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The Best Secondary Schools in Manchester

Sep 11, 2024
Secondary School Teacher
If you’re considering relocating with your family, Manchester is a brilliant place to call home. This northwestern powerhouse boasts fantastic attractions, a diverse culinary scene and beautiful nature spots. It also has an excellent education system, with some of the country’s top-rated institutions. Our guide covers the city’s best secondary schools according to Ofsted.

1. Co-op Academy Belle Vue

Ofsted rating: Outstanding (May 2024)
 
Co-op Academy Belle Vue is a mixed secondary school in southeast Manchester. Its extensive development and training programme ensures that the staff is well-prepared to create a diverse curriculum. Teachers organise ‘community read’ sessions to enhance pupils’ creative thinking. Students can play chess, sports and music and participate in charitable projects to support the local community.
 

2. Manchester Hospital School

Ofsted rating: Good (May 2024)
 
Manchester Hospital School is among the best secondary schools in Manchester, tailored to pupils with special educational needs (SEN). The curriculum is engaging and diverse, with activities ranging from baking and ukulele classes to animal care and gardening. Students develop the skills to work well independently and as part of a group, forging strong relationships with each other. 
 

3. Afifah School

Ofsted rating: Good (April 2024)
 
Located next to Old Trafford, Afifah School is a mixed independent institution where students thrive. The strong relationship between the teachers and pupils results in effective learning and positive achievements. The curriculum focuses on pupils’ communication, language and reading skills. Afifah School promotes British values, and pupils embrace responsibilities like becoming members of the school council. 
 

4. Trinity CofE High School

Ofsted rating: Good (February 2024)
 
Ranked among the best secondary schools in Greater Manchester, Trinity CofE High School promotes strong subject expertise and diversity. The ‘Trinity Together’ values encourage pupils to embrace their cultural differences, creating a safe environment for everyone to express themselves. Students can enjoy exciting extracurricular activities, including foreign languages, acting and directing classes. The school also organises work experience placements to prepare pupils for their professional lives. 
 

5. Dean Trust Ardwick

Ofsted rating: Good (September 2023)
 
On the city’s southeastern outskirts, Dean Trust Ardwick is regularly ranked among the best secondary schools in Manchester. One of the school’s strengths is its ambitious and committed leadership, ensuring that the curriculum is of the highest quality. Students can participate in various extracurricular activities, including sports and acting. Pupils with special educational needs are cared for, with teachers adapting their classes and offering additional support. 
 
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