Downham Market, Hillcrest Primary School
Downham Market, PE38 9ND · Norfolk · primary school
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49th of 281 primary schools in Norfolk we can score, 343 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 — 6.7/10 against 3,685 of them, against 6.4/10 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 | 71.0 · 68 | 40% | 2.73 |
| Ofsted | 52 | 35% | 1.82 |
| Higher standard (RWM) 2024/25 | 8.0 · 57 | 25% | 1.43 |
Each measure is read as a position among comparable schools, so a school in the middle of the country scores 5. Full method.
Downham Market, Hillcrest Primary School overview
How it's doing
In 2024/25, 71.0% of pupils reached the expected standard in reading, writing, and maths, compared with the national median of 64%. The higher standard was reached by 8.0% of pupils, against a national median of 7%. Ofsted rated the school Good in September 2023. Its position is much the same whether compared with all schools or only those whose pupils have similar backgrounds (6.7 out of 10 against similar schools, 6.4 out of 10 against all schools).
Beyond the classroom
Pupils can join the Choir, Homework, and Knitting clubs. Sports include Cross Country, Football, Multi-skills, Netball, and Tag Rugby. An after-school club is available.
Getting in
The published school roll is 404 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 support pupils who are working towards the higher standard in maths? What does a typical day look like for a child joining the after-school club? How does the school maintain its Good rating in the years following the 2023 inspection?
What Ofsted said about Downham Market, Hillcrest Primary School
Overview
Downham Market, Hillcrest Primary School continues to be a good school, described as a "happy, nurturing and welcoming" environment where pupils learn effectively. The report highlights a strong focus on reading and positive behaviour, noting that pupils are "creative, curious, confident, coordinated and communicative."
Strengths
- A "bespoke curriculum with reading at its heart" ensures pupils develop fluency and a "love of reading" from Reception onwards.
- Pupils exhibit high standards of behaviour, being "well-mannered and kind" with "very little disruption to learning."
- Staff provide effective support for pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities, enabling them to access the "same ambitious curriculum as their peers."
- Leaders prioritise wider development through the "Life Skills" programme, helping pupils build identity and self-esteem.
- Pupils take on significant responsibilities, such as leading lunchtime clubs and managing the pupil-led "IMP News" show.
Areas to improve
- Teachers’ subject knowledge in some areas, such as languages and music, is "not as secure as in others," impacting how pupils deepen their knowledge. Leaders should provide support to help teachers develop this knowledge so pupils achieve consistently well across all subjects.
Safeguarding
The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, with staff being well trained to identify risks and respond quickly, ensuring pupils know how to stay safe and feel confident speaking to adults.
Results over time
Expected standard (reading, writing, maths), the years we hold.
| Year | Expected standard (reading, writing, maths) |
|---|---|
| 2022/23 | 59% |
| 2023/24 | 64% |
| 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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