Shipbourne School
Tonbridge, TN11 9PB · Kent · primary school
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67th 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 — 9.2/10 against 4,238 of them, against 8.9/10 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 | 86.0 · 95 | 40% | 3.78 |
| Ofsted | 52 | 35% | 1.82 |
| Higher standard (RWM) 2024/25 | 14.0 · 81 | 25% | 2.03 |
Each measure is read as a position among comparable schools, so a school in the middle of the country scores 5. Full method.
Shipbourne School 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%. The higher standard was reached by 14.0% of pupils, 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 (9.2 out of 10 against similar schools, 8.9 out of 10 against all schools). Ofsted rated the school Good in September 2024.
Beyond the classroom
The school provides both a breakfast club and an after-school club.
Getting in
The published school roll is 55 pupils against a stated capacity of 59. 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 breakfast club integrate with the morning routine for younger children? What specific support is available for pupils who do not reach the higher standard in maths?
What Ofsted said about Shipbourne School
Overview
Shipbourne School continues to be a good school, characterised by a "strong sense of community" where pupils feel "valued and well cared for." The report highlights high attendance, strong behaviour, and an "inclusive and nurturing atmosphere" that supports pupils’ well-being and engagement.
Strengths
- Pupils achieve well, particularly in reading and writing, where a new phonics programme has helped them acquire "reliable reading skills" and write with "increasing confidence and flair."
- The curriculum is described as "ambitious, broad and balanced," providing a secure framework for teaching with clear assessment procedures.
- Strong relationships and high standards of behaviour contribute to a positive environment where pupils "respect staff and each other."
- Staff morale is high, with leaders noted for their "approachability and responsiveness," and governors prioritising staff well-being.
- Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) are "well supported and fully engaged in school life."
Areas to improve
- The curriculum is not always adapted effectively for all pupils, meaning "some pupils learn less well than they could" when work is too difficult.
- Implementation of the updated history curriculum requires further development to ensure pupils retain prior learning and can "make connections between different historical periods."
Safeguarding
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 | 57% |
| 2023/24 | 86% |
| 2024/25 | 86% |
| 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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