Sandy Hill Academy
182%
Capacity
459
Pupils
2.8x
Demand
About Sandy Hill Academy
Sandy Hill Academy is a state-funded Does not apply primary school serving the Cornwall community, welcoming children from age 3 to 11. The school has 459 pupils on roll and is near full capacity (182% of 252 places). Nursery provision is also available on site.
the school is led by headteacher Jack Walker, it falls under Cornwall local authority.
In terms of academic performance, 71% of pupils met the expected standard in Reading, Writing and Maths at KS2 — above the national average. Additionally, ranked 3998th out of 13,686 schools in England. Additionally, 45th out of 208 in Cornwall.
Sandy Hill Academy is a popular choice with families — it received 165 applications for 59 places, making it 2.8x oversubscribed. Of these, 68 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 Sandy Hill Academy include Library, Playing Fields, Art Studios, Dining Hall, Sensory Room, ICT Suite, Outdoor Playground, Chapel.
Beyond the classroom, pupils can take part in sports such as Athletics, Swimming, Rounders, Cricket and 1 more, as well as clubs including Drama, Eco Club, Film Club, Choir.
The proportion of pupils eligible for free school meals is 18.5%, which is below the national average for primary schools in England.
For families exploring primary schools in Cornwall, Sandy Hill Academy is one of the options available in the South 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 | Sandy Hill, St Austell, Cornwall, PL25 3AT |
| Headteacher | Jack Walker |
| Local Authority | Cornwall |
| Number of Pupils | 459 |
| Free School Meals (FSM) | 18.5% |
| School Capacity | 459 / 252 (182% full) |
| Nursery Classes | Yes |
Ofsted Inspection Breakdown
18 Jan 2023Overall Effectiveness
Outstanding
Latest inspection (18 Jan 2023): School remains Outstanding
Additional Provisions
Source: Ofsted, 23 Mar 2017. Ratings: 1=Outstanding, 2=Good, 3=Requires Improvement, 4=Inadequate.
League Table Position
Based on KS2 Reading, Writing & Maths (71%)
3998th of 13,686
Nationally
344th of 1,469
In South West
45th of 208
In Cornwall
Source: Classpot analysis of DfE KS2 Reading, Writing & Maths data
KS2 SATs Results
2023/24Reading, Writing & Maths Combined
71%
Expected Standard
7%
Higher Standard
'22/23
67%
'23/24
71%
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
8Facilities may vary. Contact the school for current availability.
Extracurriculars
9Sports
Clubs & Activities
Activities may vary by term. Contact the school for current offerings.
Admissions
2025/26Oversubscribed59
165
Good Demand
Popular school with more applications than places
68 families put this school as their 1st choice (41% of all applications)
Source: Department for Education, 2025/26. Data reflects national offer day applications and offers.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sandy Hill Academy
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
Sandy Hill, St Austell
Cornwall, PL25 3AT
Journey to School
Journey times are estimates based on current conditions. Actual times may vary.
Opening Hours
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