Pennyman Primary Academy
Middlesbrough, TS3 0QS · Middlesbrough · primary school
Check the area around this school
26th of 40 primary schools in Middlesbrough we can score, 41 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 — 5.9/10 against 235 of them, against 3.9/10 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 | 64.0 · 49 | 40% | 1.97 |
| Ofsted | 52 | 35% | 1.82 |
| Higher standard (RWM) 2024/25 | 2.0 · 24 | 25% | 0.59 |
Each measure is read as a position among comparable schools, so a school in the middle of the country scores 5. Full method.
Pennyman Primary Academy overview
How it's doing
In 2024/25, 64.0% of pupils reached the expected standard in reading, writing and maths, matching the national median of 64%. 2.0% reached the higher standard, compared to the national median of 7%. Ofsted rated the school Good in May 2023. Narrow the comparison to schools whose pupils have similar backgrounds and it does better still (5.9 out of 10 against similar schools, 3.9 out of 10 against all schools).
Getting in
The published school roll is 408 pupils against a stated capacity of 440. 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 trips or external visits are planned for the current academic year? How does the school manage class sizes given the current roll?
What Ofsted said about Pennyman Primary Academy
Overview
Pennyman Primary Academy continues to be a good school, described as "highly inclusive" with an "unwavering commitment to serving the community." Pupils are happy, behave extremely well, and feel safe within a "calm and purposeful atmosphere." The school fosters strong, respectful relationships and offers a broad, ambitious curriculum that supports all learners, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities.
Strengths
- Leaders have designed a "broad and ambitious" curriculum where knowledge builds sequentially, preparing children well for Key Stage 1.
- Reading is prioritised with a reintroduced phonics programme taught by experts; pupils read books "well matched to their ability" and receive quick support if they fall behind.
- Pupils with SEND are "fully integrated into every aspect of school life" and access the same curriculum with appropriate adaptations.
- Staff use effective strategies, including technology and regular checks, to help pupils remember learning and revisit key vocabulary.
- The behaviour policy is applied consistently, with pupils understanding the values of being "ready, respectful and safe."
Areas to improve
- Leaders should ensure the teaching of handwriting is prioritised, as many pupils’ handwriting is "underdeveloped" and they do not form letters accurately.
- The curriculum should better develop pupils’ understanding of the range of other faiths and cultures, as current knowledge is limited.
Safeguarding
The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, with leaders establishing a "culture of vigilance" and staff receiving appropriate training to handle concerns.
Results over time
Expected standard (reading, writing, maths), the years we hold.
| Year | Expected standard (reading, writing, maths) |
|---|---|
| 2022/23 | 42% |
| 2023/24 | 59% |
| 2024/25 | 64% |
| 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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