Norton-in-Hales CofE Primary School

About Norton-in-Hales CofE Primary School

Norton-in-Hales CofE Primary School sits in the bottom half of Shropshire primary schools when measured by the proportion of pupils reaching the expected standard in reading, writing and maths combined at Key Stage 2. Its score of 37 per cent is well below the local authority average of 59 per cent, a gap of 22 percentage points that places the school 79th out of 88 similar schools in the county. That said, the picture is more nuanced when you look at individual subjects. In reading, 79 per cent of pupils met the expected standard, comfortably above the national benchmark, and 68 per cent did so in maths. The average scaled scores for both reading and maths sit at 104, which is exactly the national average. Where the school really struggles is writing — only 47 per cent of pupils reached the expected level, and none achieved the higher standard. This uneven profile suggests a school where reading and maths are broadly on track, but writing outcomes are a significant concern.

The school’s most recent graded Ofsted inspection, in 2012, rated it Good overall, with leadership and management also judged Good. A subsequent ungraded inspection in November 2022 confirmed that the school remains Good. This is a notable improvement from its previous inspection in 2010, when it was rated Requires Improvement across the board. With only 70 pupils on roll against a capacity of 105, the school is operating well below its potential intake, and it was oversubscribed for 2025/26 entry, receiving 12 applications for just 2 places. The proportion of pupils eligible for free school meals is 12.1 per cent, slightly below the national average, and the school offers nursery provision for children from age two. Its Church of England character is reflected in the presence of a chapel on site, alongside facilities including a gymnasium, art studios, a sensory room and a library.

For families considering this school, the key takeaway is that Norton-in-Hales offers a small, Good-rated village primary with a strong reading and maths record at Key Stage 2, but writing outcomes need attention. The school provides a range of clubs — coding, drama, science, art, gardening and film — and sports including netball, cricket, rounders, athletics, gymnastics and swimming. Its SEND provision covers speech, language and communication needs, autistic spectrum disorder and other difficulties or disabilities. The nearest Outstanding-rated school is Adderley CofE Primary School, 4.6 km away, which may be a consideration for families prioritising top-tier Ofsted grades. Given its small size and oversubscription, early application is essential. This school will suit families who value a close-knit, Church of England setting and are prepared to support their child’s writing development at home.

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