The Barlow RC High School and Specialist Science College
102%
Capacity
918
Pupils
2.7x
Demand
About The Barlow RC High School and Specialist Science College
The Barlow RC High School and Specialist Science College is a state-funded Roman Catholic secondary school serving the Manchester community, welcoming children from age 11 to 16. The school has 918 pupils on roll and is near full capacity (102% of 900 places).
Ofsted has rated The Barlow RC High School and Specialist Science College "Good", the school is led by headteacher Claire Wallace, it falls under Manchester local authority.
In terms of academic performance, its Progress 8 score of +0.12 is above the national average. Additionally, Attainment 8 is solid at 50.6. Additionally, ranked 1265th out of 3,141 schools in England. Additionally, 19th out of 31 in Manchester.
The Barlow RC High School and Specialist Science College is a popular choice with families — it received 462 applications for 170 places, making it 2.7x oversubscribed. Of these, 120 were first-preference applications.
For children with special educational needs, the school offers support across 9 areas, including Specific Learning Difficulty (Dyslexia), Moderate Learning Difficulty, Social, Emotional & Mental Health and 6 more. Parents should contact the school's SENCO for specific details about provision.
On-site facilities at The Barlow RC High School and Specialist Science College include Science Labs, Sports Hall, ICT Suite, Playing Fields, Gymnasium, Library, Astro Turf, Art Studios, Tennis Courts, Dining Hall, Music Rooms, Theatre, Chapel.
Beyond the classroom, pupils can take part in sports such as Dance, Tennis, Netball, Gymnastics and 2 more, as well as clubs including Drama, Choir, Model UN, Film Club and 1 more.
The proportion of pupils eligible for free school meals is 38.8%, which is well above the national average for secondary schools in England.
For families exploring secondary schools in Manchester, The Barlow RC High School and Specialist Science College is one of the options available in the North West region. Use Classpot to compare it side-by-side with nearby alternatives and find the best fit for your child.
Key Details
| School Type | Secondary (State) |
| Age Range | 11 to 16 years |
| Gender | Mixed |
| Religious Character | Roman Catholic |
| Address | Parrs Wood Road, Manchester, Manchester, M20 6BX |
| Headteacher | Claire Wallace |
| Local Authority | Manchester |
| Number of Pupils | 918 |
| Free School Meals (FSM) | 38.8% |
| School Capacity | 918 / 900 (102% full) |
Ofsted Inspection Breakdown
12 Jun 2024Overall Effectiveness
Good
Latest inspection (12 Jun 2024): School remains Good
Source: Ofsted, 8 Jul 2019. Ratings: 1=Outstanding, 2=Good, 3=Requires Improvement, 4=Inadequate.
League Table Position
Based on Progress 8 (+0.12)
1265th of 3,141
Nationally
132nd of 445
In North West
19th of 31
In Manchester
Source: Classpot analysis of DfE Progress 8 data
GCSE Results
2023/24Progress 8 Score
Students make similar progress to students nationally with the same starting point
Attainment 8 (vs national avg)
Students achieve significantly higher grades than the national average
Source: Department for Education, 2023/24. Progress 8 compares to students with similar Key Stage 2 results.
SEND Support
Resourced ProvisionSource: Department for Education, 2024/25. Support availability based on current student population.
Facilities
13Facilities may vary. Contact the school for current availability.
Extracurriculars
11Sports
Clubs & Activities
Activities may vary by term. Contact the school for current offerings.
Admissions
2025/26Oversubscribed170
462
Good Demand
Popular school with more applications than places
120 families put this school as their 1st choice (26% of all applications)
Source: Department for Education, 2025/26. Data reflects national offer day applications and offers.
Frequently Asked Questions About The Barlow RC High School and Specialist Science College
Helpful Guides for Parents
Ofsted Ratings Explained
Understand the 4 Ofsted ratings and what they mean
Understanding Progress 8
Learn how Progress 8 measures pupil progress from primary to GCSE
SEN & EHCP: A Parent's Guide
Understanding SEN support, EHC Plans and your legal rights
Understanding School Catchment Areas
How admission distances work and tips for maximising your choices
Contact Information
Parrs Wood Road, Manchester
Manchester, M20 6BX
Journey to School
Journey times are estimates based on current conditions. Actual times may vary.
Opening Hours
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