The Olive School, Preston
Preston, PR2 8DW · Lancashire · primary school
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4th 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.
Its results hold up when the comparison narrows to schools whose pupils have similar backgrounds — 9.8/10 against 4,158 of them, against 9.7/10 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 | 88.0 · 96 | 40% | 3.85 |
| Ofsted | 96 | 35% | 3.37 |
| Higher standard (RWM) 2024/25 | 30.0 · 98 | 25% | 2.45 |
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, Preston overview
How it's doing
In 2024/25, 88.0% of pupils reached the expected standard in reading, writing and maths, compared to the national median of 64%. 30.0% reached the higher standard, against a national median of 7%. Ofsted rated the school Outstanding in January 2025. 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 (9.8 out of 10 against similar schools, 9.7 out of 10 against all schools).
Getting in
The published school roll is 421 pupils against a stated capacity of 420. 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 manage the current over-capacity status for new entrants? What specific support is available for pupils who do not reach the higher standard? How does the wraparound care integrate with the daily timetable?
What Ofsted said about The Olive School, Preston
Overview
The Olive School has taken effective action to maintain the high standards identified at its previous inspection, where it was judged outstanding for overall effectiveness. Pupils thrive in this exceptional school, living up to extremely high expectations for their achievements and behaviour within a warm and welcoming community.
Strengths
- Pupils engage in learning with enthusiasm and determination, producing work of an "incredibly high standard" and achieving outcomes in national assessments that "exceed the national average".
- The curriculum is "thoughtfully planned and structured," with staff using expertise to make lessons "engaging and impactful" while quickly addressing misconceptions.
- Staff provide tailored support for pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), ensuring they access the full curriculum and make "excellent progress".
- Reading is prioritised through consistent phonics delivery and careful book selection, fostering fluency and a love for a "variety of genres and authors".
- Pupils demonstrate "exemplary" behaviour, treating others with kindness and respect, while benefiting from enriching experiences that support personal growth and resilience.
Areas to improve
- The report identifies no significant areas for improvement.
Safeguarding
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 | 84% |
| 2023/24 | 90% |
| 2024/25 | 88% |
| 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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