Peterborough School Catchment Areas and Top Schools

Why school catchments matter in Peterborough

Peterborough is one of England’s most competitive areas for school placements, particularly for families seeking high-performing primary and secondary schools. Understanding catchment areas in the city is essential for parents planning a move, renting, or considering property investment. A well-chosen location can significantly increase your child’s chance of attending a preferred school and may also affect property values.

Families often make housing decisions around school catchments. The combination of school quality, proximity, and transport links makes catchment knowledge vital. Even within Peterborough, differences of a few streets can determine eligibility for your desired school.

How do school catchment areas work in Peterborough?

Catchment areas are set by Peterborough City Council and define the geographic zone for each school. Children living within a school’s catchment area usually receive priority in admissions, especially when the school is oversubscribed. While living in catchment improves your chances, it is not a guarantee, so understanding all factors is key.

Are school catchment areas in Peterborough measured as the crow flies?

Most Peterborough schools calculate distance “as the crow flies”, which is a straight-line measurement from your home to the school. Some schools may have additional criteria, such as sibling priority, faith affiliation, or special educational needs. Always check the latest admissions policy for the most accurate guidance.

Popular postcodes for good school access

Certain Peterborough postcodes are highly sought after due to access to well-regarded schools. Popular areas include:

• PE1 – Central Peterborough, close to primary and secondary schools, ideal for families who want city amenities.
• PE2 – Covers Hampton and Stanground, giving access to Hampton College and Nene Park Academy.
• PE3 – Areas like Bretton and Netherton, near Arthur Mellows Village College and other strong options.
• PE4 – Walton and surrounding areas, known for stable communities and good primary schools.
• PE7 – Yaxley and Hampton Vale, newer housing with convenient school access.

Top secondary schools in Peterborough

Secondary schools in Peterborough have varied admissions criteria. The most sought-after schools are:

• The King’s School – Recognised for academic excellence and consistently strong GCSE results.
• Arthur Mellows Village College – Serves northern Peterborough and nearby villages. Noted for STEM programmes and extracurriculars.
• Hampton College – An all-through school (primary and secondary) with modern facilities, popular with families in PE2 and PE7.
• Nene Park Academy – Offers a broad curriculum with a reputation for community engagement and supportive pastoral care.
• Thomas Deacon Academy – One of the city’s largest schools, known for innovative learning approaches and extensive extracurricular opportunities.

Well-regarded primary schools in Peterborough

Primary school selection is just as competitive. Families often focus on these highly regarded options:

• St John’s Church School – Community-focused with strong Ofsted ratings and pastoral care.
• William Law CE Primary School – Located in Werrington, praised for teaching standards and nurturing environment.
• Hampton Hargate Primary School – Excellent Ofsted ratings, popular with families in Hampton Vale.
• Heritage Park Primary School – Known for high academic performance and supportive teaching.
• Gladstone Primary School – Offers a strong foundation for secondary transition, particularly in PE1.

How to check your Peterborough school catchment area

Peterborough City Council provides a postcode-based tool for determining which schools are in catchment. You can also review individual school websites to confirm admissions criteria. Early research is recommended, as oversubscription is common in popular schools.

Can my child go to a Peterborough school outside our catchment?

Yes. Parents may apply for schools outside their catchment area. However, oversubscribed schools will usually give priority to children living in-catchment, followed by other criteria such as siblings at the school or faith affiliation. Planning ahead is essential to improve your child’s chances.

Can school catchment areas change in Peterborough?

Yes. Catchment boundaries can change due to population shifts or new school openings. Changes can affect both primary and secondary schools, so families should monitor council updates annually. A property within catchment one year may not be the next.

Impact of catchment areas on property and community

Living in a strong school catchment often affects property prices and demand. In Peterborough, postcodes PE2 and PE3 are particularly popular with families prioritising education. Community amenities, transport links, and school quality are all intertwined factors influencing the property market.

Peterborough moving tips for families

• Check the latest admissions policy before committing to a property.
• Consider both primary and secondary options when moving with children of different ages.
• Factor in commute, local amenities, and community safety alongside school access.
• Have backup school options, particularly for oversubscribed areas.
• Engage early with local schools to understand enrolment procedures.

Frequently Asked Questions

What school catchment am I in for Peterborough?

Use the Peterborough City Council school admissions tool and enter your postcode to see your nearest schools and catchment areas.

Which secondary school catchment am I in?

Secondary catchments vary by postcode. PE3 is generally in catchment for Arthur Mellows Village College; PE2 is in catchment for Hampton College or Nene Park Academy. Always check the council’s published boundaries.

Are there grammar schools without a catchment in Peterborough?

Peterborough does not have selective grammar schools. Some independent schools may operate without strict catchments, but they are fee-paying and outside the state system.

How big is a school catchment area in Peterborough?

Catchment sizes vary by school, ranging from just a few streets in the city centre to several miles in suburban areas. The council publishes maps to help parents check boundaries.

Can my child attend a school outside our catchment?

Yes, but priority is given to children within catchment. Oversubscribed schools consider sibling priority, distance, and other criteria.

How to find school catchment area by postcode?

Peterborough City Council’s online tools allow postcode entry to display nearby schools and their catchment boundaries. Check each school’s admissions policy for precise eligibility.