Robertsbridge Community College Review 2026: A Specialist Hub in Transition

Robertsbridge Community College serves a rural catchment across the East Sussex and Kent border. Traditionally known for its specialist status in Mathematics and Computing, the college is currently navigating a period of significant structural change. Following a challenging period that culminated in an Inadequate Ofsted rating in April 2024, the school formally closed as a community school and reopened as an academy on 1 March 2025, joining the Aquinas Church of England Education Trust. With a capacity for 750 students, it remains a central pillar of the Robertsbridge community, offering a smaller, more intimate secondary experience compared to the larger urban schools in Hastings.

The college site blends mid-century functionalism with specialized modern additions, including the dedicated Mathematics and Computing suite. Despite recent administrative shifts, the school's identity remains rooted in its rural East Sussex location. Students from various village primary schools converge here, creating a social environment that feels distinctly local and interconnected.

Mr James Pratt was appointed as the new Headteacher to lead the school through its academy transition, starting in September 2025. His leadership is focused on the trust's mission of life transforming learning, underpinned by core values of ambition, pride, and respect. While the school is now part of a Church of England trust, it retains its inclusive character, serving families of all faiths and none within the Robertsbridge federation.

Academic outcomes have been a primary area of focus for the new leadership team. In 2024, the college achieved an average Attainment 8 score of 44, which sits just below the England average of 45.9. Within the Robertsbridge local area, the college ranks 1st for GCSE outcomes (FindMySchool ranking), placing it in the top tier locally despite broader national challenges.

The Progress 8 score of -0.63 indicates that students have historically made less progress than their peers nationally. However, the school continues to show competitive performance in core areas; 47.5% of students achieved a grade 5 or above in English and mathematics in 2024, exceeding the East Sussex local authority average of 42.5%. The FindMySchool ranking places Robertsbridge at 2,402nd in England for GCSE outcomes, which aligns it with the middle 35% of schools in England (25th to 60th percentile).

The curriculum at Robertsbridge is anchored by its technical specialism. Science is a significant pillar, with students entering separate Biology, Chemistry, and Physics GCSEs in healthy numbers, often achieving average grades of 6 (equivalent to a B). Computer Science and ICT remain central to the school’s academic identity, supported by dedicated facilities and specialist staff.

The school offers a broad range of options, including Spanish, French, Drama, and Music. Teachers are currently working under the new trust framework to improve curriculum coherence. While previous reports noted inconsistencies, the current focus is on ensuring that the curriculum is both ambitious and accessible for all learners, particularly those with special educational needs.

STEM Excellence

As a specialist hub for Mathematics and Computing, the college provides opportunities that reach beyond standard GCSE requirements. The STEM curriculum includes logic-based projects and digital literacy initiatives designed to prepare students for technical careers. Facilities are tailored to these subjects, offering students access to software and hardware that might not be available in smaller secondary settings.

Robertsbridge prides itself on its "small school" feel, where pastoral leaders can maintain close oversight of student wellbeing. The school operates a specialized SEND unit for students with Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD), which is a key part of its inclusive mission. This unit provides resourced provision for up to 12 students, ensuring that those with specific neurodiverse needs can access the main curriculum with tailored support.

Following the 2024 inspection, which identified behavior and leadership as areas for urgent improvement, the school has implemented more rigorous safeguarding and conduct policies. The appointment of the new Headteacher and the oversight of the Aquinas Advisory Council represent a fresh start for the school’s culture.

The extracurricular offer is varied, taking advantage of the school's rural setting. Physical Education is a popular subject, and students participate in competitive fixtures across East Sussex. The school also coordinates the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, which is highly regarded by students for the resilience and independence it fosters.

Clubs in the creative arts, music, and technology run after school, allowing students to explore interests outside the core academic timetable. The school's music and drama departments regularly host community events, maintaining the college's role as a local cultural hub.

Admissions are coordinated by East Sussex County Council. For the 2026 entry, the school has a Published Admission Number (PAN) of 160. The college remains a popular choice locally; in 2025, it received 216 preferences for its available places.

Parents should use the FindMySchool Map Search to check their distance from the school gate. While there is no formal catchment boundary, proximity is a primary factor in the allocation of places once siblings and children with EHCPs have been prioritized. The application deadline for September 2026 entry is 31 October 2025.

Where Students Go Next

As an 11-16 institution, Robertsbridge focuses heavily on preparing students for the transition to post-16 colleges. Most students progress to Bexhill College or Hastings-based colleges such as East Sussex College. Careers guidance is a priority, with a dedicated careers advisor working with students from Year 9 to help them select appropriate GCSE options and plan their future pathways into A-levels or technical apprenticeships.

The school day runs from 8:40am to 3:15pm. Given its location, many students rely on school bus transport provided by the local authority. For those using the rail network, Robertsbridge station is approximately a 15-minute walk from the college.

Fees & Financial Aid

As a state-funded academy, Robertsbridge Community College does not charge tuition fees. Families are responsible for standard costs such as uniform, school meals, and optional trips. Financial support is available for students eligible for Pupil Premium, which can cover the costs of curriculum-related visits and essential equipment.

• Academy Transition: The school is currently in its first year as an academy under the Aquinas Trust. Families should expect changes in leadership style and school policies as the new Headteacher establishes his vision.
• Ofsted Context: The Inadequate rating from April 2024 reflects the school's status prior to its academy conversion. While the rating remains on the record, the school is technically a "new" provider as of March 2025 and is awaiting its first inspection under the new framework.
• Travel and Transport: For students living outside the immediate village, school bus timings can limit their ability to attend after-school clubs. Families should plan accordingly if their child wishes to engage deeply in the extracurricular program.

Robertsbridge Community College is a school with a strong local heart currently undergoing a significant revival. It offers a specialist STEM focus and a specialized SEND unit that makes it an attractive choice for families seeking a smaller, more inclusive environment. Best suited to students who value a community-centric atmosphere and are interested in leveraging the school's technical and mathematical resources. The main challenge for the coming years will be demonstrating the impact of its new academy leadership on student progress.