Independent·Built on DfE & Ofsted data·Updated 2026 England · State schools · £7 report
The School Choice Report
School Choice Report logo Every state school near you, rated and ranked
DfE register · Ofsted inspection data

The guides

Choosing a school, without the guesswork.

How Ofsted ratings work, what changed in 2024, how catchments and admissions really decide places, and how to choose well for your child. Written plainly for parents, and honest that a rating is a snapshot, not a promise.

RatingsWhat Ofsted ratings meanThe four grades, what each says, and the areas inspectors judge. 2024 changeThe 2024 Ofsted grading changeWhy single grades were scrapped, and what it means for old ratings. Report cardsOfsted report cards explainedThe new system, its separate judgements, and how to read it. Reading itHow to read an Ofsted reportWhere to find the full report and what the sections really tell you. CatchmentHow school catchment areas workWhy living close is not a guarantee, and how priority is decided. PrimaryChoosing a primary schoolA practical checklist, from shortlist to open morning. SecondaryChoosing a secondary schoolResults, sixth form, catchment competition and open evenings. MovingMoving house for schoolsTiming, catchment risk, and doing the homework before you move. Faith schoolsFaith school admissionsFaith criteria, supplementary forms and how places are ranked. AppealsSchool admissions appealsThe process, the grounds, and your realistic chances.
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