Question 1

Is Camborne Science and International Academy a good school?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The school was rated Good by Ofsted in January 2024, with sixth form provision rated Outstanding. In the 2025 dataset, A-level results place the sixth form 340th out of 2,549 schools in England for academic performance (FindMySchool data), and GCSE results reflect solid comprehensive performance.

Question 2

What sixth form options exist at Camborne?

Accepted Answer

The school operates three distinct post-16 pathways: Camborne Sixth Form (traditional A-levels and Level 3 vocational qualifications), Cornwall School of Maths and Science (CSMS, for top mathematicians and scientists), and the earlier Nexus programme (Years 7-11) for gifted students. All routes feed into university progression. Entry requirements and selection processes vary by pathway; families should contact the school for specific criteria.

Question 3

What is Nexus and how selective is it?

Accepted Answer

Nexus is a Centre of Excellence for gifted learners in science and mathematics, established in 2016 and the first of its kind in England. Selection occurs during Year 6 transition, based on demonstrated ability and aptitude within the CSIA intake. Unlike grammar schools using 11+ testing, Nexus relies on school recommendation and interview, preserving access for bright students whose primary schools may not have entered them for early selective exams.

Question 4

What facilities and enrichment does the school offer?

Accepted Answer

Facilities include a professional-standard Drama Studio and Dance Studio, Planets Arena (staged hall with tiered seating), Main Hall, sports hall, gym, MUGA, two large sports fields with athletics track, state-of-the-art Design Technology block, and dedicated science laboratories. The school operates an international exchange programme in its fifteenth year, with partnerships in Japan, Singapore, Thailand, China, Australia, and Canada. Enrichment includes DofE expeditions, Ten Tors challenges, and student leadership roles.

Question 5

How strict is the school's behaviour policy?

Accepted Answer

The school operates traditional behaviour expectations with consistent enforcement. Uniform regulations, punctuality, and conduct are taken seriously. The overall effect is a calm, structured environment, though some parents report concerns about strictness of enforcement (e.g., detentions for uniform non-compliance during summer heat). This is a feature worth exploring during a school visit to determine alignment with your family's values.

Question 6

How do GCSE and A-level results compare nationally?

Accepted Answer

GCSE: The school ranks 1,446th out of 3,895 schools nationally for academic performance (FindMySchool data), within the typical band for comprehensive secondaries. Progress 8 is slightly below national average (-0.15), suggesting some students' outcomes lag their starting points. Locally, the school ranks 1st among Camborne secondaries. A-level: Results far exceed GCSE performance. In 2025, 70% of entries achieved A*-B grades, and the sixth form ranks 340th out of 2,549 schools nationally for academic performance.

Question 7

What are university destinations for sixth form leavers?

Accepted Answer

In 2024, 48% of leavers progressed to university, with the remainder entering vocational pathways, apprenticeships, or employment. Sixth form students have secured recent places at Cambridge and Oxford. Beyond Oxbridge, leavers regularly progress to Russell Group universities including Durham, Bristol, Exeter, and Edinburgh. The extended research experience during sixth form preparation supports competitive university applications, particularly in selective courses (medicine, engineering).

Question 8

Is the school selective or comprehensive?

Accepted Answer

The main school (CSIA) is a non-selective state comprehensive, admitting across the ability range through normal local authority admissions. The school is oversubscribed, with distance-based prioritisation. Within the comprehensive intake, the school offers selective enrichment through Nexus (for gifted learners) and specialist A-level pathways post-16. This structure preserves breadth whilst offering challenge for the most able.

GCSE Performance

Grade Distribution

State School Performance Measures

EBacc Subject Outcomes