University Collegiate School
72%
Capacity
604
Pupils
1.7x
Demand
About University Collegiate School
University Collegiate School is a state-funded None secondary school serving the Bolton community, welcoming children from age 11 to 19. The school has 604 pupils on roll, operating at 72% capacity.
Ofsted has rated University Collegiate School "Good", the school is led by headteacher Ian Barry, it falls under Bolton local authority.
In terms of academic performance, its Progress 8 score of -0.98 is well below the national average. Additionally, Attainment 8 is developing at 35.2. Additionally, sixth form students achieve an average A-Level grade of D+. Additionally, ranked 3007th out of 3,141 schools in England. Additionally, 19th out of 19 in Bolton.
University Collegiate School is a popular choice with families — it received 200 applications for 119 places, making it 1.7x oversubscribed. Of these, 67 were first-preference applications.
University Collegiate School parent feedback on Ofsted Parent View is positive, with 83% recommending the school (36 responses).
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 University Collegiate School include Swimming Pool, Sixth Form Centre, Art Studios, Sports Hall, Library, Tennis Courts, Dining Hall.
Beyond the classroom, pupils can take part in sports such as Basketball, Swimming, Rugby, Badminton and 2 more, as well as clubs including Gardening, Art Club, Drama, Debate and 4 more.
The proportion of pupils eligible for free school meals is 47.0%, which is well above the national average for secondary schools in England.
For families exploring secondary schools in Bolton, University Collegiate School 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 19 years |
| Gender | Mixed |
| Religious Character | None |
| Address | 85 Deane Road, Bolton, Bolton, BL3 5AG |
| Headteacher | Ian Barry |
| Local Authority | Bolton |
| Number of Pupils | 604 |
| Free School Meals (FSM) | 47.0% |
| School Capacity | 604 / 840 (72% full) |
| Sixth Form | Yes |
Ofsted Inspection Breakdown
24 Sept 2024Quality of Education
Good
Since Sep 2024, Ofsted no longer assigns a single overall grade
Additional Provisions
Source: Ofsted, 10 Nov 2024. Ratings: 1=Outstanding, 2=Good, 3=Requires Improvement, 4=Inadequate.
League Table Position
Based on Progress 8 (-0.98)
3007th of 3,141
Nationally
413th of 445
In North West
19th of 19
In Bolton
Source: Classpot analysis of DfE Progress 8 data
GCSE Results
2023/24Progress 8 Score
Students make significantly less 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)
'22/23
23.1
'23/24
23.1
Source: Department for Education 16-18 Performance Tables, 2023/24. Value Added measures progress compared to students with similar GCSE results.
Ofsted Parent View
36 responsesWould Recommend This School
Source: Ofsted Parent View (GOV.UK statistical data), Sep – Sep 2025
SEND Support
Source: Department for Education, 2024/25. Support availability based on current student population.
Facilities
7Facilities may vary. Contact the school for current availability.
Extracurriculars
14Sports
Clubs & Activities
Activities may vary by term. Contact the school for current offerings.
Admissions
2025/26Oversubscribed119
200
Good Demand
Popular school with more applications than places
67 families put this school as their 1st choice (34% of all applications)
Source: Department for Education, 2025/26. Data reflects national offer day applications and offers.
Frequently Asked Questions About University Collegiate School
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
85 Deane Road, Bolton
Bolton, BL3 5AG
Journey to School
Journey times are estimates based on current conditions. Actual times may vary.
Opening Hours
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