Barnes Farm Primary School
Chelmsford, CM2 6QH · Essex · primary school
Check the area around this school
266th of 391 primary schools in Essex we can score, 444 in total — the rest without enough published data. Local and same-phase on purpose: a national table mostly measures who attends.
Narrow the comparison to the 4,013 schools whose pupils have similar backgrounds — a tougher field — and it places 2.9/10 among them, against 3.7/10 nationally. Both figures are results only, without the inspection grade. A lower figure here means a stronger comparison group, not a weaker school.
How this is worked out
| Measure | Percentile | Weight | Adds |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expected standard (RWM) 2024/25 | 50.0 · 19 | 40% | 0.76 |
| Ofsted | 52 | 35% | 1.82 |
| Higher standard (RWM) 2024/25 | 10.0 · 66 | 25% | 1.65 |
Each measure is read as a position among comparable schools, so a school in the middle of the country scores 5. Full method.
Barnes Farm Primary School overview
How it's doing
In 2024/25, 50.0% of pupils reached the expected standard in reading, writing, and maths, compared to the national median of 64%. A higher 10.0% achieved the higher standard, against a national median of 7%. Ofsted rated the school Good in 2022. Narrow the comparison to the schools whose pupils have similar backgrounds — a tougher field — and it places 2.9 out of 10 among them, against 3.7 out of 10 nationally.
Getting in
The published school roll is 539 pupils against a stated capacity of 630. These whole-school figures do not establish entry-year vacancies or the likelihood of an offer. Confirm entry-year availability and admissions criteria with the school or local authority.
Worth asking on a visit
How does the school support pupils to close the gap between the current 50.0% expected standard and the national median of 64%? What specific steps are being taken to maintain the Good Ofsted rating following the 2022 inspection?
What Ofsted said about Barnes Farm Primary School
Overview
Barnes Farm Infant School continues to be a good school, characterised by "kind and caring" relationships and a welcoming atmosphere where pupils feel safe. Leaders have established a "well-planned curriculum" with clear links between Reception and Year 1, ensuring pupils are "well prepared" as they progress through the school.
Strengths
- Pupils are "resilient, successful learners" who understand values such as teamwork and perseverance, supported by consistent routines and positive behaviour rewards.
- Teachers "know the small steps of learning" and provide immediate extra help, including daily ‘maths meetings’ that help pupils secure their understanding.
- Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities are "well supported" by skilful adults, with detailed plans and external professional advice put in place quickly.
- The new reading curriculum allows children to learn phonics from the start, with "well-matched books" helping older pupils tackle new words with confidence.
- Staff feel "genuinely included" in school developments and receive appropriate training, fostering a proud team culture.
Areas to improve
- Leaders should ensure teaching assistants receive training in the new phonics programmes so all pupils benefit from consistent provision.
- Leaders should ensure systems are in place so new vocabulary is introduced clearly in all subjects, preventing misconceptions.
Safeguarding
The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, with leaders having built an "effective safeguarding culture" where adults are well trained to spot signs that pupils may not be safe.
Your offer chance
—Based on official applications/offers, distance and catchment where we have it. Bands only — never a percentage.
Sibling, faith, looked-after and other criteria can override distance. Always confirm with the school or local authority.
Next dates
- Primary (Reception) application deadline15 Jan 2027
- Primary National Offer Day16 Apr 2027
- Primary (Reception) application deadline15 Jan 2028
- Primary National Offer Day17 Apr 2028
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