Sir James Smith’s Community School is a smaller-than-average secondary school. Most pupils are from White British backgrounds. A very small proportion of pupils are from ethnic minority backgrounds and a small number speak English as an additional language. The proportion of disadvantaged pupils eligible for the pupil premium funding is slightly above average. This is additional government funding to support pupils known to be eligible for free school meals and those who are in the care of the local authority. The proportion of pupils who have special educational needs or disability is well above average. An average proportion has a statement of special educational needs or an education, health and care plan. The school met the current government floor standards in 2015. A small number of pupils are currently educated off-site at Acorn Academy Cornwall.