Winterhill School
Rotherham, S61 2BD · Rotherham · secondary school
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7th of 16 secondary schools in Rotherham we can score. Local and same-phase on purpose: a national table mostly measures who attends.
Narrow the comparison to schools whose pupils have similar backgrounds and it does better still — 6.3/10 against 399 of them, against 3.9/10 nationally. Both figures are results only, without the inspection grade. A lower figure here means a stronger comparison group, not a weaker school.
How this is worked out
| Measure | Percentile | Weight | Adds |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ofsted | 52 | 35% | 1.84 |
| Grade 5+ English & maths 2025/26 | 39.6 · 36 | 30% | 1.09 |
| Progress 8 2023/24 | -0.05 · 46 | 25% | 1.16 |
| Attainment 8 2025/26 | 41.8 · 28 | 10% | 0.27 |
Each measure is read as a position among comparable schools, so a school in the middle of the country scores 5. Full method.
Winterhill School overview
How it's doing
In 2024/25, 36.8% of pupils achieved Grade 5 or above in English and maths. Attainment 8 was 39.3, compared to the national median of 44.6. Progress 8 was -0.05 in 2023/24, indicating pupils did slightly worse than those nationally who started from the same place. Ofsted rated the school Good in May 2023. Narrow the comparison to schools whose pupils have similar backgrounds and it does better still (6.2 out of 10 against similar schools, 3.5 out of 10 against all schools).
Beyond the classroom
Pupils can join Clay, Book, Textiles, Code, Art, Drama, and Craft Clubs, plus a Vocal Group. Sports include Boys and Girls Football, Netball, Rugby, Basketball, and a Fitness Studio. Arts and music activities feature Dance Club and Panto Singing Rehearsals.
Getting in
The published school roll is 941 pupils against a stated capacity of 1,300. These whole-school figures do not establish entry-year vacancies or the likelihood of an offer. Confirm entry-year availability and admissions criteria with the school or local authority.
Worth asking on a visit
How does the school support pupils to close the gap between their Attainment 8 and the national median? What specific strategies are used to improve Progress 8 scores?
What Ofsted said about Winterhill School
Overview
Winterhill School continues to be a good school, maintaining an "inclusive, supportive and ambitious" culture. Leaders have established strong relationships based on shared values, ensuring pupils behave well and show resilience. The curriculum is broad and meets the needs of all pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND).
Strengths
- The school fosters "good relationships" between staff and pupils, with high levels of tolerance and understanding of diversity.
- Teachers possess "excellent subject knowledge" and effectively check pupil understanding, particularly in mathematics and physical education.
- Support for pupils with SEND is a strength, with access to the "same rich and broad curriculum" and detailed support plans.
- Pupils receive "high-quality careers advice," helping them make informed choices about further education and employment.
- Governors are "knowledgeable" and actively challenge and support the headteacher, while staff workload is well managed.
Areas to improve
- Leaders should ensure that work in lessons is "appropriately matched to pupils’ ability," as some chosen tasks are too easy and lack challenge.
- Leaders should promote and expand the offer of enrichment activities to ensure "more pupils have the opportunity to nurture their talents and interests."
Safeguarding
The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, with staff well trained to keep pupils safe and working effectively with external agencies.
Results over time
Attainment 8, the years we hold.
| Year | Attainment 8 |
|---|---|
| 2023/24 | 40.4 |
| 2024/25 | 39.3 |
| 2025/26 | 41.8 |
| England | 44.9 |
Source: DfE Explore Education Statistics. “England” is the median of the 3,682 state schools in England we hold a 2025/26 figure for — a school-level median, not the DfE's pupil-weighted national figure.
Your offer chance
—Based on official applications/offers, distance and catchment where we have it. Bands only — never a percentage.
Sibling, faith, looked-after and other criteria can override distance. Always confirm with the school or local authority.
Next dates
- Secondary application deadline31 Oct 2026
- Secondary National Offer Day1 Mar 2027
- Secondary application deadline31 Oct 2027
- Secondary National Offer Day1 Mar 2028
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