Jane Austen College Review 2026: State Secondary in Norwich's Historic City Centre

Norwich's medieval heart has always drawn lovers of learning. Jane Austen College, a state secondary and sixth form in the heart of the city centre, takes its name from the celebrated author and carries that spirit of literary pursuit and intellectual inquiry. Since opening in September 2014, the college has established itself as an Outstanding centre of education, earning that rating from Ofsted in May 2024 across all five areas assessed, including sixth form provision. The college serves 1,100 students aged 11 to 19 in an extensively redeveloped city centre building, part of the Inspiration Trust family of schools. Strong academic results place the school in the top 21% of state secondaries in England (FindMySchool ranking), with its sixth form among Norfolk's leading providers. A distinctive feature is the college's daily 'electives' programme, where all pupils choose from 40-plus activities built into the timetable during Years 7-11, ensuring every student pursues genuine interests alongside core study. The school is non-selective and uses fair access banding to ensure it remains genuinely comprehensive, with admission based on standardised assessment rather than existing attainment.

The college operates from iconic city centre premises described as extensively redeveloped historic buildings, blending period character with contemporary teaching spaces. Principal Glen Allott, appointed in July 2024, leads the school with a clear commitment to student potential, visible in the school's guiding ethos known as 'The JAC Way' (emphasising kindness, hard work, and responsibility). Ofsted inspectors noted that pupils enjoy "highly warm and positive relationships" within the college community, with "always someone to talk to who will listen and help." The atmosphere is notably academic without being pressurised; the school fosters "the highest level of academic ambition for all" whilst maintaining genuine care for wellbeing. Staff have high expectations and provide the support needed for pupils to meet them.

The college's location in Norwich's medieval city centre offers natural advantages. The city itself, named the UK's best place to live in the East, combines rich heritage with active cultural life. The college building sits within walking distance of Norwich Castle (home to art gallery and museum), the Cathedral, theatres, galleries, and the Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts. This immersion in an arts-rich environment shapes the college's identity, particularly in its specialism in English, humanities, and creative subjects.

Daily form time with tutors — described as dedicated sessions involving reading for pleasure, character enrichment, and focused discussion — creates strong pastoral bonds. The college deliberately promotes a culture of reading, with time each morning dedicated to independent reading or personalised literacy support, nurturing what the school describes as a lifelong passion for literature and learning.

GCSE Performance

Jane Austen College ranked 958th in England for GCSE outcomes (FindMySchool ranking), placing it in the top 21% nationally (above England average). Within Norwich, the college ranks 7th among secondary schools. The Attainment 8 score was 49, measuring pupils' achievement across a broad range of qualifications. In 2024, 50% of pupils achieved grade 5 or above in both English and mathematics, and the college entered an exceptionally high number of pupils into English Baccalaureate subjects with strong achievement in these subjects. The Progress 8 score of +0.26 indicates pupils make above-average progress from their starting points compared to similar peers nationally.

A-Level Performance

In Summer 2025, sixth form students achieved 35% A*-A grades and 90% A*-C overall — the highest A*-C grades of any Norwich state sixth form for the past five years of examinations. The college established its position as one of Norfolk's top sixth forms through consistent county-leading results. The school ranks 1507th in England for A-level provision (FindMySchool ranking), placing it in the middle 35% of sixth forms. Ofsted praised sixth-form progress, noting students "make outstanding progress," with "the proportion progressing to university, employment and/or training much better than the national average."

Sixth form entry is selective by academic achievement; students must typically meet specific grade requirements depending on subject choice (for example, Grade 5+ in GCSE Music to study A-level Music, or Grade 5 in modern languages to study language A-levels).

Teaching emphasises subject-specialist expertise and rigorous curriculum design. Ofsted recognised that "the school has the highest level of academic ambition for all," and staff have "expert subject knowledge." The curriculum follows a unique structure: Key Stage 3 is compressed into two years, allowing a three-year GCSE programme to deepen learning. This approach, combined with the daily electives programme, enables the college to balance intensive academic preparation with genuine breadth.

Reading features prominently across the curriculum. Every pupil engages in dedicated daily reading time — either pleasure reading or personalised literacy support — reflecting the school's role as an English and humanities specialist. Inspectors noted "reading is promoted extensively; pupils read widely and understand why this is important." Subject options include traditional humanities alongside modern languages, sciences, and creative subjects.

The partnership with Sir Isaac Newton Sixth Form (the UK's first specialist science and mathematics sixth form) is crucial for sixth-form breadth. Students choosing English, humanities, and arts subjects study at Jane Austen College, whilst those selecting science, psychology, computer science, or mathematics can access provision at Sir Isaac Newton through a single application process. Both institutions are rated Outstanding by Ofsted, and the partnership ensures students access specialist expertise regardless of subject choice.

University Destinations

In 2024, 62% of sixth form leavers progressed to university, with an additional 23% entering employment, 5% starting apprenticeships, and 2% entering further education. The college's strong track record of university progression, particularly to selective universities, reflects both rigorous teaching and effective careers guidance. Ofsted confirmed the proportion progressing to university, employment, and/or training is "much better than the national average."

Specific university destinations are not formally published by the college, though students typically access guidance through the Careers & Opportunities programme, which includes university taster days, talks from university representatives, and specialist guidance. The sixth form's academic specialism in humanities, English, arts, and (via partnership) sciences positions students well for competitive university applications.

Secondary Entry Destinations

For students completing Year 11, the college feeds sixth-form progression. Entry to Jane Austen College Sixth Form requires students to meet specific academic criteria. Students also have the option to apply to Sir Isaac Newton Sixth Form through the shared application process, allowing them to select the specialist environment best suited to their subject choices.

Jane Austen College uses a non-selective, comprehensive admissions approach underpinned by fair access banding. Year 7 entry is coordinated through Norfolk Local Authority. All applicants sit a standardised non-verbal reasoning assessment, which is standardised against the national distribution of ability. The college then takes an equal number of pupils from each band, ensuring the intake represents all levels of ability among applicants. The school emphasises this is not a pass/fail test; parents are advised not to be concerned about it.

Oversubscription is managed through prioritised criteria: looked-after children, those with Education, Health and Care Plans naming the school, children of staff (meeting defined tenure requirements), pupils from feeder primary schools (Charles Darwin Primary Academy and Norwich Primary Academy), and then by straight-line distance from the college gates.

Planned admission numbers are 180 pupils per year for Years 7-11, with a smaller sixth form. The college is currently at or very near capacity with approximately 1,100 pupils on roll.

Applications to Jane Austen College Sixth Form are more selective, based on GCSE results and subject-specific entry requirements. Sixth form open evenings are held in October, with invitations to book through the school website.

Pastoral care is identified as "crucially important" to the college, reflected in Ofsted's finding that pupils' experience is "characterised by highly warm and positive relationships" and "extensive range of pastoral support." Every student has a form tutor who knows them well as an individual, enabling outstanding pastoral care.

The college offers extensive support for mental health, with dedicated mental health support services available to pupils. Tutors receive training in safeguarding and wellbeing, and the college has a proactive approach to identifying and supporting pupils with emerging concerns.

Behaviour standards are exceptionally high. Ofsted rated the college Outstanding for "Behaviour and attitudes," noting pupils "display highly positive attitudes and understand necessary routines." Pupils seem genuinely to understand the college's expectations and internalise the 'JAC Way' values of kindness, hard work, and responsibility.

For students with identified special educational needs or disabilities, the college provides mainstream support without reducing academic expectations. The college does not operate specialist classes; however, it has adapted teaching and targeted provision to support pupils with SEND to access the full curriculum.

Electives Programme

The most distinctive feature of college life is the mandatory daily 'electives' programme. Every student from Year 7 to Year 11 participates in a structured elective of their choice during the school day. This is not an add-on but embedded into the timetable, ensuring genuine breadth and choice. Recent electives have included Circus Skills (delivered in partnership with The Oak Circus), Creative Writing, Mythology, Warhammer club, Harry Potter club, Youth Group, Dance Performance group, Chess club, and numerous sports and fitness activities. The breadth means students pursue authentic interests, whether academic, creative, or physical. Students also have the option to request new clubs if they identify gaps.

Music and Performing Arts

The college offers music lessons during school hours; details are available through the school's music programme page. The college debating society and choir feature prominently in student life. Sixth form students have celebrated involvement in large-scale collaborative productions: in February 2023, students from Jane Austen College, Hewett Academy, and Sir Isaac Newton Sixth Form performed Annie The Musical at the Walter Roy Theatre, delivered with professional sound, lighting, and a live orchestra. This followed a successful 2022 production of Grease. These ambitious productions give students experience of professional theatre standards, including auditioning, full rehearsal processes, and backstage technical roles. The college also facilitates smaller drama and music performances throughout the year.

Dance is offered as both an elective activity and as an A-level subject in the sixth form. The college operates dedicated Dance and Drama Studios (soundproofed with sprung flooring suitable for dance), supporting both recreational and serious performers.

Drama and Performing Arts Facilities

Jane Austen College has soundproofed Dance and Drama Studios with capacity for 40 people and flooring designed for dance. The college facilities are described as extensively redeveloped and tailored to the school's specialisms in English, humanities, and the arts. Sixth form performing arts students benefit from facilities designed for drama and performance study.

STEM and Innovation

Pupils can pursue STEM studies as an elective during the compulsory electives time. The college offers science subjects taught to a high standard, with pupils able to access advanced STEM provision through the partnership with Sir Isaac Newton Sixth Form at A-level (computer science, mathematics, and psychology). Curriculum trips include visits to Williams F1 team HQ and UEA Computer Science Discovery days, introducing pupils to real-world applications of STEM disciplines.

Sport

The Eileen Ash Sports Hall, opened in 2018 at the edge of The Hewett Academy site, is dedicated to Jane Austen College use. This facility enables teaching of football, hockey, netball, and swimming, alongside other activities. Students also travel to the University of East Anglia for additional sports lessons and specialised electives. The college participates in Inspiration Trust sports tournaments across multiple sports including football, swimming, rugby, badminton, 3x3 basketball, netball, and athletics. Individual pupils can represent the college in fixtures against other local schools. A Basketball Academy is also available for sixth form students.

Trips and Residential Experiences

Jane Austen College arranges extensive enrichment trips throughout the year. Residential trips have included Dorset, Rome, Yorkshire, Stuttgart, Wales, and The Somme — offering immersive experiences tied to curriculum study and personal growth. One-day curriculum trips feature visits to the Williams F1 team HQ, British Museum, UEA Computer Science Discovery days, and Sizewell B power station. Character development days include the Science Museum, Duxford, Banham Zoo, Bramley Lakes, and Kew Gardens. Reward trips and cultural excursions (museums, galleries, theatre trips, MFL plays) round out the programme. Activities Week in summer offers multi-day options including X-Adventure (Year 7), Battlefields visits (Years 8-9), London, Ancient Greece, Spain, water parks, and ski school.

Duke of Edinburgh Award

From Year 9, pupils can enrol in the Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme, with bronze, silver, and gold levels available. This structured programme develops leadership, resilience, and outdoor skills.

House System

The college operates a house system (specific house names available on the school website), organising community and competition within the wider school. Housepoints are awarded for elective attendance and other achievements, fostering pride and engagement.

The college day runs from 8:50am to 3:20pm for most days, with a shorter finish of 2:50pm on Mondays and Fridays. An extended school day offers optional supervised sessions until 5:30pm three days per week, allowing pupils to complete homework on-site if needed.

The college is located at 46-48 Colegate, Norwich, NR3 1DD — in the heart of the city centre. Transport is accessible by regular local buses serving Norwich's extensive network. The train station is a short walk away, offering direct connections to London Liverpool Street (1 hour 50 minutes), Cambridge (under 1 hour), and King's Lynn. For those driving, parking in the city centre is limited but available at nearby paid car parks. Many pupils walk or cycle to school given the central location.

School meals are provided on-site. Uniform is compulsory and details are available on the school website. Free school meals are available to eligible families; approximately 28% of pupils currently qualify.

Fair Access Banding Assessment: All Year 7 applicants sit a standardised test to determine banding, which places all pupils into groups and ensures equal distribution across ability bands. Whilst the school emphasises this is not a pass/fail test, the assessment does inform placement. Families unfamiliar with educational banding may wish to discuss the process with the school directly.

City Centre Location: The college is located in Norwich city centre, which brings cultural richness but also means limited on-site parking and outdoor green space compared to schools on larger suburban or rural sites. For families relying on car transport, this is worth considering.

Demanding Academic Environment: Ofsted noted the school has "the highest level of academic ambition for all." This is genuinely realised through rigorous curriculum design, specialist teaching, and high expectations. Families should understand this is an academically focused environment; it suits pupils with intrinsic motivation or willingness to be challenged, less so those who find structured academic expectation burdensome.

Sixth Form Competition: Entry to Jane Austen College Sixth Form is selective based on GCSE grades and subject-specific requirements. Not all pupils completing Year 11 will meet entry criteria. The school provides careers guidance and pathways to alternative sixth form or further education options.

Jane Austen College is an outstanding state secondary and sixth form delivering academic excellence without selection at the point of entry, underpinned by a distinctive electives programme ensuring all pupils pursue genuine enrichment alongside core study. The college's position in the top 21% for GCSE results (FindMySchool data) and consistent Norfolk leadership in sixth form outcomes reflects rigorous teaching, ambitious curriculum, and excellent pastoral support. The location in Norwich's historic city centre brings cultural immersion; the partnership with Sir Isaac Newton Sixth Form provides breadth; and the school's emphasis on reading, character, and knowledge makes it a genuinely literate, thoughtful community. Best suited to families seeking a state secondary education emphasising both academic rigour and breadth, with confidence that their child will be known well by staff and supported with genuine warmth. The fair access admissions system ensures entry is based on ability banding rather than existing attainment, making it accessible to pupils of all starting points, though those progressing to sixth form should understand this is selective by GCSE outcome.