Kexborough Primary School

About Kexborough Primary School

Kexborough Primary School sits comfortably above the Barnsley average for its key stage 2 results, with 76% of pupils reaching the expected standard in reading, writing and maths combined, compared with the local authority average of 63%. That thirteen-point gap places the school 13th out of 70 primary schools in Barnsley, putting it in the top 25% nationally. The school’s maths and reading average scores both sit at 106, which is solidly above the national benchmark of 100, and a higher-than-average proportion of pupils — 32% in both reading and maths — achieved the higher standard. Writing is the relative weak spot here, with only 12% reaching the higher threshold, though the expected rate matches reading at 76%. The school’s most recent Ofsted inspection, an ungraded visit in 2025, confirmed that standards are being maintained, and it has held a Good rating since its last graded inspection in 2014.

The parent view data, based on 55 responses collected between September 2024 and September 2025, tells a more complicated story. While 60% of parents would recommend the school, the breakdown on specific questions reveals significant dissatisfaction. On the question of whether the school gives SEND children the support they need, 65% of parents strongly disagreed, and only 20% agreed or strongly agreed. Concerns about how issues are dealt with also drew a split response, with 27% strongly disagreeing that concerns are handled properly. On the positive side, 80% of parents agreed or strongly agreed that their child is happy, and 72% felt their child is safe. The school’s behaviour rating was also strong, with 76% agreeing that pupils are well-behaved. The headteacher, Jane Mackay, leads a school of 190 pupils, slightly below its capacity of 210, and 25.4% of pupils are eligible for free school meals.

Kexborough is a state primary for mixed genders from age 3 to 11, with nursery provision on site. It was oversubscribed for the 2025/26 intake, receiving 23 applications for 19 places, with all 19 first-preference applicants offered a spot. The school offers a broad range of facilities including a forest school, sensory room, art studios, music rooms and a sports hall, plus clubs in art, science, coding and film. Sports provision covers cross country, swimming, netball, athletics, gymnastics, tennis and football. SEND support is listed for a wide range of needs including autistic spectrum disorder, speech and language difficulties, and social, emotional and mental health needs — though the parent view suggests this is an area of real concern for many families. The nearest outstanding-rated school is Gawber Primary, 3.5 km away. For families who value strong academic outcomes and a wide range of activities, Kexborough delivers; for those with children who have SEND needs, it would be wise to investigate further.

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