The Ridgeway School & Sixth Form College

Set in the village of Wroughton, just south of the M4 between junctions 15 and 16, The Ridgeway School & Sixth Form College serves approximately 1,600 students aged 11 to 18. The school operates as part of The White Horse Federation multi-academy trust, having converted to academy status in August 2011. With 690 applications competing for 270 Year 7 places in recent admissions cycles, the school is significantly oversubscribed, with a subscription proportion of 2.56 applications per place. The catchment area encompasses the rural communities of Bishopstone, Hinton Parva, Wanborough, Liddington, Coate, Badbury, Chiseldon, Hodson, Bassett Down, Uffcott, Broad Hinton, and Winterbourne Bassett.

The school's stated vision centres on creating a FAIR community, an acronym representing Family, Achieve their potential, Inspire students, and Reach the very best destinations. This framework shapes daily life, from tutor time to leadership opportunities, and the emphasis on belonging to something larger than individual classrooms runs through the school's culture.

Mr Adrian Cush has led the school as Principal since September 2022, succeeding Christopher Belli. Cush brings over 20 years of teaching experience, having previously served as Principal of Whiteland's Academy in Oxfordshire, one of the most oversubscribed schools in that county. A scientist by training, with a biochemistry degree and PGCE from King's College London, he combines academic credibility with proven leadership credentials. The White Horse Federation noted his "fantastic record of success and high performance" when announcing his appointment.

The school's values, prominently displayed and consistently referenced, are Respect, Honesty, Endeavour, Creativity, and Community. Staff expectations are clear. The pastoral culture operates under the banner of "Ready, Respectful and Safe," and behaviour is calm and purposeful throughout the building. Students requiring SEN support account for approximately 6% of the cohort, with 2.6% of students on an Education, Health and Care Plan.

The physical environment blends original 1960s architecture with subsequent additions. Purpose-built for comprehensive education, the campus has evolved to include substantial sporting facilities that now serve both school and community. The integration of the Ridgeway Leisure Centre on site gives students access to facilities that many schools cannot match.

GCSE Results

At GCSE, The Ridgeway delivers solid results that place it comfortably within the middle band of schools in England. The school ranks 1,432nd in England for GCSE outcomes (FindMySchool ranking), which sits within the 25th to 60th percentile range. More impressively, locally, the school ranks 2nd among secondary schools in Swindon, demonstrating strong performance relative to nearby alternatives.

The average Attainment 8 score of 53 compares favourably to the England average of 45.9, indicating that students here achieve results approximately seven points above what might be expected based on broader patterns. The EBacc average point score of 4.61 also exceeds the England average of 4.08.

Perhaps most telling is the Progress 8 score of +0.18. This positive figure indicates that students at The Ridgeway make above-average progress from their Key Stage 2 starting points to their GCSE outcomes. For parents evaluating school effectiveness, this value-added measure suggests that the school adds genuine educational value regardless of where students begin.

A-Level Results

The sixth form, branded as R6, delivers A-level results that place the school among the stronger performers in England. With an England ranking of 684th for A-level outcomes (FindMySchool ranking), the school sits in the top 26% of sixth forms, comfortably above the England average. The school ranks 1st in Swindon for A-level results, outperforming all other sixth form providers in the local authority.

At A-level, 58.7% of grades achieved were A*-B, compared to the England average of 47.2%. Breaking this down further, 10.1% achieved A* grades and 21.4% achieved A grades, giving a combined A*-A rate of 31.5%, which again exceeds the England average of 23.6%.

The combined GCSE and A-level England ranking of 682nd reflects consistent performance across both key stages, suggesting that the school's strengths are embedded rather than concentrated in particular year groups.

The 2023 Ofsted inspection rated Quality of Education as Outstanding, noting that pupils are taught a well-sequenced curriculum that builds knowledge systematically. Teaching follows clear structures, and expectations are high across subjects. Staff have strong subject knowledge and explain concepts clearly, enabling students to develop deep understanding.

The curriculum offers GCSEs and BTECs at Key Stage 4, while the sixth form provides both A-levels and further BTEC qualifications. Facilitating subjects, those commonly required for entry to leading universities, are well represented: Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, Further Mathematics, Geography, History, English Literature, and modern languages all feature in the sixth form offer.

Students who do not achieve a grade 4 in GCSE Mathematics or English can retake these qualifications in the sixth form, with dedicated support to help them reach this threshold. Additionally, an applied Level 3 mathematics qualification supports students who need quantitative skills for their chosen subjects but are not studying A-level Mathematics.

The Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) allows students to pursue independent research, developing skills valued by universities and employers alike. Year 9 pathway options help students make informed choices about their GCSE subjects, with curriculum overviews and knowledge organisers supporting home learning.

In 2024, 59% of Year 13 leavers progressed to university, with a further 6% starting apprenticeships and 19% entering employment directly. The 2% continuing in further education suggests that the school effectively prepares students for their post-18 destinations, with few needing additional qualifications before progressing.

Students have secured places at leading universities, including Oxford and Cambridge. The R6 Aspire programme specifically supports high-achieving students aiming for competitive destinations. This includes extra study sessions with staff for entrance exams and assessments, interview preparation, mock assessment days, application support, and work shadowing week opportunities.

For students pursuing vocational routes, BTEC courses prove equally successful. Progression from these qualifications to employment, apprenticeships, or higher education is well supported by the school's careers education programme, which includes dedicated work experience opportunities.

The school does not publish detailed Russell Group or specific university destination data on its website. Parents seeking granular information about where leavers progress should contact the school directly or attend an open event.

Year 7 Entry

Admissions are coordinated by Swindon Borough Council, not the school directly. For September 2026 entry, applications open on Monday 1 September 2025, with a deadline of 11:59pm on Friday 31 October 2025. National Offer Day falls on 2 March 2026, when families will learn which school their child has been allocated.

The school is significantly oversubscribed. With 690 applications for 270 places, competition is substantial. After children with Education, Health and Care Plans naming the school and looked-after children, the oversubscription criteria prioritise siblings and then distance from the school. The catchment area covers the rural villages south of Swindon, but living within catchment does not guarantee a place when demand exceeds capacity.

Late applications, those submitted after 31 October, are not considered until all on-time applications have been processed. The waiting list for Year 7 is maintained until the end of the Year 7 academic year.

Parents comparing local secondary options should use the FindMySchool Map Search to check their precise distance from the school gates. Understanding where you fall in the priority order helps set realistic expectations about securing a place.

Sixth Form Entry

The sixth form welcomes both internal students progressing from Year 11 and external applicants from other schools. Applications are currently open for the 2026-27 academic year, with prospectus materials available on the school website.

The school recommends that students choose three A-levels, or a combination of A-level and BTEC courses. Four subjects may be appropriate for some students. Entry requirements vary by course, and students should consult the specific subject pages for grade thresholds. Generally, competitive A-level courses require strong GCSE grades in related subjects.

Pastoral care at The Ridgeway is structured around the house system. Each student belongs to a house containing a tutor team, a Head of Key Stage, and a Pastoral Manager. Form tutors serve as the first point of contact for parents with pastoral concerns.

The school takes a holistic approach, recognising that good pastoral care extends beyond basic welfare provision. Staff understand that emotional wellbeing underpins academic progress. The school's stated aim is to eliminate racism, inequality, discrimination, and other barriers to learning, creating an atmosphere where all students can thrive.

For sixth form students, the R6 building includes a dedicated wellbeing room alongside study spaces, recognising that the pressures of A-level study require specific support. The combination of academic mentoring and pastoral oversight helps students manage the transition from GCSE to post-16 study.

The 2023 Ofsted inspection rated Personal Development as Good, noting that students are prepared well for life in modern Britain. Staff have a clear commitment to safeguarding, and the school's culture supports students in developing the character and social skills they will need beyond school.

Sport and Physical Activity

The Ridgeway Leisure Centre, located on site and open to the community, gives students access to exceptional facilities. The 25-metre swimming pool hosts a variety of clubs, lessons, and recreational sessions. The sports hall provides five badminton courts and space for indoor football. A fitness suite features modern cardiovascular equipment and free weights. Squash courts, increasingly rare in leisure facilities, remain available for hire.

The school's sporting programme operates at participation and competitive levels. Year 9 Junior Sports Leaders (JSLA) gives students the opportunity to work with White Horse Federation primary schools, leading activities and developing confidence, communication, and organisational skills. Sixth form students can progress to Community Sports Leaders Award (CSLA) and Higher Sports Leaders Award (HSLA) qualifications.

The annual sports award evening and gym and dance display showcase high standards of participation at school, district, regional, and national level. Physical education is not merely a curriculum requirement but a valued part of school culture.

The Duke of Edinburgh's Award

The Ridgeway runs one of the largest Duke of Edinburgh Award cohorts in the south west. Bronze, Silver, and Gold levels are all available, with expeditions taking students to Cranham in the Cotswolds (Bronze), Exmoor National Park (Silver), and the Brecon Beacons (Gold).

The programme requires commitment across volunteering, physical activities, skills development, and expedition work. For sixth form students, participation complements academic study and demonstrates the qualities that universities and employers value.

Music and Performance

The school hosts collaborative events with local music groups, including The Kentwood Choir. Musical opportunities extend beyond curriculum music, though detailed information about ensembles and performances is not extensively published online. Students interested in music should enquire directly about current provision.

Enrichment Programme

The lunchtime enrichment programme offers students the chance to socialise, make friends, and try new activities. This complements the broader extracurricular offering and provides an accessible entry point for students who might not commit to after-school clubs.

A Language Leaders Award course operates alongside sports leadership programmes, giving Year 9 students additional leadership development opportunities. These qualifications build transferable skills and enhance personal statements for university applications.

The sixth form has its own dedicated area within the school, including a study centre equipped with computers, a cafe, a quiet study room, and the wellbeing room mentioned earlier. This separation from the main school creates a more adult atmosphere appropriate to sixth form study.

Many students continue from Year 11, but the sixth form also welcomes significant numbers from other schools each year. This mix creates a fresh dynamic in Year 12 and exposes students to peers from different backgrounds and schools.

The curriculum balances traditional A-levels with vocational BTECs, allowing students to construct programmes that suit their interests and post-18 plans. For students targeting competitive universities, the R6 Aspire pathway adds the EPQ or Student Leadership alongside R6 Aspire enrichment and volunteering. Academic mentoring and independent study periods complete the package.

Entry requirements generally specify a minimum of five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English and Mathematics. Individual subjects may require higher grades; students should check specific course requirements. Those not achieving grade 4 in English or Mathematics can resit alongside their sixth form programme.

The school is located at Inverary Road, Wroughton, Swindon, Wiltshire, SN4 9DJ. Office hours are Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 3:30pm.

The school day structure follows a standard secondary pattern, with five taught periods and a lunchbreak. The school observes Swindon Borough Council term dates, with INSET days typically falling at the start of each term. Early closure days occur periodically, for example at 1:10pm before Christmas and occasionally mid-term for staff training.

Transport to school varies by location within the catchment. The rural nature of the catchment area means many students travel by bus. Families should check with Swindon Borough Council regarding school transport eligibility based on distance and route safety.

The Ridgeway Leisure Centre is open to the public from 4pm on weekdays (4:15pm on Wednesdays and Fridays due to after-school clubs), Saturday 9am to 4pm, and Sunday 8am to 3pm. Families can access the pool, gym, and sports hall outside school hours.

Oversubscription. With 2.56 applications for every place, securing a Year 7 place requires careful attention to admissions criteria. Living within the catchment villages does not guarantee entry. Families should verify their position relative to previous years' allocations before assuming a place will be offered. Contact the school or Swindon Borough Council admissions team for the most recent distance data.

Rural location. Wroughton sits outside Swindon proper, which suits families in surrounding villages but means longer journeys for those in the town centre. The school's position between M4 junctions 15 and 16 offers good access for car travel, but public transport may be limited for some journeys.

Mixed sixth form profile. While A-level results place the school first in Swindon, the sixth form offers BTECs alongside A-levels. This vocational provision serves students well but means the cohort is more mixed than at purely academic sixth forms. Families seeking an exclusively academic post-16 environment should consider whether this setting suits their child.

Facilities shared with community. The Leisure Centre serves both school and public. While this provides exceptional facilities, it also means students share some spaces with community users outside school hours. For most families, this presents no issue, but those expecting exclusive school access to all facilities should understand the shared model.

The Ridgeway School & Sixth Form College combines strong academic outcomes with genuine community character. Outstanding ratings for Quality of Education and Leadership demonstrate that the school is well run and delivers effective teaching. The Progress 8 score confirms that students make above-average progress, while A-level results place the sixth form first in Swindon.

The school suits families in the rural villages south of Swindon who want a comprehensive education with strong pastoral support and extensive extracurricular opportunities. The Duke of Edinburgh programme, sports leadership awards, and on-site leisure facilities offer more than most state schools can match. For academically ambitious students, the R6 Aspire programme provides targeted support for competitive university applications.

Best suited to families within the catchment who want a well-regarded comprehensive with community roots and proven results. Families interested in this school can use the Saved Schools feature to manage their shortlist while exploring alternatives.