The school's focus at the time was on technical rather than academic ability, with a leaning towards rural and domestic science.

The sports hall was extended in 1997, and its facilities, including a fitness studio, gym, hard courts and grass pitches, are shared with the community.

As of 2010, its catchment area remains the same as it was in the 1950s, although the school's reputation for academic achievement has led to children from north Colchester and Manningtree choosing to go there.

The school's original building is called "A block" and consists of the hall, canteen, 18 classrooms one containing kitchen facilities, music practice rooms and small offices.

It consists of a library, the school's office, 13 classrooms including science labs and ICT suits.

During 2013 work began on the extension of the original dining hall which has made extra room for eating areas.

Harry Clarke, student of 2017, is an English professional footballer who plays as a defender for Premier League club Ipswich Town Luke Woolfenden is an English professional footballer who plays as a defender for Premier League club Ipswich Town In June 2018, 4 Year 10 Students designed mural boards designed to protect the new war memorial built in Capel St Mary to mark the 100th anniversary of the World War One.

The boards have been commended by the current South Suffolk MP, James Cartlidge and were officially removed on 11 November 2018 to reveal the memorial.