The Olive School, Blackburn
Blackburn, BB2 6QQ · Blackburn with Darwen · primary school
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1st of 51 primary schools in Blackburn with Darwen we can score, 56 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 — 9.7/10 against 2,153 of them, against 9.8/10 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 | 98.0 · 100 | 62% | 6.13 |
| Higher standard (RWM) 2024/25 | 24.0 · 95 | 38% | 3.67 |
Each measure is read as a position among comparable schools, so a school in the middle of the country scores 5. Full method.
The Olive School, Blackburn overview
How it's doing
In 2024/25, 98.0% of pupils reached the expected standard in reading, writing and maths, compared to the national median of 64%. 24.0% reached the higher standard, 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 (9.7 out of 10 against similar schools, 9.8 out of 10 against all schools).
Beyond the classroom
Pupils join poetry, debating, STEM, and eco clubs, alongside football, cricket, and swimming lessons. Arts activities include sewing, baking, drumming, and an annual talent show. Trips visit Chester Zoo, the British Heritage Museum, and Istanbul. An after-school club provides wraparound care.
Getting in
The published school roll is 638 pupils against a stated capacity of 630. 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 aiming for the higher standard? How are trips like Istanbul funded and organised?
What Ofsted said about The Olive School, Blackburn
Overview
The report describes a school where pupils thrive due to "exceptional academic education," "strong pastoral support" and "rich, broad opportunities." Leaders are characterised as "tenacious in their pursuit of excellence," maintaining "exceedingly high expectations" that drive high attainment and prepare pupils well for life in modern Britain.
Strengths
- The curriculum "ignites curiosity" and is carefully designed so pupils "acquire new knowledge securely" by building on prior understanding.
- Staff possess "expert subject knowledge" and make "successful adaptations" to ensure all pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities, achieve highly.
- Personal development is described as the "heartbeat of the school," fostering pupils who are "active community citizens" with a deep understanding of equality and diversity.
- Early years provision is strong, with children settling quickly into routines and building a "wide vocabulary" by the time they start Year 1.
- Staff feel "incredibly supported" by leaders, who value their workload and well-being while maintaining a culture where "only the best is good enough."
Areas to improve
- The report identifies no significant areas for improvement.
Safeguarding
The report states that "the arrangements for safeguarding are effective."
Results over time
Expected standard (reading, writing, maths), the years we hold.
| Year | Expected standard (reading, writing, maths) |
|---|---|
| 2022/23 | 92% |
| 2023/24 | 95% |
| 2024/25 | 98% |
| 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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