Question 1

Is The Lakes School a good school?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Ofsted rated the school Good in November 2019 across all areas. GCSE Attainment 8 of 46.8 sits in line with national norms. The school ranks 1st among Windermere secondaries and serves a diverse, non-selective cohort effectively. Latest monitoring visit confirmed continued progress.

Question 2

What are GCSE results like at The Lakes School?

Accepted Answer

41.7% of pupils achieved grade 5 or above in English and mathematics. Attainment 8 score of 46.8 is in line with national norms. Progress 8 of -0.11 indicates slightly below-average progress from starting points. Results reflect solid, typical comprehensive performance.

Question 3

What sports and activities does The Lakes School offer?

Accepted Answer

Extensive PE including a sports hall, synthetic turf pitch, and multiple grass pitches for rugby, football, cricket. After-school clubs: badminton, basketball, football, hockey, netball, rugby, climbing, canoeing/kayaking, running. Drama studio with regular performances. Duke of Edinburgh Award. Ski trips, mountain biking expeditions, local archaeological digs.

Question 4

How competitive is entry to The Lakes School?

Accepted Answer

The school is non-selective and oversubscribed with approximately 1.42 applications per place. Admissions coordinated by Westmorland and Furness LA using distance criteria within catchment area (Grasmere, Langdale, Ambleside, Troutbeck, Windermere, Bowness, Staveley). No entrance exam. Distance priority within catchment.

Question 5

What are sixth form results like?

Accepted Answer

A-level: 60% achieved A*-B in the 2025 dataset, with 40% at A*-A. Sixth form serves a diverse cohort and the current academic ranking is 446th in England for A-level academic performance. Ask the school for the latest destinations split if university or Russell Group progression is a priority.

Question 6

What is the location and catchment area?

Accepted Answer

Located at Troutbeck Bridge, Windermere, in the Lake District. Catchment includes Grasmere, Langdale Valley, Ambleside, Troutbeck, Windermere, Bowness on Windermere, Staveley. Rural setting offers outdoor learning advantages but some families find transport challenging in winter.

Question 7

When was The Lakes School founded?

Accepted Answer

The Lakes School opened on 8 October 1965, one of England's first purpose-built comprehensive schools, established following Circular 10/65 which promoted comprehensive education. It brought together three existing schools: Windermere Grammar, Kelswick, and Old College, Windermere.

Question 8

Is pastoral care and wellbeing a strength?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Ofsted confirmed behaviour is well-managed, bullying tackled swiftly, pupils feel safe. Safeguarding is embedded. SEND support available (resourced provision for 4 pupils currently full). School provides tutor group and form tutor system for academic and pastoral oversight.

Oxbridge Applications

No Oxbridge Data Available