Top 10 Best Schools in Stockport

Education in Stockport

Stockport consistently ranks among the best-performing local authority areas in the North West for education. Its mix of high-achieving state comprehensives, faith schools and historic independent schools gives families genuine choice. For many parents, school quality is one of the main reasons for moving to areas such as Bramhall, Cheadle Hulme, Marple and Heaton Mersey.

Choosing a school involves more than league tables. Ethos, pastoral care, extracurricular opportunities and travel time all matter. Below are ten of the most highly regarded secondary schools in Stockport. As inspection outcomes and admissions criteria change over time, always check the latest information directly with each school.

1. Stockport Grammar School

Stockport Grammar School is one of the oldest schools in England, founded in 1487. This independent, co-educational school is renowned for outstanding academic results and a broad co-curricular programme spanning music, drama, sport and the Duke of Edinburgh's Award. Its junior school provides a continuous pathway from early years through to sixth form.

2. Cheadle Hulme School

Cheadle Hulme School is a leading independent co-educational day school set in extensive grounds. It is known for excellent examination results, strong university destinations and a warm, inclusive community. Facilities include a swimming pool, sports fields and modern science and performing arts spaces.

3. Bramhall High School

Bramhall High School is a popular state comprehensive with a reputation for high expectations and strong progress. It offers a broad curriculum, a supportive pastoral system and a wide range of extracurricular activities. Its community-focused ethos makes it a first choice for many families in Bramhall and surrounding areas.

4. Cheadle Hulme High School

Cheadle Hulme High School is a large and successful comprehensive with a sixth form. It is known for strong academic outcomes, excellent arts provision and a broad range of enrichment opportunities. Students benefit from modern facilities and a culture that values both achievement and personal development.

5. Laurus Cheadle Hulme

Laurus Cheadle Hulme, part of the Laurus Trust, opened relatively recently and quickly became one of the most sought-after schools in the borough. It is known for ambitious academic standards, structured routines and a focus on character. Its rapid success has made it heavily oversubscribed.

6. Hazel Grove High School

Hazel Grove High School serves a large community in the south-east of Stockport. It places strong emphasis on inclusion, aspiration and strong teaching. A wide range of clubs, sports teams and trips helps students develop confidence and skills beyond the classroom.

7. Priestnall School

Priestnall School in Heaton Mersey is a well-regarded comprehensive known for strong academic results and a caring environment. It has a long tradition of excellence in sport, music and the creative arts. Parents frequently praise its approachable staff and positive behaviour culture.

8. Marple Hall School

Marple Hall School is one of the largest secondary schools in Stockport, serving Marple and surrounding villages. It offers a broad curriculum with strong performing arts and sport. Its size enables a wide range of subject options and specialist facilities.

9. St James' Catholic High School

St James' Catholic High School in Cheadle Hulme is a high-achieving faith school with a strong sense of community. Its Catholic ethos underpins a focus on respect, service and personal growth. Academic outcomes are consistently strong, and the school offers excellent pastoral support.

10. Harrytown Catholic High School

Harrytown Catholic High School in Romiley is a smaller faith school known for its nurturing environment and strong values. It combines academic ambition with an emphasis on wellbeing and community service. Families value its close-knit atmosphere where students are well known by staff.

How to Choose a School in Stockport

Start by reviewing the latest inspection reports and performance data, but also visit schools at open evenings to get a feel for the atmosphere. Consider admissions criteria carefully, as catchment areas and faith requirements can be decisive for oversubscribed schools. Think about your child's interests, travel arrangements and whether a sixth form on site matters to you.

State vs Independent Schools

Stockport's state schools perform strongly, offering excellent outcomes without fees. Independent schools such as Stockport Grammar and Cheadle Hulme School offer smaller classes, extensive facilities and entrance examinations, and some provide bursaries for families on lower incomes. Both routes can lead to excellent university and career prospects.

Trends in Stockport Education

Demand for secondary places has risen as families move into the borough, leading to new schools and expansions. Multi-academy trusts play an increasing role, and schools are investing in digital learning, mental health support and careers education. Strong partnerships with local colleges and universities help students plan their next steps.

Final Thoughts

Stockport offers some of the best schooling options in Greater Manchester. Whether you prefer a historic independent school, a high-performing comprehensive or a faith-based community, the schools above provide excellent foundations for young people to thrive.