Ark Ayrton Primary Academy
98%
Capacity
501
Pupils
2.3x
Demand
About Ark Ayrton Primary Academy
Ark Ayrton Primary Academy is a state-funded Does not apply primary school serving the Portsmouth community, welcoming children from age 2 to 11. The school has 501 pupils on roll and is near full capacity (98% of 510 places). Nursery provision is also available on site.
Ofsted has rated Ark Ayrton Primary Academy "Good", the school is led by headteacher Sophie Bennett-Acres, it falls under Portsmouth local authority.
In terms of academic performance, 80% of pupils met the expected standard in Reading, Writing and Maths at KS2 — well above the national average. Additionally, placing it in the top 25% nationally. Additionally, ranked 1481st out of 13,686 schools in England. Additionally, 1st out of 32 in Portsmouth.
Ark Ayrton Primary Academy is a popular choice with families — it received 135 applications for 60 places, making it 2.3x oversubscribed. Of these, 56 were first-preference applications.
For children with special educational needs, the school offers support across 9 areas, including Specific Learning Difficulty (Dyslexia), Moderate Learning Difficulty, Severe Learning Difficulty and 6 more. Parents should contact the school's SENCO for specific details about provision.
On-site facilities at Ark Ayrton Primary Academy include Sports Hall, ICT Suite, Gymnasium, Sensory Room, Music Rooms, Library, Outdoor Playground, Dining Hall, Chapel.
Beyond the classroom, pupils can take part in sports such as Dance, Netball, Football, Rounders and 3 more, as well as clubs including Film Club, Chess, Drama.
The proportion of pupils eligible for free school meals is 57.6%, which is well above the national average for primary schools in England.
For families exploring primary schools in Portsmouth, Ark Ayrton Primary Academy is one of the options available in the South East region. Use Classpot to compare it side-by-side with nearby alternatives and find the best fit for your child.
Key Details
| School Type | Primary (State) |
| Age Range | 2 to 11 years |
| Gender | Mixed |
| Religious Character | Does not apply |
| Address | Somers Road, Portsmouth, Portsmouth, PO5 4LS |
| Headteacher | Sophie Bennett-Acres |
| Local Authority | Portsmouth |
| Number of Pupils | 501 |
| Free School Meals (FSM) | 57.6% |
| School Capacity | 501 / 510 (98% full) |
| Nursery Classes | Yes |
Ofsted Inspection Breakdown
11 Jul 2024Overall Effectiveness
Good
Latest inspection (11 Jul 2024): School remains Good (Improving) - S5 Next
Additional Provisions
Source: Ofsted, 29 Nov 2018. Ratings: 1=Outstanding, 2=Good, 3=Requires Improvement, 4=Inadequate.
League Table Position
Based on KS2 Reading, Writing & Maths (80%)
1481st of 13,686
Nationally
194th of 2,034
In South East
1st of 32
In Portsmouth
Source: Classpot analysis of DfE KS2 Reading, Writing & Maths data
KS2 SATs Results
2023/24Reading, Writing & Maths Combined
80%
Expected Standard
5%
Higher Standard
'22/23
58%
'23/24
80%
Source: Department for Education, 2023/24. National expected standard benchmark is around 65%.
SEND Support
Source: Department for Education, 2024/25. Support availability based on current student population.
Facilities
9Facilities may vary. Contact the school for current availability.
Extracurriculars
10Sports
Clubs & Activities
Activities may vary by term. Contact the school for current offerings.
Admissions
2025/26Oversubscribed60
135
Good Demand
Popular school with more applications than places
56 families put this school as their 1st choice (41% of all applications)
Source: Department for Education, 2025/26. Data reflects national offer day applications and offers.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ark Ayrton Primary Academy
Helpful Guides for Parents
Ofsted Ratings Explained
Understand the 4 Ofsted ratings and what they mean
How to Choose a Primary School
Step-by-step guide to choosing the right primary school
KS2 SATs Explained
A parent's guide to Year 6 SATs and how results are reported
SEN & EHCP: A Parent's Guide
Understanding SEN support, EHC Plans and your legal rights
Contact Information
Somers Road, Portsmouth
Portsmouth, PO5 4LS
Journey to School
Journey times are estimates based on current conditions. Actual times may vary.
Opening Hours
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