St John's Catholic Primary School, Burscough
Burscough, L40 7RA · Lancashire · primary school
Check the area around this school
158th of 448 primary schools in Lancashire we can score, 481 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 — 6.6/10 against 2,810 of them, against 5.8/10 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 | 58.0 · 35 | 40% | 1.39 |
| Ofsted | 52 | 35% | 1.82 |
| Higher standard (RWM) 2024/25 | 25.0 · 96 | 25% | 2.40 |
Each measure is read as a position among comparable schools, so a school in the middle of the country scores 5. Full method.
St John's Catholic Primary School, Burscough overview
How it's doing
In 2024/25, 58.0% of pupils reached the expected standard in reading, writing and maths, compared to the national median of 64%. For the higher standard, 25.0% achieved it, against a national median of 7%. Ofsted rated the school Good in March 2023. Narrow the comparison to schools whose pupils have similar backgrounds and it does better still (6.6 out of 10 against similar schools, 5.8 out of 10 against all schools).
Beyond the classroom
An after-school club is available for pupils.
Getting in
The published school roll is 94 pupils against a stated capacity of 175. 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 activities take place during the after-school club? How does the school maintain its Good Ofsted rating in daily practice?
What Ofsted said about St John's Catholic Primary School, Burscough
Overview
Pupils are described as "happy and safe," demonstrating high levels of respect and confidence in speaking to staff about concerns. The school delivers an "ambitious curriculum" that is "delivered effectively," ensuring pupils are "well-prepared for their learning in high school and beyond." Leaders foster a positive environment where pupils engage in diverse activities, from conservation projects to charitable fundraising, while maintaining strong behaviour and attitudes.
Strengths
- Teachers provide "‘hands-on’ experiences" that enable pupils to apply knowledge across the curriculum, with a "thoughtful approach to learning" that excites and engages students.
- Early reading and phonics are implemented effectively by skilled staff, helping pupils develop "reading fluency quickly" and strong confidence.
- Leaders "quickly identify pupils with SEND" and ensure extra help is "carefully planned" so these pupils do not miss any aspect of learning and achieve well.
- Pupils behave responsibly and are considerate, ensuring lessons are "rarely disrupted by poor behaviour."
- Staff well-being is prioritised, with leaders being "mindful of their well-being and workload," contributing to a positive staff culture.
Areas to improve
- In some subjects, teachers do not routinely revisit previous learning, meaning they fail to spot when pupils do not remember key information; leaders must ensure regular checks of learning in all subjects.
- A few subject leaders are still developing their expertise, which restricts the quality of support they offer to other teachers; senior leaders must provide necessary help to improve this support.
Safeguarding
The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, with comprehensive procedures in place and staff trained to identify and report concerns promptly.
Results over time
Expected standard (reading, writing, maths), the years we hold.
| Year | Expected standard (reading, writing, maths) |
|---|---|
| 2022/23 | 55% |
| 2023/24 | 63% |
| 2024/25 | 58% |
| 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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