The Barlow RC High School and Specialist Science College

URN: 105581 • Manchester M20 6BX

Overview

Name
The Barlow RC High School and Specialist Science College
URN
105581
Type
Voluntary aided school
Phase
Secondary
Status
Open
Gender
Mixed
Religious
Roman Catholic
Admissions
Non-selective
Trust
Private
No
Ofsted rating
Good
Ranking score
58.8 / 100
School thumbnail

Leadership & Contact

Headteacher
Claire Wallace (since 2025) , Headteacher
Telephone
01614458053
Website
Visit
Address
Parrs Wood Road, Manchester M20 6BX

Summary

The Barlow RC High School is a mixed voluntary aided secondary school located in East Didsbury, Manchester, serving 918 pupils with a capacity of 900. Established in 1985, the school operates within the Catholic educational framework and is part of the Salford diocesan family of schools. The Barlow prides itself on being a diverse and inclusive community, welcoming students of all faiths and backgrounds.

The school offers a broad and balanced curriculum designed to foster academic excellence and personal development. With a strong emphasis on high-quality teaching, The Barlow aims to nurture each pupil's talents and abilities, encouraging them to achieve their full potential. The school was rated 'Good' by Ofsted in June 2024 and received an 'Outstanding' judgement in all areas during its recent diocesan inspection in May 2025.

The Barlow is committed to providing a supportive environment where students feel safe, valued, and encouraged to participate in co-curricular activities. The school promotes core values of service, prayer, achievement, and respect, fostering a strong sense of community and encouraging pupils to contribute positively to society.

Key details

LA
Manchester
Age range
11 - 16
Boarders
No boarders
Sixth form
Does not have a sixth form
Trust
Capacity
900
Pupils
918
Boys
481
Girls
437
FSM %
38.80
Open date
Close date
Last Ofsted
2024-06-12
Next inspection
Data snapshot
2025-07-14
County

Trends

DatePupilsBoysGirlsCapacityFSM%
2025-07-14 918 481 437 900 38.80
2024-09-11 898 490 408 900 38.10
2023-09-11 876 448 428 900 35.60
2022-09-11 876 448 428 900 35.60
2021-09-11 866 439 427 900 32.20
2020-09-11 870 440 430 900 26.60

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