Gilnow Primary School
Bolton, BL1 4LG · Bolton · primary school
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73rd of 88 primary schools in Bolton we can score, 97 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 — 2.6/10 against 2,480 of them, against 2.6/10 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 | 53.0 · 24 | 40% | 0.97 |
| Ofsted | 52 | 34% | 1.79 |
| Higher standard (RWM) 2024/25 | 3.0 · 29 | 25% | 0.74 |
Each measure is read as a position among comparable schools, so a school in the middle of the country scores 5. Full method.
Gilnow Primary School overview
How it's doing
In 2024/25, 53.0% of pupils reached the expected standard in reading, writing and maths, compared to the national median of 64%. 3.0% reached the higher standard, against a national median of 7%. Its results are much the same when the comparison narrows to schools whose pupils have similar backgrounds, so the gap is not explained by intake (2.6 out of 10 either way). Ofsted rated the school Good in July 2022.
Getting in
The published school roll is 221 pupils against a stated capacity of 236. 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 below the expected standard in maths? What specific steps are taken to raise attainment to the higher standard? How does the current inspection rating reflect recent changes in teaching practice?
What Ofsted said about Gilnow Primary School
Overview
Gilnow Primary School continues to be a good school, where pupils enjoy coming to school and feel well cared for. The environment is described as calm and orderly, with staff providing effective support for behaviour and learning. Leaders have designed a broad and ambitious curriculum that helps pupils, including those joining later, to achieve well.
Strengths
- The curriculum is "broad and ambitious," with leaders carefully planning the order in which knowledge is taught.
- Staff have "high expectations for pupils’ behaviour," resulting in a polite and respectful atmosphere where bullying is rare.
- Leaders identify special educational needs quickly and work effectively with specialist teams to ensure suitable provision.
- Younger children get off to a "good start in learning to read," with daily sessions supporting those who struggle.
- Staff feel well supported, and leaders are mindful of their well-being and workload.
Areas to improve
- Older pupils do not read sufficiently widely or often, limiting their vocabulary and cultural capital; leaders must ensure they have ample opportunities to develop a love of reading.
- The governing body’s capacity is reduced following recent resignations; leaders must continue working with the local authority to maintain effective strategic oversight.
Safeguarding
The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, with staff knowledgeable about local risks and quick to respond to concerns.
Results over time
Expected standard (reading, writing, maths), the years we hold.
| Year | Expected standard (reading, writing, maths) |
|---|---|
| 2022/23 | 29% |
| 2023/24 | 36% |
| 2024/25 | 53% |
| 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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