Horbury Primary Academy has been recognised in a letter from the Rt Hon Bridget Phillipson MP, Secretary of State for Education, for delivering exceptional outcomes for disadvantaged pupils.

Research consistently shows that socioeconomic disadvantage can significantly affect children’s attainment, often leaving them behind their peers by the end of primary school.

A 2024 report from the Education Policy Institute found that 29 per cent of pupils nationally were classed as disadvantaged by the end of Key Stage 2.

This roughly translates to a 10-month learning gap between peers, an issue which can persist into secondary school and beyond.

James Tucker, Headteacher of Horbury Primary Academy School.

placeholder image — James Tucker, Headteacher of Horbury Primary Academy School.

However, at Horbury Primary Academy, this national trend has been successfully challenged.

The school has achieved a virtually non-existent attainment gap between its pupils.

By the end of Key Stage 2, 71 per cent of the school’s disadvantaged pupils meet the government’s expected standards in reading, writing and maths – a figure which exactly matches the outcomes of non-disadvantaged pupils across Wakefield.

This ensures that all our children enter secondary school on an equal footing with their peers across the district.

Disadvantaged pupils at Horbury Primary Academy achieve average scores in reading and maths which actually exceed the Local Authority average for non-disadvantaged pupils.

In addition, disadvantaged pupils at Horbury Primary Academy achieve average scores in reading and maths which actually exceed the Local Authority average for non-disadvantaged pupils, placing them at a strong academic advantage as they move into the next phase of their education.

James Tucker, Headteacher, said: “We are delighted to receive this recognition, which is a testament to the strength and inclusivity of our school community.

"Through carefully designed curriculum strategies, targeted small-group and one-to-one support, and a relentless focus on improving every aspect of our provision, we have been able to close the attainment gap and ensure every child can succeed.

“We are passionate about fostering an environment where children feel valued, supported and empowered to achieve their full potential. My sincere thanks go to our staff, parents and carers, whose partnership and commitment help make our school a place where children truly thrive.”

The school achieved a virtually non-existent attainment gap between our pupils.

Families who would like to learn more about what Horbury Primary Academy can offer their child are warmly invited to contact our school office to arrange a personal tour. You can reach our team at [email protected] or by calling 01924 263224.