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catchment.school

The Gilberd School Catchment Area

Reviewed by the catchment.school editorial team · Last updated 15 March 2026

The Gilberd School is a academy converter secondary school in Colchester, Essex , serving pupils aged 11–16, with 1574 pupils, and a capacity of 1500 places. The school is currently at or above capacity, making catchment area proximity important for admissions.

11–16

Age range

1,574

Pupils

1,500

Capacity

105%

Fill rate

Outstanding

Ofsted 2019

The Gilberd School Catchment Area Information

As an academy, The Gilberd School sets its own admissions criteria, agreed with Essex. The catchment area boundary is defined in the school's annual admissions policy, which may differ from the LA's general school admissions arrangements.

Currently oversubscribed: 1574 pupils enrolled against a capacity of 1500 places. Living within the catchment area is especially important for this school.

Not getting a place? Learn how to appeal a school place →

The official admissions policy — including the catchment boundary map — is published by Essex before each admissions cycle. Always verify your address with the council before submitting an application, as boundaries can change year to year.

Find Essex catchment area documents →

The Gilberd School — School Information

Full address
Brinkley Lane, Colchester, CO4 9PU
Local authority
Essex
School type
Academy converter
Phase of education
Secondary
Age range
11–16 years
Admissions policy
Non-selective
Free school meals
14.1% of pupils
DfE URN
137926

Other Secondary Schools in Colchester

If The Gilberd School is oversubscribed, these secondary schools in Colchester are the next closest alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions — The Gilberd School

Is The Gilberd School oversubscribed?

Yes — The Gilberd School currently has 1574 pupils enrolled against a capacity of 1500 places. Catchment area proximity is an important admissions criterion when applying.

What is the admissions policy for The Gilberd School?

Admission to The Gilberd School is managed by Essex. When oversubscribed, places go to looked-after children first, then siblings, then catchment area distance. Always verify the current policy with the council before applying.

What age range does The Gilberd School cover?

The Gilberd School is a secondary school in Colchester, Essex, serving pupils aged 11–16. For the latest information, visit the school's website or the DfE Get Information About Schools service.

What is the Ofsted rating for The Gilberd School?

The Gilberd School was rated Outstanding by Ofsted in 2019. Full inspection reports are available at reports.ofsted.gov.uk.