Highwoods Community Primary School
99%
Capacity
447
Pupils
2.7x
Demand
About Highwoods Community Primary School
Highwoods Community Primary School is a state-funded Does not apply primary school serving the Colchester community, welcoming children from age 4 to 11. The school has 447 pupils on roll and is near full capacity (99% of 450 places).
Ofsted has rated Highwoods Community Primary School "Good", the school is led by headteacher Paul Disley, it falls under Essex local authority.
In terms of academic performance, 81% of pupils met the expected standard in Reading, Writing and Maths at KS2 — well above the national average. Additionally, placing it in the top 10% nationally. Additionally, ranked 1353rd out of 13,686 schools in England. Additionally, 3rd out of 51 in Colchester.
Highwoods Community Primary School is a popular choice with families — it received 163 applications for 60 places, making it 2.7x oversubscribed. Of these, 72 were first-preference applications.
For children with special educational needs, the school offers support across 8 areas, including Specific Learning Difficulty (Dyslexia), Moderate Learning Difficulty, Social, Emotional & Mental Health and 5 more. Parents should contact the school's SENCO for specific details about provision.
On-site facilities at Highwoods Community Primary School include Library, Playing Fields, Sensory Room, Sports Hall, Outdoor Playground, ICT Suite, Chapel.
Beyond the classroom, pupils can take part in sports such as Netball, Swimming, Dance, Gymnastics and 2 more, as well as clubs including Eco Club, Art Club, Drama, Science Club and 1 more.
The proportion of pupils eligible for free school meals is 17.7%, which is below the national average for primary schools in England.
For families exploring primary schools in Colchester, Highwoods Community Primary School is one of the options available in the East of England 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 | 4 to 11 years |
| Gender | Mixed |
| Religious Character | Does not apply |
| Address | Tynedale Square, Colchester, Colchester, CO4 9SN |
| Headteacher | Paul Disley |
| Local Authority | Essex |
| Number of Pupils | 447 |
| Free School Meals (FSM) | 17.7% |
| School Capacity | 447 / 450 (99% full) |
Ofsted Inspection Breakdown
14 Jun 2024Overall Effectiveness
Good
Latest inspection (14 Jun 2024): School remains Good (Improving) - S5 Next
Additional Provisions
Source: Ofsted, 22 Apr 2015. Ratings: 1=Outstanding, 2=Good, 3=Requires Improvement, 4=Inadequate.
League Table Position
Based on KS2 Reading, Writing & Maths (81%)
1353rd of 13,686
Nationally
125th of 1,612
In East of England
3rd of 51
In Colchester
Source: Classpot analysis of DfE KS2 Reading, Writing & Maths data
KS2 SATs Results
2023/24Reading, Writing & Maths Combined
81%
Expected Standard
26%
Higher Standard
'22/23
73%
'23/24
81%
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
7Facilities may vary. Contact the school for current availability.
Extracurriculars
11Sports
Clubs & Activities
Activities may vary by term. Contact the school for current offerings.
Admissions
2025/26Oversubscribed60
163
Good Demand
Popular school with more applications than places
72 families put this school as their 1st choice (44% of all applications)
Source: Department for Education, 2025/26. Data reflects national offer day applications and offers.
Frequently Asked Questions About Highwoods Community 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
Tynedale Square, Colchester
Colchester, CO4 9SN
Journey to School
Journey times are estimates based on current conditions. Actual times may vary.
Opening Hours
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