The Palmer Catholic Academy
98%
Capacity
1,155
Pupils
2.1x
Demand
About The Palmer Catholic Academy
The Palmer Catholic Academy is a state-funded Roman Catholic secondary school serving the Redbridge community, welcoming children from age 11 to 18. The school has 1,155 pupils on roll and is near full capacity (98% of 1,174 places).
Ofsted has rated The Palmer Catholic Academy "Good", the school is led by headteacher Paul Downey, it falls under Redbridge local authority.
In terms of academic performance, its Progress 8 score of +0.49 is above the national average. Additionally, Attainment 8 is solid at 50.4. Additionally, sixth form students achieve an average A-Level grade of C. Additionally, placing it in the top 25% nationally. Additionally, ranked 523rd out of 3,141 schools in England. Additionally, 10th out of 16 in Redbridge.
The Palmer Catholic Academy is a popular choice with families — it received 334 applications for 161 places, making it 2.1x oversubscribed. Of these, 77 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 Palmer Catholic Academy include Sports Hall, Art Studios, Playing Fields, Theatre, Science Labs, Swimming Pool, Sixth Form Centre, Music Rooms, Chapel.
Beyond the classroom, pupils can take part in sports such as Football, Cricket, Rounders, Basketball and 2 more, as well as clubs including Drama, Debate, Model UN, Book Club and 4 more.
The proportion of pupils eligible for free school meals is 26.8%, which is above the national average for secondary schools in England.
For families exploring secondary schools in Redbridge, The Palmer Catholic Academy is one of the options available in the London 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 18 years |
| Gender | Mixed |
| Religious Character | Roman Catholic |
| Address | Aldborough Road South, Ilford, Redbridge, IG3 8EU |
| Headteacher | Paul Downey |
| Local Authority | Redbridge |
| Number of Pupils | 1,155 |
| Free School Meals (FSM) | 26.8% |
| School Capacity | 1,155 / 1,174 (98% full) |
| Sixth Form | Yes |
Ofsted Inspection Breakdown
26 Jan 2022Overall Effectiveness
Good
Latest inspection (26 Jan 2022): School remains Good
Source: Ofsted, 7 Nov 2012. Ratings: 1=Outstanding, 2=Good, 3=Requires Improvement, 4=Inadequate.
League Table Position
Based on Progress 8 (+0.49)
523rd of 3,141
Nationally
171st of 487
In London
10th of 16
In Redbridge
Source: Classpot analysis of DfE Progress 8 data
GCSE Results
2023/24Progress 8 Score
Students make more progress than similar students nationally
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.
A-Level Results
2023/24Average Points per Entry
Value Added Score
Best 3 A-Levels (Average)
'21/22
34.0
'22/23
28.9
'23/24
31.1
Source: Department for Education 16-18 Performance Tables, 2023/24. Value Added measures progress compared to students with similar GCSE results.
SEND Support
Source: Department for Education, 2024/25. Support availability based on current student population.
Facilities
9Facilities may vary. Contact the school for current availability.
Extracurriculars
14Sports
Clubs & Activities
Activities may vary by term. Contact the school for current offerings.
Admissions
2025/26Oversubscribed161
334
Good Demand
Popular school with more applications than places
77 families put this school as their 1st choice (23% of all applications)
Source: Department for Education, 2025/26. Data reflects national offer day applications and offers.
Frequently Asked Questions About The Palmer Catholic Academy
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
Aldborough Road South, Ilford
Redbridge, IG3 8EU
Journey to School
Journey times are estimates based on current conditions. Actual times may vary.
Opening Hours
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