Leigh Academy Cherry Orchard
Ebbsfleet, DA10 1AD · Kent · primary school
Check the area around this school
9th of 425 primary schools in Kent we can score, 460 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 — 9.6/10 against 4,158 of them, against 9.4/10 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 | 83.0 · 92 | 42% | 3.82 |
| Ofsted | 96 | 32% | 3.13 |
| Higher standard (RWM) 2024/25 | 29.0 · 98 | 26% | 2.54 |
Each measure is read as a position among comparable schools, so a school in the middle of the country scores 5. Full method.
Leigh Academy Cherry Orchard overview
How it's doing
In 2024/25, 83.0% of pupils reached the expected standard in reading, writing, and maths, compared to the national median of 64%. 29.0% reached the higher standard, against a national median of 7%. Ofsted rated the school Outstanding in 2021. 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, 9.4 out of 10 against all schools).
Getting in
The published school roll is 447 pupils against a stated capacity of 450. 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 close to the higher standard in maths? What specific trips or external visits are planned for the current academic year? How does the school manage the transition for Year 6 pupils?
What Ofsted said about Leigh Academy Cherry Orchard
Overview
Cherry Orchard Primary Academy is described as a school where “boundless ambition” drives staff to deliver an exceptional education. The report highlights a “first-rate” International Baccalaureate curriculum that fosters “inquisitive, global citizens” and ensures pupils are “happy” and “highly motivated to learn.”
Strengths
- The curriculum is “highly ambitious and well-designed,” enabling pupils to “think deeply” about local, national, and global issues through strong cross-subject connections.
- Reading instruction is “highly effective,” with a “systematic phonics programme” starting in Reception and targeted catch-up sessions for those impacted by the pandemic.
- Teachers are “knowledgeable” and use assessment to ensure pupils “remember key content,” supported by daily recall practices that work “exceptionally well.”
- Personal development is “first class,” with experiences “intricately woven into the curriculum” to help pupils express themselves confidently and respect different perspectives.
- Leaders provide “bespoke support” for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring they achieve their potential regardless of circumstances.
Areas to improve
- The report identifies no significant areas for improvement.
Safeguarding
The arrangements for safeguarding are “effective,” described by trustees as the “bedrock” of the academy, with staff receiving ongoing training and making “swift and well considered decisions” to protect children.
Results over time
Expected standard (reading, writing, maths), the years we hold.
| Year | Expected standard (reading, writing, maths) |
|---|---|
| 2022/23 | 78% |
| 2023/24 | 82% |
| 2024/25 | 83% |
| 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
Saved schools live on this device only — no account, no tracking. Visit the school's website
Loading full school details…
Similar schools nearby
Same area, prioritising the same phase — useful for shortlisting alternatives.
Every school within 2.5 miles of DA10 1AD, with results, demand and deadlines — area report →
Have a specific question about admissions, scores or dates?
Ask SchoolsGPT