Sparken Hill Academy
Worksop, S80 1AW · Nottinghamshire · primary school
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137th of 229 primary schools in Nottinghamshire we can score, 286 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 — 4.7/10 against 1,641 of them, against 3.8/10 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 | 62.0 · 44 | 40% | 1.74 |
| Ofsted | 52 | 35% | 1.82 |
| Higher standard (RWM) 2024/25 | 3.0 · 29 | 25% | 0.73 |
Each measure is read as a position among comparable schools, so a school in the middle of the country scores 5. Full method.
Sparken Hill Academy overview
How it's doing
In 2024/25, 62.0% of pupils reached the expected standard in reading, writing and maths, compared with the national median of 64%. The higher standard was reached by 3.0% of pupils, against a 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 (4.7 out of 10 against similar schools, 3.8 out of 10 against all schools).
Getting in
The published school roll is 556 pupils against a stated capacity of 575. 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 clubs are available for Year 6 pupils? How does the school manage class sizes given the current roll?
What Ofsted said about Sparken Hill Academy
Overview
Sparken Hill Academy is confirmed as a good school, offering an inclusive environment where pupils feel happy, safe, and well supported. Leaders are highly aspirational, fostering a culture where children value their education and look forward to a wide range of extracurricular activities.
Strengths
- The curriculum is "well-organised" with careful planning for how learning extends over time, particularly in subjects like physical education.
- Staff demonstrate "good subject knowledge" and use regular checks to ensure pupils remember prior learning, adapting lessons effectively for those with special educational needs and/or disabilities.
- Reading is a clear priority, with a central library known as "The heart" and daily story times; early years phonics teaching is logical and supportive.
- Pupils enjoy a "warm and welcoming environment" with positive relationships, and parents praise the "amazing and supportive" care provided by staff.
- Staff feel well supported by leaders, who balance the drive for improvement with an "acute awareness" of staff well-being and workload.
Areas to improve
- Leaders must monitor the impact of recent changes to phonics and mathematics teaching, as not enough Key Stage 1 pupils reach expected standards in reading, writing, and maths.
- Persistent absence remains "stubbornly high" for some vulnerable pupils, requiring continued close work with parents to ensure regular attendance.
Safeguarding
The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, with a strong team ensuring staff are trained to recognise risks and intervene swiftly.
Results over time
Expected standard (reading, writing, maths), the years we hold.
| Year | Expected standard (reading, writing, maths) |
|---|---|
| 2022/23 | 57% |
| 2023/24 | 49% |
| 2024/25 | 62% |
| 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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