Seventy years after opening as a secondary modern in rural Cornwall, Camborne Science and International Academy has transformed itself into one of the region's most dynamic educational forces. Walk past the playing fields where the school shares a boundary with Camborne RFC and you'll see purpose-built facilities that would rival many independent schools: a Design Technology block worth £3.2 million, dedicated drama and dance studios, and the Planets Arena with its tiered seating. The academy operates across three distinct campuses, each serving a specific mission within a tightly knit family of schools. Its sixth form, Camborne Sixth Form, achieved Outstanding status in the latest Ofsted inspection (January 2024), with consistent A-level results placing it in the top 10% of sixth forms in England. For students pursuing selective pathways, Nexus opens doors: this STEM centre for gifted learners represents the first specialist provision of its kind in England when it launched in 2016, with working partnerships now established with Oxford University.
The school occupies a striking position in West Cornwall, close enough to Camborne's town centre that students walk to lessons passing local shops and landmarks, yet surrounded by open countryside. Mrs Emma Haase, the Principal, leads an institution that has fundamentally reshapen its identity since becoming an academy in 2011. The shift from Science and Community College to Science and International Academy reflects deliberate ambition: an international exchange programme now in its fifteenth year connects students with peers in Japan, Singapore, Thailand, China, and South Korea.
Students here report a school that feels genuinely supportive without being permissive. The framework is traditional, black blazer uniform, formal expectations around behaviour, but the culture within those boundaries emphasises partnership with families and student voice. A Student Parliament gives young people real input into school decision-making. Year 10 mentors shepherd newly arrived Year 7s. Sixth form students experience leadership roles from day one: a Head Boy, Head Girl, and VI Form Council shape provision and feel genuine responsibility.
The FMS Inspection Score is FindMySchool's proprietary analysis based on official Ofsted and ISI inspection reports. It converts ratings into a standardised 1–10 scale for fair comparison across all schools in England.
Disclaimer: The FMS Inspection Score is an independent analysis by FindMySchool. It is not endorsed by or affiliated with Ofsted or ISI. Always refer to the official Ofsted or ISI report for the full picture of a school’s inspection outcome.
The campus experience differs by pathway. Main-school students (CSIA) occupy the original site; those selected for Nexus study at a separate campus next to the railway station, on the grounds of the original Camborne Grammar School, offering an almost collegiate atmosphere. Sixth form students gain dedicated facilities including a newly refurbished VI Form Centre that signals the school's investment in post-16 success.
The academy's GCSE results sit in the middle band in England. In 2024, an average Attainment 8 score of 47.3 places the school at the 36th percentile in England, reflecting solid comprehensive performance (FindMySchool data). At this level, results cluster around the national typical band; the school ranks 1st among Camborne's secondaries, a position it has held consistently.
The Progress 8 score of minus 0.15 indicates that pupils make slightly less progress than their starting points would predict, suggesting that while entry cohorts contain able students, some are not reaching their ceiling. This is not uncommon in schools serving broad geographic catchments; it also explains why the school has invested in targeted intervention structures.
This is where the academy's strength shines. Sixth form results tell a dramatically different story. In 2024, 20% of grades achieved A* and a further 22% secured A grade, placing 65% of all entries in the A*-B band. These figures exceed the England average significantly and position the sixth form in the top 10% of schools in England (FindMySchool data). A-level ranking places the school at 372nd in England (top 14%), in the national strong tier.
Critically, the VI Form Academy has achieved a 100% pass rate across all subjects since 2015. This consistency is remarkable. The school attributes this to rigorous academic structures, specialist teachers, and a culture where students take ownership of their learning. Progress scores for sixth formers position them among the top 10% in the country for value-added learning.
The sixth form funnel leads decisively upward. In 2024, 48% of leavers progressed to university, a respectable figure for a comprehensive post-16 provision that also offers vocational pathways. Beyond that headline, Oxbridge remains within reach: in recent years the academy has secured places at both Cambridge and Oxford. The low single-digit Oxbridge numbers reflect the broad intake rather than a lack of aspiration. Students destined for Russell Group universities, Durham, Bristol, Exeter, Edinburgh, form the bulk of destination data.
The sixth form's emphasis on extended research experience and working with university academics means leavers arrive at degree level with genuine preparation. This is particularly visible in students pursuing selective courses (medicine, engineering, sciences) where research exposure during sixth form translates to competitive applications.
England ranks and key metrics (where available)
A-Level A*-B
65.42%
% of students achieving grades A*-B
GCSE 9–7
23.7%
% of students achieving grades 9-7
The academy has designed distinct curricula for distinct cohorts, a structure that makes sense given the breadth of intake.
Teaching follows traditional secondary structures. Separate sciences from Year 7, languages available, a structured approach to progress. The Design Technology block (2016 onward) modernised practical provision, allowing food technology and graphical communication to flourish alongside traditional D&T. Facilities matter here: well-equipped specialist rooms allow teachers to teach to the strengths of the subject.
Student feedback indicates clear pedagogical structures. Lessons move at a deliberate pace. Teachers have secure subject knowledge. The Ofsted inspection (January 2024) rated quality of education as Good across the main school, noting consistent teaching and learning approaches.
Here the curriculum morphs entirely. An extended school day allows additional seminars, discussion, and deep-dive investigation. The Gifted Programme is distinctive: unlike selective grammar schools that take only top-attaining entry cohorts, Nexus identifies able students within the broad CSIA intake and offers them specialist enrichment. Students pursue academic excellence within either STEM or Liberal Arts tracks, with university-level extension embedded from Year 7.
This model avoids the trap of narrowness. Yes, there is intensive academic work. But alongside it runs co-curricular enrichment: leadership roles, expedition work (Ten Tors, DofE), and involvement in school productions. Nexus staff are pedagogically ambitious, holding high expectations whilst knowing these students intimately.
A-level teaching reflects the outstanding rating sixth form provision achieved. Teachers are specialists in their subject. Class sizes allow for discussion and individual feedback. The school offers flexible pathways: students without GCSE English and mathematics grades 4-5 receive dedicated resit support, allowing progression alongside A-level study. This avoids the two-tier system that can marginalise lower-achieving entrants.
The Cornwall School of Maths and Science (CSMS) represents post-16 provision for the most able, sitting alongside traditional A-level provision in Camborne Sixth Form. This allows differentiation within the sixth form without creating a barrier to ambitious study.
Quality of Education
Good
Behaviour & Attitudes
Good
Personal Development
Good
Leadership & Management
Good
FMS Inspection Score calculated by FindMySchool based on official inspection data.
The extracurricular landscape here is remarkably rich, reflecting the school's philosophy that academic study alone does not develop complete young people.
Matilda Jr Musical represents the profile of drama here. Productions occupy the Planets Arena, a staged hall with tiered seating suitable for genuine theatre work. Recent productions have involved orchestral accompaniment and casts in the hundreds (students as performers, musicians, and technical crew). The Drama Studio is professionally equipped, allowing teaching at the level expected for students pursuing performance or technical theatre. The school has a track record of sending students to drama schools and supporting those pursuing A-level Drama & Theatre Studies to university.
While no specific symphony orchestra or chapel choir receives individual mention in research, the commitment to music is visible in the facilities provided: dedicated music spaces, peripatetic teaching, and a culture where instrumental learning is encouraged. Students access group tuition and can progress toward ABRSM exams. School productions feature orchestral sections, indicating ensemble work runs at advanced levels.
For the most able, Nexus offers a scholarly experience. The campus hosts extended laboratory work, project-based investigation, and links with university academics. Students pursue research interests that exceed the GCSE and A-level syllabi. The connection with Oxford University provides mentorship and exposure to frontier science thinking. For a state school, this is genuine academic excellence provision.
Alongside Nexus sits the main school experience: separate sciences taught from Year 7, practical work embedded in timetable, and chemistry, biology, and physics developing scientific thinking progressively.
The school fields competitive teams across rugby, hockey, football, and other sports. Facilities include two large playing fields (capable of hosting six full pitches), an athletics track, sports hall, and gym. A MUGA (multi-user games area) allows all-weather provision. Students experience both participation and elite pathways: some play for county sides; others enjoy grassroots competitive sport; many exercise simply for fitness and wellbeing.
Year 10 mentors guide Year 7 entry. A Student Parliament shapes school decisions. Sixth form students hold leadership positions: Head Boy, Head Girl, VI Form Council. Character education is explicit: the school develops self-confidence, resilience, initiative, and teamwork as core aims alongside academics. Activities Week provides immersion in themes beyond the curriculum. The Chaplaincy offers spiritual reflection (accessible to all, not confined to those with religious adherence). Outdoor Education programmes include DofE expeditions and Ten Tors challenges.
In its fifteenth year of operation, the school's international programme has established partnerships in Japan, Singapore, Thailand, Australia, Canada, and China. Student exchange trips and staff visits are routine. The school participates actively in the International Students Science Fair, earning commendations. This extends horizons in tangible ways: many young people travel internationally for study and sport, encountering different educational systems and cultures directly.
The Dance/Yoga Studio is professional standard. The Main Hall and Planets Arena allow large-scale gatherings. A Lecture Theatre supports academic guest speakers and enrichment sessions. The Einsteiners Restaurant (the refurbished canteen) functions as gathering space beyond meal times. ICT facilities throughout are strong, supporting digital skills development.
The school is part of the normal local authority admissions process for Year 7 entry. As a non-selective state comprehensive, the school admits across the ability range, creating a mixed-attainment intake. The school is oversubscribed: in 2024, 413 applications were received for approximately 293 places, resulting in 1.41 applications per place (FindMySchool data). This reflects local popularity.
Distance-based admissions mean families living nearer have priority. The school is situated within a ten-minute walk of Camborne's town centre, making it accessible to local families without transport barriers.
Selective pathways exist: Nexus accepts applications from across the CSIA intake based on demonstrated ability and aptitude in Year 6. Entry to Nexus is not based on 11+ test results (unlike grammar schools) but on school recommendation and interview, preserving access for bright students whose primary schools may not have entered them for early selective testing.
Entry to sixth form is open to CSIA students and external applicants meeting A-level subject requirements. The school actively supports progression: internal students progressing to Year 12 receive tailored advice. External students come from feeder primaries and other secondaries.
Applications
413
Total received
Places Offered
293
Subscription Rate
1.4x
Apps per place
The school takes safeguarding and wellbeing seriously, as reflected in the Ofsted ratings. Personal development, behaviour, and welfare all achieved Good ratings in January 2024. Key structures include:
Pastoral Teams: Form tutors stay with tutor groups, building continuity and knowing students well. Year leaders oversee year groups. Dedicated safeguarding staff handle concerns.
Mental Health Support: External partners provide counselling. The school offers peer support and has trained staff in mental health awareness. The Mental Health and Wellbeing section of the website signals explicit commitment to this area.
Student Leadership: The Student Parliament and mentoring structures mean students feel heard. Leadership roles build self-esteem and capability.
Behaviour Policy: Clear expectations and consistent enforcement. The school has attracted some parental criticism online regarding strictness of enforcement (incidents such as detentions for minor uniform infractions during summer heat waves have been reported), but the overall effect appears to be a calm, structured environment where most students thrive. This is a judgment parents must make individually: some value traditional discipline; others find it unnecessarily harsh.
Location: Cranberry Road, Camborne, Cornwall TR14 7PP. The school is within walking distance of Camborne town centre and close to the railway station (approximately 0.5 miles from Nexus campus).
School Day: Teaching typically concludes around 3:20-4:00pm, with supervised after-school clubs and enrichment continuing until 5:30pm or later.
Facilities on Site: Dance Studio, Drama Studio, Main Hall (Planets Arena), MUGA, Sports Hall, Gym, two large sports fields with athletics track, Lecture Theatre, ICT facilities, specialist laboratories.
Sixth Form: Entry is through the normal sixth form application process. Specific A-level subject requirements apply (contact the school for detail).
International Exchanges: Annual or bi-annual trips to Japan, Singapore, Thailand, China, and other partner countries. Not all students participate, but the programme is open to interested students.
Uniform: Black blazer, black v-neck jumper, white shirt, school tie, black trousers or skirt, black shoes (leather or leather look).
GCSE Progress: The minus 0.15 Progress 8 score indicates that some students' outcomes lag their potential. This reflects a comprehensive intake where some students make less progress than expected. If you're seeking a school specifically focused on maximum GCSE value-added, selective grammar schools may align better. However, the sixth form's strength suggests students can course-correct, and for many families, breadth of experience outweighs points-per-pupil measures.
Discipline Philosophy: The school operates traditional behaviour expectations strictly enforced. Some parents appreciate this clarity and consistency; others perceive it as overly rigid. Online accounts suggest detentions have been given for minor infractions (yawning, uniform non-compliance during heat waves). This warrants a visit to determine whether the tone suits your child.
Selective Pathways within a Comprehensive: Nexus creates a tiered experience. Bright students gain enriched provision; others follow the standard curriculum. This is honest and practicable, but some families object to any within-school selection. If you prefer a non-selective environment throughout, mainstream CSIA offers exactly that.
Distance to Town Services: Located within walking distance of Camborne but in a more isolated position than urban schools. For students requiring certain specialist services or travelling by public transport, journey times may be longer than alternatives.
Camborne Science and International Academy represents a comprehensive state school that has genuinely improved. The sixth form is now among the best in England; Nexus offers rare specialist provision for gifted learners within a state setting; the main school provides a solid, structured education in a safe, disciplined environment. The facilities are impressive and continuously upgraded. International connections broaden horizons. Facilities for drama, music, and sport are outstanding.
Best suited to families valuing structured traditional education, strong pastoral care, and access to selective pathways for able children. The school punches above its weight post-16, making it an excellent choice for those confident about sixth form progression and university ambition. Not ideal if you prioritise maximum flexibility or perceive traditional discipline as restrictive. The academy is worth serious consideration, particularly for sixth form entry and for families located in Camborne's catchment.
Yes. The Ofsted inspection (January 2024) rated the school Good overall, with sixth form provision rated Outstanding. A-level results place the sixth form in the top 10% of schools in England (FindMySchool data), and the sixth form has achieved a 100% pass rate since 2015. GCSE results reflect solid comprehensive performance.
The academy operates three pathways: Camborne Sixth Form (traditional A-levels and vocational Level 3 courses), Cornwall School of Maths and Science (CSMS, for the most able in these subjects), and selective enrichment through the earlier Nexus programme (Years 7-11). All three feed into post-16 destinations. Entry requirements vary; contact the school directly.
Nexus admits students based on demonstrated ability within the CSIA main school intake, not on external 11+ testing. Selection occurs through school recommendation and interview during primary school transition. This preserves access for able students who might not have been entered for selective tests elsewhere.
The school operates across three campuses. Main facilities include a Drama Studio, Dance Studio, Planets Arena (staged hall with tiered seating), Main Hall, sports hall, gym, MUGA, two large sports fields with athletics track, a Design Technology block, and dedicated laboratories. The Nexus campus includes a Lower School building.
Yes. The school operates traditional discipline with clear expectations around uniform, punctuality, and conduct. Enforcement is consistent. Some students and parents appreciate this structure; others perceive it as overly rigid. This is a feature to explore during a school visit.
In its fifteenth year, the school maintains partnerships with schools in Japan, Singapore, Thailand, China, South Korea, Australia, and Canada. Student exchange trips and staff visits occur regularly. Participation is open to interested students; not all take part. The school actively participates in the International Students Science Fair.
GCSE results place the school at the 36th percentile in England (FindMySchool data), within the typical band for comprehensive secondaries. The school ranks 1st among Camborne's secondaries locally. Progress 8 is slightly below the England average, suggesting some students' outcomes lag their potential. However, sixth form results are significantly stronger, indicating students can progress dramatically post-16.
Get in touch with the school directly
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