Dilkes Academy
South Ockendon, RM15 5JQ · Thurrock · primary school
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3rd of 39 primary schools in Thurrock we can score. 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 — 9.6/10 against 4,058 of them, against 9.3/10 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 | 86.0 · 95 | 40% | 3.78 |
| Ofsted | 96 | 35% | 3.37 |
| Higher standard (RWM) 2024/25 | 19.0 · 90 | 25% | 2.26 |
Each measure is read as a position among comparable schools, so a school in the middle of the country scores 5. Full method.
Dilkes Academy overview
How it's doing
In 2024/25, 86.0% of pupils reached the expected standard in reading, writing, and maths, compared to the national median of 64%. The higher standard was reached by 19.0%, 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 (9.6 out of 10 against similar schools, 9.3 out of 10 against all schools). Ofsted rated the school Outstanding in June 2023.
Beyond the classroom
Pupils can join the 99 Club, Eco Warriors, School Council, and Mental Health and Wellbeing Champions. Sports activities include Race for Life, Sports Day, and Sportsweek. Both breakfast and after-school clubs are available.
Getting in
The published school roll is 554 pupils against a stated capacity of 420. 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 manage class sizes when operating significantly above its designated capacity? What specific support is provided for pupils who do not reach the higher standard in core subjects? How does the school maintain its Outstanding rating standards during periods of high enrolment?
What Ofsted said about Dilkes Academy
Overview
Dilkes Academy is described as a place where pupils attend "happily and with pride," demonstrating high motivation and self-confidence. The report highlights a "broad, rich and deep curriculum" supported by staff who maintain "consistently high" expectations, resulting in pupils who are "knowledgeable and confident individuals."
Strengths
- Pupils exhibit "highly positive attitudes" and "self-discipline," creating an "atmosphere of calm" where bullying is rare and peers show kindness and respect.
- Leaders have developed a "best method manual" ensuring consistent teaching, while rigorous monitoring guarantees that "pupils’ knowledge develops securely" and they "achieve exceptionally well."
- The teaching of reading is a "high priority," with early phonics instruction allowing pupils to learn basic skills "securely" and empowering them through communication.
- Staff identify and meet the needs of pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) "remarkably well," using individualised support to ensure these pupils also "achieve exceptionally well."
- Personal development is "extensive and highly effective," with pupils becoming "highly aspirational" through activities like university visits and debating "big questions."
Areas to improve
- The report identifies no significant areas for improvement.
Safeguarding
The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, with "precise systems" for employment checks, well-trained staff who report concerns quickly, and pupils learning how to stay safe in various situations including online.
Results over time
Expected standard (reading, writing, maths), the years we hold.
| Year | Expected standard (reading, writing, maths) |
|---|---|
| 2022/23 | 90% |
| 2023/24 | 83% |
| 2024/25 | 86% |
| 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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