How to compare schools in England

Most families shortlist open schools of the right phase (primary, secondary or other) within a realistic travel distance. UKSchoolSearch lets you search by postcode, town or “near me”, then add schools to a compare shortlist.

Compare up to four schools at once. A shareable link keeps the same set of URNs so you can revisit or send the comparison to someone else.

Ofsted headlines summarise the latest inspection framework available for that school. They are not a league table and frameworks change over time.

For secondary schools, Attainment 8 and Progress 8 are the core DfE Key Stage 4 measures. For primary schools, look at the percentage of pupils meeting the expected standard in reading, writing and maths (RWM).

Overall and persistent absence rates come from DfE pupil absence statistics. Lower absence is generally better, but context (phase, special provision) matters.

Published statistics do not show catchment likelihood, teaching style, or how your child would experience the school. Use the official school website, Ofsted report, and open days alongside any comparison table.