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.
Last reviewed: February 2026 · Rankings and key information above update regularly, however, this review below is refreshed bi-annually and may not reflect recent changes. If you spot anything outdated or inaccurate, please let us know.
Located in the cathedral city of Ripon, Outwood Academy Ripon is a co-educational secondary school known for its structured environment and high expectations. Rated Good by Ofsted in July 2024, the school serves around 700 students and operates under the Outwood Grange Academies Trust (OGAT) banner. The school's ethos, "Students First", drives a culture where discipline and routine are paramount.
The atmosphere at Outwood Academy Ripon is purposeful and orderly. Ms Rachel Donohue, who became Principal in January 2024, leads a school that is known for clear systems and rigorous standards. Students wear their purple-trimmed blazers with pride, and movement around the site is calm.
The "Outwood Family" model is evident in every aspect of school life. The behaviour policy is strict and centralised, designed to ensure classrooms remain disruption-free. For many families, this clarity is a significant draw; students know exactly where they stand and what is expected of them. The school uses vertical tutoring, where form groups include students from different years, encouraging a sense of community and allowing older students to mentor younger peers.
In July 2024, Ofsted rated the school Good overall, with an Outstanding judgement for Personal Development. This recent inspection highlights the strength of the school's curriculum and the wider opportunities available to students.
Academically, the school performs well. In the 2024-25 / 2025 GCSE dataset, the school achieved a Progress 8 score of +0.21, indicating that students make more progress here than the national average from their starting points. The school ranks 2,188th academically among 3,895 GCSE-ranked schools in England (FindMySchool ranking). Locally, it ranks 2nd among secondary schools in Ripon, providing a strong comprehensive alternative to the selective grammar school system.
Attainment is solid, with an Attainment 8 score of 46.6. While broadly in line with the England average, the positive progress measure suggests the school adds significant value. 13.8% of students achieved Grade 5 or above in the English Baccalaureate (Ebacc), reflecting a curriculum that balances academic cores with vocational and technical options.
England ranks and key metrics (where available)
GCSE 9–7
—
% of students achieving grades 9-7
The curriculum follows the OGAT "Deep Learning" model, which emphasises mastery and consistency. Lessons are often structured similarly across departments, meaning students encounter familiar routines whether they are in Mathematics or History. This consistency reduces cognitive load and allows students to focus on the content.
Teachers use "Praising Stars" to provide regular feedback, ensuring students and parents are updated on progress every half term. The curriculum is broad, covering traditional academic subjects alongside technical awards in areas like Health Studies and Sport.
Quality of Education
Good
Behaviour & Attitudes
Good
Personal Development
Outstanding
Leadership & Management
Good
FMS Inspection Score calculated by FindMySchool based on official inspection data.
Historically, the school operated a sixth form, but the July 2024 Ofsted report noted that sixth-form provision has been temporarily suspended. Consequently, the majority of students currently leave at 16 to pursue post-16 education elsewhere.
Local colleges in Harrogate and York are popular destinations, as are apprenticeships. The school's careers programme remains robust, with the "Deep Experience" team ensuring Year 11 students are well-prepared for their transition to college or training.
Admissions are coordinated by North Yorkshire Council. The school is popular and often oversubscribed, so families should check the latest allocation information alongside the current secondary transfer timetable. For September 2027 Year 7 entry, applications open on 12 September 2026, close on 31 October 2026 and offers are issued on 1 March 2027.
Families must apply via the North Yorkshire Council Common Application Form (CAF) by 31 October 2026 for Year 7 entry in September 2027. Offers are issued on 1 March 2027. Places are allocated based on strict criteria, with priority given to looked-after children and siblings, followed by distance from the school.
Applications
218
Total received
Places Offered
119
Subscription Rate
1.8x
Applications per place
Pastoral care is delivered through the "Deep Support" team. The school's vertical tutoring system means form tutors stay with their group, building long-term relationships with students and families.
The behaviour system, known as "Consequences", is a defining feature of the school. It is binary and strictly enforced, designed to tackle low-level disruption immediately. While effective in maintaining order, it requires students to adhere to rules without negotiation.
The "Enrichment" programme is a key strength, recognised by Ofsted as Outstanding. The school day often extends into "Period 6", a session dedicated to extracurricular activities and academic intervention.
Students can join the Combined Cadet Force (CCF), which is particularly strong here, offering leadership training and outdoor pursuits. The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is also popular, with high participation rates.
Sporting opportunities make use of the sports hall and 3G pitch, while the performing arts department stages annual productions that bring the community together.
The school is located on Clotherholme Road. The school day typically runs from 8:25am to 2:30pm, with enrichment activities often extending until 3:30pm. The uniform policy is strictly enforced, and parents are expected to support the school in maintaining these high standards.
Suspended Sixth Form. As noted in the 2024 Ofsted report, the sixth form provision is temporarily suspended. Families looking for an 11-18 school should clarify the long-term plans for post-16 education directly with the school.
Strict Discipline. The Outwood behaviour policy is rigorous. It suits students who thrive on structure but can be challenging for those who struggle with strict conformity.
Oversubscription. Entry can be competitive, so families living outside the immediate Ripon area should check historical allocation distances carefully and make sure the Year 7 application is submitted by 31 October 2026.
Outwood Academy Ripon is a school defined by clarity and drive. With its recent Good rating and Outstanding personal development, it offers a high-quality education for families who value discipline and structure. Best suited to students who will thrive in a focused environment where rules are clear and expectations are high.
Yes. Outwood Academy Ripon was rated Good by Ofsted in July 2024. The inspection highlighted the school's "Outstanding" Personal Development and noted that students benefit from a strong academic curriculum.
The school has historically had a sixth form, but the July 2024 Ofsted report states that provision has been temporarily suspended. Families should contact the school for the most current information regarding post-16 options.
For Year 7 entry in September 2027, the application deadline is 31 October 2026, with offers issued on 1 March 2027. Applications are made through North Yorkshire Council.
Outwood Academy Ripon is a state-funded academy, so there are no tuition fees.
Yes. The school can be a competitive choice for local families, so check the latest allocation information and submit the Year 7 application by 31 October 2026 for September 2027 entry.
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Information on this page is compiled, analysed, and processed from publicly available sources including the Department for Education (DfE), Ofsted, the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI), the Universities of Oxford and Cambridge, Freedom of Information (FOI) requests, and official school websites.
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