Best Schools Near City Reach: Primary, Secondary & Independent Options
Choosing the right school is one of the most important decisions for families, and Cambridge offers a diverse range of excellent options. Whether you are looking for nearby primary schools for younger children, secondary schools for teenagers, or independent schools with personalised learning, the Fanshawe Road area provides convenient access to quality education. This guide highlights some of the best local schools, helping parents navigate the options and find the right fit for their child’s needs and development.
Primary and Junior Schools
Ridgefield Primary School
Ofsted: Good
Ridgefield Primary School, located on Radegund Road in Cambridge, is a welcoming, mixed primary school for children aged 4 to 11, with a nursery for younger pupils. Known for its family‑centred atmosphere, the school emphasizes individual support, academic growth, and social development.
Morley Memorial Primary School
Ofsted: Good
Morley Memorial Primary School is a mixed community primary school in Cambridge for children aged 4–11. The school prides itself on being inclusive and welcoming, with a commitment to “making learning truly irresistible.” With around 380–400 pupils currently enrolled, it reflects a diverse school community.
Queen Edith Primary School
Ofsted: Good
Queens' Federation, comprising Queen Edith and Queen Emma Primary Schools in Cambridge, offers a welcoming and inclusive environment for children aged 4–11. The schools focus on celebrating each child’s strengths, fostering personal growth, and promoting respect and a love of learning. Under a shared leadership team, the Federation provides a supportive and nurturing community for students and families.
Secondary Schools
Coleridge Community College
Ofsted: Good
Coleridge Community College is a mixed secondary academy for students aged 11–16. The school is praised for its strong curriculum, academic support, and inclusive environment. Coleridge also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, helping students develop confidence and skills beyond the classroom.
Parkside Community College
Ofsted: Outstanding
Parkside Community College, in central Cambridge, is a mixed secondary school for students aged 11–19. It provides a broad curriculum and a supportive environment, helping students achieve academically while developing skills and confidence for life beyond school.
The Netherhall School
Ofsted: Good
The Netherhall School, in Cambridge, is a co‑educational secondary school for students aged 11–18. It offers a supportive and inclusive environment, a broad curriculum, and a range of extracurricular opportunities to help students develop academically and personally.
Independent Schools
Sancton Wood School
Sancton Wood School is an independent co‑educational day school in Cambridge, educating children from nursery to age 16. It offers small class sizes, a broad curriculum, and a wide range of enrichment activities to support both academic and personal development.
St Andrew's College, Cambridge
St Andrew's College Cambridge is an independent day and boarding school for students aged 15–22. It offers small classes, personalised support for GCSEs, A‑Levels, and university preparation, and a welcoming boarding environment alongside a strong academic programme.
In conclusion, Cambridge offers a wide range of excellent schooling options to suit every family’s needs. From welcoming primary schools like Ridgefield and Morley Memorial, to strong secondary options such as Coleridge, Parkside, and Netherhall, there are schools nearby that provide supportive environments and a broad curriculum. For families considering independent education, Sancton Wood and St Andrew’s College offer personalised learning and enrichment opportunities. Whatever your priorities, be it proximity, academic excellence, or a nurturing community, the Fanshawe Road area provides access to quality education at every stage.
