SchoolsGPT

Leigh Academy Paddock Wood

Tonbridge, TN12 6JE · Kent · primary school

Check the area around this school

Ofsted: Good · 2023 Inspected 2 years ago Mixed Primary
7.9/10 Above average

58th 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 — 9.7/10 against 3,161 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
MeasurePercentileWeightAdds
Expected standard (RWM) 2024/25 86.0 · 95 40% 3.78
Ofsted 52 35% 1.82
Higher standard (RWM) 2024/25 21.0 · 93 25% 2.32

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 Paddock Wood overview

How it's doing

In 2024/25, 86.0% of pupils reached the expected standard in reading, writing and maths, compared to the national median of 64%. 21.0% reached the higher standard, 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 (9.7 out of 10 against similar schools, 9.4 out of 10 against all schools). Ofsted rated the school Good in 2023.

Beyond the classroom

Pupils can join Tatty Bumpkin Yoga, St Andrew’s Fun Club, Drumwise, Sama Karate, and Phoenix Dance Club, or take guitar lessons with Mr Stephens. An after-school club is also available.

Getting in

The published school roll is 618 pupils against a stated capacity of 630. 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 expected standard in maths? What specific activities are included in the after-school club? How does the school maintain its Good rating following the 2023 inspection?

AI-assisted overview based on this school's published results, inspection record and official website. Sources and dates are shown throughout this page. Verify information that could change directly with the school.

What Ofsted said about Leigh Academy Paddock Wood

Inspection report dated 15 December 2023

Overview

Pupils at Paddock Wood Primary Academy are “excited to learn” in a “safe and stimulating place” that offers extensive opportunities to develop interests and talents. The school is described as “exceptionally well ordered,” with pupils who are “polite, mature and keen to help,” creating an atmosphere characterised by mutual respect.

Strengths

  • Pupils’ behaviour is “exemplary,” supporting both learning and a “relaxed and friendly atmosphere.”
  • The curriculum is “clearly structured” and “ambitious,” with knowledge building in “logical sequences” across subjects.
  • Reading is “at the heart of its provision,” with expert phonics teaching and engaging activities like “reading suitcases” fostering a love of books.
  • Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) receive precisely planned support, enabling them to “access the same curriculum as their peers.”
  • The school provides an “exceptional personal development programme,” preparing pupils well for the next stages of their education.

Areas to improve

  • Leaders should ensure teachers’ pedagogical understanding and application of school policies are consistent, as there is “occasional inconsistency in presenting subject matter and checking learning,” which makes it harder to identify knowledge gaps.

Safeguarding

The report states that “the arrangements for safeguarding are effective.”

This is an AI-assisted summary of the official Ofsted report, not a statement written by Ofsted. Check the full official report before making a decision.
Expected standard
86%
2024/25
Higher standard
21%
2024/25
Demand
×0.92
1st prefs per place, 2026/27
Free school meals
22%
vs 25% across England

Results over time

Expected standard (reading, writing, maths), the years we hold.

64% 2022/23
74% 2023/24
86% 2024/25
64% England
Expected standard (reading, writing, maths) for Leigh Academy Paddock Wood
YearExpected standard (reading, writing, maths)
2022/2364%
2023/2474%
2024/2586%
England64%

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
Email me before each one →

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 TN12 6JE, with results, demand and deadlines — area report →

Have a specific question about admissions, scores or dates?

Ask SchoolsGPT