Best schools in North Yorkshire

Western Primary School

This primary school in the heart of Harrogate is rated by Ofsted as one of the best institutions in North Yorkshire, thanks to the excellent quality of teaching and learning. It is home to up to 500 pupils, both girls and boys aged up to 11. Phonics is particularly promoted here, with children developing a passion for books and making significant progress in reading by the end of Year 6.

Brackenfield School

Also in Harrogate, this independent school is ranked by national league tables as outstanding and is suitable for pupils aged up to 11. Outdoors and indoor activities are equally promoted, with sports and public speaking particularly valued for children to develop trust and confidence in themselves.

King James’s School

Located in Knaresborough, a short drive from Harrogate city centre, this secondary school relies on ‘same bar, different ladder’. Teachers motivate students to achieve great results and provide them with different tools to succeed. Pupils are supported and valued, and extra-curricular activities such as music, art and photography are also strongly encouraged.

Roecliffe Church of England Primary School

Smaller than the average-sized primary school, Roecliffe Primary, found in York, is rated as good by Ofsted. A wide range of sports is encouraged, such as dance and swimming, and children score high in subjects like reading, writing and mathematics. Attendance is outstanding, which shows children’s degree of commitment to the school.

Moorside Primary School & Nursery

Located in Ripon, next door to the spectacular Yorkshire Dales, Moorside Primary has a student population of over 100, boys and girls aged up to 11. The curriculum is supported by a wide range of activities, such as dance, computing, sports clubs and model building. Some events of the year are also celebrated, like science weeks and the European day of languages, to enhance pupils’ learning.

Boroughbridge High School

Boroughbridge High School is located midway between Harrogate and York, close to both the Yorkshire Dales and the North York Moors. It accommodates around 700 pupils aged up to 18. Teachers’ strong subject knowledge helps motivate the students to achieve great results.

New Park Primary Academy

If you’re looking for a great primary school within the Harrogate district, New Park Academy is hard to beat. Students up to 11 can attend, and the curriculum is well planned to ensure all subjects are dealt with appropriately. Pupils can attend both outdoor and indoor environments freely to develop their independence.

Sicklinghall Community Primary School

This small village school in Wetherby caters for 60 students, who are taught in three mixed-age, mixed-abilities classes. The quality of teaching and pupils’ welfare is high, as well as the relationship between them and their teachers. Group activities are strongly valued for children to interact with each other and share their opinions.