Gilnow Primary School
98%
Capacity
231
Pupils
1.6x
Demand
About Gilnow Primary School
Gilnow Primary School is a state-funded Does not apply primary school serving the Bolton community, welcoming children from age 3 to 11. The school has 231 pupils on roll and is near full capacity (98% of 236 places). Nursery provision is also available on site.
Ofsted has rated Gilnow Primary School "Good", the school is led by headteacher Kate Hesketh, it falls under Bolton local authority.
In terms of academic performance, 36% of pupils met the expected standard in Reading, Writing and Maths at KS2 — below the national average. Additionally, ranked 12876th out of 13,686 schools in England. Additionally, 87th out of 87 in Bolton.
Gilnow Primary School is a popular choice with families — it received 43 applications for 27 places, making it 1.6x oversubscribed. Of these, 22 were first-preference applications.
For children with special educational needs, the school offers support across 6 areas, including Moderate Learning Difficulty, Severe Learning Difficulty, Social, Emotional & Mental Health and 3 more. Parents should contact the school's SENCO for specific details about provision.
On-site facilities at Gilnow Primary School include Dining Hall, Library, Playing Fields, ICT Suite, Sensory Room, Outdoor Playground, Art Studios, Chapel.
Beyond the classroom, pupils can take part in sports such as Football, Cricket, Dance, Athletics and 3 more, as well as clubs including Coding, Chess, Choir, Eco Club and 2 more.
The proportion of pupils eligible for free school meals is 26.7%, which is close to the national average for primary schools in England.
For families exploring primary schools in Bolton, Gilnow Primary School is one of the options available in the North West 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 | 3 to 11 years |
| Gender | Mixed |
| Religious Character | Does not apply |
| Address | Gilnow Gardens, Bolton, Bolton, BL1 4LG |
| Headteacher | Kate Hesketh |
| Local Authority | Bolton |
| Number of Pupils | 231 |
| Free School Meals (FSM) | 26.7% |
| School Capacity | 231 / 236 (98% full) |
| Nursery Classes | Yes |
Ofsted Inspection Breakdown
8 Jun 2022Overall Effectiveness
Good
Latest inspection (8 Jun 2022): School remains Good
Source: Ofsted, 23 Nov 2012. Ratings: 1=Outstanding, 2=Good, 3=Requires Improvement, 4=Inadequate.
League Table Position
Based on KS2 Reading, Writing & Maths (36%)
12876th of 13,686
Nationally
1921st of 2,065
In North West
87th of 87
In Bolton
Source: Classpot analysis of DfE KS2 Reading, Writing & Maths data
KS2 SATs Results
2023/24Reading, Writing & Maths Combined
36%
Expected Standard
0%
Higher Standard
'22/23
29%
'23/24
36%
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
8Facilities may vary. Contact the school for current availability.
Extracurriculars
13Sports
Clubs & Activities
Activities may vary by term. Contact the school for current offerings.
Admissions
2025/26Oversubscribed27
43
Good Demand
Popular school with more applications than places
22 families put this school as their 1st choice (51% of all applications)
Source: Department for Education, 2025/26. Data reflects national offer day applications and offers.
Frequently Asked Questions About Gilnow Primary School
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
Gilnow Gardens, Bolton
Bolton, BL1 4LG
Journey to School
Journey times are estimates based on current conditions. Actual times may vary.
Opening Hours
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