The Vale Primary Academy
Knottingley, WF11 8JF · Wakefield · primary school
Check the area around this school
24th of 98 primary schools in Wakefield we can score, 113 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 — 7.8/10 against 3,328 of them, against 7.1/10 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 | 76.0 · 80 | 62% | 4.91 |
| Higher standard (RWM) 2024/25 | 8.0 · 57 | 38% | 2.19 |
Each measure is read as a position among comparable schools, so a school in the middle of the country scores 5. Full method.
The Vale Primary Academy overview
How it's doing
In 2024/25, 76.0% of pupils reached the expected standard in reading, writing and maths, compared to the national median of 64%. For the higher standard, the figure was 8.0% against a national median of 7%. Narrow the comparison to schools whose pupils have similar backgrounds and it does better still (7.8 out of 10 against similar schools, 7.1 out of 10 against all schools).
Beyond the classroom
Pupils participate in Pupil Parliament, compete in Delta Games, and enjoy Ancient Greece Day with a drama performance. Trips include visits to Dallowgill Activity Centre, Tropical World, Yorkshire Wildlife Park, York Chocolate Story, Magna Cannon Hall Farm, Pontefract Caste, Eden Camp, and Pontefract Library.
Getting in
The published school roll is 218 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
How does the school support pupils who do not reach the expected standard in maths? What specific support is available for those aiming for the higher standard?
What Ofsted said about The Vale Primary Academy
Overview
The Vale Primary Academy is described as a school where pupils thrive within an "exceptionally caring and welcoming environment." Leaders and staff maintain high aspirations, fostering strong relationships that nurture a culture of ambition, trust, and respect. The report highlights a broad, ambitious curriculum that ensures pupils make remarkable progress and are well-prepared for their next phase of education.
Strengths
- Staff create an inspiring atmosphere where pupils show "positive behaviour" and take pride in their roles within the school community.
- The curriculum is "expertly designed" and "seamlessly sequenced," with effective cross-subject links that help pupils connect concepts and address misconceptions quickly.
- Reading is prioritised through a "rich and immersive reading environment," resulting in high levels of fluency and an "enduring love for books."
- Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities are "fully included" and achieve "exceptionally well from their starting points."
- The trust provides strong support, including high-quality professional development and effective workload management for staff.
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 | 77% |
| 2023/24 | 74% |
| 2024/25 | 76% |
| 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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