school bradford on avon Wiltshire

Schools in Bradford on Avon Wiltshire

Bradford on Avon is a picturesque Wiltshire market town known for its historic architecture, strong community spirit, and proximity to the city of Bath, including its direct train links.

This guide provides an overview of schools in Bradford on Avon, including primary and secondary options, admissions considerations, and how schooling in the town compares to other Wiltshire locations and nearby cities like Bath. It is designed for families already living in the area as well as those planning a move.

For a broader overview of schooling across the county, see our guide to schools in Wiltshire.

An overview of schools in Bradford on Avon

Bradford on Avon has a smaller school network than larger towns like Chippenham or Melksham, but its schools serve both the town and surrounding villages. Most schools are state-funded and follow Wiltshire Council admissions policies, with some operating as academies.

Key characteristics include:

  • A small number of early years and primary schools
  • A single secondary school, with other options in nearby towns, including Trowbridge or Bath
  • Close links with surrounding villages
  • School choice influenced by catchment and transport availability

As with the rest of Wiltshire, Bradford on Avon does not operate a grammar school system, and secondary education is comprehensive.

Early years and nursery provision in Bradford on Avon

The town has several early years settings, including nurseries and pre-schools, supporting children before statutory school age. Provision varies in terms of age range, session availability, and funding options.

Early years settings in Bradford on Avon include:

  • Bradford on Avon Pre-School – Offers early years education for children from two to five years old.
  • Leigh Cottage Childcare – A local nursery providing early years education for children from 6 months to 5 years.
  • Little Munchkin Patch Childcare – Offers flexible childcare and early learning for children aged 2–5 years.
  • Little Stars Nursery – A private nursery providing care and education for children aged 12 weeks to five years.
  • St Margaret’s Nursery – Linked to St Margaret’s Primary, offering early years provision for local families.
  • Tiddlywinks Nursery – Provides early years education and care for children from 6 months to 5 years, focusing on developmental activities.
  • Westview Day Nursery – A private nursery serving children from 3 months to 5 years, with a mix of full-day and part-time sessions.

Families should check directly with individual providers for current availability, funded hours, and age ranges.

Primary schools in Bradford on Avon

Primary schools in Bradford on Avon typically serve defined catchment areas. They include community schools and academies, and distance from the school often influences admissions.

Primary schools in Bradford on Avon include:

  • Bradford on Avon Primary Academy – An academy school serving the town and surrounding villages.
  • Christchurch Primary School – A community primary school providing education for children from early years through Year 6.
  • St Laurence Church of England Primary School – A faith-based school serving central Bradford on Avon.
  • St Margaret’s Primary School – A primary school offering education for children from early years to Year 6.
  • St Mary’s Catholic Primary School – A faith-based school serving the local Catholic community.
  • Westwood Primary School – A primary school serving the Westwood area of Bradford on Avon, with a focus on community-based education.

As with all Wiltshire primary schools, living within a catchment area does not guarantee a place if schools are oversubscribed.

Secondary schools serving Bradford on Avon

Bradford on Avon’s secondary school is St. Laurence School. Some students may also travel to nearby towns depending on catchment boundaries, course availability, or personal preference.

Secondary schools serving Bradford on Avon include:

  • St. Laurence School – A comprehensive secondary school with sixth-form provision, serving Bradford on Avon and nearby villages. Offers a wide range of academic and vocational courses and follows Wiltshire Council admissions policies.
  • Secondary schools in Trowbridge – Options for families seeking alternative state school provision within reasonable commuting distance.
  • Secondary schools in Bath – Some families choose schools in Bath depending on catchment areas, admissions, and transport availability.

For more information on secondary schools near Bradford on Avon check out our guide to schools in Bath and guide to schools in Trowbridge.

Sixth form and post-16 education near Bradford on Avon

Post-16 options for pupils living in Bradford on Avon generally attend St. Laurence School, or  travel to nearby towns or cities. Options may include:

  • Sixth form at St. Laurence School in Bradford on Avon
  • Sixth form provision attached to secondary schools in Trowbridge or Bath
  • Further education colleges within commuting distance
  • Specialist academic or vocational courses in nearby towns

Check our sixth-form options in Bath guide, covering colleges and school sixth forms in the area in both the state and private sector.

Catchment areas and admissions in Bradford on Avon

Admissions follow Wiltshire Council policies, though individual schools set their own criteria.

Key points for parents:

  • Catchment areas influence admissions but do not guarantee places
  • Distance from the school often determines allocation when oversubscribed
  • Faith-based schools may apply additional criteria
  • Catchment boundaries can change year to year

Parents should always consult the most up-to-date information provided by Wiltshire Council and individual schools.

Private schools near Bradford on Avon

While Bradford on Avon does not have any independent schools, there are several private school options within easy reach, including prep, junior, and senior schools, including both day and boarding. Check out our private school guides:

How Bradford on Avon fits into schooling in Wiltshire

Bradford on Avon is often compared with nearby towns such as Trowbridge, Corsham, and Chippenham when families decide where to live.

You may also find these location-specific guides useful:

Each area offers a different mix of school choice, catchment size, and community environment.

Schools in Bradford on Avon: Frequently asked questions

Are schools in Bradford on Avon good?

Bradford on Avon has a small number of well-regarded schools, with quality varying by school and year group. Families are encouraged to review Ofsted inspection reports and visit schools.

Do children have to travel for secondary school in Bradford on Avon?

Yes, many secondary-age pupils travel to Trowbridge, Bath, or other nearby towns, depending on catchment areas. Bradford on Avon has good travel options, including direct trains and buses to Trowbridge and Bath.

Are there private schools in Bradford on Avon?

There are no large independent schools in the town itself, though several private schools are accessible within reasonable travelling distance.

How important are catchment areas in Bradford on Avon?

Catchment areas play an important role, especially given the limited number of schools. Distance from the school is often a key factor in admissions.