Acklam Whin Primary School

About Acklam Whin Primary School

Acklam Whin Primary School is a popular choice among Middlesbrough families, and the numbers back that up. For the 2025/26 intake, the school received 132 applications for just 60 places, giving it an oversubscription ratio of 2.2. Of those applicants, 56 put Acklam Whin as their first preference, and 53 were offered a place — so while it’s competitive, a first-preference application gives you a strong chance. The school is led by headteacher Suzie Prince and currently has 477 pupils on roll, which is above its official capacity of 420. That level of demand suggests parents are seeing something they like, and it’s worth noting that the school’s most recent Ofsted inspection, an ungraded visit in October 2023, confirmed it remains a Good school, though inspectors noted some concerns that will need addressing before the next graded inspection.

Academically, Acklam Whin sits within a local authority where the average Key Stage 2 score is 62, and the school’s own performance aligns with that solidly Good rating. The most recent graded inspection, back in November 2013, rated overall effectiveness, leadership and management, and early years provision all at Grade 2 (Good). While there are no published KS2 SATs results in the data to compare directly against the LA average, the school’s sustained Good rating across two inspection cycles — the previous graded inspection in 2008 also rated it Good — suggests consistent standards. The school serves a relatively mixed catchment, with 11.1% of pupils eligible for free school meals, which is below the national average for primary schools. For parents focused on academic outcomes, the school’s stability and the fact it remains oversubscribed are probably more telling than any single test score.

Beyond the classroom, Acklam Whin offers a decent spread of facilities including a gymnasium, sports hall, art studios, playing fields, and even a chapel. Sports provision is strong, with tennis, cross country, athletics, gymnastics, netball, swimming, and rounders all on offer, plus clubs like book club, art club, coding, science club, and chess. The school also has a nursery provision, which is handy for families with younger children. For those with SEND needs, the school lists support for specific learning difficulties like dyslexia, moderate learning difficulties, social emotional and mental health needs, speech language and communication needs, and autistic spectrum disorder. It’s not an Outstanding school — the nearest one is Linthorpe Community Primary, 2.6 km away — but for families who want a well-subscribed, Good-rated primary with solid facilities and a clear sense of local demand, Acklam Whin is a realistic and popular option.

Key Details

Frequently Asked Questions About Acklam Whin Primary School

Helpful Guides for Parents