Higher Failsworth Primary School
92%
Capacity
435
Pupils
1.6x
Demand
About Higher Failsworth Primary School
Higher Failsworth Primary School is a state-funded Does not apply primary school serving the Oldham community, welcoming children from age 3 to 11. The school has 435 pupils on roll and is well-filled (92% of 474 places). Nursery provision is also available on site.
Ofsted has rated Higher Failsworth Primary School "Good", the school is led by headteacher Samantha Forster, it falls under Oldham local authority.
In terms of academic performance, 55% of pupils met the expected standard in Reading, Writing and Maths at KS2 — close to the national average. Additionally, ranked 9470th out of 13,686 schools in England. Additionally, 41st out of 67 in Oldham.
Higher Failsworth Primary School is a popular choice with families — it received 53 applications for 33 places, making it 1.6x oversubscribed. Of these, 26 were first-preference applications.
For children with special educational needs, the school offers support across 7 areas, including Specific Learning Difficulty (Dyslexia), Moderate Learning Difficulty, Social, Emotional & Mental Health and 4 more. Parents should contact the school's SENCO for specific details about provision.
On-site facilities at Higher Failsworth Primary School include Library, Playing Fields, Sensory Room, Art Studios, Dining Hall, Outdoor Playground, Sports Hall, ICT Suite, Chapel.
Beyond the classroom, pupils can take part in sports such as Netball, Football, Cricket, Gymnastics, as well as clubs including Gardening, Science Club, Drama.
The proportion of pupils eligible for free school meals is 30.3%, which is above the national average for primary schools in England.
For families exploring primary schools in Oldham, Higher Failsworth 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 | Stansfield Road, Oldham, Oldham, M35 9EA |
| Headteacher | Samantha Forster |
| Local Authority | Oldham |
| Number of Pupils | 435 |
| Free School Meals (FSM) | 30.3% |
| School Capacity | 435 / 474 (92% full) |
| Nursery Classes | Yes |
Ofsted Inspection Breakdown
10 Jul 2024Overall Effectiveness
Good
Additional Provisions
Source: Ofsted, 24 Sept 2024. Ratings: 1=Outstanding, 2=Good, 3=Requires Improvement, 4=Inadequate.
League Table Position
Based on KS2 Reading, Writing & Maths (55%)
9470th of 13,686
Nationally
1374th of 2,065
In North West
41st of 67
In Oldham
Source: Classpot analysis of DfE KS2 Reading, Writing & Maths data
KS2 SATs Results
2023/24Reading, Writing & Maths Combined
55%
Expected Standard
2%
Higher Standard
'22/23
49%
'23/24
55%
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
7Sports
Clubs & Activities
Activities may vary by term. Contact the school for current offerings.
Admissions
2025/26Oversubscribed33
53
Good Demand
Popular school with more applications than places
26 families put this school as their 1st choice (49% of all applications)
Source: Department for Education, 2025/26. Data reflects national offer day applications and offers.
Frequently Asked Questions About Higher Failsworth 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
Stansfield Road, Oldham
Oldham, M35 9EA
Journey to School
Journey times are estimates based on current conditions. Actual times may vary.
Opening Hours
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