Best 3 Secondary schools in New Forest – comparison

Comparison of secondary schools: Hounsdown School (Secondary) in Southampton; The New Forest Academy (Secondary) in Southampton; The Burgate School and Sixth Form (Secondary) in Fordingbridge — covering Ofsted outcomes, size, FSM%, governance, capacity & more.

At a glance

This page compares Hounsdown School, The New Forest Academy and The Burgate School and Sixth Form. They are secondary phase and academy converter and academy sponsor led type located around Southampton, Hampshire and Fordingbridge, Hampshire. The strongest headline Ofsted judgement here is 2 (Hounsdown School), published Jun 2024. The most recent inspection on record is for Hounsdown School (Jun 2024). average roll around ≈ 1,000, combined total ≈ 2,950, typical FSM 20–25%, range 10–15%–40–45%; all within the LIFT SCHOOLS trust.

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Phase / Type
Secondary • Academy converter
Location
Southampton
Hampshire
SO40 9FT
Ofsted
2 30 Jun 2024
Pupils
≈ 1,300 🔒 Exact value
FSM %
15–20% 🔒 Exact %
Trust / LA
Hampshire (850)
Website
www.hounsdown.hants.sch.uk
Telephone
02380862981
Phase / Type
Secondary • Academy sponsor led
Location
Southampton
Hampshire
SO45 2PA
Ofsted
2 12 Nov 2023
Pupils
≈ 550 🔒 Exact value
FSM %
40–45% 🔒 Exact %
Trust / LA
LIFT SCHOOLS
Website
newforestacademy.org
Telephone
02380891192
Phase / Type
Secondary • Academy converter
Location
Fordingbridge
Hampshire
SP6 1EZ
Ofsted
2 16 Jun 2019
Pupils
≈ 1,100 🔒 Exact value
FSM %
10–15% 🔒 Exact %
Trust / LA
Hampshire (850)
Website
www.theburgate.com
Telephone
01425652039
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Map of compared schools

How are these comparisons built?
We line up public school data side-by-side. Ofsted “headline” judgement is shown with the publication date when available. Exact pupil counts and precise FSM% are available to Pro users; everyone sees rounded values.
What if a school has a recent ungraded visit?
Ungraded visits (Section 8) check whether the previous graded judgement still stands, but do not replace it. We keep the latest graded judgement as the headline until a new graded inspection is published.
Why can’t I see exact numbers?
To keep the service sustainable, we show approximate pupils and bucketed FSM% to free users. Upgrade to AllSchools Pro to unlock precise figures and exports.
How should I choose a school?
Start with the most recent graded Ofsted judgement, then check whether it aligns with your child’s needs. Look at distance and travel, typical class sizes (roll vs capacity), and the school’s admissions policy. Speak to the school, arrange a visit, and ask about pastoral support and enrichment.
What should I look for when comparing schools?
Compare headline Ofsted and publication dates for recency; check FSM% and local context; scan capacity utilisation (under, near, or over capacity); and review trust/local authority for governance. If available, read the official Ofsted report for curriculum and safeguarding detail.
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