John Ray Junior School
101%
Capacity
436
Pupils
N/A
Demand
About John Ray Junior School
John Ray Junior School is a state-funded Does not apply primary school serving the Braintree community, welcoming children from age 7 to 11. The school has 436 pupils on roll and is near full capacity (101% of 432 places).
Ofsted has rated John Ray Junior School "Good", the school is led by headteacher Karen Harrison, it falls under Essex local authority.
In terms of academic performance, 56% of pupils met the expected standard in Reading, Writing and Maths at KS2 — close to the national average. Additionally, ranked 9210th out of 13,686 schools in England. Additionally, 29th out of 46 in Braintree.
John Ray Junior School parent feedback on Ofsted Parent View is positive, with 75% recommending the school (76 responses).
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 John Ray Junior School include Sensory Room, Outdoor Playground, Playing Fields, Dining Hall, Library, Sports Hall, Chapel.
Beyond the classroom, pupils can take part in sports such as Football, Gymnastics, Netball, Swimming, as well as clubs including Book Club, Drama, Choir, Eco Club.
The proportion of pupils eligible for free school meals is 27.3%, which is above the national average for primary schools in England.
For families exploring primary schools in Braintree, John Ray Junior 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 | 7 to 11 years |
| Gender | Mixed |
| Religious Character | Does not apply |
| Address | Notley Road, Braintree, Braintree, CM7 1HL |
| Headteacher | Karen Harrison |
| Local Authority | Essex |
| Number of Pupils | 436 |
| Free School Meals (FSM) | 27.3% |
| School Capacity | 436 / 432 (101% full) |
Ofsted Inspection Breakdown
5 Mar 2025Overall Effectiveness
Good
Latest inspection (5 Mar 2025): Standards maintained
Source: Ofsted, 10 May 2020. Ratings: 1=Outstanding, 2=Good, 3=Requires Improvement, 4=Inadequate.
League Table Position
Based on KS2 Reading, Writing & Maths (56%)
9210th of 13,686
Nationally
1006th of 1,612
In East of England
29th of 46
In Braintree
Source: Classpot analysis of DfE KS2 Reading, Writing & Maths data
KS2 SATs Results
2023/24Reading, Writing & Maths Combined
56%
Expected Standard
5%
Higher Standard
'22/23
55%
'23/24
56%
Source: Department for Education, 2023/24. National expected standard benchmark is around 65%.
Ofsted Parent View
76 responsesWould Recommend This School
Source: Ofsted Parent View (GOV.UK statistical data), Sep – Sep 2025
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
8Sports
Clubs & Activities
Activities may vary by term. Contact the school for current offerings.
Frequently Asked Questions About John Ray Junior 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
Notley Road, Braintree
Braintree, CM7 1HL
Journey to School
Journey times are estimates based on current conditions. Actual times may vary.
Opening Hours
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