The Forest Academy
139%
Capacity
352
Pupils
1.5x
Demand
About The Forest Academy
The Forest Academy is a state-funded Does not apply primary school serving the Barnsley community, welcoming children from age 3 to 11. The school has 352 pupils on roll and is near full capacity (139% of 253 places). Nursery provision is also available on site.
the school is led by headteacher Katie Pierce, it falls under Barnsley local authority.
In terms of academic performance, 73% of pupils met the expected standard in Reading, Writing and Maths at KS2 — above the national average. Additionally, placing it in the top 25% nationally. Additionally, ranked 3321st out of 13,686 schools in England. Additionally, 21st out of 70 in Barnsley.
The Forest Academy is a popular choice with families — it received 64 applications for 42 places, making it 1.5x oversubscribed. Of these, 38 were first-preference applications.
For children with special educational needs, the school offers support across 6 areas, including Specific Learning Difficulty (Dyslexia), Moderate Learning Difficulty, Social, Emotional & Mental Health and 3 more. Parents should contact the school's SENCO for specific details about provision.
On-site facilities at The Forest Academy include Outdoor Playground, Gymnasium, Playing Fields, Music Rooms, Art Studios, ICT Suite, Chapel.
Beyond the classroom, pupils can take part in sports such as Tennis, Swimming, Dance, Netball, as well as clubs including Book Club, Art Club, Gardening, Choir and 2 more.
The proportion of pupils eligible for free school meals is 37.3%, which is well above the national average for primary schools in England.
For families exploring primary schools in Barnsley, The Forest Academy is one of the options available in the Yorkshire and the Humber 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 | Thornton Road, Barnsley, Barnsley, S70 3NG |
| Headteacher | Katie Pierce |
| Local Authority | Barnsley |
| Number of Pupils | 352 |
| Free School Meals (FSM) | 37.3% |
| School Capacity | 352 / 253 (139% full) |
| Nursery Classes | Yes |
Ofsted Inspection Breakdown
2 Feb 2023Overall Effectiveness
Outstanding
Additional Provisions
Source: Ofsted, 20 Mar 2023. Ratings: 1=Outstanding, 2=Good, 3=Requires Improvement, 4=Inadequate.
League Table Position
Based on KS2 Reading, Writing & Maths (73%)
3321st of 13,686
Nationally
325th of 1,506
In Yorkshire and the Humber
21st of 70
In Barnsley
Source: Classpot analysis of DfE KS2 Reading, Writing & Maths data
KS2 SATs Results
2023/24Reading, Writing & Maths Combined
73%
Expected Standard
6%
Higher Standard
'22/23
60%
'23/24
73%
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
7Facilities may vary. Contact the school for current availability.
Extracurriculars
10Sports
Clubs & Activities
Activities may vary by term. Contact the school for current offerings.
Admissions
2025/26Oversubscribed42
64
Good Demand
Popular school with more applications than places
38 families put this school as their 1st choice (59% of all applications)
Source: Department for Education, 2025/26. Data reflects national offer day applications and offers.
Frequently Asked Questions About The Forest 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
Thornton Road, Barnsley
Barnsley, S70 3NG
Journey to School
Journey times are estimates based on current conditions. Actual times may vary.
Opening Hours
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