Barrowford St Thomas Church of England Primary School
Nelson, BB9 6QT · Lancashire · primary school
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12th of 448 primary schools in Lancashire we can score, 481 in total — the rest without enough published data. Local and same-phase on purpose: a national table mostly measures who attends.
Its results hold up when the comparison narrows to schools whose pupils have similar backgrounds — 8.9/10 against 4,205 of them, against 8.9/10 nationally. So this is not simply a reflection of who attends. 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 | 88.0 · 96 | 40% | 3.85 |
| Ofsted | 96 | 35% | 3.37 |
| Higher standard (RWM) 2024/25 | 13.0 · 78 | 25% | 1.94 |
Each measure is read as a position among comparable schools, so a school in the middle of the country scores 5. Full method.
Barrowford St Thomas Church of England Primary School overview
How it's doing
In 2024/25, 88.0% of pupils reached the expected standard in reading, writing and maths, compared to the national median of 64%. The higher standard was reached by 13.0%, against a national median of 7%. Its results hold up when the comparison narrows to schools whose pupils have similar backgrounds, so they are not simply a reflection of who attends (8.9 out of 10 either way). Ofsted rated the school Outstanding in November 2023.
Beyond the classroom
Pupils join the choir, violin, guitar, and piano groups. Sports include football, netball, swimming, cross country, athletics, and Bikeability. Arts activities feature samba drumming and Chinese music workshops. Trips visit the Bolton Octagon theatre and Bridgewater Hall. An after-school club is available.
Getting in
The published school roll is 121 pupils against a stated capacity of 119. 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
With the roll exceeding capacity by 2, how does the school manage class sizes for new entrants? How does the after-school club integrate with the core curriculum? What specific support is available for pupils aiming for the higher standard?
What Ofsted said about Barrowford St Thomas Church of England Primary School
Overview
Pupils “flourish at this exceptional school” where they feel “accepted, loved and respected” within a supportive environment. The inspection confirms that the school maintains a “culture of excellence,” with pupils achieving highly across the curriculum and demonstrating “exemplary” behaviour.
Strengths
- The school delivers a “rich and aspirational curriculum” with meticulously planned knowledge progression, ensuring pupils “achieve highly” and are well-prepared for future education.
- Reading is central to the curriculum, with an effective phonics programme and well-matched books helping children become “fluent and confident readers.”
- Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) access the same ambitious curriculum and receive targeted support to “achieve exceptionally well.”
- Personal development is enhanced through a “broad and rich experience,” including community projects and leadership roles, fostering understanding of “diversity,” “respect” and “tolerance.”
- Staff feel “valued” and supported regarding workload and well-being, while governors provide “effective support and challenge.”
Areas to improve
The report identifies no significant areas for improvement.
Safeguarding
The report states that “the arrangements for safeguarding are effective.”
Results over time
Expected standard (reading, writing, maths), the years we hold.
| Year | Expected standard (reading, writing, maths) |
|---|---|
| 2022/23 | 75% |
| 2023/24 | 79% |
| 2024/25 | 88% |
| England | 64% |
Source: DfE Explore Education Statistics. “England” is the median of the 14,326 state schools in England we hold a 2024/25 figure for — a school-level median, not the DfE's pupil-weighted national figure.
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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