Frome is a charming Somerset market town with a strong sense of community, rich history, and excellent access to surrounding towns and cities. Located right on the border with Wiltshire, many families consider schools in both Somerset and nearby Wiltshire towns, including Trowbridge, when choosing the best education options. Frome offers a mix of state and independent schooling. The town is relatively unique due to its three-tier system; junior, middle, and senior school options, which differs from the traditional primary/secondary structure used in many parts of Somerset and Wiltshire.
This guide provides an overview of schools in Frome, admissions considerations, and how schooling in the town compares to other Somerset and Wiltshire locations. It is designed for families living in the area as well as those planning a move.
For a broader overview of schooling across the county, see our Somerset schools guide. Due to Frome’s proximity to Wiltshire, you may also find our Wiltshire schools guide helpful.
An overview of schools in Frome
Frome has a smaller network of schools compared with larger Somerset towns, but its schools serve both the town and surrounding villages. Most schools are state-funded, though there are independent schools accessible within a short commute.
Key points:
- A small number of early years and primary schools
- Secondary education available in town, with some families choosing schools in nearby towns
- School choice often influenced by catchment areas and transport links
- No grammar school system; secondary education is comprehensive
Early years and nursery provision in Frome
Frome offers several early years settings for children before statutory school age. Provision varies by age range, session availability, and funding.
Examples include:
- Sunflower Montessori Nursery Frome
- Frome Opportunity Nursery
- YMCA Little Shoots Nursery
- The Rainbow Nursery Frome
- Tall Trees Kindergarten
- Little Crickets Nursery
Parents should check with providers for current availability, funded hours, and age ranges.
Junior schools in Frome
Primary schools serve defined catchment areas, including academies and community schools. Distance and catchment often influence admissions.
Primary schools include:
- Avanti Park School
- Christ Church First School and Nursery
- Hayesdown First School
- St John’s Church of England School
- Trinity First School
- St Louis Catholic Primary School
- Frome Vale Academy
- Springmead Preparatory School – private school near Frome
As with other Somerset primary schools, living within catchment does not guarantee admission if schools are oversubscribed.
Middle schools in Frome
There are several middle schools in Frome, which bridge the gap between primary and secondary school years, typically serving children from age 9 to 13. These include:
- Oakfield Academy
- Selwood Academy
Secondary schools Frome
Frome has several secondary education options, including comprehensive schools in town and nearby towns for specialist or alternative courses.
Secondary schools include:
- Frome College
- Secondary schools in Trowbridge or Bath
For more information, see our guides to schools in Bath and schools in Trowbridge.
Sixth form and post-16 education Frome
Post-16 options include:
- Sixth form at Frome College
- Further education colleges within commuting distance, such as Frome College or colleges in Bath/Wiltshire
- Specialist vocational courses nearby
Catchment areas and admissions in Frome
Catchment areas play an important role in school admissions in Frome, particularly for primary and secondary schools. Living within a school’s catchment does not automatically guarantee a place, especially at popular or oversubscribed schools, so it is important for parents to understand how admissions are determined.
- Catchment areas influence admission but do not guarantee a place
- Distance from the school is important when oversubscribed
- Faith-based schools may apply additional criteria
- Some schools may offer priority to children with siblings already attending the school
- Boundaries may change year to year
Parents should consult individual school websites and Somerset County Council school admissions for up-to-date information.
Private schools near Frome
While Frome itself has limited independent schools, several private and boarding school options are accessible within a short commute.
You may find the following guides useful:
Schools in Frome Somerset: Frequently asked questions
Is Frome a good place for families?
Frome is known for its strong community spirit, historic charm, and family-friendly amenities. The town has parks, leisure facilities, good transport links, and a range of schooling options, making it popular with families moving to Somerset.
Are schools in Frome good?
Frome has several well-regarded schools. Families should review Ofsted inspection reports and visit schools to help with making an informed decision.
Are there good activities for children in Frome?
Yes. Frome has several parks, leisure centres, youth clubs, and family-friendly cultural events, including the annual Frome Festival. There are also local sports clubs, arts workshops, and playgroups for younger children.
Do children have to travel for secondary school in Frome?
Some students may travel to nearby towns such as Trowbridge, Warminster, or Bath, depending on catchment areas and course options.
What are the transport options in Frome?
Frome is well-connected by road and rail. There are direct train links to Bath, Bristol, and Westbury, as well as bus services to surrounding villages. This makes it convenient for families whose children attend schools in Somerset, Bath, or nearby Wiltshire towns.
Are there private schools in Frome?
There are limited independent schools in the town, but private day and boarding schools are accessible within Somerset, Wiltshire, and the nearby city of Bath.
How important are catchment areas in Frome?
Catchment areas play a key role, especially given the limited number of schools in town. Distance is often decisive for oversubscribed schools.
Are there nearby towns with additional schooling options?
Yes. Because Frome sits on the Somerset–Wiltshire border, many families also consider schools in Warminster, Trowbridge, Shepton Mallet, and even Bath for senior, sixth-form, or specialist education.