland

4.1

Average FMS Inspection Score (out of 10)

Barnstaple

7.2/10vsEngland

7.4/10

Top schools in Barnstaple

Showing 1-3 of 3 schools