St Stephen's CofE Primary School
Manchester, M29 7BT · Wigan · primary school
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82nd of 97 primary schools in Wigan we can score, 99 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 — 4.4/10 against 4,023 of them, against 4.8/10 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 | 63.0 · 46 | 40% | 1.85 |
| Ofsted | 6 | 35% | 0.19 |
| Higher standard (RWM) 2024/25 | 7.0 · 51 | 25% | 1.27 |
Each measure is read as a position among comparable schools, so a school in the middle of the country scores 5. Full method.
St Stephen's CofE Primary School overview
How it's doing
In 2024/25, 63.0% of pupils reached the expected standard in reading, writing and maths, compared with the national median of 64%. The higher standard was reached by 7.0% of pupils, matching the national median of 7%. Its position is much the same whether compared with all schools or only those whose pupils have similar backgrounds (4.4 out of 10 against similar schools, 4.8 out of 10 against all schools). The school was inspected in March 2026 under the new report-card framework, which grades each area separately and gives no overall grade.
Getting in
The published school roll is 240 pupils against a stated capacity of 236. 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
What specific support is available for pupils who have not reached the expected standard? How does the new inspection framework affect current teaching priorities?
What Ofsted said about St Stephen's CofE Primary School
Overview
St Stephen’s CofE Primary School is described as a welcoming environment where pupils feel valued and safe, with strong early years provision and effective support for those with special educational needs. However, the report identifies that leaders have not acted quickly enough to address variability in teaching quality and inconsistent behaviour expectations, which hinder pupils’ progress in some subjects.
Strengths
- The early years curriculum is "exciting" and engages children well, with staff developing vocabulary "precisely" and building "positive relationships".
- Pupils receive "well-considered support" for special educational needs, with leaders monitoring progress and working closely with external agencies.
- Personal development is enhanced through a programme rooted in the local community, helping pupils learn to "value and accept everyone" and manage their emotions.
- Attendance rates are above the national average, supported by initiatives like the ‘Bee Ready’ breakfast club.
- Parents report a "nurturing school with a genuine family feel," and staff are praised for their dedication and pride.
Areas to improve
- Leaders must ensure teachers consistently use the best methods to help pupils build and retain knowledge across all subjects, not just English and mathematics.
- All staff must share the same high expectations for behaviour, particularly on the playground, to reduce unsafe incidents.
- Leaders and governors need sharper oversight of teaching quality and accurate reporting of child-on-child violence to address weaknesses promptly.
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 | 60% |
| 2023/24 | 60% |
| 2024/25 | 63% |
| 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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