Canford Heath Junior School
Poole, BH17 8PJ · Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole · primary school
Check the area around this school
20th of 50 primary schools in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole we can score, 66 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 schools whose pupils have similar backgrounds and it does better still — 7.5/10 against 3,182 of them, against 6.7/10 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 | 71.0 · 68 | 40% | 2.73 |
| 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.
Canford Heath Junior School overview
How it's doing
In 2024/25, 71.0% of pupils reached the expected standard in reading, writing and maths, compared to the national median of 64%. For the higher standard, 10.0% achieved it against a national median of 7%. Narrow the comparison to schools whose pupils have similar backgrounds and it does better still (7.5 out of 10 against similar schools, 6.7 out of 10 against all schools). Ofsted rated the school Good in November 2023.
Beyond the classroom
Pupils can join Dogeball Club, Mini Handball, and Karate, and participate in Strictly Stage 2024. An after-school club is also available.
Getting in
The published school roll is 489 pupils against a stated capacity of 480. 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 last inspection in 2023, what specific improvements have been made to the curriculum since then? How does the after-school club integrate with the regular school day for families needing wraparound care?
What Ofsted said about Canford Heath Junior School
Overview
Canford Heath Junior School continues to be a good school, offering a "well-sequenced and interesting curriculum" that engages pupils. The inspection confirms that the school maintains high expectations for achievement and provides effective support for all learners, including those with special educational needs.
Strengths
- The curriculum is "ambitious" and "sequenced well," helping pupils to "know more and remember more" over time.
- Reading is a clear priority, with staff using assessment effectively to ensure struggling pupils "catch up quickly," resulting in most becoming "confident and fluent readers."
- Pupils feel safe, build "effective relationships with adults," and understand the importance of respecting differences and diverse cultures.
- Staff morale is high, supported by changes in assessment practice that aid their "workload and well-being."
- Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities are "fully included" and receive appropriate adaptations to access the same curriculum as their peers.
Areas to improve
- The "well-designed curriculum is not always being implemented as leaders intend," meaning some pupils do not receive sufficient time to consolidate learning in certain subjects.
- The trust must ensure staff implement the intended curriculum effectively so all pupils can securely build on their knowledge across all subject areas.
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 | 72% |
| 2023/24 | 73% |
| 2024/25 | 71% |
| 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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