King James's School, Knaresborough: A Historic Community Hub

Founded in 1616 by Royal Charter, King James's School blends four centuries of history with the practical demands of a modern comprehensive. Sitting by the River Nidd, the school serves as the only secondary provider in Knaresborough, creating a true community mix that ranges from academic high-flyers to those pursuing vocational pathways. While the Old School House stands as a reminder of its grammar school past, the ethos today is firmly inclusive.

The campus tells the story of the school's evolution. The Grade II listed Old School House sits alongside 1970s blocks and the modern Chaloner Building, which houses the Sixth Form. It feels like a busy, working community rather than a hushed academic cloister.

Ms M Oakley leads the school as Headteacher, overseeing a federation with Boroughbridge High School that allows for shared expertise and resources. The school's motto, Quid Retribuam Domino (What shall I render unto the Lord?), is visible, but the atmosphere is broadly secular and welcoming. Students describe the environment as friendly but purposeful; the mix of historic and modern facilities mirrors the curriculum, which values traditional academic subjects alongside strong vocational options.

In 2024, the school's performance sits in line with the middle 35% of schools in England (national typical band).

At GCSE, the average Attainment 8 score was 46.1, effectively matching the England average of 45.9. The school ranks 2,289th in England and 1st among secondary schools in Knaresborough for GCSE outcomes (FindMySchool ranking). Progress scores indicate that students generally achieve grades consistent with their starting points.

The curriculum is broad, designed to cater to the full ability range of a comprehensive intake. Key Stage 3 covers the National Curriculum with a three-year cycle, ensuring students have time to mature before selecting options.

In Key Stage 4, the core academic diet is supplemented by vocational choices that are popular and well-resourced. Teaching is structured and supportive, with Ofsted noting in 2025 that the school has taken effective action to maintain standards and that leaders have constructed an ambitious curriculum. The school uses a 'Positive Discipline' policy, which students report creates clear boundaries for learning.

The Sixth Form is a significant strength, housed in its own dedicated centre. In 2024, A-level results placed the school 1,356th in England (FindMySchool ranking).

Performance metrics show 44.7% of grades were A*-B, slightly below the England average of 47.2%. However, the provision is robust, offering both A-levels and BTECs. Class sizes in Year 12 and 13 are generally smaller than in the main school, allowing for more seminar-style interaction.

The destinations data reflects the school's comprehensive nature. In 2024, 37% of leavers progressed to university. A significant 43% entered employment, a figure well above the England average, highlighting the school's effectiveness in preparing students for the workplace.

Apprenticeships are also a key pathway, with 6% of the cohort securing places. For those aiming for elite universities, support is available; in the most recent cycle, one student secured a place at Cambridge.

Admissions are coordinated by North Yorkshire Council. As the town's only secondary school, King James's is the natural choice for local families, but it also draws from surrounding villages.

The school is currently oversubscribed. In the most recent intake, there were 1.9 applications for every place, making entry competitive. The Published Admission Number (PAN) is 270. Priority is given to looked-after children, siblings, and those living within the catchment area. Distances vary annually based on applicant distribution; proximity provides priority but does not guarantee a place.

The pastoral system is organised by year group, with a Head of Year and Pastoral Officer attached to each cohort. This ensures that students have a consistent point of contact as they move through the school.

The 'learning support' department is well-regarded, particularly for students with SEND. The 2025 Ofsted inspection highlighted that pupils say they are happy and feel safe, with relationships between pupils and staff described as positive.

The extracurricular offer is solid, with a mix of sport, music, and special interests. Music is a particular pillar; the Show Choir and Orchestra perform regularly, including community events in Knaresborough. Drama productions are inclusive, often involving large casts.

For specific interests, clubs include the Dungeons and Dragons group, the Eco Group, and a Programming Club. Sport takes advantage of the on-site playing fields, with fixtures played against schools across North Yorkshire.

This is a state school with no tuition fees. Parents are expected to provide uniform and sports kit, and there may be charges for voluntary trips, music lessons, and some extracurricular activities. The school uses ParentPay for all cashless transactions.

The school day runs from 8:50am to 3:20pm. The site is located on King James Road, easily accessible by foot for Knaresborough residents. A dedicated bus park serves students travelling from outlying villages.

• Mixed Ability: This is a true comprehensive. Parents seeking a hothouse academic environment may find the pace different from a grammar school, though top sets are stretched.
• Campus Condition: While there has been investment, some of the 1970s buildings are showing their age compared to the newer blocks.
• Class Sizes: As a popular school, year groups are full. Lower school classes are often at capacity, which can feel busy for quieter students.

King James's School is a genuine community asset, balancing a 400-year heritage with a modern, inclusive outlook. It offers a solid, grounded education that values employment and apprenticeships as much as university pathways. Best suited to local families who want a well-rounded, socially mixed education where their child can find their niche, whether that be in the orchestra, the science lab, or the workshop. The main challenge is the competition for places from outside the immediate catchment.