Ranelagh School

Three centuries of heritage meet modern academic excellence in this Church of England school at the heart of Bracknell. Founded in 1709 by the 1st Earl of Ranelagh, Richard Jones, to educate 40 children at Cranbourne Hall in Winkfield, the school has grown into a thriving community serving over 1,000 students on its distinctive red-brick campus. The November 2024 Ofsted inspection confirmed Outstanding ratings across every area, making this one of only four consecutive Outstanding judgements the school has achieved. With 2.78 applications for every Year 7 place, families compete keenly to join a community where faith, academic rigour, and pastoral warmth combine. Notable alumni include broadcaster Chris Tarrant and King Crimson lyricist Peter Sinfield, reflecting the school's longstanding tradition of nurturing creative and articulate individuals.

Though we are many, we are one body, runs the school's motto, borrowed from the Eucharistic Prayer in Common Worship. That sense of unity permeates daily life. Students arrive at 8:50am to registration, moving through the majestic red-brick buildings, seamlessly standing beside newer additions, that reflect the school's evolution from grammar school to comprehensive to academy. The original buildings date from September 1908, when the school opened on its present Bracknell site with four full-time teachers including the first headmaster, Ernest Cleave.

The campus has grown substantially since those early years. Significant infrastructure projects between 1955 and 1981, then again from 1993 to 1998, added a sixth form centre, sports hall, music block, and arts facility. These modern additions serve contemporary educational needs while the Victorian architecture provides a sense of continuity with the past.

Timothy Griffith leads as Headteacher, continuing a tradition of stable leadership that delivered four consecutive Outstanding Ofsted ratings. The previous head, Beverley Stevens, led the school through its 2015 Outstanding inspection. Under current leadership, the school joined the Bonitas Multi-Academy Trust in 2017 alongside Jennett's Park Church of England Primary School, strengthening local Church of England provision across primary and secondary phases.

The Christian character is genuine rather than performative. The school welcomes students from across the faith spectrum, though the admissions criteria prioritise Christian families who can demonstrate church attendance. This creates a community where chapel services, religious education throughout all key stages, and ethical reflection form natural parts of school life. The founding principles established by Richard Jones in 1709 endure: the first Earl was a devout Christian who required that the master was in holy orders and insisted the Catechism was taught every Wednesday and Friday.

The 2024 inspection noted that pupils take pride in attending this school and rise to staff expectations, describing them as highly motivated and committed to their learning. Classrooms are calm, with warm relationships between staff and pupils. The Ranelagh Student Learner Profile, referenced prominently by inspectors, develops character traits including creativity, independence, and resilience. These are not abstract concepts but embedded expectations that shape how students approach challenges.

GCSE Results

Results demonstrate that this is a school where students achieve exceptionally well. The Attainment 8 score of 58.3 places Ranelagh significantly above the England average, while a Progress 8 score of +0.59 indicates students make substantially better progress than similar pupils elsewhere in England. This positive value-added score means that students at Ranelagh outperform predictions based on their Key Stage 2 attainment.

Ranelagh ranks 875th in England for GCSE outcomes (FindMySchool ranking), placing it above the England average and comfortably within the top 25% of schools in England. Locally, the school ranks 1st among all secondary schools in Bracknell, demonstrating that families seeking strong academic performance within the borough have a clear frontrunner. The EBacc average point score of 5.15 exceeds the England average of 4.08, reflecting strong performance in traditional academic subjects including English, Mathematics, Sciences, Humanities, and Languages.

The proportion of pupils achieving grades 5 or above in the EBacc stood at 23.1%, indicating that while the school achieves well across all subjects, its strength lies in overall attainment rather than narrowly defined metrics. Students here receive a broad education that prepares them for diverse futures, not solely for selective university entry.

A-Level Results

At A-level, 55.5% of grades achieved A*-B, with 27.2% at A*-A. This exceeds the England average of 23.6% at A*-A and 47.2% at A*-B, placing results above England average performance. The gap is meaningful: students here are more likely to achieve the higher grades that competitive courses and employers value.

The sixth form ranks 795th in England for A-level outcomes (FindMySchool ranking), which sits in line with the middle 35% of schools in England. Among Bracknell schools, it ranks 1st for A-level achievement. The combined GCSE and A-level ranking of 727th in England reflects sustained performance across both phases, indicating that the school maintains its standards as students progress through to sixth form rather than experiencing the decline seen at some institutions.

Twenty-five A-level subjects are available, providing genuine breadth of choice. Options include Art and Design, Biology, Business, Chemistry, Computer Science, Design and Technology, Drama and Theatre, Economics, English Language, English Literature, French, Geography, Health and Social Care, History, Further Mathematics, Mathematics, Philosophy, Theology and Ethics, Music, Physics, Physical Education, Politics, Psychology, Sociology, and Spanish. This range allows students to combine traditional academic subjects with creative and vocational options.

The curriculum follows a clear structure designed to build knowledge progressively. At Key Stage 3, all students study a broad range of subjects including English, Mathematics, Science, French, Spanish, History, Geography, Computing, Art, Music, Drama, and Physical Education. Religious Education weaves through all years, reflecting the school's Church of England foundation. The 2024 inspection noted that the curriculum is regularly reviewed to ensure it meets pupils' needs.

Mixed-ability teaching operates in most subjects, though setting is introduced during the Autumn Term in Mathematics. This approach balances high expectations for all with targeted support where needed. The 2024 inspection found that staff are ambitious for all pupils and have created a culture of excellence. Teachers have expert subject knowledge and explain concepts clearly, creating conditions where learning can flourish.

Teaching is characterised by high expectations delivered through warm relationships. Pupils are keen learners who listen attentively and show high levels of concentration. The rich and ambitious curriculum integrates cross-curricular elements throughout. Physical Education receives significant time allocation with five periods weekly, reflecting the school's commitment to physical development alongside academic rigour.

At GCSE, students choose from approximately 18 options alongside core subjects. All students study English Language and Literature (7 periods weekly), Mathematics (7 periods), Double Science (9 periods), and Religious Education (3 periods). Physical Education and PSHE continue as non-examination subjects. Optional subjects include Drama, Economics, Geography, History, Art, Food, Music, French, Computer Science, Spanish, Product Design, iMedia, and Health and Social Care. This balance of core requirements and genuine choice allows students to develop strengths while maintaining breadth.

The sixth form is Outstanding in preparing students for further education and careers, according to the 2024 inspection. Entry involves taking three or four A-level subjects alongside core Religious Education, PSHE, and Physical Education. This structure ensures students maintain the well-rounded development that characterises education here throughout their school career.

The atmosphere in sixth form combines academic intensity with genuine support. Students take responsibility for their learning while benefiting from staff expertise in university applications, apprenticeships, and career planning. The Be the Change initiative invites Year 12 students to look at the world around them, challenging injustice and becoming global citizens and courageous advocates. This programme develops the critical thinking and ethical awareness that universities and employers value.

Staff, form tutors, and teachers have real expertise in providing the right conditions for students to make aspirational, informed, and wise decisions about their futures. Each student has access to personalised support in choosing the path that is the best fit for them, whether university, apprenticeships, or direct employment. The school takes seriously its responsibility to prepare students not just for examinations but for productive adult lives.

The sixth form centre, added during the building programme of 1993-1998, provides dedicated study space and social areas for older students. This physical separation from the main school helps establish the distinct atmosphere of sixth form while maintaining connection to the wider school community.

In 2024, 55% of leavers progressed to university, with 4% securing apprenticeships and 28% entering employment directly. Further education attracted 2% of the cohort. The 108 students followed diverse pathways reflecting the school's ethos of individual guidance rather than pushing all students toward university regardless of suitability.

Eight students applied to Oxbridge in the measurement period, with one securing a place at Cambridge. While modest in absolute numbers compared to highly selective schools, this represents a school serving its local community through comprehensive admissions rather than selecting academically exceptional students at entry. The one successful Oxbridge applicant from four Cambridge applicants demonstrates that genuinely able students can reach the highest levels.

The destinations page reveals a range of university choices reflecting diverse interests and ambitions. In 2025, students left to study Cybersecurity at Gloucestershire, Bioveterinary Science at Liverpool, Art History and Visual Culture at Nottingham, Architecture at Bath, Physics at Oxford, and Biomedical Science at Warwick. Multiple students secured places to study Law at various institutions. Representatives from Ranelagh currently study at colleges at both Oxford and Cambridge, demonstrating sustained success in competitive applications.

Increasing numbers are securing competitive apprenticeships, including training at companies including Thames Water and Amazon. The school explicitly supports all pathways equally, recognising that university is not the right choice for every student. Employment attracted 28% of leavers, suggesting the school succeeds in preparing students for immediate contribution to the workforce as well as further study.

Ranelagh is heavily oversubscribed. In 2024, 483 families applied for 174 Year 7 places, a ratio of 2.78 applications per place. The school does not operate a catchment area in the traditional sense, making faith commitment the primary criterion for admission. Unlike many oversubscribed schools where distance determines outcomes, here church attendance trumps proximity.

How to Apply

Applications require both the Common Application Form through Bracknell Forest Council and the Ranelagh School Supplementary Information Form. The supplementary form is essential: failing to submit it places applications in Category 7 of the oversubscription criteria, effectively eliminating any realistic chance of entry when the school is oversubscribed. The form gives permission for the Admissions Panel to contact parish clergy or relevant Church leaders, who must complete verification information.

Oversubscription Criteria

Priority follows this order: looked after children, Christian faith (categories 4-6 covering different levels of church attendance and commitment), children of staff, those with significant social and medical need, and sibling connections. Church attendance must typically be established at least 12 months prior to application, with verification from parish clergy required. The Ranelagh Admissions Panel considers applications as Christian faith based unless verified through the proper channels.

The faith categories distinguish between different levels of church involvement. Families with regular, longstanding church attendance receive priority over those with more recent or occasional involvement. This system rewards genuine faith commitment rather than last-minute church attendance designed purely to secure school admission.

Key Dates for September 2026 Entry

Year 7 Open Days are scheduled for Thursday 18 September and Monday 22 September 2025, with Headteacher presentations at 6:30pm for parents and carers only in the Main Hall. These events provide opportunity to experience the school atmosphere and ask questions. Offers are released on 2 March 2026, with appeal deadline of 31 March 2026. Appeals are typically heard in May 2026.

Sixth Form Admissions

Year 12 Open Days coincide with Year 7 events on 18 and 22 September 2025. A dedicated Year 12 Open Evening follows on Wednesday 15 October 2025, featuring presentations from the Headteacher and Head of Sixth Form. This later event allows prospective sixth formers to learn specifically about A-level options and sixth form life.

In-year applications may be submitted anytime after the academic year starts, following Bracknell Forest's timeline guidelines. Families moving to the area mid-year should contact both the local authority and school directly.

Parents should use the FindMySchool Map Search to check their precise situation relative to oversubscription criteria and consult the school's admissions policy directly for full details of faith requirements.

The school cares for pupils and keeps them safe. Students have access to various levels of support if they have any concerns, including pastoral staff, counsellors, and use of The Space if pupils need some time out or to talk through their worries. This dedicated space provides a physical location where students can decompress, access support, or simply have a quiet moment away from the busy school environment. The graduated support system means students can access help at whatever level they need, from a quiet conversation with a tutor to professional counselling.

Behaviour is exemplary. The 2024 inspection found that pupils achieve exceptionally well, with attendance rates high and attitudes to learning consistently positive. The inspectors noted that pupils' behaviour is exemplary throughout the school. The Ranelagh Student Learner Profile explicitly develops character traits such as creativity, independence, and resilience, preparing students for success in their learning and life beyond school. This framework provides language for discussing character development and expectations, making abstract qualities concrete and teachable.

Safeguarding arrangements are effective. The inspection confirmed that leaders have created a culture where safeguarding is prioritised and staff understand their responsibilities. The school takes seriously its duty to protect young people and creates an environment where students feel secure enough to focus on learning.

Music

Three choirs offer opportunities for singers at different levels, reflecting the school's Christian heritage where choral music plays a natural role in worship and celebration. The Ofsted report specifically noted that pupils benefit from joining one of the three choirs as part of the extensive extracurricular offer. Music receives two curriculum periods weekly at Key Stage 3, with A-level provision for those pursuing the subject further. The music block, added during the 1990s building programme, provides dedicated facilities for rehearsal and performance.

Sport

Physical Education receives significant emphasis with five curriculum periods weekly, the highest allocation of any subject at Key Stage 3. Sports teams play in less competitive fixtures, ensuring participation is accessible to students at all ability levels rather than reserved for elite performers. The 2024 inspection specifically praised this approach, noting that extracurricular sports are tailored to pupils' needs and interests. The Sports Hall and facilities are available for community use Monday to Friday evenings from 6:00pm to 9:00pm, reflecting the school's role in local life. Additional PE clubs and fixtures are posted on the Sports Hall notice board.

Drama and the Arts

Drama receives two curriculum periods weekly at Key Stage 3, with Drama and Theatre available at A-level. Art is similarly embedded throughout the curriculum, building on the school's designation as a High Performing Specialist School in Art and Business (achieved 2010). The arts facility added in the 1990s provides dedicated space for creative work. The school previously achieved Beacon School status in 1999, recognition reserved for schools demonstrating excellence in specific areas.

Enrichment and Educational Visits

The extensive offer of extra-curricular clubs, educational trips, and activities is tailored to students' needs and interests. Staff actively shape this provision to ensure breadth and relevance, with the 2024 inspection noting that pupils benefit from this varied programme. The Be the Change initiative in sixth form extends enrichment into social action, with students engaging with real-world challenges and developing as courageous advocates for justice. Educational trips extend learning beyond the classroom, providing memorable experiences that contextualise curriculum content.

The school day runs from 8:50am to 3:35pm, totalling 33.75 hours weekly. Morning registration begins at 8:50am, with Period 1 at 9:20am. Break runs from 11:20am to 11:40am, lunch from 12:40pm to 1:35pm, and the final period ends at 3:35pm. The five-period day with extended lunch break allows time for clubs and activities during the middle of the day as well as after school.

The School Office is open 8:15am to 4:30pm during term time and 9:00am to 4:00pm during holidays. The school is located on Ranelagh Drive, Bracknell, Berkshire, close to the town centre. Contact is available at 01344 421233 or enquiries@ranelagh.bonitas.org.uk.

Transport links serve the school's location near Bracknell town centre. The Sports Hall facilities are available for community bookings Monday to Friday from 6:00pm to 9:00pm. The school draws students from across Bracknell Forest and surrounding areas, with the faith-based admissions criteria meaning that geographical spread is wider than typical catchment-based schools.

Faith commitment required. The admissions criteria prioritise Christian families with demonstrated church attendance, typically for at least 12 months before application. Families uncomfortable with daily Christian worship, religious education throughout all years, and the school's explicit Church of England identity should consider whether this environment suits them. The school's Christian character is genuine and pervasive, rooted in values established at its 1709 founding.

High demand, limited places. With nearly three applications for every place, competition is intense. The faith criteria mean that proximity to the school offers no advantage. Families without established church connections face very limited chances of securing a place through normal admissions. Beginning church attendance well in advance of application is essential for those hoping to meet the criteria.

Not a grammar school. Despite strong results, Ranelagh is comprehensive in intake once faith criteria are satisfied. The school became comprehensive in 1981, having previously operated as a grammar school. Students arriving from primary school will find a mixed-ability environment where setting is introduced gradually. Those expecting academic selection may need to adjust expectations.

Sixth form progression is not automatic. External applicants compete for sixth form places alongside internal students. Entry requirements and processes should be confirmed directly with the school. The sixth form has its own admissions process distinct from Year 7 entry.

Ranelagh delivers on its promise of academic excellence within a genuine Christian community. The Outstanding Ofsted rating across all areas confirms what local families have known for years: this is a school where students achieve exceptionally while developing as rounded individuals. The faith emphasis is not cosmetic, making this a natural choice for families where church is already part of life. Three centuries of educational tradition, from Richard Jones's original foundation for 40 children in Winkfield to today's thriving academy, provide continuity and depth of character.

Best suited to Christian families in Bracknell and surrounding areas who want strong academic outcomes combined with values-based education. The combination of comprehensive intake, rigorous teaching, and supportive pastoral care produces confident young people prepared for diverse futures, whether at Oxford studying Physics or entering competitive apprenticeships at major employers. The challenge lies in securing a place through the faith-based admissions criteria rather than in thriving once admitted.

Families comparing local options can use the FindMySchool Comparison Tool to view results and characteristics side-by-side.