Kniveton CofE Primary School
Ashbourne, DE6 1JJ · Derbyshire · primary school
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20th of 263 primary schools in Derbyshire we can score, 354 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 — 9.0/10 against 4,206 of them, against 9.0/10 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 | 82.0 · 90 | 40% | 3.62 |
| Ofsted | 52 | 35% | 1.82 |
| Higher standard (RWM) 2024/25 | 18.0 · 89 | 25% | 2.23 |
Each measure is read as a position among comparable schools, so a school in the middle of the country scores 5. Full method.
Kniveton CofE Primary School overview
How it's doing
In 2024/25, 82.0% of pupils reached the expected standard in reading, writing, and maths, compared to the national median of 64%. The higher standard was reached by 18.0% of pupils, 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 (9.0 out of 10 either way). Ofsted rated the school Good in January 2025.
Beyond the classroom
Pupils access Forest School, Choir, enrichment sports, gymnastics, dance workshops, craft activities, and musical instruments. Trips include visits to Carsington Water, Chatsworth Estate, Buxton Opera House, and a Year 6 residential. Both breakfast and after-school clubs are available.
Getting in
The published school roll is 55 pupils against a stated capacity of 63. 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 do not reach the higher standard in maths? What specific activities are included in the Year 6 residential trip? How are places allocated if demand exceeds the 63 available spots?
What Ofsted said about Kniveton CofE Primary School
Overview
Kniveton C of E Primary School has taken effective action to maintain the standards identified at its previous inspection. The school fosters a strong community ethos where pupils are described as "safe, happy and want to be at school," embodying values of ambition, independence, and respect. Leaders lead with passion, and staff are dedicated, creating a supportive environment where most pupils meet high expectations for behaviour and learning.
Strengths
- Pupils benefit from a broad, well-structured curriculum, particularly in mathematics where they "deepen their understanding of mathematical concepts" over time.
- Provision for pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) is a "real strength," with teaching adapted to enable them to learn the same curriculum as their peers.
- The school prioritises reading effectively; younger pupils receive consistent phonics instruction and learn to read "fluently and confidently."
- Early years provision is strong, with staff designing engaging activities that support children’s personal, social and emotional development and self-confidence.
- Parents and carers are "overwhelmingly positive," praising the school’s "community, family feel" and approachable staff.
Areas to improve
- The school must ensure the full, planned curriculum is taught in all foundation subjects, as pupils’ learning is currently "not as secure in these subjects as it could be."
- The governing body requires sharper strategic oversight to better support and challenge leaders, as they currently do not "objectively know the school’s strengths and improvement priorities."
- Pupils need more opportunities to understand fundamental British values, such as democracy and the rule of law, to be "fully prepared for life in modern Britain."
Safeguarding
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 | 100% |
| 2023/24 | 90% |
| 2024/25 | 82% |
| 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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