Birchwood Primary School
Ipswich, IP5 3SP · Suffolk · primary school
Check the area around this school
5th of 232 primary schools in Suffolk we can score, 253 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 4,112 schools whose pupils have similar backgrounds — a tougher field — and it places 7.4/10 among them, against 7.9/10 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 | 73.0 · 73 | 40% | 2.93 |
| Ofsted | 96 | 35% | 3.37 |
| Higher standard (RWM) 2024/25 | 17.0 · 87 | 25% | 2.18 |
Each measure is read as a position among comparable schools, so a school in the middle of the country scores 5. Full method.
Birchwood Primary School overview
How it's doing
In 2024/25, 73.0% of pupils reached the expected standard in reading, writing, and maths, compared to the national median of 64%. The higher standard was reached by 17.0% of pupils, against a national median of 7%. Ofsted rated the school Outstanding in February 2023. Narrow the comparison to the schools whose pupils have similar backgrounds — a tougher field — and it places 7.4 out of 10 among them, against 7.9 out of 10 nationally.
Beyond the classroom
Pupils can join street dance and running clubs, or participate in tennis, rugby, gymnastics, athletics, cross country, 7 aside football, pyramid bowling, and Clip and Climb. Dance is also offered as an art, and an after-school club is available.
Getting in
The published school roll is 209 pupils against a stated capacity of 210. 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 just 1 place currently spare, how does the school manage waiting lists for new intakes? How does the curriculum support pupils aiming for the higher standard in maths? What specific support is available for children joining the after-school club?
What Ofsted said about Birchwood Primary School
Overview
Birchwood Primary School continues to be an outstanding school, maintaining high standards since its previous inspection. The report highlights a positive community where pupils are kind, responsible, and deeply engaged in their learning. Leaders have implemented an ambitious curriculum that meets national requirements, supported by skilled staff and a strong focus on reading and behaviour.
Strengths
- Pupils are "kind to one another" and take pride in their work, with no bullying reported.
- An "ambitious curriculum" is delivered effectively, with teachers using assessment to address misconceptions and support all learners.
- There is a "strong reading culture," with staff providing expert support to ensure pupils read fluently and enjoy literature.
- Children in early years "flourish" in an inviting environment, developing excellent communication skills.
- Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities are quickly identified and supported through targeted plans and inclusive practices.
Areas to improve
The report identifies no significant areas for improvement.
Safeguarding
The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, with a strong culture ensuring staff are trained to identify risks and pupils feel very safe.
Results over time
Expected standard (reading, writing, maths), the years we hold.
| Year | Expected standard (reading, writing, maths) |
|---|---|
| 2022/23 | 40% |
| 2023/24 | 67% |
| 2024/25 | 73% |
| 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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