At the time of its most recent inspection in November, 2024, the school had approximately 1280 pupils, of which around 135 were in the sixth form.
The school serves Framwellgate Moor and the nearby Newton Hall estate. However, some pupils travel greater distances, typically from outlying former pit villages.
In the last two Ofsted reports, in July 2021 and November 2024, the school was graded as 'Good' and in the 2024 report this was updated to mostly 'Good' with some elements that 'Require Improvement' under the new assessment scheme
History
The first school buildings were opened in 1965, with most of the other blocks following over the next decade. The school operated as a comprehensive since 1971.[3]
The school was formerly known as Framwellgate Moor Comprehensive School, and was commonly known by the initials FMCS.
The school was granted Specialist Science College status in 2003.[2]
In 2011 the school was granted independent academy status as part of the UK Conservative government's "Big Society" education plans. This meant that the school gained greater control over its education and teaching, though it remains state-run.
In 2016, the school was granted £2m funding to build a new sports centre to replace the former one; the building was completed in September 2017.
Performance
In 2007, 77% of pupils taking GCSEs achieved 5 or more at grade C or above.[4] In the sixth form in the same year, the average level 3 point score was 607 per student.[5]
The school received an 'Outstanding', grade 1 for the Ofsted inspection that took place in October 2005.[2]
In the 2008 Ofsted report the school received a 'Good', grade 2.
The Ofsted report of July 2021 rated the school as 'Good' and the most recent report in November 2024 this was updated to mostly 'Good' with some elements that 'Require Improvement'
