Named after the antiquarian Ralph Thoresby, the comprehensive school accommodates about 1000 pupils aged between 11 and 18.

The original Ralph Thoresby High School was built on Farrar Lane in 1973 and opened for pupils in 1974, as part of the overall development of Holt Park.

The school was situated alongside, and saw use of the facilities of Holt Park Leisure Centre; contained a public library, and a large (228 seat) raked auditorium “community” theatre.

The inspectors rated the school Grade 2 (Good) in all areas and for overall effectiveness.

At Key Stage 4, 52% of pupils achieved at least 5 grades A*-C including English and Maths (an increase of 5 percentage points since 2012); 87% of students achieved at least 5 A*-C grades in subjects (an increase of 20 percentage points since 2012).