High Cliff Academy
Newhaven, BN9 9FD · East Sussex · primary school
Check the area around this school
83rd of 130 primary schools in East Sussex we can score, 144 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 — 6.4/10 against 1,932 of them, against 5.3/10 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 | 76.0 · 80 | 40% | 3.19 |
| Ofsted | 10 | 35% | 0.34 |
| Higher standard (RWM) 2024/25 | 0.0 · 10 | 25% | 0.26 |
Each measure is read as a position among comparable schools, so a school in the middle of the country scores 5. Full method.
High Cliff Academy overview
How it's doing
In 2024/25, 76.0% of pupils reached the expected standard in reading, writing and maths, compared to the national median of 64%. The higher standard was reached by 0.0%, against a national median of 7%. An Ofsted inspection in June 2026 used the new framework, grading areas separately without an overall grade. Narrow the comparison to schools whose pupils have similar backgrounds and it does better still (6.4 out of 10 against similar schools, 5.3 out of 10 against all schools).
Getting in
The published school roll is 154 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
How does the school support pupils who have not yet reached the higher standard in core subjects? What specific activities are available for children to join outside of lesson time? How does the new inspection framework affect current teaching priorities?
What Ofsted said about High Cliff Academy
Overview
High Cliff Academy is described as a school where pupils feel safe, well cared for, and enjoy their learning. Leaders have established a "clear and purposeful culture" with high expectations, resulting in a "typically respectful and calm environment." The school successfully managed a move to temporary accommodation while maintaining effective teaching and strong community engagement.
Strengths
- The curriculum is "broad, knowledge rich" with a clear focus on communication, ensuring pupils develop "secure foundations" in reading and phonics.
- Behaviour is supported by "clear routines and consistent lesson structures," with serious incidents now "rare."
- Inclusion systems are effective, with leaders working collaboratively to support pupils with special educational needs and those known to social care.
- Personal development is comprehensive, helping pupils understand "mental health, physical health, online safety and healthy relationships."
- Staff feel "well supported and valued," benefiting from prioritised professional development and trust oversight.
Areas to improve
- Leaders should strengthen the rigour of their evaluation of the pupil premium strategy to fully assess its impact on eligible pupils.
- Staff must consistently support pupils to develop a "clear and legible handwriting style" to improve written work quality.
- Leaders should continue improving attendance to align with national averages and ensure pupils attend school on time.
Safeguarding
The safeguarding standards are met, with leaders establishing an "open culture in which safeguarding is everyone's responsibility" and concerns actively managed.
Results over time
Expected standard (reading, writing, maths), the years we hold.
| Year | Expected standard (reading, writing, maths) |
|---|---|
| 2022/23 | 53% |
| 2023/24 | 70% |
| 2024/25 | 76% |
| 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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