Medlock Valley Primary School
Oldham, OL8 2PN · Oldham · primary school
Check the area around this school
55th of 71 primary schools in Oldham we can score, 86 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 — 2.0/10 against 506 of them, against 1.4/10 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 | 48.0 · 16 | 40% | 0.65 |
| Ofsted | 52 | 35% | 1.82 |
| 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.
Medlock Valley Primary School overview
How it's doing
In 2024/25, 48.0% 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%. Ofsted rated the school Good in March 2024. Narrow the comparison to schools whose pupils have similar backgrounds and it does better still (2.0 out of 10 against similar schools, 1.4 out of 10 against all schools).
Beyond the classroom
Pupils can join Reading Champions, Health Champions, Reach Ambassadors, and Sports Leaders clubs. A breakfast club is also available.
Getting in
The published school roll is 337 pupils against a stated capacity of 341. 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 strategies are used to raise attainment in writing? How does the breakfast club integrate with the morning routine for young children?
What Ofsted said about Medlock Valley Primary School
Overview
Pupils at Medlock Valley Primary School are described as happy, attentive, and well-mannered, benefiting from a "broad, balanced and ambitious curriculum." The report highlights that staff have high expectations, which pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), consistently meet. Overall, the school provides a positive environment where children develop strong relationships with supportive staff and engage enthusiastically in enrichment activities.
Strengths
- The curriculum is carefully planned, with staff well-equipped to deliver it through "high-quality training."
- Early reading is prioritised effectively; staff deliver phonics with "confidence and expertise," ensuring most pupils learn to read fluently.
- Pupils demonstrate "positive attitudes to their learning" and are friendly, with "little or no disruption" to lessons.
- Effective systems identify additional needs for pupils with SEND, who receive tailored support to become "increasingly independent."
- The school actively promotes personal development, celebrating diversity and ensuring pupils have a "secure knowledge of fundamental British values."
Areas to improve
- Some subject curriculums are relatively new, resulting in "gaps in their knowledge" for pupils who have not yet benefited from these strengthened programmes.
- A minority of pupils do not read regularly enough, hindering their progress; the school must ensure they receive "regular opportunities to practise their reading."
Safeguarding
The report states that "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 | 55% |
| 2023/24 | 55% |
| 2024/25 | 48% |
| 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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