Westlea Primary School
Seaham, SR7 8JU · County Durham · primary school
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40th of 188 primary schools in County Durham we can score, 208 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 — 8.7/10 against 1,567 of them, against 7.4/10 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 | 77.0 · 82 | 40% | 3.28 |
| Ofsted | 52 | 35% | 1.82 |
| Higher standard (RWM) 2024/25 | 9.0 · 61 | 25% | 1.53 |
Each measure is read as a position among comparable schools, so a school in the middle of the country scores 5. Full method.
Westlea Primary School overview
How it's doing
In 2024/25, 77.0% 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 9.0% against a national median of 7%. Ofsted rated the school Good in February 2023. Narrow the comparison to schools whose pupils have similar backgrounds and it does better still (8.7 out of 10 against similar schools, 7.4 out of 10 against all schools).
Beyond the classroom
Pupils access a breakfast club and after-school club. Activities include gardening, craft, games, art, music and movement, choir, yoga, dance, and soft archery. Sports cover football, netball, basketball, multiskills, tag rugby, NFL flag football, athletics, and cricket. Trips include Soccarena and an outdoors adventurous activity day.
Getting in
The published school roll is 247 pupils against a stated capacity of 238. 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 yet reached the expected standard? How are the various clubs and sports scheduled to ensure broad participation?
What Ofsted said about Westlea Primary School
Overview
Pupils “thrive in this welcoming school” where they “feel safe” and “enjoy their learning.” The report highlights “exceptional” leadership and a “broad” curriculum that supports high standards of education, with particular praise for the “Outstanding” early years provision and management.
Strengths
- Leadership is described as “exceptional,” with staff receiving “high-quality training” and sharing a strong ambition for pupil success.
- The curriculum is “broad” and “carefully sequenced,” allowing pupils to “remember their learning over time” and engage enthusiastically in subjects like Spanish and music.
- Early years provision is “Outstanding,” with children making an “excellent start” through a curriculum that provides a “strong foundation for key stage 1.”
- Reading is a clear priority, supported by a “well structured” phonics programme and skilled staff who provide targeted support for those who need it.
- Pupils develop strong personal responsibility and behaviour, with leaders ensuring every child, including those with SEND, benefits from opportunities outside the classroom.
Areas to improve
- In history, pupils’ understanding of concepts such as “civilisation and democracy” is “not as developed as the rest of their knowledge” due to insufficient emphasis in planning; leaders should continue implementing their training plan for staff.
Safeguarding
The arrangements for safeguarding are “effective,” with a strong culture of safety, clear procedures, and close collaboration with external agencies to support children and families.
Results over time
Expected standard (reading, writing, maths), the years we hold.
| Year | Expected standard (reading, writing, maths) |
|---|---|
| 2022/23 | 66% |
| 2023/24 | 69% |
| 2024/25 | 77% |
| 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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