Downside School
Catchment Area, Exam Results and Reviews

Last updated 5 October 2026

Secondary
Post 16
PUPILS
249
AGES
11 - 18
GENDER
Mixed
TYPE
Other independent school
SCHOOL GUIDE RATING
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School Guide verdict

Downside School is a co-educational independent secondary in Radstock, earning a top 5-star rating from School Guide. At its 2026 inspection, the Independent Schools Inspectorate judged the quality of academic and other achievements to be good.

Downside School Inspection Rating and Exam Results

How Does The School Perform?

Inspection
Ofsted inspection
(30/04/2026)
Overall grade included
Ofsted Report · All Reports



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Downside School Inspection Rating and Exam Results

Top Grades Compared With Other Schools

48% Independent Average Downside School UNLOCK GCSE
49% Independent Average Downside School UNLOCK A level

Top grades at GCSE (7-9) and top grades at A level (A*/A)

Downside School Inspection Rating and Exam Results

Progress Compared With All Other Schools

UNLOCK Well Below Average (About 5% of schools in England) Below Average (About 26% of schools in England) Average (About 43% of schools in England) Above Average (About 21% of schools in England) Well Above Average (About 5% of schools in England)
Downside School Historic Exam Results

School Results Over Time

2022 2023 2024 2025 2020 2021 COVID UNLOCK

% of pupils who achieved 3 A levels at AAB or higher
`
Stratton-on-the-Fosse
Radstock
BA3 4RJ
+44 (0)1761 235100
Somerset

School Description

Downside is a forward-thinking co-educational boarding and day school for pupils aged 11-18. Founded in 1606, set in 500 acres of beautiful English countryside and based just 25 minutes from the famous World Heritage City of Bath, we are one of England's oldest and most distinguished Catholic schools. Downside is home to 363 pupils where boarders and day pupils share six Houses, four for boys and two for girls.

Downside School Parent Reviews

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News, Photos and Open Days from Downside School

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Downside School Catchment Area Map

This school is independently managed and its admission criteria may be selective. There is no set catchment area as pupils are admitted from a wide variety of postcodes and, in the case of boarding schools, from outside the UK. Contact the school directly or visit their website for more information on Admissions Policy and Procedures.

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Frequently asked questions

What was Downside School judged in its inspection?

At its 2026 ISI inspection, Downside School was judged good for the quality of academic and other achievements.

How many pupils attend Downside School?

There are 249 pupils attending the school.

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