Portesham Church of England Primary School
Weymouth, DT3 4HP · Dorset · primary school
Check the area around this school
49th of 79 primary schools in Dorset we can score, 119 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 the 3,893 schools whose pupils have similar backgrounds — a tougher field — and it places 2.6/10 among them, against 3.4/10 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 | 38.0 · 7 | 62% | 0.41 |
| Higher standard (RWM) 2024/25 | 13.0 · 78 | 38% | 2.98 |
Each measure is read as a position among comparable schools, so a school in the middle of the country scores 5. Full method.
Portesham Church of England Primary School overview
How it's doing
In 2024/25, 38.0% of pupils reached the expected standard in reading, writing and maths, compared to the national median of 64%. For the higher standard, the school recorded 13.0%, against a national median of 7%. Narrow the comparison to the schools whose pupils have similar backgrounds — a tougher field — and it places 2.6 out of 10 among them, against 3.4 out of 10 nationally.
Getting in
The published school roll is 46 pupils against a stated capacity of 105. 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 literacy and numeracy? What does a typical day look like for a child in the early years? How does the school engage parents in monitoring their child’s progress?
What Ofsted said about Portesham Church of England Primary School
Overview
Portesham Church of England Primary School is described as a place where pupils are known as individuals and feel comfortable sharing concerns. The report highlights a culture of inclusivity, particularly in supporting refugees, and notes that pupils demonstrate secure curriculum knowledge and a strong sense of compassion. Staff show an "unwavering commitment" to pupils thriving academically and socially, with effective leadership and governance supporting high-quality education.
Strengths
- Staff take time to know pupils’ interests, fostering a supportive environment where children feel valued and included.
- The school has constructed a "broad and ambitious curriculum" that provides important knowledge from the early years, helping pupils progress well.
- Early reading provision is strong, with staff trained to teach effectively and struggling readers receiving "swift support to catch up."
- Provision for pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities is a strength, with needs quickly identified and tailored learning plans in place.
- Pupils benefit from a rich array of activities, including art, nature clubs, and community projects, which support their mental health and personal development.
Areas to improve
- In some subjects, learning activities do not always match the intended curriculum, meaning some pupils struggle to remember key knowledge.
- Staff do not always address misconceptions in pupils’ learning, leading to gaps in knowledge that hinder progress.
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 | 38% |
| 2024/25 | 38% |
| 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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