St John Fisher is a larger than average-sized secondary school. There are more boys than girls in the school. The proportion of students from minority ethnic groups is average, as is the proportion who speak English as an additional language. Fewer students than in most schools are known to be eligible for the pupil premium (additional funds allocated by the government). The proportion of students who need additional help and are assessed as school action is below average, as is the proportion who are at school action plus or who have a statement of special educational needs. A small number of students in Key Stage 4 undertake courses at a range of other local schools and colleges for one or two half-days per week. A small group of Year 11 students attend work placements on three days per week. The school meets the current floor standards, the minimum standards set by the government for students’ attainment and progress.