St Mary's Church of England Voluntary Aided Primary School
Saffron Walden, CB10 1BQ · Essex · primary school
Check the area around this school
121st of 391 primary schools in Essex we can score, 444 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 — 7.5/10 against 3,438 of them, against 6.9/10 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 | 65.0 · 52 | 40% | 2.07 |
| Ofsted | 52 | 35% | 1.82 |
| Higher standard (RWM) 2024/25 | 26.0 · 96 | 25% | 2.41 |
Each measure is read as a position among comparable schools, so a school in the middle of the country scores 5. Full method.
St Mary's Church of England Voluntary Aided Primary School overview
How it's doing
In 2024/25, 65.0% of pupils reached the expected standard in reading, writing, and maths, compared to the national median of 64%. For the higher standard, 26.0% achieved this, against a national median of 7%. Narrow the comparison to schools whose pupils have similar backgrounds and it does better still (7.5 out of 10 against similar schools, 6.9 out of 10 against all schools). Ofsted rated the school Good in July 2023.
Beyond the classroom
Pupils take part in swimming lessons.
Getting in
The published school roll is 224 pupils against a stated capacity of 210. 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
With the last inspection in 2023, what specific improvements have been made to teaching quality since then? How are swimming lessons scheduled to ensure all pupils have access to the activity?
What Ofsted said about St Mary's Church of England Voluntary Aided Primary School
Overview
St Mary’s Church of England Voluntary Aided Primary School continues to be a good school, offering a "safe and supportive environment" where pupils enjoy learning. Leaders maintain high standards through rigorous oversight, fostering a strong sense of teamwork and respect for differences. The curriculum is well-planned and engaging, preparing pupils effectively for secondary school and life in modern Britain.
Strengths
- Pupils behave well, with "well established and clear" behaviour routines and swift handling of bullying.
- Reading and phonics are given high priority, with daily sessions ensuring "steady progress" and tailored support for those falling behind.
- Personal development is a strength, offering a "huge range of clubs, opportunities, assemblies and experiences" that broaden pupils’ horizons.
- Staff sensitively support pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities, ensuring they are "fully included in the life of the school."
- Leaders provide useful professional development and carefully consider staff workload, maintaining strong relationships.
Areas to improve
- Teachers should routinely use assessments to identify when pupils are ready for more challenging learning to avoid wasting time.
- Leaders must ensure support staff have a "clear and precise line of accountability" and understand the purpose of their roles.
- Teachers need to teach handwriting systematically to improve pupils’ "fluid, cursive style" and presentation standards.
Safeguarding
The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, with a "strong culture of keeping pupils safe" led by a well-trained, proactive team that identifies risks and refers them timely.
Results over time
Expected standard (reading, writing, maths), the years we hold.
| Year | Expected standard (reading, writing, maths) |
|---|---|
| 2022/23 | 75% |
| 2023/24 | 73% |
| 2024/25 | 65% |
| 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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