William Barcroft Junior School
Cleethorpes, DN35 7SU · North East Lincolnshire · primary school
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17th of 42 primary schools in North East Lincolnshire we can score, 48 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 — 8.9/10 against 179 of them, against 7.0/10 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 | 74.0 · 76 | 40% | 3.02 |
| 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.
William Barcroft Junior School overview
How it's doing
In 2024/25, 74.0% of pupils reached the expected standard in reading, writing, and maths, compared to the national median of 64%. The higher standard was reached by 9.0% of pupils, against a national median of 7%. Ofsted rated the school Good in September 2025. Narrow the comparison to schools whose pupils have similar backgrounds and it does better still (8.9 out of 10 against similar schools, 7.0 out of 10 against all schools).
Beyond the classroom
Pupils join dance, choir, embroidery, football, art, and book clubs. They participate in lunchtime PE, basketball tournaments, and cricket festivals. Arts activities include dance workshops and pantomime. Trips visit Woodside Wildlife Park, the Holocaust Museum, and a 3-day residential. Breakfast and after-school clubs are available.
Getting in
The published school roll is 273 pupils against a stated capacity of 360. 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 in reaching the higher standard in maths? What specific support is available during the 3-day residential trip? How are class sizes managed with the current roll?
What Ofsted said about William Barcroft Junior School
Overview
Evidence from this ungraded inspection suggests the school’s work “may have improved significantly across all areas” since the previous inspection, prompting a future graded inspection. Pupils attend a “nurturing and inclusive” environment where they feel safe, are “exceptionally polite and articulate,” and demonstrate resilience in their learning.
Strengths
- The school has produced a “carefully crafted curriculum” with strong links between subjects, ensuring pupils develop a “deep understanding” of what they learn.
- Reading is a high priority; teachers are “experts in teaching phonics” and provide rapid support for those falling behind, fostering a culture where “pupils love to read.”
- Staff skilfully support pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) to access the “same ambitious curriculum as their peers.”
- Pastoral care is described as “exemplary,” with effective support for mental health and well-being, helping pupils recognise their emotions and use strategies to respond to situations.
- Personal development opportunities are “extensive and varied,” including leadership roles, career visits, and activities that foster tolerance and ambition for the future.
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 | 64% |
| 2023/24 | 68% |
| 2024/25 | 74% |
| 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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