Radstock is a former mining town in Somerset, and families researching schools in Radstock often look both within the town and in neighbouring Midsomer Norton. The two towns effectively function as a shared community, and this is reflected in local schooling arrangements.
Families relocating to Radstock and Midsomer Norton often consider a mix of in-town schools and those in surrounding villages or nearby Bath. Unlike some Somerset towns like Frome that operate alternative structures, education in this area follows the traditional primary and secondary model.
This guide outlines the schools available to families in Radstock and Midsomer Norton, explains how admissions work locally, and highlights additional options within easy travelling distance. Whether you already live in the area or are planning a move, understanding how provision is organised can help with long-term decisions.
For county-wide information, see our broader Somerset schools guide. If you are also exploring education in Bath, our Bath schools guide may also be useful.
The education landscape in Radstock & Midsomer Norton
Radstock itself has a modest number of schools, meaning availability and catchment positioning can significantly influence choice. Many pupils attend schools in neighbouring Midsomer Norton, broadening the realistic options for families.
Key characteristics of schooling in Radstock:
- Limited but established local primary provision
- Secondary education typically shared with Midsomer Norton
- Comprehensive (non-selective) system
- Catchment distance plays a significant role in oversubscribed years
- Good road links expand realistic school choices
Because of the town’s size, families often research options early, particularly for reception and Year 7 entry.
Nursery and early years settings Radstock & Midsomer Norton
Pre-school provision in Radstock includes a mix of private nurseries, pre-schools, and school-based early years classes. Availability varies depending on funded hours, staffing capacity, and age range.
Local providers include:
- Hidden Garden Day Nursery and Pre School
- Sunflowers Day Nursery
- Free Rangers Forest School Nursery
- Moghill Nursery School
- Little Acorns Nursery
- Teddybear Nursery
Parents should confirm session structures, waiting lists, and eligibility for funded childcare directly with providers, as arrangements can change year to year.
Primary schools Radstock
Radstock’s primary schools serve both the town and nearby residential areas. These include church schools and academies, each with their own admissions criteria and catchment boundaries.
Local primary schools include:
- Kimerston Primary School
- St Benedict’s Catholic Primary School
- Hemington Primary School
- St Vigor and St John Church School
- Bishop Henderson CofE Primary School
- Leigh-upon Mendip Primary School
- Stoke St Michael Primary School
As with many smaller towns, the proximity of your home to the school gate can strongly influence admissions outcomes. Faith schools may also apply additional criteria linked to church attendance.
Secondary education for Radstock & Midsomer Norton students
The principal secondary schools serving the area are:
- Norton Hill School (Midsomer Norton)
- Writhlington School (Radstock)
Some families also explore secondary schools in Bath, depending on catchment eligibility, transport arrangements, and curriculum preferences.
The area operates under a comprehensive system, meaning there are no grammar schools requiring selective entrance exams.
Specialists and independent schools Radstock and Midsomer Norton Somerset
There is a small selection of specialist and independent schools in and around Radstock, including:
- Downside School, a private, co-ed day and boarding senior school for ages 11 to 18 located just outside Radstock in Stratton-on-the-Fosse
- Somerset Studio School – a supportive state-funded school for 14 to 19 years specialising in science, technology, mathematics, engineering, education and early years, IT, and creative media
- Fosse Way School – an all-through special needs school for children aged 3-19
For more information on private schools near Radstock, you may find the following guides useful:
Sixth form and post-16 pathways Radstock
After GCSEs, students in Radstock have a number of academic and vocational routes available.
Options include:
- Sixth form at Norton Hill School
- Somerset Studio School
- Downside School
- Bath College for vocational and technical courses
- Apprenticeships and specialist training programmes in the wider Somerset and Bath area
Transport connections into Bath make further education colleges a practical choice for many students.
Admissions and catchment considerations
Because Radstock has a relatively small school network, understanding admissions criteria is especially important.
Points to consider:
- Living within catchment improves priority but does not ensure a place
- Straight-line distance from home to school is commonly used as a tie-breaker
- Faith schools may require supporting documentation
- Oversubscription can vary from year to year
- Sibling priority often applies
Families are encouraged to review Somerset school admissions policies each year and check application deadlines carefully through Somerset Council.
Schools in Radstock and Midsomer Norton: Frequently asked questions
Is Radstock suitable for families with school-age children?
Radstock offers a quieter environment than nearby cities, with access to countryside and a close-knit community feel. Its proximity to Midsomer Norton and Bath increases the range of schooling and extracurricular options available.
Are there strong secondary options locally?
Most students attend Writhlington School in Radstock or Norton Hill School in Midsomer Norton, which serves the wider area. Additional choices are available in Bath depending on admissions eligibility.
Do pupils need to travel far for sixth form?
Not necessarily. Post-16 study is available locally at Norton Hill School, at the Somerset Studio School, with Bath College and other providers accessible by bus.
How competitive are school places in Radstock?
Competition can vary each year, particularly for primary entry. Catchment position and measured distance are often key factors in oversubscribed cohorts.
Are grammar schools available in Radstock?
No. The Radstock area operates within Somerset’s comprehensive, non-selective system.
Is transport manageable for schools outside the town of Radstock?
Yes. Bus routes connect Radstock with Midsomer Norton and Bath, making cross-town schooling a realistic option for many families.