St Mary's CofE (Aided) Primary School

About St Mary's CofE (Aided) Primary School

St Mary's CofE (Aided) Primary School in Kingston upon Thames is a smaller-than-average state primary, with 177 pupils on roll against a capacity of 210. The proportion of pupils eligible for free school meals stands at 20.9%, which is notably higher than the national average for primary schools, suggesting the school serves a community with above-average levels of economic disadvantage. Demand for places is strong: for the 2025/26 intake, the school received 72 applications for just 27 places, with 18 of those coming as first preferences. That works out at 2.67 applications per place, a clear signal that local families are keen to get in despite the school's relatively modest academic ranking within the borough.

Academically, St Mary's sits at the bottom of the Kingston upon Thames league table for Key Stage 2 outcomes, ranked 27th out of 27 schools in the local authority. In the 2023/24 assessments, just 27% of pupils met the expected standard in reading, writing and maths combined, compared with a local authority average of 66%. Reading scores were the strongest area: 69% reached the expected standard and 27% achieved a higher score, with an average scaled score of 105. Maths was weaker, with 58% at the expected level and only 4% reaching the higher threshold; the average maths score was 102. Writing was a particular challenge, with just 27% meeting expectations. The school's most recent Ofsted inspection in 2022 rated it Good across all categories, a clear improvement from its previous Requires Improvement rating in 2019, with inspectors noting good behaviour, personal development and leadership.

The school offers a broad range of facilities including a library, art studios, music rooms, a sports hall, playing fields and a Forest School area. Clubs such as chess, gardening, eco club and film club add variety, while sports provision includes netball, athletics, cricket, tennis and gymnastics. SEND support covers specific learning difficulties like dyslexia, speech and language needs, and social, emotional and mental health. This is a school that has made real progress in recent years and suits families who value a Church of England ethos and a strong sense of community over headline exam results. The oversubscription rate suggests it is well-regarded locally, particularly among those who appreciate its inclusive, supportive approach.

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