St Andrew's CofE Primary School, Over Hulton
Bolton, BL5 1EN · Bolton · primary school
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29th of 88 primary schools in Bolton we can score, 97 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 — 9.4/10 against 4,240 of them, against 9.3/10 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 | 90.0 · 98 | 40% | 3.90 |
| Ofsted | 5 | 35% | 0.18 |
| Higher standard (RWM) 2024/25 | 16.0 · 85 | 25% | 2.13 |
Each measure is read as a position among comparable schools, so a school in the middle of the country scores 5. Full method.
St Andrew's CofE Primary School, Over Hulton overview
How it's doing
In 2024/25, 90.0% of pupils reached the expected standard in reading, writing and maths, compared to the national median of 64%. The higher standard was reached by 16.0%, 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 (9.4 out of 10 against similar schools, 9.3 out of 10 against all schools). Ofsted inspected the school in February 2026 under the new framework, which grades areas separately without an overall grade.
Beyond the classroom
The school provides both a breakfast club and an after-school club for wraparound care.
Getting in
The published school roll is 206 pupils against a stated capacity of 218. 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 new Ofsted report-card framework influence your current teaching priorities? With 12 places currently available, what is the typical process for securing a spot in the next academic year? How do you support pupils who reach the higher standard to continue their progress?
What Ofsted said about St Andrew's CofE Primary School, Over Hulton
Overview
The report describes a school with a "calm and orderly environment" where pupils feel safe and benefit from "positive relationships" and strong attendance. However, academic achievement is "too variable," with significant weaknesses in early years and Key Stage 1 teaching, particularly regarding phonics and writing, which limits pupils' readiness for future learning.
Strengths
- Attendance is a strength, remaining "above national figures," with leaders acting "quickly and effectively" when levels drop.
- Pupils demonstrate "mature attitudes," showing respect for others and understanding the school’s values of "hope, love, faithfulness, peace and confidence."
- There is a "broad and increasingly coherent programme" for personal development, including an 'Ethos Council' that strengthens pupils' understanding of democracy and responsibility.
- Enrichment opportunities are a strength, with a "wide range of cultural, creative and physical opportunities" ensuring equal access for disadvantaged pupils and those with special educational needs.
Areas to improve
- Leaders must secure a "consistent approach to the teaching of early reading, writing and knowledge of the basics" in early years and Key Stage 1 to address gaps in phonics and blending.
- Leaders must strengthen the "accuracy and use of assessment" so that gaps in pupils' knowledge are identified and addressed quickly.
- Leaders must establish "robust systems for monitoring" the school improvement plan to evaluate impact accurately and drive sustained improvement.
Safeguarding
The safeguarding standards are met, with an "open culture in which safeguarding is everyone's responsibility" ensuring pupils are made safer and feel safe.
Results over time
Expected standard (reading, writing, maths), the years we hold.
| Year | Expected standard (reading, writing, maths) |
|---|---|
| 2022/23 | 83% |
| 2023/24 | 72% |
| 2024/25 | 90% |
| 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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