Thorney Close Primary School
Sunderland, SR3 4BB · Sunderland · primary school
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45th of 73 primary schools in Sunderland we can score, 81 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 — 6.7/10 against 881 of them, against 4.8/10 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 | 63.0 · 46 | 40% | 1.85 |
| Ofsted | 52 | 35% | 1.82 |
| 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.
Thorney Close 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%, matching the national median of 7%. Ofsted rated the school Good in November 2023. Narrow the comparison to schools whose pupils have similar backgrounds and it does better still (6.7 out of 10 against similar schools, 4.8 out of 10 against all schools).
Getting in
The published school roll is 289 pupils against a stated capacity of 315. 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 are below the expected standard in maths? What specific trips are planned for the next term?
What Ofsted said about Thorney Close Primary School
Overview
Thorney Close Primary School is described as a place where pupils thrive, underpinned by a belief that all children have a right to a high-quality education. The report highlights an inclusive environment where relationships are a strength, and pupils feel happy, safe, and well supported by trusted adults. Leaders have designed an ambitious curriculum that prepares pupils for life beyond school, with particular praise for the support provided to pupils with special educational needs and disabilities.
Strengths
- Pupils demonstrate "exemplary" behaviour, following the school’s rules to "be ready, be respectful and be safe" and developing mutual respect.
- The curriculum is "ambitious" and carefully designed, using strategies like "memory joggers" to help pupils recall previous learning.
- Early reading is given "high priority," with an effective approach ensuring books match the sounds pupils know, fostering fluency and confidence.
- Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities receive "effective support" and are fully integrated into school life, achieving well.
- Personal development is rated Outstanding, with initiatives like yoga and extra-curricular clubs supporting mental health and well-being.
Areas to improve
- Attendance remains a concern, as "too many pupils are absent from school on a regular basis," despite recent changes to strategies.
- The early years curriculum is not yet fully aligned with key stage 1, meaning some children are "not as well prepared for their next steps as they might be."
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 | 61% |
| 2023/24 | 68% |
| 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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