Sparkwell All Saints Primary School

About Sparkwell All Saints Primary School

Sparkwell All Saints Primary School is a small state primary in Devon, serving 87 pupils aged 4 to 11 in the South Hams area. Within its local authority, it sits at rank 156 out of 309 same-type schools, placing it in the middle of the pack. The top-performing peers in the area include Stockland Church of England Primary Academy, Upottery Primary School, and Berry Pomeroy Parochial CofE Primary School, all of which score higher on the ranking metric. The school is oversubscribed for the 2025/26 intake, with 25 applications for 15 places and 16 first-preference applications, suggesting strong local demand despite its mid-tier ranking. Headteacher Thomas Cole leads a school that operates below its capacity of 105, and just 8 per cent of pupils are eligible for free school meals, which is notably low. The school has no religious character and does not offer nursery or sixth-form provision.

Academically, Sparkwell All Saints holds a Good rating from its most recent Ofsted inspection in October 2024, with all graded areas — quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision — all rated Good. In the 2023/24 Key Stage 2 results, 50 per cent of pupils met the expected standard in reading, writing and maths combined, which is below the Devon local authority average of 57 per cent. However, reading scores were stronger: 79 per cent reached the expected standard and 29 per cent achieved a higher standard, with an average reading score of 106. Maths was weaker, with 57 per cent at expected and no pupils reaching the higher standard, though the average maths score of 102 is in line with national expectations. Writing saw 64 per cent at expected and 14 per cent at a higher level. Nationally, the school ranks in the bottom half for its combined RWM expected measure, sitting at the 78th percentile.

Parents are broadly positive, with 82 per cent saying they would recommend the school. In the Parent View survey, 91 per cent agreed or strongly agreed that their child is happy, and 95 per cent felt their child is safe. The school offers a range of facilities including a library, outdoor playground, gymnasium and art studios, plus clubs such as art, eco, drama, film, book club and choir. Sports on offer include dance, cross country, netball and tennis. SEND provision covers specific learning difficulties like dyslexia, moderate learning difficulties, social, emotional and mental health needs, speech, language and communication needs, and visual impairment. However, the Parent View data for SEND support had no responses, so it is unclear how parents rate this area. This school would suit families looking for a small, community-focused primary with a strong reading emphasis and a good safety record, though those prioritising top academic outcomes may want to consider higher-ranked local options.

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