St Paul's Catholic Primary School
Reading, RG31 4SZ · West Berkshire · primary school
Check the area around this school
10th of 54 primary schools in West Berkshire we can score, 67 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 the 2,153 schools whose pupils have similar backgrounds — a tougher field — and it places 4.3/10 among them, against 6.4/10 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 | 77.0 · 82 | 40% | 3.28 |
| Ofsted | 52 | 35% | 1.82 |
| Higher standard (RWM) 2024/25 | 4.0 · 35 | 25% | 0.88 |
Each measure is read as a position among comparable schools, so a school in the middle of the country scores 5. Full method.
St Paul's Catholic Primary School overview
How it's doing
In 2024/25, 77.0% of pupils reached the expected standard in reading, writing and maths, compared to the national median of 64%. 4.0% reached the higher standard, against a national median of 7%. Ofsted rated the school Good in September 2023. Narrow the comparison to the schools whose pupils have similar backgrounds — a tougher field — and it places 4.3 out of 10 among them, against 6.4 out of 10 nationally.
Beyond the classroom
Pupils can join Zen Den, Art Club, Drama Club, Mini Vinnies, Adonai Judo Club, STEM Engineering, Musical Theatre, and Street Dance. Sports include Judo, Multi-Sports, Basketball, and netball, while the Choir provides musical opportunities. An after-school club is available for wraparound care.
Getting in
The published school roll is 279 pupils against a stated capacity of 327. 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 do not reach the higher standard in maths? What specific support is available for children joining the after-school club? How does the curriculum integrate the various clubs into daily learning?
What Ofsted said about St Paul's Catholic Primary School
Overview
St Paul’s Catholic Primary School continues to be a good school, characterised by a strong ethos where “pupils’ respect for others is at the heart of the school’s ethos.” Leaders have devised a “very well-structured curriculum” that engages all pupils, resulting in “very strong” behaviour and an inclusive environment. The report highlights high expectations for achievement and a positive culture where staff and parents are united in supporting pupils.
Strengths
- Pupils demonstrate excellent manners and conduct, with bullying being “exceptionally rare.”
- The curriculum is “well sequenced to promote pupils’ learning,” particularly in reading, writing, and mathematics.
- Teachers deliver active, purposeful lessons in subjects like art and science, where pupils produce “high-quality artwork” and explore concepts with interest.
- Pupils with special educational needs or disabilities receive tailored support through specific individual plans that are regularly checked for success.
- There is a “strong safeguarding culture” with thorough training and diligent monitoring by governors.
Areas to improve
- Leaders must ensure all staff use phonics teaching methods consistently, as some pupils struggle to learn sounds without uniform support.
- Subject leaders need to decide on key vocabulary for all subjects to help pupils deepen their understanding of subject-specific terms.
- In foundation subjects, assessment processes are not fully in place; teachers must systematically check what pupils have learned to adapt the curriculum effectively.
Safeguarding
The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, with staff possessing the knowledge to identify risks and follow procedures, ensuring pupils feel safe and understand online dangers.
Results over time
Expected standard (reading, writing, maths), the years we hold.
| Year | Expected standard (reading, writing, maths) |
|---|---|
| 2022/23 | 77% |
| 2023/24 | 83% |
| 2024/25 | 77% |
| 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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